Bridge Opened in the Rain

The opening of the new Lytton Road bridge last Saturday could hardly be called a gala occasion. Heavy rain in the night, continuing until mid-afternoon, with a strong southerly wind, converted the ceremony into something of a formality, and no sooner vas the ribbon cut by the Mayoress (Mrs H. H. Barker), in the presence of local body members, invited guests, and a handful of the public, than the bridge was closed again because the approaches were too wet and soft to carry traffic. The official speeches were made at a morning tea function later.

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The Mayor, Mr Barker, declaring the bridge open.

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Mrs Barker cutting the ribbon.

The weather was an acute disappointment for all associated with the building of the handsome new structure, and especially for members of the City Council's works staff, who had put in long hours in difficult conditions to have the approaches ready for the opening. There was nothing wrong with their work which a few days of fine weather would not fix. But on the day, the Mayor, driving the first car across dare not go more than half way, turned on the bridge, and returned to Mangapapa.

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One of the official cars negotiating the Mangapapa approach.

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With the ceremony over, road was promptly closed again.