Ōrongorongo Bridge constructed in April 1914 for Eric L. Riddiford of Wainuiomata’s pioneering Riddiford family, spans the Ōrongorongo River near its mouth on the southern coastline. Initially, it provided access to the Riddiford family’s residence, Ōrongorongo Station Homestead, which was tragically destroyed by fire in 1990. Today, the bridge serves as a key access point for walkers and cyclists exploring the Wild Coast Track.
Designed by engineer C. Lang Meason and built by George Sykes, the bridge cost £1300 to construct. As the oldest concrete bridge in Wainuiomata, it predates the concrete version of the Main Road Bridge by two years, making it a significant piece of the region’s infrastructure history.
