Ōrongorongo Bridge

Riddiford Bridge - 2025 - © wainuiomata.net

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.

2 Comments
  1. Richard Witheford-Smith 3 weeks ago

    Can We book Barneys hut for a night for a biking group of 4?

  2. Author
    David Johnson 3 weeks ago

    As far as I know, Barney’s Whare isn’t publicly bookable, as it is privately owned and not part of DOC’s bookable Ōrongorongo Valley huts. For a group of four, Boar Inn would be the closest DOC option, as it has four bunks and is booked exclusively. However, it’s about a 2.5-hour walk from the Catchpool car park and isn’t suitable for biking into.
    https://www.doc.govt.nz/parks-and-recreation/places-to-go/wellington-kapiti/places/remutaka-forest-park/things-to-do/huts/boar-inn/

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