Ko te wai te toto o te whenua, ko te whenua te toto o te tangata​

For water is the blood of the land, and the land is the blood of the people​

The original Mimiha Stream Bridge, built after WWII, reached the end of its life. In partnership with Whakatāne District Council, Te Uru Taumatua, and Tūhoe Manawarū Tribal Authority, we co-designed a new bridge that honours the history, culture, and aspirations of mana whenua.​

​The bridge sits in an area of deep cultural and spiritual significance, popular with trampers, campers, cyclists, and visitors to the nearby swimming hole. Construction was carefully planned to minimise the impacts on the awa, the reserve, and community access along Ruatāhuna Road.​

​The new two-span bridge:​

• Is longer and higher to allow for climate-adjusted flood flows​
• Provides two lanes—one for vehicles, one for pedestrians and cyclists​
• Used fewer synthetic materials in its construction and followed Mahere Taiao environmental principles​

Key Benefits:​

• A procurement approach shaped with Ngāi Tūhoe, created opportunities for local employment, upskilling, and economic development​
• A whole-of-life design focused on performance, resilience, and reduced long-term costs​
• Development of Te Ao Māori centric tools, including contractor evaluation and environmental management frameworks​
• Expert support for resource consents, design reviews, and hydrological assessments​
• Mentoring and capability building for Council and iwi kaimahi​

This project demonstrates how partnership, cultural respect, and sustainable design can deliver lasting benefits for both the community and the environment.​

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