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Milldale’s State Highway 1 Crossing – a link to the past, present and future
- Wednesday, February 12, 2025
Spanning 94m and connecting Milldale with the surrounding communities, the state highway crossing provides residents with direct access to all the amenities the Hibiscus Coast has to offer.
Conceived in 2016 as one of several critical infrastructure projects to unlock the growth area to the west of state highway 1 including Milldale, the necessary land was acquired and the design and consenting process began.
Fulton Hogan Land Development in partnership with Crown Infrastructure Partners, Auckland Council, Auckland Transport, Watercare and Mana Whenua, moved the project forward with a design that embraces the rich coastal history while looking ahead towards the future needs of this rapidly growing area.
Construction of the steel and concrete composite structure began in 2022, and includes 10 huge steel girders to ensure the bridge can not only carry vehicles and pedestrians, but also the ‘Orewa 3’ 726mm diameter water main.
The bridge also displays the Mahi Toi (artwork) designed and crafted by Reuben Kirkwood on behalf of Iwi, including the Aurei (cloak pin) carving located at the Milldale approach to the bridge. The Aurei acts as a metaphor, holding the bridge to the land, and is accompanied by a weave design on the bridge pathways and sidings symbolising industry, with the colours of red and green provided by the nearby stand of Rewarewa trees.
February 12 2025 marked the opening of this much anticipated link, with a small gathering to celebrate, including a karakia and a blessing led by representatives from Ngāti Manuhiri and Te Kawerau ā Maki. The gifting of a name for the crossing will come at a later date.
It gives us great satisfaction to see the completion of this vital link for our growing community, and we thank all those involved along the way.
The Aurei (cloak pin) acts as a metaphor, holding the bridge to the land.
A small celebration with partners, consultants and contractors gather for the opening.