South Wairarapa District Council has reopened the Hurupi Stream bridge (known as the Banana Bridge), restoring vital connection to Cape Palliser and surrounding communities. 

The reopening follows days of isolation for coastal communities after severe flooding caused damage to the approach of the bridge.  

Whilst access has been restored, it’s important to note that there are strict temporary controls in place to ensure public safety and protect the fragile structure.  

New temporary restrictions 

To prevent further damage and keep the community safe, the following restrictions are in place until further notice:  

• Maximum vehicle weight: 3.5 tonnes  
  (family vehicles and utes only – no trucks or other oversized vehicles. Campervans – please check make and model) 
• Maximum speed: 10 km/h 
• One vehicle on the bridge at a time, controlled by temporary traffic lights 

SWDC reserves the right to close the bridge without notice if any of the above conditions are breached. 

These restrictions reflect engineering advice and the need to protect the weakened structure until further repair work is completed.  

It’s important to drive to the conditions along Cape Palliser Road and around any repair sites. While debris has been cleared, parts of the road surface have been lifted, and full repairs will take time to complete. 

“Our immediate focus has been reconnecting those cut off communities and ensuring their wellbeing while they’ve been unable to travel,” said Local Controller Simon Taylor. “Re‑establishing access is essential for supplies, medical needs and community wellbeing, but it must be done safely.” 
 
“We need everyone to follow the restrictions. A single overweight vehicle or someone ignoring the traffic system could impact the viability of the bridge remaining open during the repair work,” the Controller said.  

While the restrictions will temporarily impact the types of vehicles able to access Cape Palliser, it will allow the local community and businesses to operate while further repairs can take place following the impacts of this extreme weather event.