Kopu Bridge, Road bridge in Thames-Coromandel District, New Zealand.
Kopu Bridge is a single-lane road crossing over the Waihou River in Thames-Coromandel, linking the Hauraki Plains to the Coromandel Peninsula. The structure spans approximately 463 meters and is composed of 23 individual spans.
Built in 1928 as the first crossing of the Waihou River under Prime Minister Gordon Coates, the bridge emerged after years of location debates. It became a critical link that connected previously isolated regions.
The bridge stands near traditional Maori settlements of the Ngati Maru iwi, marking a transition between European development and indigenous lands. This location represents a meeting point of two distinct cultural histories.
The narrow single-lane format requires drivers to pay attention and communicate with oncoming traffic when crossing. It is best to visit at off-peak times to ensure safer passage.
The bridge features an original manual swing mechanism that allows river vessels to pass when traffic is halted. This functioning system is remarkably rare among modern infrastructure.
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