Bridge restrictions force heavy vehicles off Kaiwaka–Mangawhai route

Heavy vehicles operating under permits have been banned from using the Hakaru bridge on Kaiwaka–Mangawhai Road after a recent inspection found the structure was in a highly critical condition. Kaipara District Council has introduced immediate load restrictions on the bridge, limiting it to Class 1 and General Access vehicles only. Cars, utes, vans, buses and standard trucks that do not require permits can continue using the bridge as normal. A temporary 30km/h speed limit remains in place, with signage being installed this week. The restrictions mean High Productivity Motor Vehicles (HPMVs), o...