
The Parahaki Bridge is a centrepiece of the Te Ahu a Turanga: Manawatū Tararua Highway project, showcasing architectural steelwork that is both innovative and deeply cultural.
Architectural Weathering plate
316L stainless steel
Its design integrates birdproof abutments and piers, using weathering plates and stainless steel elements. But beyond its functional engineering, the bridge embodies Te Aranga Māori Design Principles. Mahi toi and tohu are woven into the structure, anchoring it in the whakapapa of the land and people.
These elements are not merely decorative—they serve as symbolic anchors that connect the bridge to the surrounding landscape and iwi heritage. This culturally embedded approach transforms the bridge from a utilitarian structure into a living representation of place, identity, and environmental stewardship. It stands as a testament to how infrastructure can honour both engineering excellence and indigenous values.