Southlands - Clifden Bridge

We came across this historic bridge whilst travelling along the Southern Scenic Route (Highway 99). The suspension bridge spanning the Waiau River was opened in 1899 and was claimed to have the longest span in NZ and was capable of supporting 137 tons or 12 traction engines.

Due to the poor condition of the steel cables and wood decking, It is no longer used other than as a footbridge and was replaced in 1978 by another bridge further along the river. Given it's apparent historic importance and visitor attraction it was suprising that more had not been done to preserve it ....