I thought I'd just post some of my remaining photo's today....
The dramatic Te Rewa Rewa bridge
Te Rewa Rewa Bridge is a pedestrian and cycleway bridge across the Waiwhakaiho River.
The bridge is part of the northern extension to the Coastal Walkway, connecting New Plymouth with Bell Block. The extension was made possible by a special agreement between Ngāti Tawhirikura hapu and the New Plymouth District Council. An historic pā is located on the north river bank and this was the site of a battle during the Musket Wars; the site is a burial ground (Rewa Rewa). The bridge is located in a rural area.The designer, Peter Mulqueen, is quoted as saying he understood that the bridge should "touch lightly" on the Rewa Rewa side of the river, in order to honour the deceased. This ruled out heavier designs like cable stays and angular truss structures. Mulqueen wanted to achieve a bridge with a "harmonious and dignified character.
I wish I could take the credit for this second photo, but as you've probably guessed already its sadly not mine. Andrew Smith takes the credit http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/File:Te_Rewa_Rewa.jpg
With the ribs yielding to the prevailing wind, the bridge is aligned to Mount Taranaki. The sacred mountain is framed within the skewed arch when viewed while leaving the sacred ground – promising what is eternal.
The 83m long Te Rewa Rewa bridge is reminiscent of a breaking wave or a whale skeleton. It was designed and built by a consortium led by local company Whitaker Civil Engineering Limited and included Novare Design, CPG and Fitzroy Engineering.Apparently the bridge was transported in one piece to its current location. No mean feat.
Just across from the Nice Hotel is the Taranaki Cathedral....
dedicated as a Church in 1864 and as a Cathedral in 2010.
dedicated as a Church in 1864 and as a Cathedral in 2010.
The notice above has some facinating facts. I hope you can read it.....
Here's a better shot....
See Muffin, I know you had a better time staying with Zac!
I hope to get back to some baking next week....but I can't promise.
Wow, what beautiful photos. I was going to say that the bridge reminded me of a whale skeleton and then I read that in your text. It would be a dream to visit Australia or New Zealand.
ReplyDeleteThank you so much. As you know it's always great to get feedback, especially when it’s complementary =)
ReplyDeleteAs to visiting Australia, I can't recommend it enough. There's so much to see and do here.
And don't forget Oprah loved it here!
We're also planning a touring trip back to New Zealand at the beginning of next year, so they'll be more travel blogs to come.