subject: The Auckland Harbour Bridge: An Auckland Landmark [print this page] Occupying the second place in New Zealands longest motorway bridges, the Auckland Harbour Bridge boasts of 8 lanes connecting Aucklands Saint Marys Bay and North Shore Citys Northcote. Built across the Waitemata Harbour, this 8 lane road bridge is the longest found in North Island to date.
It took nearly four years and the efforts of a workforce of 200 in order to complete the Auckland Harbour Bridge which officially opened to the public on May 30th 1959. More than 6000 tons of concrete and 6000 tons of steel were utilized to create this unique harbour bridge. Initially this 3,348 feet long bridge consisted of only four lanes but was later broadened by adding four more in order to handle the heavy traffic congestion. The new additions were identified as clippons since they were produced in Japan and later shipped to New Zealand. The new lanes were thereafter clipped to the existing bridge with the use of enormous rods and steel pins. Back then, it cost a staggering 16 million dollars to construct the gigantic Auckland Harbour Bridge and the clippons that were connected later cost a further 13.5 million dollars.
The main reason to build the Auckland Harbour Bridge was the ever increasing traffic between North Shore and the city of Auckland. Prior to creating the bridge, motorists were forced to take a long route around the harbour via West Auckland. Before the bridge was put in place passengers also had to travel across with the use of ferries. As a result of the opening of the Auckland Harbour Bridge life in nearby areas such as North Shore evolved and a significant contribution to the growth rate of the area soon became evident.
Offering the highest levels of pleasure and safety, the stunning Auckland Harbour Bridge gives its visitors the chance to enjoy bungee jumping like no other. It is the first harbour bridge in the world that offers this memorable yet challenging experience. Visitors can also experience a one of a kind bridge climb with a personal tour guide that will take about one and a half hours. The Auckland Harbour Bridge climb is believed to be the best way to discover the magnificent views of the vicinity.
Staying at The Langham Auckland which is one of the finest of the many Auckland hotels is probably the most convenient and pleasurable way of discovering this mammoth Auckland landmark. This unrivaled Auckland hotel guarantees to provide its valued guests with the best in comfort, convenience and hospitality.
