The highly anticipated Hooker Valley Suspension Bridge at Aoraki / Mount Cook National Park is now open, marking the completion of one of the most significant and technically challenging bridge construction projects undertaken by Abseil Access.
Spanning 189 metres across the Hooker River, the bridge is officially New Zealand’s longest suspension bridge and restores full access to the renowned Hooker Valley Track, one of the country’s most popular walking destinations.
Abseil Access was awarded the project in mid-2024 following the successful delivery of the award-winning Manganui Gorge Bridge. The urgency of the project was clear from the outset, with the foundations of the existing bridge experiencing progressive erosion and raising concerns about its long-term viability.
While the contract was secured in 2024, construction officially commenced in August 2025 to maximise the available spring and summer construction window. The first months focused on establishing access, excavation works, landscaping and drilling of the bridge’s critical anchor systems.
The remote alpine location presented unique challenges. Every piece of equipment and material required for the project had to be transported by helicopter, including excavators, compressors, drilling equipment, steel reinforcement, formwork, concrete materials and fuel.
Abseil Access partnered with Speight’s Drilling to complete the anchor installation works, utilising one of New Zealand’s most capable helicopter-portable drill rigs. The anchor drilling programme proved particularly challenging, requiring significant effort to overcome difficult ground conditions before successful grouting and completion.
Meanwhile, Abseil Access crews constructed the tower foundations and anchor blocks, ultimately placing approximately 90 tonnes of alpine-grade concrete into six separate foundation structures.
Southern Lakes Helicopters played a critical role throughout construction, completing more than 90 flying hours while operating at the lifting limits of the Squirrel B3 helicopter.
In January 2026, specialised bridge cables manufactured by Italian cable specialist Raedelli arrived in New Zealand. The six main suspension cables, each rated to 100 tonnes, formed the backbone of the bridge’s structural system.
Construction accelerated through March with the installation of 30 tonnes of fabricated steelwork produced by Canterbury Metalworks. The tower sections were flown directly into position before crews carefully installed the suspension cable network across the gorge using a full cradle suspension system.
By May, the project reached a major milestone as bridge decking installation enabled personnel to walk across the structure for the first time.
The timing proved crucial. The foundations of the original bridge had deteriorated significantly and the structure was dismantled and removed by helicopter shortly before the site became unsafe.
Final works included detailed tension verification and balancing of the main suspension and wind restraint cable systems to ensure long-term stability and performance.
Site Supervisor Ash Rogers remained involved throughout the entire project, coordinating crews across multiple disciplines and maintaining momentum despite weather delays and challenging site conditions.
The quality of the completed bridge was recognised by project stakeholders, including bridge designer Dan Crocker and Department of Conservation representatives.
The completion of the Hooker Valley Suspension Bridge further strengthens Abseil Access’ reputation as a leader in the design and construction of remote access infrastructure projects throughout New Zealand.
