Today was the opening of the new pedestrian Bridge at the Town Basin giving us a 4.2 km walkway crossing three bridges.
There was a Maori blessing at dawn followed by a ribbon cutting ceremony at 9.30. Doug picked me up from home at 7 a.m. and we went to the Growers' Markets first then to the Town Basin. The new bridge was already open so we walked around the new track, along past the "Wave and Waka" sculpture to the new bridge.
Looking back at the bridge from the other side.
and looking towards the recently built road bridge from the same spot.
On the other side of the river looking back towards the new pedestrian bridge and the end of the peninsula.
Looking at the wave and waka from the other side of the river
Back to the Town Basin
Paddle boarders (one with dog)
We got back just in time to grab a "coffee to go" before the ribbon cutting ceremony. (The bridge had been closed again for this ceremony).
The bridge opened to let a boat through
In spite of a terrible forecast there was one short sharp shower during the proceedings but the clouds gathered again afterwards
Wow, what a wonderful bridge, love the blessing bit.
ReplyDeleteBriony
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It is great that the Council went for such a good design when the could have just gone for the cheapest option.
DeleteWhat would all those local newspapers do without a few ribbon-cutting ceremonies every week. Well done that woman (Mayoress?)!
ReplyDeleteVery impressed with our lady Mayor. She had her scooter with her to go across the bridge on. Not the motorised type but the push type that children often use.
DeleteI have had occasion to see her a couple of times and she was most helpful.
This is a wonderful addition to your place, and a ceremony, lovely that you could walk back and be there, super series. Cheers,Jean
ReplyDeleteThe timing was perfect to see the ribbon cutting ceremony. Whangarei has really improved with the opening of this new walkway.
DeleteHope Hugh is improving.
Gosh that looks quite a bridge. What a lovely day out to watch the opening ceremony. 7 am sounds very early to be out and about but well worth it.
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DeleteDoug picked me up at 7 a.m. to go to the market but we were too late for the Angus Mince that I like to buy. The timing worked out well for the bridge opening though.
Great documentation of it, Sue. I look forward to my own little explore one day!
ReplyDeleteWe were very impressed. We do it again tomorrow on the weekly Parkinson's walk.
DeleteI must do the loop walk. I didn't go to either of the opening (bad me!) but have enjoyed all the photos...love your early morning photos Susan. ((hugs))
ReplyDeleteYou will love the walk.
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