Function and Heritage: This footbridge replaces a century old bridge linking Onehunga and Māngere suburbs. Originally a traditional meeting and crossing point for Māori near a strategic portage, the former road bridge became a social facility for walking, cycling, fishing and gathering, in the 1980s.

In addition to working in partnership with mana whenua, public consultation, including open days, and children’s workshops yielded 700 items of feedback identifying critical ambitions for the bridge. These impacted significantly on the final design.

The new bridge is higher than the original, allowing small boats to pass beneath and it incorporates an existing boat ramp at the southern end. The additional height allows connection to be re-established between the upper and lower harbour, visually and for small waterborne craft such as waka ama and recreational boats. This connection has been difficult since the completion of concrete Old Māngere Bridge in 1915. For mana whenua (the indigenous Māori) the arch span allows improved access to the hugely significant historic portage connection to the Waitematā harbour.

Form: The structure curves in plan and elevation. The alignment frames views to significant volcanic cones which have symbolic and heritage values, especially for Māori. The inclination allows for comfortable pedestrian approach. At two points the deck is widened with cantilevered bays which provide areas for fishing and gathering. Fishing rod holders are incorporated into the balustrades along much of the bridge.

A 60m central span, within the 250m overall length, is supported by cables from a single steel arch inclined from the outer edge of the curve. The arch provides symbolic shelter from the nearby freeway and a backdrop to the stunning harbour views. The hollow-girder approaches are carried on elegant raking concrete piers.

Artworks by local artists signify the historical importance for Māori, including impressed designs on the concrete deck fascia panels and interpretative exhibits on the landings. The balustrades are painted in a rhythm of colours which represent the scales of the native kahawai fish to create a link with the surrounding environment. Remnants of the cherished old bridge form are identified at one end for memory and celebration.

Impact: Ngā Hau Māngere has exceeded expectations and was instantly adopted for recreation by local communities, becoming a source of pride and a flagship for regeneration. Safe connection is re-established across the Manukau Harbour and the landscape, culture and history are engaged, offering a profound sense of place that is relevant to the local experience.

The arch transitions the scale shift between the large nearby vehicular bridge, and the human scale on the shared path thereby reducing the dominance of the road bridge and providing a more balanced urban landscape. The arch occupies the mid ground for views from the east and provides a visual steppingstone from more distant viewpoints to the north and south. The experience of crossing and spending time on the bridge allows people to encounter the full drama of the vast harbour space.