Fergusson Bridge facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Fergusson Bridge |
|
|---|---|
| Coordinates | 37°53′42″S 175°28′47″E / 37.89504°S 175.479684°E |
| Carries | Motor vehicles |
| Crosses | Waikato River |
| Owner | Waipa District Council |
| Preceded by | Karapiro dam |
| Followed by | Victoria Bridge |
| Characteristics | |
| Total length | 50 metres (160 ft) |
| History | |
| Opened | 1964 |
The Fergusson Bridge, also known as the Low-level bridge, is an important bridge in Cambridge, New Zealand. It crosses the wide Waikato River. This bridge helps cars and other vehicles get across the river safely.
The Fergusson Bridge is made from a special type of strong material called pre-cast, prestressed concrete. This means parts of the bridge were made in a factory before being brought to the site and put together. It was opened in 1964.
About the Fergusson Bridge
The Fergusson Bridge is 50 metres (about 164 feet) long. It was built to connect different parts of Cambridge across the Waikato River. The bridge is owned by the Waipa District Council, which looks after it.
Building the Bridge
Building the Fergusson Bridge cost £41,000 back in the 1960s. This was a lot of money at the time! The bridge was designed by a team of engineers and architects named North, Swarbrick, Mills & Westwood. Their design made sure the bridge was strong and safe for everyone to use.
Who Was Fergusson?
The bridge is named after a very important person, Sir Bernard Fergusson. He was the Governor-General of New Zealand when the bridge was opened. A Governor-General is like a representative of the King or Queen in a country. They have important duties, but they don't make laws. Naming the bridge after him was a way to honour his role.
A Bit of History
The spot where the Fergusson Bridge stands has been important for a long time. Before this bridge, two other bridges crossed the Waikato River at the same place. The first bridge was built in 1870. Later, in 1876, another bridge called the Red Bridge was built there. The Fergusson Bridge continues this history of connecting people across the river.
