Work has begun to lift the deck of a bridge in Christchurch so quake-damaged abutments can be repaired.
Engineers say the work on the Bridge Street bridge in South New Brighton is the first time a manoeuvre of its type and technological complexity has been performed in New Zealand.
The deck will be raised by a $1 million lifting system which is the biggest of its kind in New Zealand, according to HTC Christchurch branch manager Daniel Brice.
Seventy-two hydraulic rams, each capable of lifting 100 tonnes, are being used to spread the capacity to lift 7200 tonnes.
The bridge is closed to vehicles, cyclists and pedestrians until 6am on Monday.
A detour is in place on Estuary Rd, Hardy St, Pages Rd and Anzac Drive.
Mr Brice says the deck will be raised by a $1 million lifting system which is the biggest of its kind in New Zealand.
Seventy-two hydraulic rams, each capable of lifting 100 tonnes, are being used to spread the capacity to lift 7200 tonnes.