We’ve got a bridge for Christmas!

Our new scaffold bridge across the Maitai River is open and golfers couldn’t be happier.

It replaces the wooden one washed away in August’s flood which significantly damaged our nine-hole golf course owned by Nelson City Council.

The bridge allows golfers and electric carts to access the course in all weather and marks a major step forward in our recovery. For the last four months golfers have had to either wade or drive across a concrete ford, which was only passable at low river flow.

It also means all of the golf course, which twice crosses the river, can now be reopened in time for the busy summer season.

A huge clean-up effort by contractors, Nelmac and Waahi Taakaro Golf club members has got the course mostly restored, with just minor work – including re-sowing several fairways - needed to get it back to its best.

Golf club manager Peter Watson said it was a huge relief to see the bridge opened before Christmas and he thanked the council for getting the job done.

``The last four months have been a challenge but everyone has rallied around and worked hard to get the golf course back operating normally. Our golfers are delighted they no longer have to bring their gumboots or load trailers to get themselves and their gear across the river.’’

The course is a popular community asset with almost 20,000 rounds played a year, which is forecast to increase once the bike and walk hub infrastructure is rebuilt which will allow more events to be based there.

A reminder to those who want to play, you will need to book your round in advance by contacting the golf shop at 03 548 7301 or via email: golfshop@waahitaakarogolfclub.co.nz