The Arapuni Suspension Bridge is one of those places you drive past for years without knowing it exists. It’s tucked into a bush-lined gorge above the Waikato River, about 10km west of Putaruru, and it’s spectacular. The bridge is 152 metres long and sits 54 metres above the river, with views down to the Arapuni Power Station and dam below. It takes about 15 minutes to walk down to the bridge, cross it and walk back, and it’s free.

The bridge does move when you cross it, that’s part of the point. If heights bother you, worth knowing before you go.

Quick FactsDetails
DistanceAbout 1km return to cross the bridge and back
Time15 to 30 minutes
DifficultyEasy to the bridge, steep steps down to it
Starting pointArapuni Road, Arapuni village, opposite Rabone Street
DogsYes, on leash
ToiletsNo on-site toilets
ParkingFree, shaded parking near the bridge entrance
EntryFree

Getting There

From Putaruru take Arapuni Road west for about 10km to the village of Arapuni. The walkway to the bridge starts on Arapuni Road opposite Rabone Street and is well signposted. Free parking nearby. From Cambridge or SH1, take Horahora Road to Arapuni.

There’s a small cafe, the Rhubarb Cafe, in Arapuni village about 400m from the bridge, good for a coffee before or after.

The Walk

  • From the car park follow the path through the reserve and down a steep flight of steps to the cliff face where the bridge starts
  • The east end of the bridge is cut into the cliff face, 8 metres higher than the west end, so there’s a noticeable slope as you cross
  • Views down to the Waikato River gorge, the Arapuni Power Station and dam from the bridge. Take your time
  • The bridge moves with your weight as you walk, more so if others are on it at the same time
  • On the far side you can walk up toward the power station but can’t enter as the site is fenced off
  • Return the same way
  • The Waikato River Trails cycling and walking track passes alongside the gorge if you want to extend the day

Good to Know

  • Heights — the bridge is 54 metres above the river and moves underfoot. If you’re prone to vertigo, approach with that in mind
  • Steep steps — the descent to the bridge involves a steep flight of steps, fine for most people but worth knowing if you have mobility issues
  • Dogs on leash — welcome
  • Category II Historic Place — the bridge was registered by the Historic Places Trust in 1994 for its engineering and historical significance
  • History — construction started May 1925 and finished sometime after April 1926. It was built to connect the Arapuni workers camp, which became the township, to the power station construction site on the western side of the gorge. The Arapuni hydro project was New Zealand’s largest civil engineering project at the time

Other Walks Nearby

Back to Putaruru walks