A fire that destroyed a large section of a pedestrian bridge used daily by hundreds of people in Beach Haven will need to be fully rebuilt.

A structural engineer has assessed the remains of the bridge that linked Fordham and Lanigan Streets and has advised that it is not repairable and it will require a total rebuild.

Contractors have cleared the debris out of the stream and will now be working on dismantling and removing what remains of the badly damaged bridge.

The rebuild will be given priority due to the bridge being a popular and important commuter route for children to get to school. However, due to consenting processes, its rebuild is likely to take several months to complete.

Kaipātiki Local Board Chair John Gillon says, “It's really disheartening that such an important pedestrian link for Birkdale Intermediate and Birkenhead College students has been destroyed in such a mindless manner.

“We appreciate the frustration and inconvenience this has caused for so many and will be doing whatever we can to assist with its swift replacement,” says Gillon.​

“But realistically, it sounds like it may take a few months to complete.

“In the meantime, there are alternative walking routes via Mirage Place or Woodhams Street. They are less direct and do take a bit longer to walk, but they’re the best interim options.”

There is an ongoing investigation being carried out by the Fire Service into the attack that occurred on the bridge early morning on 6 February (Waitangi Day).