Hon MICHAEL WOOD (Minister of Transport): On Saturday, I visited Tai Rāwhiti with my colleague the Hon Meka Whaitiri to see firsthand the progress made in cleaning up after devastating flooding last week in the region. We recognise how much the people who live in our regional and remote Tai Rāwhiti communities rely on the access that State Highway 35 provides for essential supplies and services. It was, therefore, a real privilege to be able to attend the blessing for the Mangahauini Bridge at Tokomaru Bay as it opened for traffic days ahead of schedule. I'd like to say a special thanks to the main contractor, Downer's, and the amazing local contractors, Blackbee Contractors, who have been working day and night in trying conditions to help get these communities moving again. 