A single-span arch bridge with a free span of 36.5 meters and a total length of 41.5 meters. It is single-lane and has heavy river stone piers. In the early years of New Zealand's exploration and settlement, many people drowned while attempting to cross rivers. On major routes, provincial governments stipulated that, when constructing lodging houses at river crossings, the license holder must assist people in crossing. Over the years, various ferries, punts, cable cars, etc., were used before bridges could be built. Crossing the Ohau River on the Mackenzie County route between Lake Tekapo and Omarama (now State Highway 8) was initially facilitated by the installation of a cable car. In 1889, the Waitaki County Council, aided by a 50% grant from the Mackenzie County Council, decided to construct a road bridge. The bridge was probably built in 1889.