An alpine suspension bridge that once carried thousands of trampers and climbers through the Hooker Valley is being broken up and sold off.

The Department of Conservation is inviting expressions of interest for metal and wood components from the 90-metre Aoraki/Mount Cook structure, which was closed in April 2025 due to riverbank erosion.

Asset Delivery Manager Anthony Clegg said components including structural elements, cables, timber and fittings would be available on an as-is basis.

“We’d like to see as much of it as possible reused or repurposed rather than disposed of,” Clegg said.

“The components are being removed through a deconstruction process, so some items may show wear or damage. If someone has a use for these components, then make us an offer and let’s talk.”

The bridge was built in 2012 and served as a popular access route for walkers and climbers in the upper Hooker Valley.

Construction of a replacement 189-metre suspension bridge is well advanced, with an opening expected towards the end of July.

Clegg said seeing the two structures side by side highlighted the scale of the new build.

“It’s amazing seeing the walking platform nearly complete spanning right across the river. It’s more than double the length of the old one and it will be a very special experience watching the first people crossing it in a couple of months,” he said.

DOC will run an online bidding process through [email protected], with bids due by 1pm on July 3, 2026. Questions can be submitted until June 30.