After more than a year of closure, work to upgrade the Rob Roy suspension bridge has been completed and the Rob Roy Track is now open to the public again.

Rob Roy Track, a popular walk in Tititea/Mt Aspiring National Park, attracts a huge number of visitors, especially during the summer months.

Visitor numbers were projected to increase from their previous daily averages of 180 people.

The bridge closed last winter after the Department of Conservation (DOC) was told the bridge could not sustain its current usage.

DOC operations manager Charlie Sklenar said the suspension bridge upgrade included “in-depth engineering, geotechnical and design assessments, complex rock drilling and structural work to improve the bridge’s ability to bear weight”.

“Engineers have now inspected the completed bridge work and with all testing successfully certified late last week, we are happy to say the bridge is now open again to the public,” she said.

“Our field team has now removed the closure signage, and the DOC website has been updated to show that the track has reopened.”

Charlie said this was “fantastic news ahead of summer”.

Read more: Wānaka bridges expected to reopen this summer

The news is not so positive for the Blue Pools and Makarora River bridges, which were closed around the same time as the Rob Roy bridge.

Charlie said delays due to severe weather in previous months means construction work on the bridges is ongoing, as is replacement of the raised timber boardwalk connecting the two bridges.

“These delays will unfortunately extend the closure period for this site; however, DOC remains committed to reopening it this summer,” she said.

Charlie said the Makarora and Blue Pools bridges provide high-water access to the Young Valley and Gillespie Pass Circuit, and trampers should have river crossing skills and experience if they are undertaking this advanced tramp.

“Do not cross if the river is flooded, you cannot find safe entry and exit points or are unsure it’s safe. Turn back or wait for the river to drop. If in doubt, stay out,” she said.

There is no access to the Blue Pools, however a shortened forest walk remains open.

PHOTO: Supplied