A wrecked tractor is cleared from the riverbank of the Mataura River yesterday after it crashed off a Southland bridge on Tuesday. PHOTO: GORE DISTRICT COUNCIL
The bridge on Otamita Rd was closed after the tractor crashed through the guard rail on to the bank of the Mataura River below.
The Gore District Council said in a social media post that the bridge was reopened on Tuesday night after its structural integrity was assessed.
However, a 30kmh speed restriction had been implemented.
"It is going to be a while before we can repair the damage to the guard rail.
"The speed restriction will stay in place until then."
A police spokesman said on Tuesday one patient had been flown to Dunedin Hospital with what appeared to be serious injuries.
A family member of the driver said yesterday on social media the man had been taken to Christchurch Hospital and was undergoing surgery.
