The Commission's intention in displaying past major transport accidents is to remind the public that New Zealand has no immunity from such events. The fact that they have happened in the past and may happen again in future is the reason why safety vigilance must not be relaxed.

The three major accident examples have been selected on the basis of one major occurrence in each of the three transport modes (Rail, Marine and Aviation). All three accidents predate the formation of the Transport Accident Investigation Commission and it had no involvement in those investigations or in the subsequent preparation of reports.

	Rail bridge collapse and passenger train derailment at Tangiwai, 24 December 1953 (151 deaths).
	Foundering of the passenger/freight ferry Wahine off Wellington Heads, 10 April 1968 (51 deaths). Photo courtesy of The Evening Post
	McDonnell-Douglas DC10-30 ZK-NZP collision with terrain, Ross Island, Antarctica, 28 November 1979 (257 deaths).