Freight train about to collide with truck on level crossing in Waikanae. Credit Goodmas
Freight train collided with heavy road vehicle at level crossing, Waikanae, 15 October 2025
Status
Current
Occurrence Date
Jurisdiction
NZ
The Commission is investigating a collision between a northbound freight train and a heavy road vehicle at the Elizabeth Street level crossing in Waikanae at 0620 on 15 October 2025. The reported circumstances were that a large articulated truck (Titan Mack tractor unit) hauling a low loader with an earthmoving vehicle on board) had become stranded on the level crossing while attempting to cross it. The approach of a freight train activated protection barriers, which came down on the tractor unit. The train then collided with the tractor unit. The truck driver vacated the cab before the collision and – along with the locomotive engineer -- was unhurt. The driver of a pilot vehicle had been escorting the truck sustained minor injuries.