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Photo of the accident helicopter, a AS350 painted crimson

Aviation TAIC investigating helicopter accident in Lammerlaw Range

16 Sep 2021

TAIC has opened an inquiry into an accident involving an Eurocopter ‘Squirrel’ AS350 helicopter reported to have impacted terrain in the Lammerlaw Range above the Waipoti River, Otago, with one fatality, the pilot, who was the only person on board. TAIC is keen to hear from anyone who heard or saw the helicopter in flight or witnessed the accident.

Photo taken close-up along length of train embedded in landslip debris and flowing water

Rail Inquiry into derailment of passenger train at land slip site, Kapiti Line

17 Aug 2021

New TAIC inquiry into derailment of a Kapiti Line commuter train that derailed between Paekākāriki and Pukerua Bay where a landslip had covered the track. All rolling stock remained upright. 82 passengers and 3 staff disembarked with no injuries. TAIC appealing for witnesses – particularly if they can help us with photographs or videos.

Photo of a level crossing with a road sign in the foreground, bearing 'Look for trains'

Rail Rail Safety: level crossing risks demand coordinated solutions

13 Aug 2021

Level crossing safety is about more than the necessity of road users and pedestrians following the rules and looking out for trains. The TAIC Watchlist item on safety for pedestrians and vehicles at level crossings shows that safety depends on infrastructure, technology, systems and rules all working together. Any change in one aspect means planners must consider the others.

Photo of the hot air balloon. Photo supplied

Aviation New TAIC inquiry into hot air balloon accident near Arrowtown

10 Jul 2021

TAIC calling for witnesses to hot air balloon accident. Balloon experienced difficulty on landing, canopy contacted power lines, draped over a house. Of 11 on board, some ejected from basket in the process. Reportedly, several were injured, including hospitalisations. No fatalities reported.

Photo - the wrecked fuselage of ZK-ILD at the accident site

Aviation TAIC reports on 2018 fatal helicopter forced landing of MD600N helicopter

30 Jun 2021

Helicopter destroyed by heavy landing, severe on-ground shaking. All 5 on board injured, incl. head injuries, one fatal. TAIC recommendations on importance of comprehensive practical training in aircraft type, benefits of wearing helmets.

Photo depicts the skydiving aircraft

Aviation TAIC reports on tandem skydive accident

10 Jun 2021

After a double parachute malfunction, a skydive pair crash-landed into Lake Wakatipu near Queenstown. The tandem rider submerged and was never found after lifejacket didn’t properly inflate. Parachutists need to practice water landings. TAIC recommends changes to aviation rules and incident reporting.

Photo depicts Martin Sawyers

New chief executive for TAIC

8 Jun 2021

The Transport Accident Investigation Commission has appointed Martin Sawyers as its new Chief Executive. 

Photo of the level crossing where this accident occurred

Rail New inquiry into rail accident at level crossing near Marton

13 May 2021

TAIC inquiring into collision involving a train and a light truck at a level crossing on Saunders Rd near Marton, at around 1530 on Thursday 13 May. 1 person travelling in the truck died. TAIC investigation team is on its way and will be on site in the morning

Photo of the rail deck on the Aratere

Rail TAIC inquiring into rail accident on Aratere ferry

10 Apr 2021

At Wellington Port, a worker was struck by moving wagon, requiring hospital treatment

Photo of the jet boat caught in trees overhanging the river

Marine TAIC investigating jet boat accident on Shotover River

22 Mar 2021

TAIC has opened an inquiry into the jet boat accident on the Shotover River near Queenstown. Injuries to some persons on board, no fatalities reported. The boat is now in a secure location. TAIC investigators arrived on site 22 March, interviewing witnesses, inspecting boat.