Coal train derailment near Otira prompts major safety investigation

A coal train derailment near Ōtira has caused extensive damage to railway infrastructure, prompting a formal investigation.

The KiwiRail-operated train was travelling towards Christchurch about 10pm yesterday when at least one wagon came off the tracks, forcing the train to stop inside the Ōtira Tunnel.

The Transport Accident Investigation Commission (TAIC) has since launched an inquiry into the cause of the derailment.

KiwiRail coal train 834 was travelling towards Christchurch on Tuesday when at least one of its wagons derailed.

The train stopped inside the Ōtira Tunnel, where there was reportedly extensive damage to the train and rail infrastructure.

No injuries were reported.

Chief Investigator of Accidents Louise Cook said the commission had appointed a team of investigators who are now gathering evidence.

“Our investigators would typically spend two to three days on site. Their first priority is to gather evidence while it is available. That includes examining and mapping the train and the scene, and speaking with people who witnessed the accident or were involved.”

The commission’s investigators will examine in detail the locomotive, rolling stock and rail infrastructure, secure data and maintenance records, and interview the train crew and other staff of the operator.

Evidence gathering and analysis continue after they leave, following the evidence to examine both the derailment itself and any wider safety issues.

The purpose of TAIC inquiries is to improve transport safety by identifying lessons that can help the transport sector avoid similar accidents, rather than to assign blame or establish liability.