On 19 December 2008, Train 5250 was an empty push/pull service being repositioned to start passenger operations when it collided with the stop block at Britomart station, Auckland. Some damage occurred to the coupler on the front of the train and the stop block, but neither the locomotive engineer (driver) nor the train manager was injured.
The primary factor contributing to the collision was the failure of an electrical contactor within the
locomotive brake system that prevented the locomotive brakes applying. Safety issues discussed include the speed of the train during the approach to Britomart station and the use of a power braking technique during emergency stop applications.
Locomotive operating instructions do not address the effects of power braking on train stopping distances, particularly in situations requiring emergency brake applications.
