The Commission is investigating an incident involving the disablement of a passenger train in a tunnel. Passengers who where on the train are asked to contact the Commission.
The reported circumstances were that at about 9:50am on 30 May 2026, Train 803, the Christchurch to Greymouth TranzAlpine service, was travelling through Tunnel 9 on the Midland Line about 10km north of Springfield, when it stopped, unable to proceed.
Reportedly it remained in the tunnel for about an hour and then exited. None of the crew or the 103 passengers were reported to be harmed.
The Chief Investigator of Accidents Louise Cook has appointed a team of investigators to commence gathering evidence today.
“It’s crucial in every investigation to capture any evidence that could change with time – and that includes the recollections of the passengers on board. So we’re keen to hear from all or the passengers as soon as possible.”
The Commission’s website, taic.org.nz, has a link at the top of the homepage for passengers to use.
Investigators will also be interviewing the train’s crew and those who were involved in the train’s recovery.
The purpose of this and every other TAIC inquiry is to improve transport safety by avoiding repeat accidents, rather than by ascribing blame. The Commission opens an inquiry when it believes the circumstances have - or are likely to have - significant implications for transport safety, or when the inquiry may allow the Commission to make findings or recommendations to improve transport safety.