Both drivers escaped unharmed from their ordeal. Photo: Supplied / Stuart Bollam
The Transport Accident Investigation Commission (TAIC) says a review is under way, after a train and a truck collided at a level crossing on the Kapiti Coast.
The large flatbed truck with a digger on the back was stranded on the tracks, when the freight train smashed into it shortly after 6.15am Wednesday at Waikanae.
The truck driver exited the cab in time and the train driver was also unhurt, although the driver of a pilot vehicle escorting the truck sustained minor injuries.
The commission said its initial focus was on gathering evidence that could disappear or change - including memories, while they're fresh in people's minds. Investigators were also interested in the individual history, performance, maintenance and equipment of the two vehicles, and any other equipment involved.
It would inspect the locomotive and the rest of the train, the truck, recover electronic and other records, and interview the drivers, other operator staff and witnesses.
"The Transport Accident Investigation Commission opens an inquiry when it believes the circumstances of an accident or incident 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," it said.
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