One dead as car collides with train at level crossing in Auckland

A car, which tried to cross a railway crossing in the Auckland suburb of Penrose while the barriers were down, was hit by the incoming train resulting in the death of sole occupant of the four-wheeler. The tragic accident took place at the railway crossing on Maurice Road around 2pm New Zealand time.

Even though a medical team tried to revive the car driver but he died due to the severe wounds sustained as result on the accident on the crash spot.

Auckland Transport director of public transport and active modes Stacey van der Putten confirmed that the barrier to stop vehicles from crossing the crossing when a train is scheduled to pass was functioning at the time of the crash.


"The barriers at the Maurice Road level crossing were down at the time and appeared to be functioning properly. Incidents like this are horrific for everyone involved and our thoughts go out to the people and their families impacted by this," stated Stacey.

Train services of the line were suspended following the accident. "Onehunga line is suspended until further notice due to emergency service incident. Please use Journey Planner for alternative transport options. Route 74 is servicing Onehunga, Te Papapa and Penrose Station," Auckland Transport said in a statement.

The train dragged the car for some distance before coming to stop. The train driver informed Auckland Rail Operations Centre and called the emergency service to the accident site immediately. Several people who saw the accident also rushed to help.

Police have launched an investigation into the crash.