Crash course in rail safety

A KiwiRail train crashes into a car during filming for Rail Safety Awareness Week. Photo / Brett Phibbs

Several train drivers put their hands up for this crash yesterday - all in the cause of safety.

KiwiRail set up and filmed the controlled crash at Matua Rd level crossing, just north of Kumeu, to promote Rail Safety Awareness Week.

Regional manager Ivan Johnston said it went "exactly to plan", with the police serious crash unit, fire and ambulance staff also taking part in the simulation.

The contrived crash would provide the first footage of an actual crash, rather than the aftermath, Mr Johnston said.

The crashed car might also be taken around the country - as an educational tool - to show people the effects of level-crossing crashes.

"We can put it at places like Britomart or Wellington train station and say this is what happens," Mr Johnston said.

Despite KiwiRail's drawing attention to "collision black spots", four people died on New Zealand level crossings in the first half of this year.

The rail network has 1400 public road level crossings and 96 stand-alone pedestrian level crossings.

Footage from yesterday's crash will be used to encourage motorists to pay attention and approach all level crossings with care.