TrackSAFE New Zealand is urging all road users to exercise extreme caution around railway level crossings following three separate collisions involving vehicles and trains today.

The first collision occurred around midday at the Pongakawa School Road level crossing in the Bay of Plenty, on the East Coast Main Trunk railway line. The crossing is protected by flashing lights, warning bells and half-arm barriers. We understand a person suffered moderate injuries.

A second, minor collision involving a vehicle occurred shortly afterwards on the same stretch of railway line at Ōtamarākau, in the Bay of Plenty.

The third collision occurred just before 4pm this afternoon at Andersons Line in Carterton, where a vehicle collided with a passenger train at a level crossing. We understand four people suffered minor injuries.

TrackSAFE New Zealand Foundation Manager Megan Drayton said the unprecedented series of incidents serves as a stark reminder that level crossings demand the full attention of all road users. “While investigations into the incidents are ongoing, this appears to be the first time in at least two decades that three level crossing collisions have occurred on the same day in New Zealand. "Three level crossing collisions in a single day is extremely concerning.

While we are grateful that no lives have been lost, today's events are a powerful reminder that trains and vehicles simply do not mix. "Every crossing should be approached with caution, regardless of how familiar you are with the road or how often you use it. The consequences of a mistake at a level crossing can be devastating."

TrackSAFE is reminding motorists, cyclists, pedestrians and people using mobility devices to always follow the signs and signals at railway crossings. Unlike road vehicles, trains cannot swerve to avoid a collision and can take more than a kilometre to stop, even after emergency brakes are applied. "Every level crossing collision is preventable," said Drayton. "By taking a few extra moments to stop, look, listen and obey the signals, road users can help ensure everyone gets home safely."

TrackSAFE New Zealand extends its thoughts to those affected by today's incidents and acknowledges the emergency services personnel, rail staff and first responders who attended the scenes.