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The vintage railway community is in mourning after the death of a person at a railway station in Te Awamutu on Sunday night.
Emergency services attended the incident involving a heritage train operated by Glenbrook Vintage Railway (GVR) at around 6.20pm on September 20. Police confirmed one person had died at the scene.
In a statement posted to social media, Glenbrook Vintage Railway Charitable Trust Board chair Glenn Deed said they were shocked and devastated following the incident.
“Our thoughts are first and foremost with the whanau and friends of the person who died. We are providing support to our staff and volunteers and remain in contact with our passengers who were onboard the train. The wellbeing of everyone affected is our immediate priority at this difficult time.
“We are encouraging any of our passengers or local community members who were present at Te Awamutu Station to reach out to Victim Support on 0800 842 846 if they need it.”
Deed says GVR is: “deeply grateful to the emergency services that responded, to our people who cared for our passengers while alternative transport was arranged, and to our passengers for their patience and support in extremely difficult circumstances.”
Following a blessing and with assistance from KiwiRail, the empty train was returned to Auckland on Monday morning.
“We are cooperating fully with the police and the relevant agencies as they investigate the circumstances of this tragic incident. While those investigations are underway, we are unable to comment further.
“On behalf of everyone at the Glenbrook Vintage Railway, I want to thank the community and the wider heritage rail sector for their ongoing care and support.”
Detective Sergeant Harry Hodgson urges those who witnessed the incident to contact police.
“This is a tragic incident, and we know that it will be distressing. Victim support is available if needed.
“We understand there were a number of people in the area at the time who may have footage that can assist in our investigation.”
“If you have footage or information that can assist our investigation, please contact police online at 105.police.govt.nz or call 105. Please use the reference number 260921/7085.”
