KiwiRail has begun tree removal and vegetation clearing work near SH27 in Matamata in a bid to improve safety along the rail corridor. The move comes after the tragic death of a local student.
The initiative, launched in partnership with the Matamata-Piako District Council, targets more than 70 trees that block train drivers’ view, particularly near Firth Street. Eleven will be removed entirely, while others will be pruned. Teams will also be clearing vegetation around Swap Park. The intervention follows the death of high school student Sarie Morton, who was hit by a train outside her school in March.
Security Actions and Response to Public Concerns
Following the incident, some residents called on KiwiRail to slow down or suspend train services between 15pm and 00pm to protect students. However, the company rejected the idea as impractical. “Freight trains operate to tight schedules and on long routes. Even at slower speeds, trains need up to 15km to stop. It is not possible to delay them,” said interim chief operating officer Paul Ashton. He emphasised that safety relies on responsible pedestrian behaviour, saying people should only cross at official crossings and always check both ways before continuing.
Visibility Upgrades and Community Education
To further improve safety, KiwiRail will add fencing to the western side of the railway line between Tainui Rd and Burwood Rd. This aims to prevent unauthorised access to the rail corridor. Matamata-Piako District Council CEO Manaia Te Wiata confirmed that additional fencing and improved access to the eastern side of the tracks were being reviewed.
Train drivers continue to honk their horns in Matamata to warn people nearby. While improved visibility helps, Ashton warned that emergency brakes cannot instantly stop a fully loaded train. Locals are urged to use the pedestrian crossing on Tainui Street; crossing elsewhere remains both illegal and dangerous.
