A truck rumbles along SH57 near Levin, with the new barriers on both sides of the road. Photo: RNZ / Jimmy Ellingham
The Transport Accident Investigation Commission wants to expand the types of investigations it undertakes ... heavy vehicles is one idea, also infrastructure, space incidents, and the ability to undertake inquiries on behalf of other nations - particularly in the Pacific.
Currently the Commission's mandate restricts it to marine, rail and air accidents.
The Minister responsible for TAIC Matt Doocey was briefed on the chief commissioner's desire to expand its remit early this year.
He was told by Ministry of Transport officials a number of international counterparts have investigative responsibility for heavy road vehicles, and some infrastructure, and that TAIC's expertise could be put to use more widely.
Dom Kalasih is the interim chief executive of Transporting NZ, the national industry association representing road freight transport companies including trucks and couriers, and says the sector would welcome the move.
