Train forced to close outdoor carriage after tourists take death-defying selfies
Passengers frequently lean out the side to get the perfect shot
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.Too many dangerous selfies have forced the closure of the outdoor carriage on New Zealand’s iconic Coastal Pacific train.
The 350km route between Picton and Christchurch takes in some of the South Island’s most beautiful scenery, which tourists frequently try and capture from the train’s viewing carriage.
However, travellers are putting their lives at risk by leaning out of the carriage to take selfies, photos and videos of the landscape.
“Despite the number of signs and announcements on board our trains pointing out the dangers of this, we have seen passengers leaning out with selfie sticks, iPads and their bodies, often unaware of an approaching tunnel which could cause a tragic incident for themselves, and others in the carriage,” said Katie McMahon, general manager of KiwiRail group, which operates the service.
“We simply have to stop adults and children leaning from the carriages or we would not be discharging our duty as a safe transport operator.”
As a result, the company has launched a review, during which the viewing carriage will be off limits.
Potential solutions could involve glass windows, narrow bars or an inclining barrier, according to McMahon.
“We hope to have a solution in place shortly that will allow the carriages to re-open safely,” she added.
The move comes as so-called “influencers” are increasingly coming under fire for posting pictures that seemingly promote risk-taking to get the perfect shot.
Earlier this month, a picture of a travel influencer couple in Bali was branded “dangerous” and “stupid” by online commenters.
Kelly Castille and Kody Workman, who created Instagram account Positravelty, posted a photo of Workman holding Castille over the side of an infinity pool in Ubud while they kiss, with a sheer drop below.
While some were impressed by the pair’s ingenuity, others were quick to censure the couple for the “terrifying” and “idiotic” stunt.
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments