Mechanical failure is blamed for fatal crash | Northland News | Local News in Northland

The Northland speedway crash which claimed a 15-year-old girl's life was caused by mechanical failure, race officials have said.

Samantha Mouat was racing at Kaikohe Speedway's Easter Stampede on April 3 when her mini-stock car slammed into a wall.

Driver error was initially suspected, but an investigation of the Tauranga teen's vehicle has found a mechanical problem.

A meeting of the Circle Track Racing Association of New Zealand on Thursday reviewed the evidence and ruled that safety procedures had been followed and the track was up to association standards.

However, a mechanical failure in her vehicle had been identified as the "main contributing cause".

Kaikohe Speedway clerk of course Tony Taylor could not say what the failure was because police and Speedway New Zealand had only yesterday been informed.

The head scrutineers of all race tracks had been notified of the wear-and-tear-related problem and were taking urgent steps to inspect the estimated 600 mini-stock cars around New Zealand.

Inexperience might have contributed but the mechanical failure was "definitely" the main factor. "It was a freak, horrible accident. But if we can save another person's life with our findings, that's got to be good."

The Circle Track Racing Association, Speedway New Zealand, the police Serious Crash Unit and the Department of Labour are investigating.

A memorial service was held at Kaikohe Speedway the day after Samantha's death and her funeral was held at Baypark Speedway, her home track in Mt Maunganui.

Samantha's mother, Lisa Strydom, paid tribute  to the "bright little light" who had touched so many hearts.

Mr Taylor said Mrs Strydom had told him she wanted to return to Kaikohe for next year's Easter Stampede. Samantha's brother is also a keen race driver.