Filming and photography
Guidance for taking photos or filming at stations or on rail and ferry networks
- To film or photograph, or use a drone, in or near the rail network or on KiwiRail property you require KiwiRail’s formal permission via a Permit to Enter.
- While railways are extremely photogenic, they can also be dangerous places to take pictures.
- KiwiRail does not support the creation or publication of images where people enter the rail corridor to use rail track, tunnels or bridges as a creative backdrop, or any images that glamourise trespass on the network or suggest it is acceptable.
- Trespassing is the leading cause of rail deaths, and is also illegal.
- In most cases you will need to obtain a Permit to Enter from KiwiRail and meet the associated costs of planning and facilitating safe access. This permit will allow you to safely work within the applied location and time.
Activities at Wellington Railway Station
Wellington Railway Station provides a unique venue for performances, product launches, and promotions.
The station is private property managed by KiwiRail. Anyone wishing to film or hold an activity inside the station itself requires our permission.
Applying to use Wellington Railway Station
Costs and processing time
A fee will be charged for use of the area. This will include costs for venue hire and may also include security, utility and building charges. A quote will be provided after receipt of the completed application form.
Processing of applications may take up to two weeks from receipt of the completed application form and required documents.
Contact
To check the progress of your application, please email leasing@kiwirail.co.nz.
Filming or taking photos in a commuter train, a platform or station
Auckland
Passenger carriages and platforms/stations are owned by Auckland Transport.
You will need permission from Auckland One Rail and Auckland Transport to film on trains. Auckland One Rail Permit.
You will need permission from KiwiRail to film on the rail network. For more information contact our Permit and Protection Team.
Wellington
Passenger carriages and platforms/stations are owned by Greater Wellington Regional Council.
You will need permission from KiwiRail to film on the rail network. For more information contact our Permit and Protection Team.
Filming on Great Journeys NZ tourism services or Interislander ferries
Passengers are welcome to use hand-held cameras for private purposes on our ferries and scenic train services, but those looking to film for commercial purposes, or using a drone need formal permission.
Media filming enquiries
Like members of the public, media personnel are not permitted to enter the rail corridor without permission from KiwiRail. Please contact KiwiRail’s Media Team to discuss your proposal: email mediaenquiries@kiwirail.co.nz