Level crossing safety

Keeping safe at level crossings

Everyone is responsible for keeping themselves and others safe on the railway and around level crossings.

Road users

You must stop at Stop signs and look for trains, and stop where barrier arms and flashing lights are operating. You must also look for trains at level crossings where there are Give Way or Stop signs. Don’t ever cross the track when a train is approaching.

Pedestrians

You must use designated pedestrian crossings.  Stop, look and listen for trains, especially when bells or lights are operating. Take off your headphones! Don’t ever cross the track when a train is approaching.

Safety at level crossings on private land

Private level crossings are crossings that are on private land and not used by the public. There are a large number of private level crossings in New Zealand, particularly in rural areas.

KiwiRail and the landowner are jointly responsible for managing the crossing, including safety. You can read more here.

KiwiRail Locomotive Engineers share rail safety messages in this award-winning video.