Accessing our Network

Accessing the KiwiRail Rail Corridor

KiwiRail’s rail corridor is a controlled environment that supports a busy national rail system operating day and night. Trains are fast, heavy, and require long distances to stop, which means the corridor must always be treated as live. Permission is required before entering or carrying out any activity near the rail line.

Access may be needed for a wide range of purposes—from installing utilities and crossing livestock, to property‑related activities, project works, film production, and moving oversized loads.

Each type of activity has its own requirements so that KiwiRail can keep people safe and ensure rail operations continue without disruption.

This page provides a business‑wide entry point into the permissions, guidance and support available for anyone needing to work in or around the rail network.

Corridor Access Requests / Permit to Enter

A Permit to Enter (PtE) is required for short‑term work taking place in or near the operational rail corridor. The Corridor Access team manages this process to ensure work is coordinated with train operations and carried out safely. 

A PtE may be required when:

• Working within 5 metres of a mainline track 
• Completing Traffic Management Plans within 10 metres of track or 5 metres of a level crossing 
• Working near electrical overhead wires
• Working within five metres of live rail inside KiwiRail facilities
• Undertaking any activity on rail land that may affect rail safety or operations

To apply for a Permit to Enter CLICK HERE

Property, Leasing & Land Use

Some activities involve long‑term occupation or rights over KiwiRail land, including encroachments, leases, easements, and Deeds of Grant.
These approvals are required when infrastructure, improvements, or community activities occupy rail land beyond short‑term work.

Examples include:

• Commercial or private leases
• Easements and Deeds of Grant (DoG)
• Long‑term utility assets
• Boundary adjustments or access rights
• Beautification and community projects

The Property team manages these arrangements and can guide you through documentation and requirements.

Installing a Utility

Utility operators undertaking work on or near rail land—such as power, telecommunications, water, gas, or drainage—must comply with the Utilities Access Code of Practice (NZUAG Code), which outlines how work must be notified, planned and coordinated in transport corridors. 

Most utility projects also require property approval (for example, a Deed of Grant or easement) where assets will occupy rail land long‑term.

Examples include:

• New utility installations
• Asset relocations and upgrades
• Maintenance or repairs
• Site inspections or investigations

Moving Livestock

Moving livestock across the rail corridor requires prior approval to ensure movements are coordinated safely with rail operations. In most cases, livestock crossings also require a formal property agreement, such as a Grant of Right or similar access arrangement, because they involve ongoing use of KiwiRail land.

If you need to move animals across the rail line—whether occasionally or as part of regular farm operations—KiwiRail will work with you to confirm the appropriate agreement and any operational controls required.

Over‑Dimensional Loads (Crossing Permits)

Oversized or overweight loads such as houses, large equipment, or long vehicles may require special permission to cross the rail line.
A Rail Crossing Permit ensures:

• Safe clearance from overhead lines and structures
• Appropriate timing with train movements
• Site‑specific protection or supervision if required

Traffic Management Near Rail

Traffic Management Plans (TMPs) involving road works close to rail lines or level crossings may require KiwiRail review and approval. This ensures that road users, rail users, and work crews remain safe and that warning systems or train movements are not compromised. 

Filming, Photography & Community Activities

Filming, photography, community events, and similar activities near or on rail land require permission.
KiwiRail assesses each request to ensure appropriate safety conditions and operational considerations are in place.

Cycleways, Walkways & Shared Path Developments

Shared paths, walkways, and cycleway projects near the rail corridor often involve councils or developers.
Early engagement with KiwiRail ensures safe design, appropriate property arrangements, and long‑term operational compatibility.

Operational Safety, Protection & Inductions

Some activities require specialist safety controls or operational input, including:

• Rail protection requirements
• Operational safety and compliance guidance
• Worker inductions and training
• Adherence to network access standards

These ensure that work near rail is carried out safely and without impacting train operations.

Documentation, Charges & Support

Depending on your activity, you may need:

• Site Specific safety plans
• Drawings or technical details
• TMPs
• Insurance documentation
• Property agreements (e.g., DoG, leases, easements)
• Access planning and protection service charges

Each access type outlines its specific documentation and fee requirements.

Contact Us

If you have questions or can’t find what you’re looking for, please email: contactus@kiwirail.co.nz