Rail operating rules

The Shield app

The New Zealand Rail Operating Rules and Procedures ensure the safe and efficient movement of trains and people on our railway network.

Developed on international standards and best practice, they cover signalling, track usage, speed limits, communication protocols, emergency procedures and more.

The Shield app gives you instant access to the latest rail operating rules and procedures from any device at any time anywhere.

Getting started

To get started with Shield and the new way of accessing rules you need to register. Registration requires you to select the role or roles that apply to you. This helps to ensure what is highlighted in the rules applies to you. At least one role is required. See this guide for an explanation of each role.

How to register
Follow the step-by-step instructions in the Shield App Quick Reference Guide below, after watching this video.

Using Shield

To use Shield and access rules content, you must first register. It is then important that you understand the rules framework as this will help you to find the content you are looking for. The video below explains the framework and here are the step-by-step instructions:
Shield App Quick Reference Guide - For all general users
Shield App Quick Reference Guide - Private Sidings - For Operators of Private Sidings
Shield App Guide – Teams – Manager TL. - For Managers and Team Leaders using 'Teams' functionality.

Need help

Please review this support guide and/or click here for frequently asked questions.

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