Book KiwiRail Freight open_in_new Book Interislander open_in_new Book Scenic Trains open_in_new Emergencies 0800 808 400

Our network
Information about property, assets and infrastructure and for people living near the rail corridor.
- Property
  KiwiRail manages rail land and property across New Zealand. Need land access, development advice, or property information? We can help.
- Assets and infrastructure
  Learn how KiwiRail maintains level crossings, rail track and rolling stock to keep New Zealand’s rail network safe, reliable and efficient.
- Communities and schools
  KiwiRail supports communities and schools across New Zealand through rail safety education, school programmes, donations and community initiatives.
Access and requirements
- Permit to Enter / Accessing the rail corridor
  Permission is required before entering or carrying out any activity near the rail line. Information about accessing our network is here.
- Inductions and trainings
  KiwiRail Learning Exchange (KLE) is KiwiRail’s Learning Management System where contractors can complete inductions and training courses online.
- Digital infrastructure
  Tools, training and resources for contractors delivering KiwiRail projects
  - Network visualisation
- Rail operators
  Rail operators other than KiwiRail can access the rail corridor under contract, and provide services to customers.
  - Rail operating rules
  - Network access standards
- Filming and photography
  Guidance for taking photos or filming at stations or on our rail and ferry networks.
Network investment
- Investment and funding
  KiwiRail is investing in New Zealand's rail network through the RNIP and future Cook Strait ferry and port infrastructure projects.
  - Rail Network Investment Programme (RNIP)
  - Cook Strait ferry replacement programme
- North Island
  KiwiRail is investing in the North Island rail network to improve infrastructure and support freight and passenger rail.
- South Island
  KiwiRail is investing in the South Island rail network to improve infrastructure and support freight and passenger rail.
  - Waltham Mechanical Hub
  - Hillside Workshops
- Where we are working
  KiwiRail and its contractors are always working to maintain and improve the rail network. Find major works here.
  - Paerata rail works
  - Ngākōroa Railway Station
Newsroom
About
- Our people
  Learn about the KiwiRail Governance Board and Executive Leadership Team.
- Sustainability
  Sustainability is central to our purpose of creating stronger connections for a better New Zealand.
- Our organisation
  KiwiRail is carrying New Zealand's rail legacy into the future, delivering connected transport services for economic, social and environmental value.
- KiwiRail businesses
  KiwiRail's freight, ferry, tourism and regional passenger services connecting people, goods and communities across New Zealand.
- Governance and publications
  We publish regular updates about our work.
- Doing business with us
  Supplying KiwiRail with goods and services.
- Glossary
  This page provides a list of common railway terms
Contact us

Emergencies 0800 808 400 Book KiwiRail Freight open_in_new Book Interislander open_in_new Book Scenic Trains open_in_new

Bridge strike prevention

Two-carriage locomotive going over steel bridge

Size matters: know your vehicle height before you drive

Bridge strikes are a risk to the safe operation of KiwiRail’s services along with unnecessary expense and delays to both our train services and the road network while the bridge is inspected, and any damage repaired.

In 2021 there were 32 reported bridge strikes across the network. We are aware of many more ‘hit and run’ incidents that are not reported.

Bridge strikes could be prevented if drivers measured their vehicle height, planned their route, and paid attention to both approach signs and signs on rail bridges.

What to do if you see a bridge strike

Call KiwiRail Network Control immediately on 0800 808 400.
All train movements will be halted until the bridge has been inspected.

Please provide the Registration of the Vehicle, and/or company signage, and your contact details so we can follow up for any further necessary information.

Last updated: October 28, 2026