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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

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Our network
Property
Building or developing near rail

Building or developing near rail

People and diggers working on rail

People and diggers working on rail

Most development near the railway can proceed without affecting rail operations. However, some activities can create safety risks, damage rail infrastructure or make it harder to operate and maintain the network.
Please contact KiwiRail early if you are planning work near the rail corridor. This helps us identify any potential issues before your plans are finalised.

When to contact us

Talk to us if your proposal includes:
• new or changed access near a level crossing
• additional road traffic at a level crossing
• earthworks, excavation or construction close to the rail corridor
• buildings or structures that may affect access to, or visibility around, the railway
• changes to stormwater flows or drainage near rail infrastructure
• signs, lighting, landscaping or planting that may affect visibility
• residential or other noise-sensitive development near the railway
• hazardous substances or activities that may increase the risk of trespass.

KiwiRail generally does not support new level crossings. Where a new crossing is required, grade-separated options such as a bridge or underpass are preferred. See Private level crossings for more information.

Council and resource consent applications

If a council considers that a proposal may affect KiwiRail property or operations, you may need to obtain KiwiRail’s written affected-party approval.

Please provide enough information for us to understand the potential effects of your proposal. Our development checklist explains what to include. Shared pathways and cycleways

If you are planning a shared pathway or cycleway near the rail corridor, contact us early to discuss:
• separation from the railway
• fencing requirements
• proposed crossings
• public and rail safety
• access for rail operations and maintenance.
For shared pathway enquiries, email grants@kiwirail.co.nz

Working within the rail corridor

Development approval does not provide permission to enter or work within the rail corridor. Work within and around the corridor requires separate approval and a Permit to Enter.

Contact us

Contact the KiwiRail Resource Management team as early as possible:
Phone: 0800 801 070
Email: environment@kiwirail.co.nz

Last updated: October 19, 2026