45km diesel spill could affect rail crossings

A 45km long diesel spill by a train could make railway crossings dangerous between Darfield and Christchurch, police warn.

The spill, believed to be up to 400 litres of diesel, happened in the early hours of this morning.

Sergeant Dean Lawrence said Environment Canterbury and the New Zealand Transport Authority were checking the 17 crossings between Darfield and Christchurch.

Mr Lawrence said motorists should take extreme care at the level crossings while the clean up is under way.

- NZHERALD STAFF