KEY POINTS:
A train derailment has blocked the main trunk line north of Levin this afternoon.
There were no injuries reported and the line was expected to remain closed until tomorrow at the earliest.
The train involved was a northbound freight train, with eight wagons involved and no hazardous goods, KiwiRail spokeswoman Sue Foley told NZPA.
Inspector Michael Coleman, of police central communications, said one wagon was on its side and several others had come off the tracks.
Because of the location of the train, the railway crossing on Cambridge Street near Liverpool Street had been closed.
The derailment happened about 2.15pm.
"They will be working overnight to repair the railway line so the train can be removed," said Sergeant Marc Clausen.
"There are alternate rail crossing to take such as Bath Street crossing to the north and Tararua Street crossing to the south."
Ms Foley said passengers remaining on tonight's Capital Connection when it reached Levin would be bussed to Palmerston North, while Overlander passengers would be bussed from Palmerston North to Wellington.
The cause of the derailment was not known and Ontrack was investigating.
- NZPA
