Manawatu Gorge rail line closed after slip

File photo / Wairarapa Times-Age

The rail line through the Manawatu Gorge could be closed for up to two days after a freight train carrying milk hit a landslide early today.

The train, which was heading for Taranaki, hit a slip on the eastern side of the gorge about 5am.

OnTrack spokeswoman Jenni Austin told NZPA it could take at least a day or two before the slip debris is cleared from the tracks, and the locomotive removed.

"We brought the equipment in today and (are) getting set up. My understanding is they'll be working until dark tonight, and they'll start again at first light tomorrow."

Ms Austin said the wagons carrying milk were towed to its destination.

- NZPA