One person dead after being hit by train in Tauranga

A train is at a standstill after a death this morning. Photo / George Novak

One person has died after being hit by a train.

A police spokeswoman said the person died after being hit by a train along Ngatai Rd, Tauranga, about 5.30am today.

KiwiRail Group Chief Operating Officer Todd Moyle confirmed a freight train had hit a person in the rail corridor this morning.

"Unfortunately, police have confirmed there has been a fatality.

"Incidents like this are extremely upsetting for all those involved. In line with our standard practice our driver has been given leave, and is being offered support from KiwiRail, including counselling.

Moyle said the line was closed from 5.20am to 12.30pm.

Earlier today a reporter on the scene said the train was at a standstill down the hill from Ōtūmoetai Intermediate School with no evidence of any collision.

An ambulance and several police vehicles had been on scene, as well as a KiwiRail ute.