There are walking and cycling tracks on both operating and inactive rail corridors.
We allow recreational activities on parts of the rail corridor as long as they don’t affect rail operations.
The aim of our walking and cycling policyThe main aim of our walking and cycling policy is to keep train operators, passengers, and walkers and cyclists safe while using the rail corridorBackground to this policyWe endeavour to use the corridor in a socially responsible way and we see walking and cycling as socially beneficial activities. The principle use of the rail corridor is for the operation of trains, but the corridor is also used for a number of other purposes.
Safety is a top priority, as well as maintaining train services, when we consider applications for access from walkers and cyclists. Each application undergoes a comprehensive feasibility study.
General criteriaFor operational corridors, we evaluate applications for walking and cycling access on a case-by-case basis. The general factors we consider include:
- Safety – we must take all practicable steps to ensure that no rail activities for which we are responsible causes injury or death
- Commercial operation of rail – we must retain the ability to maintain the rail track and to provide access to the track for train operators
- Space - the width of the railway corridor can vary and even in a wide corridor there can be ‘pinch points’ that may make recreational activities impossible
- Future-proofing the corridor - some rail corridors are likely to see increased rail activity in the future. Such activities require additional space in the corridor and may limit recreational activities.
Specific criteria
- Clearance – there must be a six metre clearance between the centreline of the rail track and a cycleway or walkway, one side for single track, both sides for double track.
- Cycleways and walkways must be fenced off from the rail track.
- Access to bridges and tunnels is restricted – no walkway or cycleway can be accommodated in a tunnel due to insufficient safety clearance.
- In some locations easements already exist where utility services have been laid. The current and future needs of utilities need to be considered.
- Consultation with adjacent property owners, utility companies and residents is likely to be required.
Closed or inactive corridorsFor closed or inactive rail corridors, a number of factors are considered before a recreational activity is approved. These include:
- potential future rail use of the corridor
- ease of access and safety
- claims by other users and possible owners, such as adjacent land users or Treaty of Waitangi claimants.
FundingWe do not generally fund recreational services on the rail corridor. Potential recreational users would need to be able to fund and maintain their facility, including fencing.
Successful applications
If an application is successful we will issue a Licence to Occupy, which gives the applicant the right to construct a walkway or cycleway.
Contact us about cycling or walking accessApplications to place a walking and cycling activity in the rail corridor should be made to:
The Licence Administrator
Corporate Property Office
PO Box 593
Wellington
Phone (04) 495 3000