Police and emergency crews are staging a train derailment in the South Island to test their response.
The exercise plans to test and practise emergency procedures if a passenger rail came off the tracks. It will take place near Blenheim on Monday evening, police said.
Crews involved include St John, Fire and Emergency NZ, KiwiRail, Civil Defence, Steam Incorporated and the Pounamu Tourism Group.
The drill will simulate a train derailment and involve volunteers playing the part of passengers on the train, with emergency services expected to respond at a planned time.
"To ensure the least disruption to the general public the exercise is being held off the main trunk line, in a location with minimal public interaction."
The exercise will be "clearly visible" as being a simulation, rather than a real emergency, to reduce misunderstanding and alarm.
