A person has died after being struck by a train on Mathias Street, near State Highway 73, Darfield.

The incident was reported around 7:15am.

The Serious Crash Unit is at the scene conducting a scene examination.

State Highway 73 remains closed.

A police spokesman said enquiries into the circumstances of what happened are ongoing.

A Kiwi Rail spokesman said “there was a collision between a person and a freight train at a level crossing near Darfield, on the Midland Line.

“The level crossing has warning lights and bells.

 “The loaded train was travelling from Darfield to Christchurch. Emergency services are at the scene.

The rail line is currently closed so this morning’s TranzAlpine service from Christchurch to Greymouth has been replaced by buses.”