A man is believed to have been trying to beat a train at a level crossing when he was hit and killed last night.
The 26-year-old was with a friend when he was struck by the train at the Lincoln Rd crossing in Christchurch about 10.15pm.
Acting Inspector Paul Reeves said it appeared the man, a Christchurch local, had tried to cross the road or failed to see the train.
He said the controlled barrier arm was working at the time.
"He hasn't adhered to the barrier arms being down and the lights going [and] it appears he tried to beat the train or he's failed to see it," Mr Reeves said.
The road was closed for about three hours last night while officers conducted a scene examination.
Police have also interviewed witnesses.
