Assault charge after train window argument

An argument over an open train window led to an assault charge and delays for rush-hour Kapiti commuters this morning.

A KiwiRail spokeswoman said the assault, allegedly by a man on a woman, happened on the 7.02am Waikanae to Wellington train at Paekakariki.

A 62-year-old man has been arrested and charged with disorderly behaviour and common assault.

Sergeant Ian Osland said the argument between the man and a 50-year-old woman occurred as a result of having a window open.

"It had blown up into a verbal argument which has led to a minor assault by two parties."

A minor assault by the woman had led the man to retaliate in front of a number of morning commuters, he said.

Delays of up to 30 minutes were experienced between Waikanae and Plimmerton as a result.

Trains were back on schedule from 9am.

Mr Osland said the woman had now gone to work but police would speak to her later about her part in the incident.

The man will appear in the Porirua District Court next week.

Both parties were from the Kapiti area. 

- © Fairfax NZ News