Dangerous goods train catches fire

A Kiwi Rail freight train carrying dangerous goods caught fire near Rolleston last night.

The train was halfway between Islington and Rolleston when a small fire ignited about 9.10pm.

A fire service spokesman said crew were told the cargo contained ''dangerous goods,'' believed to be aerosol cans.

Crews from West Melton, Burnham, Rolleston and Dunsandel raced to the scene.

However, the fire was not near the goods, and they posed no risk.

''The fire was extinguished and the train handed back to Kiwi Rail at about 9.37pm.''

The train driver was not injured.

- © Fairfax NZ News