UPDATED: Dead cows remain beside the railway track near Kairua road today, after they were struck by a train last night.

A police spokesperson says police were called at 5.35pm after stock had got out of a paddock and onto a railway track.

The spokesperson confirmed that some of the cows had been killed by the train, and added a number had to be put down.

A SunLive photographer at the scene today says there are the bodies of at least ten animals to be seen along a section of track, with possibly more in the distance. There were also areas strewn with animal parts.

A Police communication spokesperson in Wellington was unable to provide any more information this morning as all the officers involved last night are now off dutry.

EARLIER:

People have contacted SunLive tonight saying about six police cars were called to the train tracks on Kairua Road.

One person says 40 or more cows have been killed, possibly euthanised, after being hit by a train.

"Train stopped and blocking Kairua Road as investigation and cleanup commences."

People are being asked to avoid the area until the tracks are cleared.