Signals, cables and overhead lines are increasingly being stolen from Wellington's rail network, causing repeated delays and line closures for commuters.
KiwiRail and police are urging the public to report suspicious behaviour as thefts of rail infrastructure continue to disrupt services.
Wellington Metro general manager Andy Lyon said theft around the Wellington network was a major problem with a big cost to KiwiRail and the public.
"People are stealing signals, cables and overhead lines, all of which are crucial components on the railway operation. They are putting themselves at enormous risk by interfering with live equipment."
Stolen rail equipment forced the closure of the Hutt Valley Line six times during April, with more than 50 services experiencing delays.
Lyon said as much as 5km of cable had gone missing from the Wairarapa alone in the past six months.
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"While the scrap cost is very low, the cost to replace these cables runs into the hundreds of thousands of dollars, he said.
"There is the obvious cost of replacing stolen equipment, but theft of this nature typically leads to serious disruption while we reinstall equipment and test systems before getting core rail services back up and running."
Inspector Shaun Lingard said there was "significant risk" to the offenders when they attempt to steal equipment or trespass on the rail corridor.
"Anyone that interferes with live railway cabling is putting themselves at risk of serious harm through electrocution," he said.
“Railway cabling is thought to be targeted due to the cooper content and the increasing scrap value of copper. However, the return is low for such a high-risk activity, and it really costs the whole community when cable is stolen."
Anyone with relevant information should contact police on 105.
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