By SunLive
Flood waters surround the derailed train in Te Puke. Photo: SunLive/Sammi Strickland
A freight train has derailed near Te Puke in Bay of Plenty this morning.
A SunLive reader emailed photos showing part of a train that had come off the tracks on the Te Puke side of Bell Road.
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Sammi Strickland said was about 1km down from Bell Road.
"A freight and log train derailed 4.32am.
"The surrounding paddocks were full with water flooded and the track has been washed out.
The track has been washed out. Photo: SunLive/Sammi Strickland
"The engine and four freight carriages made it over with the 5th ripping apart and then logs carriages have split logs everywhere.
"Two drivers got out with torches and unhitched the carriages that stayed attached and moved the engine away."
Photo: SunLive/Sammi Strickland
Bridge washed out affecting residents
Also in Te Puke, a bridge on No.4 Road has been washed out just upstream of the Raparapahoe Stream.
Western Bay of Plenty District Council said there are a number of residents affected.
"We are working closely with them on a possible emergency access track which will provide alternative vehicle access out to Te Puke Highway via Manoeka Road.
Photo: Facebook/Te Puke Community Noticeboard