A Matamata College student who died after being struck by a freight train has been named as Sarie Morton.
The Year 9 student died yesterday afternoon when she suffered critical injuries during the incident in Firth St outside the college in Waikato.
Morton's mother Katrina Bagley confirmed her daughter's death on Facebook this morning, saying words could not describe her sadness at having to announce the news.
"Friends and family and for all of you who know Sarie, it's with sadness that words cannot describe that we're letting you know that Sarie was taken from us suddenly in an incident yesterday after school," she wrote.
"We are still processing this. I am overwhelmed by the love and support by everyone and offers of help. Please just come."
Matamata College principal Dr Angela Sharples also released a statement confirming the tragedy, describing Morton as "one of our beloved students".
"Our heartfelt condolences go out to Sarie's family and friends during this incredibly difficult time."
The school remained open today, with a blessing at the site held this morning.
"As we navigate this sudden loss, we are deeply grateful for the outpouring of love and support from our community. Your kindness and compassion are greatly appreciated by Sarie's family, friends and all of us here at Matamata College.
"Further details will be provided by the family and communicated with you. In the meantime, we are focused on wrapping our love and care around the family."
Morton's death is being investigated by police.
A WorkSafe spokesperson said it was not yet investigating, just making initial inquiries.
KiwiRail did not respond to questions about the safety of the train line which runs parallel to Matamata College.
In 2012 another student from the school died after being hit by a train outside the building.
Zakariah Paul Lang, 15, had been walking with two friends near the tracks about 3pm when he was hit after stepping out of a tree line and into the path of the train.
The train line runs through the township of 10,000 with houses on both sides and next to a state highway.
Mayor Adrienne Wilcock said she would wait until investigations were complete before the council could consider whether safety improvements were needed.
She told RNZ's Morning Report programme today she was not aware of any safety concerns prior to Sarie being hit.
"I do understand there will be investigations and inquiries taking place and, you know, I think council will very keen to work with the relevant authorities to see if these tragedies can be avoided in the future."
Wilcock said train tracks were part of everyday life in Matamata and the school was providing support to students and families.
"I would say Matamata College will be actively working in that space, I'm sure they have procedures to cope with these sorts of instances when a student is sadly lost... they will definitely be wrapping their support around the community."
Her advice to the shocked community was to reach out and talk to one another.
"It's going to take a little bit of time to obviously work through - some will be more affected than others. Yeah, stick together and support one another."
RNZ asked the New Zealand Transport Agency whether there were renewed concerns over safety and whether the section of railway line outside the school between College and Tainui streets should be fenced off, or an overhead bridge installed for students.
In a statement, NZTA rail safety regulation national manager Gini Welch said NZTA was notified of yesterday's fatal collision and its thoughts were with everyone affected by the tragic event.
"KiwiRail is investigating the event, police will also investigate on behalf of the Coroner, and the Transport Accident Investigation Committee (TAIC) has been notified. NZTA is also making preliminary enquiries in our capacity as rail safety regulator."
There was a level crossing that pedestrians could use at the intersection with Tainui St near the college. The town has two level crossings.
Police are asking anyone who saw the incident to contact them.
