KiwiRail has suspended three of its tourist trains as a response to COVID-19.

The TranzAlpine, Northern Explorer and Coastal Pacific trains have been cancelled until further notice.

"The decision is in line with the Government policy of limiting non-essential travel around New Zealand," said Greg Miller, KiwiRail's group chief executive.

"Given the current circumstances, this is the appropriate thing to do in order to protect our people, passengers and communities from risk. We are deeply conscious of the impact that the cancellations will have on communities that rely on the business the trains generate."

Full refunds will be available, and staff will be temporarily redeployed where possible.

The Capital Connection train would continue to operate because of the role it plays in public transport, though the situation would be monitored closely, Miller said