Tour from the Railways’ Viewpoint.

The significance of the tour from the standpoint of the National Railways was succinctly expounded by Mr. H. H. Sterling, the General Manager, in these words at the outset of the expedition:—

“I feel that the interests of city and country are so closely interwoven that every possible opportunity should be taken to let one section know exactly how the other stands and what it is doing in order that the best co-operative effort may be applied.

“My own experience of private enterprise is that gained whilst in charge of the world's greatest dairy concern, and that has shown me the universal advantages to be gained by co-operation. In the railway service there is an increasing desire to achieve a maximum of efficiency by this means. The service has been built up by a succession of capable administrators and can claim that it has never fallen down in regard to any transport proposition that has been handed over to it. In regard to this tour, I was very pleased to take advantage of the fine enterprise shown by the Auckland Chamber of Commerce to prove what the Department is capable of in the way of service. Every little detail has been thought out that may in any way help to make for the ease, comfort and entertainment of the travellers, and from the expressions already conveyed to me by members of the party it is quite clear that the efficiency of our organisation has surprised some and delighted all.

“I feel sure that the lead given to the rest of New Zealand by Auckland province in the running of a Commerce Train will quickly be followed by other provinces. If that is so, then I can assure the public that the Department will be prepared to make equally thorough preparations for any tours of a similar kind which they may desire to make. Out of this trip, and the increased knowledge to be derived therefrom, there will be a double benefit; firstly, a complete appreciation by all who are thus brought into contact with each other regarding the work performed in the province for the good of the Dominion, and secondly, page 27 a great extension of enterprise on the part of both producers and business men through the confidence in the resources of the country which such a useful tour is bound to provide.”