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The New Zealand Railways Magazine, Volume 3, Issue 8 (December 1, 1928)

The Verdict

The Verdict.

When the long land cruise ended at Auckland it was agreed all round that the running of the Commerce Train was a success, without any qualification. There was no note of unfavourable criticism from any of the members of the large party. Commercial men, representatives of almost every branch of industry, and professional men agreed with one voice on the thorough enjoyment and solid benefit derived from the long provincial tour, covering the country from the Far North to the King Country and the outer guard of the Urewera mountains. The co-ordination of train, motor and launch services was perfect, a triumph for the organising capacity of the New Zealand Railways. In the words of one of the International Trade Commissioners, an opinion endorsed by his confreres, it was impossible to conceive that a tour of this kind could be organised more effectively or carried out more efficiently in any part of the world.

The verdict, too, of the president of the Auckland Chamber of Commerce must be placed on record. “It has been a wonderful success,” he said, at the conclusion of the nine days’ tour. The vast undeveloped wealth of the country through which the train passed impressed him greatly. “The results which have been achieved with some of the fertile lands plainly show that only scientific treatment is needed to cause the province to pour forth a golden stream of produce.” The touring party he added, had been able to study at first hand the conditions of country life, and to form closer ties with their country friends. From that point of view alone the trip had been worth all the trouble spent on it.

Attendants and Crew of the Commerce Train.

Attendants and Crew of the Commerce Train.

When the Commerce Train started from Auckland on 26th October, it was manned by Engine-driver G. Day, Fireman C. Irvine, and Guard J. Melican. Members of the train staff were personally thanked at the end of the tour by the General Manager of Railways for their excellent work.

page 41

“Welcome ye shades! ye bowery thickets hail!…
Delicious is your shelter to the soul.—Thomson.

Richness of Forest Verdure seen on the road to Mount Egmont, North Island, New Zealand

Richness of Forest Verdure seen on the road to Mount Egmont, North Island, New Zealand