A Call for the General Manager.

As the possibility of a general evacuation of the earthquake area, particularly Napier, had arisen, the General Manager of Railways (Mr. H. H. Sterling) proceeded to Napier to assume control of transport operations for such an emergency. Mr. Sterling was in the earthquake zone from 5th to 11th February, and during this time he was in close touch with all aspects of the disaster. In co-operation with Captain Finlayson, who was in charge of the Nelson Park camp, Mr. Sterling formulated a comprehensive scheme dealing with all aspects of the transport problem. He also assisted in the development of a permanent relief organisation, under which he assumed full responsibility for all transport arrangements. As Chairman of the Transport Committee Mr. Sterling remained constantly in touch with the Control Committees at Napier and Hastings. He also conferred with his departmental officers from day to day, and dealt on the spot with questions requiring decision as they arose. Another important activity was his personal inspection of the line in the affected area from Napier southwards.