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After the tragic death of Louise Cairns in a level crossing accident, that also claimed the lives of two other young women, Chris had always felt a need to do something in the memory of Louise that would benefit the community.

  • Chris Cairns approached Toll New Zealand to ask them to join with him in establishing a campaign that would benefit all New Zealanders.
  • Toll wanted to help minimise the pain and suffering caused by level crossing accidents – both to victims and their families as well as to the company’s own staff, and train drivers in particular.
  • The Foundation was launched in Auckland on Feb 17th 2007 at a Black Tie Gala Affair that had none other than Richie Benaud as MC and Earl Spencer as the guest speaker.
  • In 2008 the Foundation formed a new relationship with KiwiRail, following the sale of Toll’s rail and ferry businesses to the New Zealand government. The Foundation has welcomed the commitment of KiwiRail as its major sponsor and looks forward to its support as we continue to educate and raise awareness about rail safety.

Other successful level crossing safety campaigns and events include:

  • Chris Cairns’ ‘Walk NZ’ from Pukekohe
    to Rolleston;
  • The annual Australasian Rail Safety Awareness Weeks in 2007, 2008 and 2009;
  • The ‘Cops in Cabs’ campaign;
  • The ‘Tracks are for Trains’ rail safety education programme delivered to New Zealand primary schools;
  • The “Ladies Day at Ascot” Gala Dinner and Charity Auction in March 2008.

“Chris is one of cricket’s greatest all-rounders and he’s already got runs on the board for rail safety...”

From the speech of RT Hon Helen Clark Prime Minister of New Zealand, at the Chris Cairns Foundation Dinner 2006.