The words from Harry Duynhoven on the completion of the Chris Cairns Foundation Walk NZ 2008:

"Good afternoon all and welcome. It is great to be here down in Canterbury today for the final leg of what has been an extraordinary journey.

Chris, we last saw each other as you walked into Wellington on the 8th of September on what was a rather rainy day. I daresay you've suffered a few more rain storms and blisters since then.

I know you have had a huge support crew with you on the road, and in spirit, and I'd like to thank a few of them now for helping make your journey possible - Patrick Jackson, Melanie Croser, Sophie Dicken, Simon Wilson, Scott Wilson, Wayne Wilson, Sue Wilson, Selwyn Bain and David Craig. I would also like to thank member of the New Zealand Police, including Inspectors Carey Griffiths and Derek Erasmus for making Chris's journey a safe one.

Chris, I know this journey would have been incredibly emotional, particulary today finishing at the scene of the level crossing crash that claimed the life of your sister Louise and those of Joanna Peat and Wendy Gilbert. But i want to take this opportunity to thank you personally for the commitment and selflessness you've shown as you've campaigned for rail safet in New Zealand.

Your cause is one this government strongly supports. As Minister for Transport Safety, I've actively encouraged the rail safety message, particulary through our annual Rail Safety Awareness Week.

Since 2003, there have been 89 fatalities on New Zealand railways. Rail operators, rail track managers and roading authorities do what they can to prevent crashes, but it is also important that the local community and individuals take responsibilty for safety at rail tracks.

Tradgically, people still cross the rail tracks into the path of oncoming trains. Trespassers on the network are also a major source of trauma and we continue to look for ways to keep people off the tracks. People have to understand that tracks are for trains only.

Chris, finally, can i thank you for your committment to rail safety and wish you a refreshing few days rest and relaxation now. Put your feet up and take a break, you have definitely earned it".

Hon. Harry Duynhoven

Minister for Transport Sfaety.