“Jim was a true great of the New Zealand transport sector, with a long legacy that lives on beyond him. Among his many adventures and achievements including in road transport was, of course, the establishment against the odds of Strait Shipping and BlueBridge. Not only did he take on a state monopoly but he managed to thrive at it. What a character, a family man, as well as a business and transport leader.” – Simon Bridges, former MP for Tauranga, Minister of Transport, Leader of the National Party, and presently chief executive of Auckland Business Chamber. “What Jim achieved not just with Strait Shipping and Otorohanga Transport but across the entire industry will be felt for decades to come. Jim helped modernize the efficient movement of freight across New Zealand. He was a mentor for many in the industry, selflessly providing assistance to other operators in times of hardship. The road transport industry lost a true icon with his passing.” – Ken Shirley, former chief executive, Road Transport Forum “New Zealand is a better placesince Jim Barker ONZM stitched it together with his transport interests and Strait Shipping. Transport, trade and communication became cheaper. He should have been knighted.” – Robin Ray, truck driver, of Te Awamutu