Police identify mystery man hit by train

Police have finally identified mystery man "Alan", hospitalised after being hit by a train in Levin two weeks ago.

The man was unidentified after two weeks despite photographs being publicised and witnesses coming forward. He was hit by a train at Levin's train station on May 28 and taken to Palmerston North Hospital.

Police said that over the weekend "Alan" had recovered well and was gradually able to speak coherently and stay awake for longer periods.

He had uttered a few names and a search of more than 2000 combinations of those names finally hit the jackpot, police said.

"Alan is not his real name but it is a name he likes to be known by," said Detective Brenda Kelly. Identification had been confirmed by Internal Affairs' passport records yesterday, she said.

"Alan" had asked that his real identity be witheld from the public, Ms Brenda said.

"I have told him about the fantastic response from New Zealand and how famous he has become with the number of people who rang in to help.

"He says he is not one for making a fuss, describing himself as a man of simple needs, and has asked me to thank New Zealand for caring. He doesn't however want his identity made public and we have to respect that."

"Alan" is 62, Kiwi born and bred, with roots in the Christchurch area.

Police said he generally kept to himself and regularly travelled by train.

"Alan has reiterated to me that no-one caused him any harm and that his falling on the track was an accident," Ms Kelly said.

"We are satisfied that nothing untoward has happened to him and that he now just needs time and peace to recover."

Police are still trying to identify relatives who are believed to live overseas.

- NZHERALD STAFF