Meeting at Te Awahou Pa, Rangitikei Thursday, 15th. March 1849 - Godfrey Thomas, Esq., Auditor, General Southern Province; Major Durie, Resident Magistrate, Waikanae; J. Ormond. Esq., Private Secretary to His Excellency, the Lieut. Governor; Donald McLean, Esq., and Mr. Chamberlain. Native Chiefs of Ngatiraukawa tribe, - Taratoa, Kingi Hori te Puke; Te Ahu Karamu Paora; Poho Tirana; Te Ahu Ahu Kingi, Roraoa. Younger Chiefs, - Tamihana te Rauparaha; Matine te Whiwhi Watanui; Hakariah (teacher) te Werumotu Kihaoah; Ihakara; and about one hundred men, comprising the most influential members of tribes. Matiu te Rongomaiwiti te Upokoiri, Chief. Wanganui Chiefs invited by Mr. McLean. George King te Anana; Aperhama Parea; and of their own consent, Honi Wiremu Hipango, Aperhama Ruke; Kawana Pai Pai; Nikorima; Pumipi, and Taniora, of Kawia. Ngatiapa Tribe; - Kingi Hori te Hanea; Kawana Hunia; Aperhama Tipae; Te Whaitere, and about two hundred men, women, and children. "With you, Ngatiraukawas, are all the words. We have little to say. By too much talk I may break faith with Taratoa, respecting our words spoken together in the house at night." - "This is a marriage by me to the Europeans, of my land; and I ask Mr. McLean if he will agree to my doing so." - "All the words we have spoken is that we shall keep this side of Rangitikei, up to Taupo." - Same words as previous speaker, - "This side of Rangitikei up to Taupo." - "All my word is that I want to sell my land." - "We have married our lands to the Europeans, and entirely given our greatest property to the European." - "It is well for the Europeans to have the North side of Rangitikei. This side of the river is for ourselves." Followed by a piece of poetry, in which the Ngatiraukawas joined, - "Ka, apu te wenua Ka haere, Ka haere ngatangata Kei hea. Era ai moke purutia Tawai Ki aita aite ita ita." "When the land goes Where are the people to live, or go to? Ngatiraukawas, let us hold it fast, Let us hold it fast." - Alluded to Kawana Hokeke's death, lamenting the same, and referring to his having saved him in time of war. - In reference to their old wars, and his father's friendly treatment of Te Rauparaha, when he came to Waitotara, having sent on a body of natives to meet him there. "The Ngatiapas have been kind and hospitable long enough to natives without gratitude, or any return being made to us." This young man, in a very spirited speech, enumerated some of Rauparaha's treacherous acts, when the Ngatiapa relied on his sincerity, having made peace, and afterwards, from a theft of a canoe at Manawatu, by the Rangitane's, attacked and destroyed several of them. "Ratanui was also welcomed by us when he came here from the Interior; and it was in our power to attack him advantageously." "If you sell the land, I will take possession of it from the Europeans; that is, after you receive payment for it, not before." - "I give up my land; Taratoa, the land I spoke of to you, some time ago. All of it I give up to the Queen." - "Welcome, welcome, you are all the Governor's people; and we are all the Governor's people and the Queen's. I commenced to sell land to the Europeans. My land I give up all of it to the Queen. All our claims are given up to the Governor. You yourselves encouraged Europeans first to come among us. We also want Europeans to come among us, to feed their cattle and sheep near to us. The sale of our land has been a subject of correspondence for the last three years." - "Talk mouth to mouth, talk about your land, our joint land; have your say, and we shall have our say. Say, our voice is to sell the land on the opposite side, (North) of the Rangitikei river. We are now crowded on both sides. Wanganui, North of us, is sold to the Europeans. Port Nicholson, South, and Porirua. Now this is Rangitikei. You may sell this to the Europeans, but Mr. McLean, do not let the Europeans come on this (South) side." - "Welcome, welcome, the Ngatiraukawas. All I have to say, is, that I give up all my land to the Europeans; every part of it." - "If you sell the land on this side of the river, it will cause disturbances;" and recited a piece of poetry, in which they all joined in the chorus, indicative of their determination to hold the land on the South bank of the river. - An old Chief of the Ngatiapa, said, - "Let us have short talk. "Ngatiapa, do you all agree to sell your land, and give it into Mr. McLean's hand?" They all replied "Yes", most unanimously. - a Ngatiraukawa Chief, spoke violently against the sale of land to the Europeans, saying, - "Look at the Wairarapa, - a few foolish people of that place offered to sell their land; but on consideration afterwards, they would not sell for any amount." - "Christianity has made us one people. Welcome, welcome. I have been in slavery. Christianity has released me, I did not first introduce Europeans. You yourselves set the example." - "Ngatiraukawas, do you all agree to sell the North side of Rangitikei to Mr. McLean?" General reply, - "Ai" or "yes." - "Ngatiapa, do you all agree to give your land to the Queen?" "Ae" "and to the Governor, also" "Ae." - who separated from his tribe, and joined Rangihaeata, - "I will not give up my land. No. No. I love my land too much to give it up. Your place is England. That is the place of the Pakehas. You have no right here." - "I have nothing to say about the land. I have come here as a visitor to hear the talk. It is an old custom, my friends, to meet together. It was a custom of ours before the Europeans came. Ngapuhi first sold their land. We are now all being taught to follow their example. The Ngapuhis also commenced fighting. The Ngapuhi first sold their land." - "It is good to speak openly in daylight, that the Pakeha or European may hear with both ears what is said. Our talk, and the Ngatiapa." - Let us retain some of our land for fire-wood. What are we to have for ourselves if we give it all to the Europeans? Rangitoto is my Tiki Tiki and great place." (Tiki means a greenstone ornament worn round the neck. Tiki Tiki is a knot hair on the crown of the head. - "It is right you should welcome us. We were friends long ago, before the new tikanga, or new order of things took place. We had also quarrels before then, but we should keep friends. Just look, Mr. McLean, the boundary we claim is the Rangitikei. Your people shall have one side; but our retaining possession of it will not be for ourselves, but for your people also; meaning for the Ngatiapa." - "All your talk about friendship to me, is correct. This land on this side is mine. I will hold this side, and will never give it up; no, never, I will not give it up for ever. The other side, if I agree to it, will be given up to the Europeans, - but not without. Mr. McLean will not purchase land foolishly." - "The South side of the river is for you, Mr. McLean; for me also; and for the Ngatiraukawa." - "The other side is all we will ever give up. - "Be mindful of my words, now. Just look at the other side. The other side is for you," (pointing to the North side) of the river; "but do not come to this side, if you wish to have peace." "Mr. McLean, the Governor's brother, Major Durie, and all the Europeans present, - remember what I say to you. This side, if you attempt to take it, will not be given up by us." Turning to George King, of Wanganui, - "There is not a person to say a word to you, Hori Kingi, - Come, come, come, you are welcome. "Mr. McLean, my words are few. All I wish is to have the boundaries between yourselves, the natives, amicably settled. Decide your boundaries to preserve peace, as the present unsettled state of your land, keeps you in constant agitation." Heavy rain dispersed the natives. - In speaking to the Ngatiapa, who got under cover of some Whatas, said, - in my hearing, - "If it were a boundary between ourselves, we should not be stubborn about it. Koputara stream should be the boundary between us as natives, - Europeans, however, being in question, Rangitikei is decided on by us as a boundary for the Europeans." Meeting closed for the day. Food served out. - "Ngatiapa, - my friend Hunia, we are now under a new law, a law of peace. I was once in the hands of all the tribes on the Coast, - Ngatiranui, Wanganui, Ngatiapa. It is only now we are getting wise. The Europeans teach us wisdom. We are all children. We were all children. It is only now we are acquiring knowledge. All I have to say to you, Ngatiraukawa and Ngatiapa, is to become old in wisdom. "To you, Mr. McLean, I have nothing to say. The words of each party are strong, so that those who desire to act impartially are not listened to." Some allusions were made by this Chief, to the sayings of their ancestors, when they went on a war expedition, such as Kuruku striking the foot, which was omnious of either good or bad luck; and "Kiriwai" for burning in the fire. Aropita is my mark, meaning a native whom he captured and released, of the Ngatiapa tribe, named Aropita. - "Mr. McLean, if you pay the Ngatiapa for the land, you shall possess it, and I shall possess it. We shall never give up our land; and we give you this open warning." - "What Martiu says is right. We shall not add fuel to the fire. We are both strongly contending for the land. We will hold to our intention, and you will do the same. We shall all be put down eventually by the Europeans. Let both of us persist. "The reason of our strength is on account of the words of Te Kawana Hakeke, who is now dead. We wish to adhere strictly to his last injunctions, of giving his land to the Europeans. Taratoa and he would have arranged the matter, were he alive. Kawana gave up all the land we own. It is written on the pukapuka. Rangitikei is now in the ocean, or given up to the sons of the ocean, the Europeans." - "There is not to be a single place reserved for us. Manawatu is given up to the Europeans, as payment for their goods. We have given up all the land to you, Mr. McLean, - not holding one spot; and all we think of is our religion, which we wish to enjoy in quietness. We cannot take from you what you have in your hands." - "I have not a word to say. Rangitikei is all I have to speak about. Rangitikei 21st. March 1849. Sir, Referring to our late Meeting of natives held at this river, and subsequent proceedings connected with the contemplated purchase of the Rangitikei district, I have the honour to acquaint you, for the information of His Excellency, the Lieut. Governor, that the Chiefs Rauparaha and Rangihaeata did not come further than Manawatu with the rest of the natives who attended the meeting. Rauparaha stated that he was unable to travel as far, assigning as a reason, that he was seized with deafness and cold, on his journey from Otaki, and that his sons, Thompson, Martiu, Hakaria, and Taratoa, the Chief of Manawatu, were authorised and deputed by the elder Chiefs to act for them in their absence; it being unanimously agreed that the boundary of the land to be sold by the Ngatiapa tribe should be the Rangitikei river Rangihaeata, who had been for some considerable time, preparing large quantities of food for the Ngatiapas and other natives who were invited by him to the meeting, was evidently calcuating on their co-operation in opposing the right of the Ngatiapas to sell any land South of the Wanganui river. This Chief had also been led to expect that that the Ngatiraukawas of Otaki and Manawatu would unite with him in opposing the sale of land, as several influential members of the above tribe solicited Rangihaeata's interference in preventing the Ngatiapa sale, and requested him and his followers to sign a document embodying their determination to retain possession of all their lands. This disposition was generally and strongly manifested by the natives, when I commenced the present negotiations. In the meantime, some of the Ngatiapas were secretly encouraging the Ngatiraukawas to hold the Rangitikei country, but they were apparently averse to making any open declaration at a meeting to this effect; and eventually yielded their opposition, objecting to accompany Rangihaeata to Rangitikei; and Rawiri Puaha, a Chief of that tribe, stated to me that their reason for not going to Rangitikei was that they had no pretension of a claim to that district. The Ngatitoas, a few of the Ngatiawa Chiefs, with Te Rauparaha and Rangihaeata, then proceeded to Taita, a village on the Manawatu river, where a feast was prepared for them. The Ngatiraukawas accompanied me to Rangitikei; where, after some discussion, it was publicly and unanimously admitted that the Ngatiapas had a perfect right to sell the North banks of the Rangitikei; and that they should not distrust any Europeans who should settle there. But although they at the same time acknowledged the right of the Ngatiapas to a portion of the South bank of the river, they protested against its being occupied by Europeans; and stated that any attempt to do so would be considered by them as equivalent to a declaration of war on the part of the Government, with their tribe. I took notes of the different speeches at the Meeting, which I shall have the honour of transmitting with my general report on this purchase. I should observe that Rangihaeata appeared disappointed at finding that the natives generally did not support him more earnestly in opposing the sale of land; and his speech, delivered in my presence, to the natives assembled at Manawatu, and partly addressed to myself, was remarked on by the natives as being a more pacific one than he is generally in the habit of making. The only expressions used by him which I considered unfavourable, were insinuations that he yet relied on being better supported by a less vacillating people than his own tribe; and a remark that he would annoy the Ngatiapas, after they received payment for their land. This latter portion of his speech was after repeated by a Chief of Otaki, named Kingi Hori te Puke, and replied to by Te Ahu Karamu of Ohau; who said he would take no part in any such proceedings. I am, at present, unable to detail further particulars, as the mail carrier has arrived, and I am preparing to start to Turakina, having marked off the Parewanui Reserve, including the village of that name, on the North bank of this river. I therefore beg to state that I expect to be able, within ten days of the present date, to define all necessary reserves, such as the Pahs and cultivations, in the occupation of the natives; and explore some portion of the interior, so as to form an approximate idea of the extent, quality, and general appearance of the country, to enable me to transmit for His Excellency's consideration and approval, an estimate of the amount that will be required to pay to the natives in annual instalments, to complete the purchase. The services of an experienced and active surveyor, to accompany me to the interior, are very necessary. The sum which I propose to pay to the natives, subject to His Excellency's approval, as a first instalment for their land, is One Thousand Pounds (£1000) in silver; which amount I should wish to be placed at my disposal at Wanganui, with as little delay as possible, as the Ngatiapas prefer going there instead of Wellington, to receive their money. I have the honour to remain Sir, Your most obdt. humble servant (Signed) Donald McLean. Inspector of Police. P.S. Requisition for I quire Elephant paper, for mapping, enclosed; and for 3 skins of parchment. To:- The Honourable The Colonial Secretary Wellington. about. Do you wish for strife, Mr. McLean? "I will hold all this side, and the other side shall be yours. Rangitikei, Rangitikei, Rangitikei shall be the boundary." - "I now get up to speak. Welcome, welcome, welcome, - my friends, grand-children, and sons, -welcome!" This old Chief recited a piece of poetry; the Ngatiapa joining in the chorus, - "E Kore te po nei tuarua rawa mai."....... "The land, the women, the canoe, the greenstone, are our three great things. I was not the first to take to Europeans. They are new, to me. Do not talk of the evils of other places. Taratoa has come to me four times, to talk about land, about Mokohai, and Rangitoto. We were deciding boundaries before now. Let us not conceal. You will go on, Taratoa, with your talk, and I will go on with mine. Thakara, give up your speaking, as you have done speaking." - "All the people are the Queen's. I will not consent to my land at one time, and object at another. The Governor has all the people, - and I am his also." - "I shall hold our joint property, our joint property, - the Europeans' and ours, or mine, - meaning the South of Rangitikei. Rangitikei 26th. March 1849. Sir, I have the honour to inform you that I have received a communication under date of the 20th. inst. from the Honourable, the Colonial Secretary, at Wellington, in reference to the villages which you are engaged in laying out for the natives at Manawatu, in which I am requested to ascertain and report what are the wishes of the natives, respecting the sites and extents of such villages. May I therefore request that you will inform me at your earliest convenience, whether the Manawatu natives have applied to you, or otherwise to your knowledge expressed a desire to have any other villages laid out in that neighbourhood, besides the one on which you are employed at Te Rewa Rewa. If so, will you be good enough to state the names of the natives making such application, and of the piece where any other village, or villages, is desired by them. It appears to me that it would be desirable to report to the Government, before undertaking any fresh surveys besides Te Rewa Rewa, for the natives in that neighbourhood. I have the honournto be etc., (Signed) Donald McLean. To:- J. Scroggs Esq. Surveyor. Rangitikei. Your law is not to allow any trespass on other people's boundary. This side is mine. You had better not trespass on it, - that is, the land you have got from the Ngatiapa. This is my determination for ever and ever." - "Listen! Omurapapuko is the cause of this long talk. "E ahu e te one one mau Omurapapuko." This is a great Committee or Meeting. The cause of all our previous disturbance has been the want of such Meetings. Mr. McLean, the boundary is Rangitikei, - a boundary formed or made by God. The other side is for the Queen, is for the Queen, and the Governor of you. If you wish for this side, let us go to the Governor, and decline in open day that we shall fight for it in open daylight, when the sun is shining." Mr. McLean asked the Ngatiapa what their boundaries were; that they should be openly known, and declared at this Meeting, to prevent future differences. Addressing Kingi Hori, as the elder Chief of the Ngatiapa, to state the names of the boundary. - "Matiu joins our boundary there. That is all, - Purakau, Wakaari Oroua Koti Awa, Otara, -inland." Turakina 26th. March 1849. Dear Sir, In the event of your receiving instructions from Wellington to join me, and assist in the survey of the Rangitikei district, I have to recommend, as you are not likely to overtake me before starting to the Interior, that you will survey the Parewanui Reserve on the North bank of the Rangitikei. The boundaries are already understood by the natives, and can be pointed out to you by them and Mr. Chamberlain. Having finished that Reserve, and ascertained the extent thereof, you will be good enough to survey the coast line from the ferry this side of Rangitikei, on to the termination of the South boundary of the Company's block at Wanganui. This boundary I have instructed Abraham Tipae of Wangaehu to point out to you. By the time these surveys are finished, I expect to be back from the interior, as I am waiting for the first fair weather to start there. If you are not otherwise instructed, I do not consider it would be advisable to survey more villages for the natives at Manawatu, than that at Te Rewa Rewa. However, I merely hint at this for your information, in case the natives may be urging you to survey for them elsewhere. But I presume, of course, you have instructions for your guidance, in reference to such contingencies. Of course the instructions in this letter are only to be considered by you when you receive notice to join me; as yet I have no intimation that you are to do so, but it is most probable that you will, as I have made application for a surveyor or two. I remain Yours truly (Signed) Donald McLean. To:- J. Scroggs Esq. Surveyor. - "It is the Ngatiraukawas" "Do you retain the river?", and with determination they all replied "Ae." "I know what that determination is. Do you consent that the Ngatiapa should have their own land?" Reply, - "Ae." "And that the Pakeha should have the opposite side of the Rangitikei river?" Reply, - "Ae." Turning to the Ngatiapa, - "Ngatiapa, - do you agree to the land being yours?" Reply of the Ngatiapa, - "Ae." "Do you consent that no Europeans should live on this side?" Ten strangers of the Ngatimaniapoto, sitting on the side of the Ngatiapa, said, - "Ae." - and Ihaka, and either one or two of the Ngatiapa claimants, - "Ae.", with the Ngatimaniapoto. The others firmly objected to consent, from having previously ceded their land to the Government." - "Ngatiraukawa, - I wish to hear you again repeat your consent now given that the Europeans shall peaceably occupy the land on the North bank of Rangitikei." They all replied "Ae." "That the Ngatiapa shall also possess their own land, as far as they claimed them at this Meeting?" Assented, - "Ae." "That you shall not disturb or interfere with the Europeans on the North bank of the river?" "Not we. We shall not interfere with them. So. We shall not." Meeting dispersing, when some confused conversation took place between Kawana Hunia, who seemed affected with the proceedings, as if feeling his want of power to entirely establish the right of his tribe to dispose of all their ancient claims and possessions, now in the hands of the powerful tribe before whom he contended. Had a conversation, which I could not distinctly make out, from the hurried manner in which the Ngatiraukawas dispersed. Wanganui 10th. April 1849. Sir, Having returned from exploring the interior of the district offered for sale by the Ngatiapa tribe, between the Turakina and Rangitikei rivers, I have now the honour to transmit to you, for the information of His Excellency, the Lieut. Governor, a description of my journey, with some remarks on the country I have passed over. The boundaries of the Pahs and Reserves for the natives on the land being ascertained, I consider it advisable to take a cursory survey of the district to enable you to form a probable estimate of its value and extent. I accordingly started on the 27th. inst. from the Turakina Pah, accompanied by Mr. Ashwell Hill, a European policeman, and forty-three native claimants. The first part of our journey lay through a partially wooded valley, interspersed with cultivations, and meadows of rich grass. The country continued of the same character till we came to a wooded range of hills, about 10 miles from the course, where the Turakina river takes a northerly direction. We camped here for the night; the natives objecting to proceed further in this direction, alleging the forest as impenetrable; and that it was claimed by the Whangawhero natives, a distinct branch of their tribe, residing at Wanganui. I soon discovered that the natives along with me were the actual claimants of the land, which they alleged to be the property of the Whangawhero tribe; and found that a few intriguing young men ingeniously concocted this pretext, with a view that the land should be reserved under the pretence of being the property of a tribe who had not appeared at any of the meetings when the sale of the country was discussed. The object of these young men in endeavouring to reserve the forest ranges, and other large portions of their claims, was to dispose of them afterwards in small allotments, when the value of the district should be enhanched by the location of European settlers. The other men seemed at first quite indifferent with regard to these reservations, but a few were eventually induced to acquiesce in the measure, from its being represented to them that if they parted with the land on which the forest stood, that they should never be allowed to exercise their periodical custom of bird-snaring in the interior. On the morning of the 28th. the rain which had set in the preceding day, continued to fall very heavily. I found it would be impossible, from the disposition of the natives, and broken character of the country, to proceed further up the banks of the Turakina. We therefore diverted our course across the country towards the Rangitikei, ascending from a low, grassy flat to a ridge of hills, on the top of which is rich table-land, well adapted for agriculture orpasture; and here and there interspersed with clumps of timber, and streams of water. At one of these inviting situations for the erection of a settler's cottage, we pitched our tents, finding it impossible to make a long journey, the rain continuing to pour incessantly. Our party were not long in erecting shelter for the night, and procuring an abundant supply of bush pigs and pigeons. In the evening I informed the natives, who were collected by a large fire in front of my tent, that as an ample Reserve was made for them between the Turakina and Wangaehu rivers, I would not recognise any boundaries, or pretended claims, limiting the Europeans from going as far into the interior as their present rights as a tribe extended; that they might still exercise the privilege of bird-snaring, so long as their doing so did not interfere with the future operations of the settlers; but the whole of their country north of Rangitikei, excepting their Reserves, must, in accordance with the understanding I repeatedly had with them at their several public meetibgs, now pass into the hands of the Government. On the morning of the 29th. we made an early start, the old men expressing themselves greatly pleased with the prospect of not being prohibited from bird-snaring; as they were previously under an impression that they should be not even allowed to travel further into the country, when it became European property. After proceeding about four miles from our encampment, we opened on a beautiful plain clothed with the richest and most luxuriant natural grasses I have observed in any part of the Island. The interior forest, which skirts this plain, may be estimated, as nearly as I could judge without the assistance of a surveyor, to lie from the sea coast at distances ranging from ten, fifteen, to fifty miles, the level of land gaining on the forest as we approached the Rangitikei. Many parts of the country we passed over have indications of having been numerously populated; and my attention was frequently diverted by the old Chiefs, to the fact that the Ngatiapas were formerly a numerous and powerful tribe; of which their existing representtatives are only a diminutive remnant. In confirmation of their statements, they carefully noticed the traces of every deserted village or cultivation we came to; and feelingly described the agency of a disease termed Rewa-rewa, which must have prevailed fifty or sixty years ago; as having been more fatal and destructive to their race than the most sanguine wars of invading tribes. Before night had quite set in, we were close to the Rangitikei river, having walked since morning, a distance of twenty-four miles; which, including the short stage we made yesterday, would leave us about thirty miles from where we left the banks of the Turakina river. During the day, some few boundary marks were made by the natives, who erected a pole on the Ngongoronui range, where we descended to the Porewa stream, which runs for some distance nearly parallel with the Rangitikei, in which it empties itself, enclosing a fine tract of land several miles long, between the rivers, which a native, E. Waka, wished to reserve. I learn that the claim of the Ngatiapas, as a tribe, may extend inland from the Te Moiri bush, our present encampment, about six miles; having conjointly with the Wanganui tribes, individual claims beyond that to a settlement named Otara; which has been for the last five years, occupied by a party of Taupo natives. We travelled through the bush, where we encamped the night, and crossed a level on the Porewa banks. Then we ascended the Kiri Kiri bush, on a path frequented by the natives travelling to Taupo. On this range, boundaries were placed by E. Waka and other natives, who intended to reserve large tracts of land there, and prevent the Europeans from getting further inland. They were, however, induced to relinquish this boundary, on its being represented to them that native claims intersecting those of Europeans would lead to future discontent. The country we were now walking over on the North bank of the Rangitikei, being considerably elevated, I was afforded an extensive view of the splen- -did Tataenui plain; which is equally well suited for pasture or the plough, from the great facility with which it could be turned over, merely burning off the present overgrowth of vegetation, and removing the few isolated Ti-trees, which are scattered over the plain. At Porewhara, sixteen miles from our last stage, we found some natove plantations owned by Panapa, a Ngatapa Chief, a man of most powerful and forbidding countenance, who deserted his tribe and joined Rangihaeata= threatening, with that Chief, to use his utmost influence in preventing the sale of the district. Our reception was not the most friendly. The natives, excepting a few who came up from Parananui to meet me, strongly exclaimed against the sale of their land. Panapa erected a flag staff that morning, where his claim, which is considerable, commenced; stating that he would die by it, before he would cede his land. His language, which was violent, was evidently borrowed from Rangihaeata, who, I understood, from some of his natives on the journey to Taupo, was very much vexed that the Europeans were acquiring a right to such a large territory in a part of the country where his retreat into the interior might be interrupted, should he, at a future period, find it necessary to take refuge there. Paroni, a Ngatiraukawa Chief, married to a Ngatiapa woman, stated that he intended to retain some wooded land, claimed in right of his wife. E. Waka, who had not succeeded in inducing me to agree to his constant demand for Reserves, was now evidently instructing the others to make a firm stand for their land; so that I had to encounter their united opposition, which ended after a long, persuasive argument on my part, much to E Waka's annoyance, in Panapa's yielding his opposition, and quite agreeing with me that it was improper to intersect the Europeans1 district with native Reserves, when ample land was preserved for them elsewhere. 31st. March 1849. We travelled over a fine country, out of which Rukora and the Parawanui people wished for a large Reserve, bounded on the one side by the Rangitikei, and on the other side by the Ttanui stream, to its junction with the Rangitikei. Although I have not acceeded to the requests of the natives for a Reserve between these rivers, I still consider it might not be objectionable at a future period to grant them one in a situation so well bounded, especially if the Southern bank of the Rangitikei is acquired- and that the natives are not disposed to leave that part of the country, to settle on the general Reserve between the Turakina and Rangitikei rivers. At Parananui and Te Awho Pahs, I classed the natives into Hapus, in the order in which they should receive payment on Monday the 2nd. April, a distance of fifty miles, from where I first sighted that river from the Ngongoranui range. On approaching the coast, the country changed very much in appearance, and the soil is chiefly of a light, sandy description, altogether inferior to the rich fertile plains of the interior; but, viewing the district as a whole, it is a most valuable and extensive acquisition, capable of maintaining a numerous European population, and superior to any other part of the Island for cattle runs. On my arrival at the ferry, I met Mr. Park, the New Zealand Company's surveyor, with his party; who commenced the following morning to survey the native Reserve. In my negotiations with the Ngatiapas, I have fully conformed to the following portion of the first paragraph of my instructions, which had reference to inland boundaries:- "It is considered preferable thus to negotiate for the whole claims without attempting to define the exact inland extent." The Ngatiapas therefore understood that although the inland boundary is not defined, that their whole rights between the Turakina and Rangitikei rivers are surrendered to the Government. The present arrangements I am carrying out, are of a more protracted nature than I anticipated, from the various investigations I am under the necessity of pursuing, in order to guard, as far as possible, against future difficulties, to which isolated settlers might at first be exposed, even by the Ngatiapas, if their claims are not fully enquired into and adjusted; and their extravagant ideas respecting large Reserves, and compensation brought within a moderate compass. I have the honour to remain Sir, Tour most obdt. humble servant (Signed) Donald McLean Inspector of Police. To:- The Colonial Secretary Wellington. Wanganui, 11th. April 1849 Sir, The terms of payment which I have the honor to propose for the consideration of His Excellency, the Lieut. Governor, and the Principal Agent of the New Zealand Company, for extinguishing the claims of the Ngatiapa tribe, to the district of land bounded on the one side by the Rangitikei river, and on the other by the South boundary of the Wanganui purchase, containing, as nearly as I can ascertain, Five Hundred Thousand, (500,000) acres of land, are as follows;- . That a sum of One Thousand Pounds, (£1,000) be paid to the natives, as a first instalment. . That a further sum of One Thousand Five Hundred Pounds, (£1,500), the payment of which should extend over a period of three or four years, as may be agreed upon with the claim- -ants, be given to them in full compensation for their claims. . I do not suppose that a smaller sum than I have mentioned for the first instalment would satisfy the different claimants, about five hundred in number, who have contracted debts in anticipation of receiving a large amount similar to what they are aware has been recently offered for a less extensive district, at the Wairarapa. Many other natives at the Manawatu, and elsewhere, who are at present tenacious of parting with their land, will be more readily influenced to do so if they find the Ngatiapas are satisfied with their first payment. . From the disorganised state of the Ngatiapas, owing to the loss of their principal Chiefs, in their wars during the conquests of Te Rauparaha, and the recent decease of one of their most influential men, Kawana te Hakeki, I perceive it would be difficult, without creating jealousies and discord in the tribe - to introduce life annuities, expecially if the payment of such annuities is not extended to several members of the tribe, some of whom are old men, between fifty and sixty years of age. To guard against discontent on the part of the neighbouring tribes, who have previously disposed of their land, without any conditions, for annuities; also to prevent discontent on the part of the inferior members of the Ngatiapa tribe, who are in many instances, larger possessors of land than the Chiefs, I would respectfully take the liberty of suggesting, with regard to this particular purchase, that the sums I have previously specified, should be inserted in the Deed of Sale as given in full consideration for all their claims as a tribe within the aforesaid boundaries; and that the additional pensions, if approved by His Excellency, should be paid in small sums, ranging from Five to Ten pounds, to the most deserving Chiefs, for maintaining order and regularity among their tribe, and for ensuring their co-operation and support, in carrying out the measures of Government. I have the honor to remain, Sir, Your most obedient servant (Signed) Donald McLean. Inspector of Police. To:- The Honorable The Colonial Secretary Wellington. Wanganui 12th. April 1849. Sir, In laying before you, by direction of His Excellency, the Lieut. Governor, a statement of the terms which I have the honour of proposing, as payment for the Ngatiapa district, I also deem it advisable, in applying for the first instalment of the purchase money, to bring under your notice, a brief review of the Ngatiapa trive. The Ngatiapas were the original proprietors of the country, from Wanganui to Manawatu; and conjointly with the Rangitane and Muapoko tribes, they claimed as far South on the Island as Waikanae and Kapiti; Tararua range forming the boundary between them and the Ngatikahuanui tribe of the East Coast. Te Rauparaha and Rangihaeata, in their wellknown conquests, aided by the Ngatiawas and Tawhoro, a Ngapuhi Chief, destroyed the greater number of the above tribe, taking possession of their country as far as Manawatu; and subsequently, some portions of the South banks of the Rangitikei was possessed, and is still occupied by a party of Ngatiraukawa natives, who were invited from Waikato by Te Rauparaha to assist him in retaining his conquests. Several of the Ngatiapas, inhabiting the country from Rangitikei to Wangaehu, escaped the vengeance of the conquerors, whilst others were either saved by them or taken prisoners. Those sanguine conflicts were happily ended by the influence of Christianity, before the Ngatiapas were entirely subdued. The existing portion of their tribe, numbering about five hundred, having throughout, retained possession of the country, they are now offering for sale, this land. Their right to it is fully acknowledged by Te Rauparaha, as well as by the majority of the conquering Chiefs, who attended a Public meeting, held to discuss the claims at Rangitikei, on the 15th. and 16th. ultimo; when it was unanimously agreed that the Ngatiapas had an undoubted right to dispose of their claims North of the Rangitikei, and to retain in their own possession, lands within certain specified boundaries on the South side of that river. I should however observe that Rangihaeata, who took a principal lead in providing for, and inviting natives to thie meeting, did not make his appearance there himself. Neither can he be considered as having concurred in the proceedings; as he has been, within the past few days, at Rangitikei, endeavouring to persuade the natives against the sale of their land. But the arrangements for the purchase are now so far progressed, that it is not likely they will be actuated in the slightest, either by the threats or advice of this Chief. That this turbulent Chief may give some trouble is not improbable; although I do not consider, that the opposition can be of long duration. I have the honour Sir, etc., etc., etc., (Signed) Donald McLean. Inspector of Police. To:- W.Fox Esq. J.P. Principal Agent of the New Zealand Company. etc., etc., etc., Wellington. shall not." While the Meeting was dispersing, Kawana Hunia, of Rangitikei, endeavoured again to arrest the attention of the Ngatiraukawa; and requested Taratoa to listen to what he had to say. A short conversation between them, ensued; but from the haste in which the Ngatiraukawas were dispersing, I could not distinctly ascertain what passed between them, further than it was in reference to the disposal of the South bank of the Rangitikei; and to a previous understanding or conversation between Taratoa and the late Kawana Hakeke, on the subject. seemed much affected by the proceedings, as if feeling his want of power to entirely establish the right of his tribe to dispose of all their ancient claims and possessions; a great portion of which are now in the hands of the powerful Ngatiraukawa tribe; before whom he was contending. This Meeting, however, has been productive of more important results than may be gathered by reading over the Minutes. The Ngatiraukawas, who, at several public Meetings of their tribe, held at Manawatu and Otaki, declared their determination to prevent the sale of any land South of Wangaehu, - have, in the time elapsing from the first of January to the fifteenth of March, so far altered their determination, that they have acknowledged the right of the Ngatiapa to sell, as far South as Rangitikei, thereby placing the original proprietors and legitimate owners of that district in a more favourable position for the Government to treat with them for claims which had been so long agitated and disputed by Rangihaeata, and the powerful Ngatiraukawa tribe. It has also placed the Ngatiraukawas in a position to protect, rather than aid in molesting settlers at Rangitikei; and has been the means of breaking through a combination on their part, and several other tribes in correspondence with them; who resolved, embodying their resolutions in a written document drawn up at their Public Meetings, to make a stand against the further acquisition of land by the Europeans, excepting by way of annual lease for cattle grazings. This purchase once undertaken, and persevered in, by the Government, will induce many of these tribes (especially the Ngatitiupokoiri, of Manawatu, and those inhabiting Ahuriri and the East Coast, who are in communication with, and connected with the Ngatiapa of Rangitikei) to offer their superfluous land for sale to the Government. I have much pleasure in noticing the Turakina Pah 24th. April 1849. My dear Sir, I take advantage of to-day's mail to acquaint your Excellency that the Mongowhero tribe have offered to dispose of a tract of country on the North banks of the Wangaehu, forming a continuation of the land offered for sale "by the Ngatiapas, and bounding the Wanganui purchase on the East, by the Mongowhero river, which empties into the Wangaehu, about 24 miles inland from the Coast. At the request of the natives, Mr. Park and I started up the Wangaehu on the 18th. inst. to see this country, which is of a more broken and hilly description towards the interior than the Rangitikei. But the soil is rich and fertile, well wooded, with several eligible sites for the location of agricultural settlers. A short distance from the banks of the Wangaehu, there are extensive flats of table-land, extending Westwards towards the Wanganui purchase. Mr. Park is at present engaged surveying a Reserve for the Turakina natives, including their Pah and cultivations, also some meadows of grass land not really required by the natives, from the proximity of their situation to the general Reserve, but which they are induced to demand, and anxious to obtain, in consequence of having received £12 a year from a Wanganui settler, for grazing his cattle there. When the survey of the Reserves, which will only occupy a few days, are completed, Mr. Park will make a map of the ourchase, showing the position and extent of the Reserves, a copy of which I will take the earliest opportunity of forwarding. The forward state of the survey, and Rangihaeata's late visit to Rangitikei, increases the anxiety of the Ngatiapas to get paid for their land. Several of the claimants have arrived from Rangitikei to-day, making enquiries on the subject. I am informed that Rangihaeata, finding he could not persuade the Ngatiapas against selling their country, talked of disposing of his own claims on the coast, with an intention of removing to Rotorua, and of dispossessing the Ngatiraukawas, who, in opposition to his wishes, agreed to the sale of Rangitikei, and of some land occupied by them at Manawatu. But whether he is likely to abide by his present resolution is uncertain, as he appears very unsettled; and, from a report circulated by Tamihana, Te Rauparaha's son, he is under some apprehension that the police intend an attack on his Pah to capture Pitoni. I believe Mr. Wood, the commisariat Officer at Wanganui, would supply a sufficient amount of silver to pay the Ngatiapas their first instalment; if he could have it replaced in 6 weeks or two months after the advance is made. I fear it would be too much to expect Your Excellency's presence at Wanganui, when the payment is made, and the arrangements for the purchase concluded; although it would be a great satisfaction, both to the claimants and myself, if Your Excellency could make such a journey convenient. From what I have now seen of the country, I believe it would be admirably suited for the Canterbury settlement, by incorporating Wanganui, and purchasing as far North as the Patea river. A wealthy association might even carry on their colonizing operations as far as Mokau, by which means they would embrace within their boundaries, upwards of three millions of acres of the finest land imaginable, with a comparatively small population of natives. I remain My dear Sir, Your Excellency's most faithful servt. (Signed) Donald McLean. To:- His Excellency Lieut. Governor Eyre Wellington. the friendly assistance I received from George King, the Chief of Wanganui, Aperahama Parea, of Waitotara; and the several other Chiefs and natives who accompanied them to the Meeting. (Signed) Donald McLean. Inspector of Police. To:- The Honble, The Colonial Secretary Wellington. Wanganui 1st. May 1849 Sir, Referring to that portion of the fourth paragraph of your letter of 25th. ult., in which the gentleman acting on behalf of the Principal Agent of the New Zealand Company, expresses a desire that the sum to be paid immediately for the Rangitikei district should be somewhat less than One Thousand pounds, but at the same time stating that if necessary, he would be prepared to provide that amount, - I have the honor to state that, after maturely considering the subject in its various bearings, the conclusion I arrive at is that a less sum could not be judiciously offered to the Ngatiapas as a first instalment for their claims. I am happy to find His Excellency favourably entertains the reasons I have already adduced for requiring such a large sum at once. In addition to these reasons, and I should add that the Ngatiapas intend distributing among Chiefs not immediately connected with the tribe, some portions of the first instalment, in order to secure the acquiesence of those Chiefs to the disposal of their lands. I have therefore applied to the Acting Agent of the New Zealand Company to favor me at his earliest convenience with the amount of One Thousand pounds, as the first instalment. I have the honor to remain, Sir, Your most obedient humble servant, (Signed) Donald McLean, Inspector of Police. To:- The Honble. The Colonial Secretary, Wellington, Wanganui 1st. May 1849. Sir, I have the honour to apply to you for a sum of One Thousand Pounds in silver, as payment of the first instalment of purchase money for the land, (exclusive of native Reserves) situated between the Rangitikei river, and the Wanganui block. Mr. Park is at present, preparing for your office, a map of the purchase, showing the extent and position of the native Reserves, which will shortly be ready to forward to Wellington. The proposed terms of payment for the Ngatiapa district, having, as I am happy to learn, met with your favourable acquiescence, and the sanction of His Excellency, the Lieut. Governor, I have only now to request you will have the goodness to furnish me with the first instalment of purchase money for the natives, when you can conveniently send the amount to Wanganui. I have the honour to remain Sir, Your most obdt. servt. (Signed) Donald McLean.Inspector of Police. To:- J. Kilham Esq. J.P. Acting Principal Agent for the New Zealand Company Wellington. Wanganui April 30th. 1849 Sir, I beg to acknowledge the receipt of your letter of the 25th. inst., conveying His Excellency's, the Governor's authority for carrying out the terms I had the honor to propose in my recommendation of the 11th. inst., for the purchase of the Rangitikei district. By this opportunity I have only to state that the several measures to which His Excellency directs attention, as alluded to in your communication, respecting the mode of paying the subsequent annual instalments of money to the natives. The specific Reserves to be set apart for them and the future pensioning of deserving Chiefs shall receive my most full and careful consideration. I have the honor to remain, Sir, Your most humble servant (Signed) Donald McLean, Inspector of Police To:- The Honble The Colonial Secretary Wellington. Wanganui 8th. May 1849. Received from Major Durie, Commissioner of Police, the sum of One Thousand Pounds in silver in twelve bags said to contain that amount, as payment of the first instalment for land purchased from the Rangitikei natives. (Signed) Donald McLean Inspector of Police. Wanganui 8th. May 1849. My dear Sir, I had the pleasure of receiving Your Excellency's note of the 4th. inst. this morning, by Major Durie, who brought the £1,000 for the natives; which, with his assistance, and Mr. Park's, I shall count out to-morrow, into 20 bags, ready for distribution. The bags are now making, and the money is, for the present, carefully deposited at Mr. Taylor's. Having arranged and decided on the Reserves in a manner which I trust will prove satisfactory to Your Excellency, I forsee no delay in bringing this question to a speedy adjustment. The plans are not yet sufficiently advanced to enable me to forward one for Your Excellency's inspection. Should Mr. Park finish one in a day or two, I will send it by the first conveyance, or by special messenger. I shall endeavour to include the Mongowhero district as a part of the present arrangement, without drawing on the Company for more funds. The land, although well calcuated, from its position and character, for immediate settlement, is not extensive. As nearly as I can estimate, the district claim of this tribe does not exceed 12,000 acres. I have sent a private messenger to Rangihaeata, to tell him if he desires to see the Ngatiapa payment, (as he had indirectly expressed a wish of the kind, by a message he sent me), that I should be glad of his presence. His coming, however, is questionable; as I hear he is gone to Porirua. But the invitation will probably moderate his opposition, and afford me an opportunity of doing something with him respecting the Manawatu. There are only two points respecting native Reserves, on which I should respectfully solicit advice from Your Excellency. First, - whether Your Excellency would permit me to recommend, with a view to future purchases, and the protection of settlers locating on the banks of the Rangitikei near the road frequented by natives travelling to Taupo, - to have a right reserved by Government, of retaining two blocks, each containing about 300 or 800 acres of land, for the location of friendly natives, if such a step should be hereafter found advisable. Secondly, - the natives' right to such Reserves being entirely extinguished by the present purchase, it need not be surveyed, excepting at such time and place as Your Excellency approved; and then only apportioned to such natives as would be found most deserving of such indulgence. Hoping, under Your Excellency's important engagements, I may be forgiven for intruding these subjects, I remain, my dear Sir, Your most faithful and obedient servant (Signed) Donald McLean. P.S. It may be desirable to have sections of a hundred acres surveyed at the present ferries, for public houses and paddocks, as public Reserves, with a right of re-selecting such reserves in future, wherever the great line of road through the purchase, connecting the different settlements, may run. (Signed) Donald McLean. To:- His Excellency Lieut. Governor Eyre. Wellington. Wanganui 19th. May 1849. Sir, I beg to acknowledge the receipt of your letter of the 1st. inst. desiring me to state, for the information of the Auditor General, whether the receipts from the natives, for the sums paid to their account of the Wanganui purchase, are in my possession; and if not, where they are to be found, in order that the Auditor may be enabled to adjust the advance made to me in May 1848. With the exception of Te Mamaku, who was absent during the negotiations, the only receipt which I considered it necessary to take from the Wanganui natives, is that embodied in the final Deed of Sale, in which the principal Chiefs, and the natives, 210 of whom signed that document. acknowledge to have received from me the sum of One Thousand pounds, in full satisfaction for their claims. For the amount of compensation awarded to Mamaku for his claim, I took a distinct receipt from Hamarama, the person deputed by Te Mamaku to represent his interests. A copy of this receipt, with its translation, the original being now in my possession, was duly forwarded to you with my letter of the 20th. Sept. 1848, On the same date I transmitted to your office an original, and copy of a certificate signed by the Revd. Richard Taylor, and others, who witnessed the payment. In my official report on the settlement of the Wanganui question, which was published in the Government Gazette of the Southern Province on the 6th. Nov. 1848, there is a list showing the proportions and order in which the compensation money was handed to the claimants, in which the names of the natives receiving the money, is inserted. Besides the documents above alluded to, I furnished, when last at Wellington, an account current for the receipt and expenditure of the aforesaid advance. I have the honour to remain Sir, Your most obdt. servt. (Signed) Donald McLean Inspector of Police. P.S. The account current was left at the Registrar General's Office, where the original and translation of the Wanganui Deed is deposited; from which extracts were to be made as vouchers to support the account current, which was to be returned to the Auditor General. (Signed) Donald McLean To:- The Honourable The Colonial Secretary. Wanganui May 19th. 1849 Sir, I have the honor to acknowledge the receipt of your letters of the 3rd. and 7th. insts., advising me of the shipment, per "Victoria" Brig, and subsequent transmission overland, by Inspector Durie, of the sum of One Thousand Pounds (£1000), as the first instalment for the Rangitiki purchase. I am happy to state that the above amount was safely delivered to me on the 8th. inst. by Major Durie, who used every expedition and care in conveying it overland. In counting the silver, I found one of the bags of £50 contained an extra guinea £1.1.0, which leaves that amount over and above the One Thousand Pounds. I have the honor to remain Sir, Your most obedt. humble servt. (Signed) Donald McLean Inspector of Police. Wanganui 21st. May 1849 Sir, I have the honor to report to you, for the information of His Excellency, the Lieut. Governor, that the arrangements with the Ngatiapa tribe, for the purchase of the district of land, situated between the Rangitikei river and the Wanganui Block, were satisfactorily concluded on the 16th. inst., The Ngatiapa having arrived at Wanganui, I held a Meeting with them on the 15th. inst., at the Military Parade ground, which was attended by the Officers of the 65th. Regt., also by Capt. Campbell and Dr. Rees, Justices of the Peace; Robert Park, Esq., New Zealand Company's Surveyor; and several of the European settlers; besides Native Chiefs from different tribes, who were invited to attend. When all were assembled, I briefly informed the claimants that I was glad to see them coming forward so promtly to conclude the negotiations respecting the transfer of their land; and requested them to make any statement they wished on the subject, before signing the Deed of Sale; that all who favoured us with their presence might understand the object of our Meetings, and the favourable disposition or otherwise, by which they were influenced, in disposing of their land to the Government. The principal Chiefs and claimants responded to this request, by declaring in most emphatic terms, that it was their firm and mature resolution, to part with their lands to the Government; and that they anxiously desired to participate in the various advantages they would derive from the settlement of a numerous European population amongst them. The Deed of Sale was then read over; the natives fully assenting to the boundaries, and other conditions therein specified, excepting two, - named Reihana, and Ngawaka; who, although agreeing to the general provisions of the Deed, requested, before attaching their signatures, to retain some large Reserves they had previously applied for, as communicated in my letter of the 10th. April; but which, from their extent, and position, I could not grant. I therefore gave these natives to understand that as ample Reserves were already provided for them, I could not now allow of those unnecessary ones, after my explicit determination to the contrary. George King, the Chief of Putikiwaranui, in addressing the Ngatiapa, remonstrated against such untimely applications being made for Reserves; when, to his knowledge, the district had been entirely surrendered to the Government at the previous Meetings, and public deliberations of their tribe. After a short discussion among the natives, I again read over the boundaries of the purchase, to which the whole of the claimants unanimously assented. Reihana and Ngawaka, coming forward amongst the first, to sign the Deed, remarking as they did so, to some few around them (who objected to their making such demands), that they merely wished to exact as much land as they could before holding the pen; which act, they very properly regarded as signifying their irretrievable consent to the final transfer of their land. On the 16th. the whole of the men, women and children of the Ngatiapa tribe, with the Officers and gentlemen who attended yesterday, made their appearance at an early hour, on the parade ground, where a tent with other conveniences were provided by Lieut. Smith, of the Royal Artillery, and the Officers of the 65th. The natives, having ranged themselves in the order in which they should be paid, I diverted their attention, especially those who were not present on the previous day, to the Deed of Sale, which was read over by Mr. Ronaldson, a young man connected with the Rev. Mr. Taylor's establishment; who afterwards assisted in writing on the Deed, the names of those natives who were only able to make their marks. The signing being finished, Abrahan Tipae, the Chief of Wangaehu, reminded the Ngatiapa of the necessity of adhering to the engagements now entered into, of looking up to the Governors of the Island as their guardians; and to the Europeans as their friends; to all of whom they were now more closely united by the Deed to which they attached their names. He then addressed the people of the Wangaehu, Turakina, and Rangitikei rivers, separately, enquiring whether they fully comprehended the nature of the agreement they had concluded; and whether they were quite resolved to abide by the favourable promises publicly declared by them at this Meeting. To which they all replied in their usual way of expressing their consent, - "Ai." Abraham continued by stating that if any of them should hereafter disturb the present amicable arrangement, or interfere with the land they had ceded, that he should, himself, be the first to bring such offenders to justice. Paora Turangapito, the principal Chief of Turakina, and leading warrior of the Ngatiapa, next addressed his followers to the effect, that the alteration of the lands of their fore-fathers and ancestors was a great event, and one in which he was glad to take part before his death; a circumstance likely soon to take place, as he was labouring under severe disease. But he trusted his survivors would carefully observe and fulfil their present important engagements. One or two laments over their country, were recited by this Chief, the whole tribe joining in the chorus. Aperahama Parea of Waitotara; Mawae, and different other Chiefs, who were seated near me, remarked that it was quite unnecessary for them to address or advise the Ngatiapa on the present occasion, as the Tangis or laments for their land, which they had just repeated, were the best possible evidence of their favourable disposition towards the Europeans, and of their fixed determination to part with their land. The first instalment of One thousand pounds was then divided in eighty-six equal proportions of ten pounds to each Hapu, or sub-division of a tribe; and the remaining fourteen bags of ten pounds each, were handed to the following Chiefs, - Kingi Hori and Humia of Rangitikei; 6 bags, - Paora Turangapiti of Turakina; 4 bags,- Aperahama Tipae of Wangaehu, 4 bags; making in all, One thousand pounds, in one hundred bags of ten pounds each. The enclosed schedule marked , exhibits the name of the Hapus and natives to whom the money was delivered. After the payment of the money, the natives quietly dispersed to their encampment, on the South side of the river; and on the following morning they were seen in busy groups, passing from shop to shop, more eagerly disposing of their cash than they appeared, the previous day, to obtain it. Upwards of eight hundred pounds of the whole amount has already been expended by them, in the purchase of thirty horses, agricultural implements, a variety of different articles, including clothing, - of which they very much needed a supply. The Deed of Sale, with its translation, is herewith forwarded, in which it will be perceived the terms of payment are inserted, as authorised in your letter of the 25th. ult., that is, that the total purchase money should be two thousand five hundred pounds. One thousand pounds of the said amount to be immediately paid in three subsequent equal annual instalments, falling due on the 15th. day of May in each year. Attached to the Deed, there is a plan, showing the probable extent of the purchase, and the position of the Native Reserves. A more accurate map will be furnished when Mr. Parke has completed a contemplated survey of the Interior of the Rangitikei river. From the desire of the natives to possess the whole of the land between the Turakina and Wangaehu rivers, I considered it advisable to acquiesce in their wishes, as the place is peculiarly adapted, from its well defined natural boundaries, for a Reserve; and, from its extent, will also render it a sufficient and desirable situation for the eventual settlement of the whole tribe. There are already several villages, and native cultivations on this Reserve and the Chief of Turakina informs me that in the course of a few years, he will dispose of the Turakina Reserve of eight hundred acres, as he intends, at my suggestion, to make immediate preparations to settle between the rivers. The right of eel-fishing, in such places as may not be drained by European settlers; the village and cultivations including sixteen hundred acres of land at Parewanui; Kawana Hakeki's burial ground; fifty acres near some fishing lagoons, (coloured red on the map); the right of cultivation till March, eighteen hundred and fifty-two, on some spots of land, opposite the Awahou, and a similar right for a period of three years, on two places on the North bank of the Wangaehu, - comprehend the whole of the Native Reserves within the purchase, and specified in the Deed of Sale; which further provides that the Government have a right of constructing a public road or roads through all the Native Reserves. Mr. Park, whose experience as a surveyor rendered him most efficient in discharging his duties, is at present engaged in making maps for the natives; which, with copies of the Deed, I shall leave with the Chiefs as records of reference, in which the arrangements now concluded, are detailed. The Ngatiapa are as yet a rude uncultivated race, whose improvement as a tribe has hitherto been much neglected. Consequently settlers have some little difficulties to contend with, in their first intercourse with them. But the cession of their country, increasing knowledge, and ameliorated circumstances, will soon bring about a perfectly amicable understanding. I am glad to observe that many of the Chiefs in this neighbourhood congratulate the Government on the successful termination of the present purchase, notwithstanding the opposition evinced by various tribes, when the negotiations were first undertaken. I have the honor to remain Sir, Your most obedient humble servant (Signed) Donald McLean. Inspector of Police. To:- The Honble. The Colonial Secretary Wellington. (attached to foregoing letter) (referred to in Despatch of 21st. May 1849.) Residence Hapu Name of native receiving payment. No. of Bags, (each containing Ten pounds in silver. Pawawanui.) Ngatitiheru Reihana Chief 1 Rangitikei) Ngatimawae Hamuera Chief 1 Ngaittumana Perihamire Chief 1 Ngatitamakui Manahi Chief 1 Ngatitamatea Hamera Chief 1 Ngatiapu Te Ropia Chief 1 Ngatimotu Matawakarei Chief 1 Ngatiwarara Rewate Chief 1 Ngatitama Paora Chief 1 Ngatikokopu Ko Mita Chief 1 Tumokai Parakaiawitiki Chief 1 Ngaitamakahu Hakaraia Chief 1 Rakei Manihere Chief 1 Ngatiika Hopipa Chief 1 Ngaitumapau Aoni Karaka Chief 1 Ngariki Te Whaitira Chief 1 Ngatipewakarau Hare Tipene Chief 1 Ngatirangiwakapo Haora Chief 1 Tuanini Ropatu Hamuera Chief 1 Hiri e apa Hemi te Kiore Chief 1 Ngatihaimahanga Reupene Chief 1 Ngaitumanga Raihania Chief 1 Ngaitupuna Keripungo Chief 1 Ngaititimawai Nikorima Chief Bags. Te Awahou Ngatikawanae Kawana Huraia Chief 1 Ngapotiki Hura Chief 1 Ngaitotata Raiatua Chief 1 Ngatikahuaima Hori te mohi Chief 1 Ngaitai Tito te Upoko Chief 1 Ngatirangiwaho Mohi Chief 1 Ngaitupatupatu Tamihana Chief 1 Te Kirimera Rawiri Chief 1 Ngatimaera Aripeta Chief 1 Ngatihora Rerepiti Chief 1 Ngaitmatane Kihimona Chief 1 Ngatematai Te Ngawha Chief 1 Ngatitanira Wiremaru Chief Bags. Turakina river Ngatirangiwae Paora Turangapito 1 Hinetuatirangi Reretore Chief 1 Ngatikiriwake Hopa Chief 1 Ngatiruahou Watikiri Chief 1 Ngatikura Hinia Chief 1 Tuhuonhara Kiore (a young boy) Chief 1 Te Upoko Rupuh Chief 1 Ngatitinapokai Waka Chief 1 Rangitaumani Taituha Chief 1 Turakina river Ngati te Poretu Hori Tairapago Te Waka Chief 1 I Katikiau Mitiaha Chief 1 Ngatitititeri-tonga Hakopa Chief 1 Ngatitatimanaina Watiranui Chief 1 Ngatikoko Te Warena Chief 1 Ngatiporengu Matenga Chief 1 Rangipikiata Timoti Chief 1 Ngatitupatana Pita Chief 1 Ngatirangipuhi Hohua Chief 1 Ngatitamangarikau Hone Wetu Chief 1 Ngaitama Kina Raipinipi Chief 1 Tupatana Pehira Chief 1 Ngatitamatea Hori te Rangiao and son Chief 1 Ngatitumoetira Te Hueana Chief 1 Ngatitamarora Paihana Chief 1 Ngatihika Te Poihipi Chief 1 Ngatiwiti Heremai Chief 1 Ngatiapa Te Ropiha Heremiah Chief 1 Ngatirangi-tamiana Tamati Chief 1 Hapahaoaitaki-taki Hapurona Chief Bags Wangaehu Tamakakaenui Te Hina Chief 1 Ngatihoro Matene Chief 1 Ngatittumapau Rawiri Chief 1 Ngaetamaea Haira Chief 1 Ngatihinewaipaka Tamihana Chief 1 Ngatirangiwaka-turia Te Wumu Chief 1 Kaitikitiko Ihoka Chief 1 Ngatikakahutahi Paniera Te Toka Chief 1 Ngatihingauti Aori Kawe Chief bags Ngatipaehu Hawana te Iki Chief 1 Timahihnga E Piha Chief 1 Ngatihura Matiu Chief 1 Ngatiruahau Pairama Chief 1 Ngatipaenga Rariria Chief 1 Ngaitura Tiki Wiremu Matene Chief 1 Ngatimahairangi Awaru Chief 1 Tirahaerakau Hoani Maka Chief 1 ........... Rihiona Chief 1 ........... Matiu Te Upo-koiri Chief 1 ........... Punapa Uru-terangi Chief bags Fourteen Bags were divided between the Principal Chiefs of the respective rivers, as follows:- Paora Turangapito 4 Kingi, Hori, and 6 Hunia Aperahama Amount of the 14 Hapus 100 bags Honi Ropiha te Moko should have been inserted in the fore-going list, as he has claims on the North bank of the Wangaehu. His tribe is named , and will be entitled to a small share of the next instalment. (Signed) Donald McLean. Inspector of Police. Wanganui 23rd. May 1849. Sir, I have pleasure in acquainting you, for the information of His Excellency, the Governor-in-Chief, that the purchase of the Rangitikei district was con--cluded on the 16th. inst. In prosecuting this purchase, through its various stages, I encountered considerable opposition, especially from the Ngatiraukawas of Otaki and Manawatu, supported by Rangihaeata, who held a correspondence on the subject with Heu Heu, the Chief of Taupo, from whom I received a communication, of which I beg to enclose a copy and translation. The rights of the Ngatiapas, who, I found to be hereditary possessors of the district offered for sale, were disputed by Rangihaeata and the above tribes, who adduced a right of conquest; Rangihaeata stating that he wished to retain the Rangitikei country, as a place of refuge for himself and his Taupo friends, or such other natives as might join him; in the event of being compelled, at any future period, to retreat from the British forces, as he was obliged to do at the Hutt. The Ngatiapas at the same time urged their claim as the only legitimate one, and solicited the Government to purchase their country, that it might not be possessed by disaffected tribes, who had no just right. to it. In this state of the case, I requested the Ngatiapas Chiefs of Rangitikei to accompany me to Manawatu, where we should openly discuss the merits of their claim with the Ngatirauicawa Chiefs, to which they readily assented; and after some discussion on both sides, the Ngatiraukawas partially admitted the justice of the "Ngatiapa claim, endeavouring to persuade them at the same time, against disposing of their land to the Europeans; as they were desirous that the native proprietors should retain all the country between Pori--rua and Wangaehu. At this meeting, the Ngatiraukawa Chiefs informed me that Hakariah, the head teacher of Otaki - Tamihana, Te Rauparaha's son - and a few other young Chiefs, had drawn up, at a public meeting, an Agreement, (for the signatures of the whole tribe, or any other tribe that might join them), in which they embodied resolutions passed at the said meeting, to the effect that neither them, nor their posterity, should ever dispose of their lands to the Europeans, excepting by annual lease for cattle grazing. This document, of which I have not a copy by me, they talked of having printed; and some of them even spoke, with a view to the more sacred observance of their promise therein contained, to have copies of it affixed to their New Testaments. Rangihaeata proposed to hold a large public meeting, to take the Ngatiapa claim into consideration; anticipating, no doubt, that he would be so well supported in his opposition to the sale, that the Ngatiapas would be intimidated against treating with the Government. I prepared for this Meeting, by representing to the natives inclined to favour Rangihaeata, that it was needless to oppose the Government, in effecting the purchase of land; and invited several Chiefs from Wanganui and the West Coast to be present, as impartial witnesses of all the discussions and proceedings which might take place at the Meeting; which did not, from the tediousness of native movements, take place till the 15th. of March. The Chiefs I invited came readily forward; and Rangihaeata, finding that he could not carry out his wishes, declined making his appearance at Rangitikei; where the right of the Ngatiapas to the purchase now concluded, was publicly acknowledged by a large majority of the Manawatu and Otaki natives, including those who had recently been most firm in their opposition to the purchase. The result of this Meeting was not only favourable as regarded the acquisition of the Rangitikei district, but it was rendered more so, by having the consent of a powerful tribe, who had previously opposed it, and who were at the time in correspondence with the Wairarapa and other natives similarly disposed in their opposition to the sale of land. It also weakened such combined opposition, before becoming, in any way, formidable and manifested to these tribes; that although the Government did not rashly take any steps in proceeding with the purchase, it was, nevertheless, determined, from being once undertaken, that it should be carried out, and in such a manner as would obviously convince them that there was a due regard for the present and future prosperity of the tribe, with whom it was in treaty. My subsequent proceedings in connection with this purchase, are more fully detailed in my correspondence with the Colonial Secretary of this Province; copies of which, commencing from the 21st. March to the final settlement of the question, are herewith enclosed. When at Wellington in December last, I had the honour of being desired by Sir George Grey, to acquaint him when there was a probability of a purchase being effected in this neighbourhood. I trust His Excellency will excuse me for any apparent neglect in not apprising him sooner of my proceedings; as I thought, from being in correspondence with the authorities in this province, it would be unnecessary to trouble His Excellency with communications till I had something definite to report. I have the honour to remain Sir, Your most obedient humble servant (Signed) Donald McLean. Inspector of Police. To:- The Honourable The Colonial Secretary Auckland. Rangitiki February 28th. 1849. Sir, I have the honour to inform Your Excellency that on my return from Wellington to Otaki, Te Rauparaha despatched messengers to Porirua and Manawatu to hasten the meeting of natives respecting the Rangitikei Land Question, of which I gave notice to Your Excellency. This morning I have received intelligence that the meeting will take place in the early part of next week, but as native movements of this description are so tedious and uncertain, I have written to Rangihaeata to ascertain from him, if possible, the exact day of the meeting, and expect an answer to-morrow. Yesterday I sent a messenger to Wanganui, with letters to Hori Kingi and Tahana, to hold themselves in readiness to attend, and hear the discussions at the meeting; Your Excellency having signified a desire that they should be present. With reference to E. Puni and Etako, I am uncertain whether they will come, as they have not made formal terms of peace with Rangi since the late war. I wrote to them on the 14th. inst. stating that it would be as well for them to be actuated by their own feelings on the subject. At the same time, if they would come to the Meeting, that Mr. Kemp would accompany them. On the 14th. inst. I wrote again, stating if they had any objections to attend, that I should not wish to press them, but should leave them entirely to be actuated by their own feelings. The Rangitikei natives seem determined to assert their claim to the South Bank of the River, in face of whether opposition may be offered by Rangihaeata and the Ngatiraukawas. The strong opposition so recently manifested by the Manawatu natives, to the sale of any land, is gradually wearing off, and they seem more concious of their propriety of repaying the Company for the goods expended on that river. I have informed them that I should commence an investigation of their claims, immediately after a purchase is effected of Rangitikei. Tamihana, and one or two other young natives at Otaki, have been secretly influencing the natives against the sale of their lands, and misrepresenting the objects of the Government, so as to create jealousy on the part of some of the old Chiefs, otherwise inclined to be favourable. I have not, as yet, directly noticed the un- -grateful conduct of these young men, further than by correcting such of their false operations as I have found circulated among the natives, considering it best, on the present occasion, to treat them with silent indifference. I have addressed a letter to the Company's agent, informing him that the meeting is likely to take place early next week, as he expressed a desire that Mr. Bell should attend, to report the proceedings to the Company. I have the honour to remain Sir, Your Excellency's most obdt. humble servt. (Signed) Donald McLean. To:- His Excellency The Lieut. Governor. Rangitikei February 28th. 1849. My dear Sir, Since my return up the Caast, I have endeavoured to expedite the native Meeting, at which the Rangitikei Land Question is to be discussed; and have received intelligence this morning that it is likely to take place during the early part of next week. I have sent a messenger to make enquiries as to thr exact day, and place of meeting, which is not yet decidedly fixed; some of the interested natives desiring to hold it at Manawatu, and others at Rangitikei. I am glad to observe that the strong opposition recently manifested by the Manawatu natives (the majority of them) to the sale of land, or to an acknowledgement for the goods expended there by the Company, is favourably wearing away. I remain My dear Sir, Yours obediently (Signed) Donald McLean. P.S. I give this early information, as I may not have another opportunity of communicating with you, as I am going to the country to see land required for reserves in the interior. Manawatu March 6th. 1849. Sir, This morning I send a special messenger to Waikanae, with a note to Major Durie, requesting him to forward this communication to Your Excellency. My object, principally, in addressing Your Excellency, is to give notice that the natives to attend the meeting, intimated in my letter of the 28th. ult. as likely to take place in the early part of this week, are now assembling. From information I have received, the Ngatitoas and Ngatiraukawas of Otaki, were on their way hither, at Ohau last night, to-day they are expected at Rangihaeata's Kainga, and to-morrow at Manawatu. The Meeting is not likely to occupy much time - perhaps one or two days. Therefore I am in hopes that Mr. Kemp and the other gentlemen who desire to be present, will not delay, (if not already at hand), in making their appearance. I have written to Aperahama Parea, of Waitotara, to accompany the Wanganui Chiefs to Rangitikei; and also invited Kaimokupuna, and one or two other influential Chiefs, to be present, who are likely to take an impartial view of the claims in dispute, between the Ngatiraukawas and Ngatiapa tribes. The natives of Parewanui, on the north bank of Rangitikei, where Your Excellency encamped a night on your way to Wellington, are desirous of having a township laid out there, and a considerable block of land reserved for them. They will not agree to abandon their cultivations, at least for a certain number of years, to occupy the proposed general reserve, between the Turakina and Wangaehu rivers. If the approaching meeting, on which the present negotiation are so much pending, should terminate favourably, I am in hopes I may be furnished by Your Excellency with the assistance of either one or two experienced surveyors, to expedite the necessary surveys. I find it will be advisable to examine the inland boundary of the Ngatiapa claim, as the Ngatipehi tribe of Taupo have been placing boundary marks at some distance in the interior; where I cannot accurately ascertain, without proceeding to the spot with a surveyor, who would be enabled to report on the distance from the sea coast, and position of the boundary in question. I need scarcely observe to Your Excellency, that it would be most desirable as far as possible to ascertain and decide all difficulties respecting disputed boundaries between distinct tribes, in the first off-set, instead of leaving them open questions, which might be productive of future misunderstandings and contentions. I have etc., etc., etc., (Signed) Donald McLean. Inspector of Police. To:- His Excellency Lieut. Governor Eyre. Wellington. Rangitikei March 1st. 1849. Dear Sir, I have the pleasure to acknowledge the receipt of your letter of the 7th. January; which did not come to hand till the 26th. ult. The newspapers, referred to in your communication, I have received from Wellington by the overland mail this morning, together with 24 copies of the 2d. number; all of which, with the exception of a few distributed here, I forwarded by the same conveyance for distribution in the Taranaki and Mokau districts. If I find any Europeans desirous of subscribing to, or advertising in the journal, I shall refer them, as recommended by you, to Messrs. Williamson and Wilson, Auckland. After my return to Taranaki, I shall ascertain whether the hundred copies you have sent me will be sufficient for circulation in that and the Mokau district. If not, I must avail myself of your kind offer to have the number increased, and shall also be glad to forward occasional contributions to the paper. I remain my dear Sir, Yours very truly (Signed) Donald McLean. To:- Nonourable C.A.Dillon Auckland. Rangitikei 16th. March 1849. Sir, I have the honour to acquaint you, for the information of His Excellency, the Lieut. Governor, that in numerous meetings of the Ngatiraukawa and Ngatiapa tribes were held at this river yesterday and to-day, to discuss the disputed claims existing between those tribes, respecting the land offered for sale by the Ngatiapas to the Government. The Meeting was conducted in a more amicable manner than was previously anticipated by either party; and the result has been that the right of the Ngatiapas to dispose of the whole of their land north of the Rangitikei on to the Wanganui district, is undisputed. The Ngatiraukawas also acknowledge the right of the Ngatiapas to a portion of the South bank of Rangitikei; but still manifest the strongest opposition to its being purchased or possessed by Europeans. I am now prepared to carry out all necessary arrangements for finally completing the purchase of the undisputed territory, which is of considerable extent; and trust I may shortly have two surveyors to lay out the necessary native reserves, and fix the external boundaries, where it is found advisable to do so. I take advantage of Major Durie's starting from to Waikanae, at 5 in the morning, to forward this brief communication of proceedings; and shall avail myself of the next opportunity to report more fully. I have the honour to remain Sir, Your very obedient servant (Signed) Donald McLean. Inspector of Police. To:- The Honourable The Colonial Secretary Wellington.