“The Press” In 1866

Press, Volume CV, Issue 31043, 26 April 1966, Page 16

“The Press” In 1866

MANAWATU BLOCK.—We publish today a petition to the General Assembly which has been sent to us, signed by Purakaia Te Pouepe, and Henare Te Herekau, respecting the land at the Manawatu. We make no comments. The facts must be dealt with in the General Assembly. We can only point out again the imperative necessity for a resolute determination on the part of the colony that it will not enforce the purchase of the Manawatu block by arms. And we can only point out to these Natives that if they really possess lands which they are not willing to sell, they can bring their action for trespass in the Supreme Court against any trespassers on these

lands. The Manawatu Block is excluded from the operation of the Native Lands Act it is true; but the Native Rights Aet is in force everywhere, and they can go to the Supreme Court to enforce their rights and protect their property. It has been publicly stated that the purchase of the Manawatu has been effected. If it has been managed without a chance of future dispute it is a matter for great congratulation, the more so that the sum which the Natives are to receive, £25,000, is apparently a much fairer price than they have usually received. But it is impossible not to feel, on reading the above petition, that some cause for dissatisfaction exists somewhere.