DIRECT PURCHASE FROM THE NATIVES.

Hawke's Bay Herald, Volume 2, Issue 93, 2 July 1859, Page 2

DIRECT PURCHASE FROM THE NATIVES.

An organization exists in Auckland with the view of inducting a new system of acquiring land from the natives — that of dheet purchase; — or, rather, transactions between individual Europeans and the natives, through an officer appointed by the Government. The "Southern Cross" is the organ of the "direct purchase" party, and the "New Zealander" that of its opponents. Interminable leaders are the consequence — indeed, the subject seems almost to engross the Auckland press. Meetings had been held, and a deputation appointed to confer with the Governor on the subject. His Excellency, as will appear from the subjoined memorandum, drily reserves the "direct purchase" system for further consideration, but would like to see, what is no doubt a desirable consummation, when it is a practicable one — the individualization of native titles. 1. — I am responsible for the conduct of Native affairs. 2. — I cannot admit that the Native Land Purchase Department has failed in its endeavour to procure land sufficient both in quality and quantity for the wants of the European population of the Province. Returns now before me prove satisfactorily that the Provincial Government has in its possession.

enough of good agricultural land to meet all probable demands upon it, added to which, several more blocks will shortly be handed over to it, and negociations are pending for others. - 3. — It is very desirable for the interests of both races that the extinction of Native title over all land not required for the use or occupation of the Maories Bhould be effected as rapidly as it can be accomplished with justice. 4. — Without referring to minor matters discussed between myself and the deputation of gentlemen I had the pleasure to receive on Thursday, I state briefly that I will carefully consider the propositions made to me by Messrs. Daldy and Forsaith, 5. — My own opinion is, that it it is desirable to provide means for enabling, tribes, families, and particular individuals to define and individualize their property, and that it would be just and proper to confirm well-ascertained rights by a Crown title. That in adopting such a system it would be necessary to make safe provision against individual improvidence, and to guard society against the consequences to which it would be exposed if natives were permitted to pauperise themselves, and consequently to become reckless. I have long entertained this opinion, and have expressed it officially more than once, but legislation is necessary to enable me to carry into effect. 6. — I shall cordially co-operate with the Legislature should such a measure be proposed, but, unless otherwise instructed by Her Majesty's Government, I am not prepared to accept new powers if cramped by restrictions which, are nofe in accordance with the agreement existing between myself and my responsible advisers.