MINUTE

Hawke's Bay Herald, Volume 11, Issue 855, 2 July 1867, Page 3

MINUTE

AS KEGAKUS THE PIIOrOSFJi TKANSFEU TO the Gknkhal Government of 19,000 acmes Land at M.akia. Reperhino to the conversations we have

had as to the advantages of the Mahia Peninsula as a location for tho Hau Haus of tho Wairoa, and considering the great importance of having land set apart for bheni where they, arc least likely to endanger tho peace of tho country, I shall be wUluigi subject of course to the approval of the Provincial Council, to transfer 19,000 acres of land to the General Government, at tlie Mahia, £ov 6s, per acre \ 6X." ccptmg the site of jy sx&aii tDwusbip and. suburban land at ie Mahia, portions of which have been purchased by private individuals, who might object to any interference with the prospective advantage they might derive from the settlement of Europeans instead of natives" at the Mahia. I could not, therefore, without reference to these purchasers, agree to the cession of tho town in question, which forms orily a small portion of the native estate. Donald M'Lean. To the Honorable The Colonial Secretary, The proposal here referred to as having been discussed by Mr. M'Lean and myself, is one that I think should be acted on. The Agricultural land in the Wairoa is barely enough to meet friendly claims and to plant Major Eraser's company of Military Settlers, unless we should move the surrendered rebels high up the river, into close neighbourhood with the Uriwera. The Mahia is well adapted for a Maori population — small, sheltered flats and good hshing, with good climate ; and it is all but an island, with its approaches by the mainland commanded by lhaka, a most trustworthy chief. .My own idea would be to exchange the Petane block for this land at a valuation, unless the adjustment of claims against the Province should furnish a suitable opportunity and means of disposing promptly of the matter. I think the settlement of the Hau Haus on a good block to be a matter of urgent importance. J. C. Richmond. April 6, 1867.