LANDS IN THE NORTH ISLAND

New Zealand Times, Volume XXIX, Issue 4264, 19 November 1874, Page 2

LANDS IN THE NORTH ISLAND

A notice appears of the intention of the Governor to negotiate for the purchase of certain native lands in the North Island, under the provisions of the Immigration and Public Works Act, 1871. The block embraces a large extent of country in Auckland province, lying on both sides of the Firth of Thames and Piako river, thence by the confiscated boundary of the Waikato to the Tauranga block. It is impossible to over-estimate the value of this extensive district. It includes valuable mineral and timber land, besides having a large available area for agriculture. Indeed, some of the richest and most accessible land in Auckland is included within the boundaries of the block as described in the Gazette. It was time the Government issued this notice, because the territory in question has been overrun by land-sharks and speculators, who desired to secure, for their own advantage, a territory which, if thrown open for bona fide settlement, would support a very large industrial population. The notice, however, puts a stop to the proceedings of these enterprising gentlemen. After the publication of the notice in the Gazette, “it shall not’ be lawful for any “ one to purchase or acquire from the “ native owners, any right, title, or inte- “ rest, or contract for the purchase or “ acquisition from the native owners of “ any right, title, or interest, in the lands “ specified in such notice, unless the “ notice be cancelled by the Governor.’ No doubt we shall hear a great outcry from the North, on the publication of this notice becoming known, and the direst consequences will be predicted on account of this interference with private enterprise ; but no one, we think, can doubt the wisdom of the course pursued by tlie Government. These lands are wanted for settlement. In the hands M the Government they will not bo held for speculative purposes, which, would be the case were private persons to acquire them. When wo say that the much-coveted Ohinemuri district is included in the block of land described in the Gazette, our readers will be able to recognise its importance. We trust Mr. Mackay, jun., will soon be able to complete his negotiations with the native owners on behalf of the Government. When the land in question has become the property of the Crown, an impetus will be given to settlement in the Northern districts which must make itself felt throughout the colony.