NATIVE LANDS.

New Zealand Times, Volume XXXIX, Issue 6690, 26 September 1882, Page 3

NATIVE LANDS.

TO THE EDITOR OF THE NEW; ZEALAND TIMES. Sib, —Durxngmystay at Carterton, (wo meetings have been convened by members-l-one by a Maori and the other by two European members —since which I have been reflecting as to which is right or which wrong. . : One thing is, in my opinion, ; evident; it would be .as well to place the lands reserved by or for Natives under Government trusteeship. Even although a a considerable amount f of . the i proceeds should be absorbed for the expenses of management, the lands will be retained for future generations. If the lands are not placed in the hands of the Government Trustee; they will pass an ay almost as soon as the names of the owners are fixed by the Court. I have observed the process of .disposal. .

I think the Native Lands Court should have full power to make lands inalienable as soon as the title is investigated. And if the restriction is wished to be removed, Jet: application be made : to the Government,.and,- let; there be proper investigation before the land is released. But the Government should hot be (permitted to purchase these lands ; they . ought to be dealt with by public auction, the same as the lands at Rotorua.

With reference to the Rating A ct i I n °t think it a bad measure. It-would be well for an officer of the Government to be sent to explain its provisions to the Maoris, as they are ignorant about them. The Natives here did not understand it. The European; members have one idea; about it, and the. Mac ri member one exactly contrary to theirs. Had this meeting been held at my place, and there being sufficient accommodation, I would have convened a general meeting of Native : chiefs to consider these matters.—l am, &c., 1 Retiiwtx TAPiHAUA. of Rotorua. Carterton, September 25, 1882.