NATIVE LAND

Otago Daily Times, Issue 21773, 12 October 1932, Page 4

NATIVE LAND

SYSTEM OF DEVELOPMENT STEADY PROGRESS REPORTED (From Opr Parliamentary Reporter.) WELLINGTON, October 11. The system of development of Native land by the Maoris has steadily progressed, and is now beginning to show results for the expenditure that has been incurred,” states the annual report of the Native Department which was tabled in the House to-day. _ “ Unfortunately in one sense, but providentially in another way, the of the main operations began at a time when world prices took a downward trend and economic conditions occurred which upset the calculations of all financial experts. The hope, however, that something was at last to be done to help the Maoris to develop their lands gave them renewed confidence in the future, especially as, while improving their lands, they were to obtain partial subsistence. This expenditure became a charge upon the land owned by them and thus somewhat minimised the burden that had fallen upon the general taxpayer. “There are now some 49 schemes in progress, although fewer than 20 of them have so far reached the revenue producing stage. The Maoris have been enabled in spite of the low prices and strenuous times to repay over £IO,OOO of the indebtedness incurred on their behalf. In the coming year it is expected that many more will reach a partially productive basis.” , . ... The report states that the funds held or invested by Maori Land Boards decreased by £33,949 during the year. The funds totalled £595,047, of which £173,757 was on deposit with the Native Trustee, £30,270 was in Government securities, £306,757 was represented by other securities, and advances and cash balances accounted for £24,262. The Native land purchased by the Crown amounted to 5024 acres. Since 1910 1,539,818 acres of Native land had been acquired through the Native Land Purchase Board.