REPORTS OF THE LAND PURCHASE DEPARTMENT RELATIVE TO THE EXTINGUISHMENT OF NATIVE TITLE.

Appendix to the Journals of the House of Representatives, 1861 Session I, C-01

C—No. 1

REPORTS OF THE LAND PURCHASE DEPARTMENT RELATIVE TO THE EXTINGUISHMENT OF NATIVE TITLE.

PRESENTED TO BOTH HOUSES OE THE GENERAL ASSEMBLY, BY COMMAND OF HIS EXCELLENCY, AND ORDERED TO BE PRINTED.

C—No. 1.

SCHEDULE.

BAY OF ISLANDS DISTRICT.

i o u 'A b O SUBJECT. DATE. NAME OF WRITEK. TO WHOM ADDEESSED. d 'A 4 1 2 Feb. 23, 1855 May 4, „ J. G. Johnson, District Commissioner H. T. Kemp, Native Secretary Chief Commissioner Chief Commissioner Memorandum Mangonui—Reporting on Native Claims to Oruru Valley. Obueu—Eeport on Claims of Tipene to a portion of Oruru Valley. Instructing Mr. Kemp to proceed to Bay of Islands. Kaipatiki—Reporting the completion of Kaipatiki Block. Omawake—Reporting negociations for Omawake Block. Victoria Valley—To negociate for land at Mangonui for Canadian Settlers. Enclosure to No. 6. Omawake —Reporting completion of purchase of the Omawake Block. Omawake Block—Forwarding Deed. General Report. Victoria Valley —Relative to land for Canadian Settlers. Oeuru —Reporting on Native Claims to Oruru. Enclosure to No. 11. Taeairb and Whakapaku—Reporting offer of these Blocks. Orueit—Reporting difficulties arising out of the non-settlement of Claims to Oruru. Orueu —Forwarding Mr. Commissioner Johnson's Report on Oruru. Taeaire and Whakapaku—Requesting authority to purchase these Block. Oeuru —To settle Native Claims at Oruru. Oeueu —Requesting a further sum of money on account of Oruru claims. Geneeal —To report on Block of land under offer in his District. Orueu —To lose no time in effecting settlement of Claims to Oruru. Oeuru —Reporting final settlement of all Claims to Oruru. Taraiee and Whakapaku—Price named for Taraire and Whakapaku is too high. Oruru —Thanking him and Mr. White, R.M., for settling Claims to Oruru. Orueu—Forwarding Deed of Conveyance of the Oruru Valley. Herd's Point—Respecting land purchased twice over. Herd's Point —Reporting on offer by Moses Tawai, of land at Herd's Point. Oeuru —Relative to Claims preferred by Ruhe to Oruru. 1 2 3 June 1, „ H. T. Kemp 2 4 August 5, „ H. T. Kemp, District Commissioner Ditto Chief Commissioner 2 5 j> 18, „ Ditto 3 6 Dec. 7, „ J. Gr. Johnson, Acting Chief Commissioner Chief Commissioner H. T. Kemp, H. T. Kemp, District Commissioner H. T. Kemp Chief Commissioner 3 Nov. 17, „ Feb. 28, 1856 4 4 7 8 9 10 March 3, „ April 6, „ Ditto Ditto Ditto Ditto Ditto Ditto 5 5 6 1O Ditto Ditto 11 J2 ;; 13, „ Ditto Ditto 8 13 June 25, „ W. B. White, Ditto 9 July 31, „ Chief Commissioner H. T. Kemp 9 14 15 Aug. 13, „ H. T. Kemp Chief Commissioner 9 16 17 „ 29, „ Sept. 7, „ Chief Commissioner H. T. Kemp H. T. Kemp Chief Commissioner 10 10 18 o Chief Commissioner H. T. Kemp 11 19 » 16> » Ditto Ditto 11 20 99 H. T. Kemp Chief Commissioner 12 21 Oct. 3, „ Chief Commissioner H. T. Kemp 12 J; '? » Ditto Ditto 13 22 13 23 jj 23, „ H. T. Kemp Chief Commissioner 13 24 94 Chief Commissioner H. T. Kemp 14 25 Nov. 16, „ H. T. Kemp Chief Commissioner 14 26 Dec. 9, 1860 Chief Commissioner H. T. Kemp

BAY OF ISLANDS DISTRICT—(continued.)

C—No. 1.

IV

H K o fft DATE. NAME OF WRITER. TO WHOM ADDRESSED. SUBJECT. o o" s c < !7 Dec. 11, 1856 Chief Commissioner H. T. Kemp Oruru —Certain Hokianga Chiefs prefer Claims to Oruru. Taraire and Whakapaku —Forwarding Deeds and Plan of Taraire and Whakapaku. Mawhe—Reporting upon offer of Mawhe Block. Scrip Lands —Giving estimated area of scrip lands in his district. Enclosure to No. 30. Mawhe —The price recommended for Mawhe Block is too high. 1 18 June 8, 1857 H. T. Kemp Chief Commissioner 1 !9 Feb. 3, „ Ditto Ditto 1 10 JJ **) ?5 Ditto Ditto I 31 March 10,1857 Chief Commissioner H. T. Kemp 17 32 19 „ ■* a i ,, H. T. Kemp Chief Commissioner Oruru— Enclosure to No. 32, by Mr. White. Oeueu—To report on claims of Tipene to Oruru Valley. Mawhe—Nothing further has been done with reference to Mawhe. Mueiwhenua, &c—Reporting on Blocks near the North Cape. Scrip Lands—Mi. Commissioner Bell will investigate Titles to Scrip Land. Oeueu —Recommending purchase of Noble's Reserve. Whakapaku—Te Ahu Ahu prefers a claim to the Whakapaku Block. fill in an outline map with lands which have been purchased. Muriwhenua, &c. —To carry on negotiations for Blocks near the North Cape. Muriwhenua —Respecting the prices fixed for Blocks near the North Cape. Muriwhenua —To conclude purchase of Blocks near the North Cape. Muriwhenua, Kawakawa—Relative to various Blocks of land. Muriwhenua, &c —Reporting completion of purchase of Blocks near the North Cape. General—Estimate of sum required for purchases in his District. Muriwhenua, &c —Forwarding Deeds of Blocks near the North Cape. Kawakawa —Respecting offer by Maihi Kawiti of land to the Government. Mawhe —Respecting completion of the survey of Mawhe. Otengi—Relative to Tipene's Reserve in the Otengi Block. Pekbkohe —Reporting negociations of a Block of £2000 acres. General —Reporting on several Blocks in his District. Kawakawa —Reporting on offer of land at Kawakawa. Various Blocks —Reporting on Blocks which have been recently offered for sale. Pukekohe—To carry on negotiations for Pukekohe Block. General—Relative to surveys of external boundaries. Mokau Block—The survey of Mokau Block has been completed. 18 33 „ 25, „ Chief Commissioner H. T. Kemp 19 34 i, 26, „ H. T. Kemp Chief Commissioner 19 35 June 10, „ Ditto Ditto 20 36 „ 12, „ Chief Commissioner H. T. Kemp 20 37 „ 12, „ H. T. Kemp Chief Commissioner 21 39 Aug. 10, „ T. H. Smith (for the Chief Commissioner) Chief Commissioner H. T. Kemp 21 40 » 25, „ Ditto 22 41 Sept. 26, „ Ditto Ditto 22 42 Dec. 7, „ H. T. Kemp Chief Commissioner 22 43 ,, 21, „ Chief Commissioner H. T. Kemp 23 44 „ 26, „ H. T. Kemp Chief Commissioner 23 45 Feb. 9, 1858 Ditto Ditto 24 46 ,, 16, „ Ditto Ditto 24 47 March 2, „ Ditto Ditto 24 48 „ 15, „ T. H. Smith (for the Chief Commissioner) H. T. Kemp H. T. Kemp 25 49 „ 17, „ Chief Commissioner 25 50 April 21, „ John Rogan H. T. Kemp 26 ,51 May 7, „ H. T. Kemp Chief Commissioner 26 52 ,, 29, » Ditto Ditto 26 53 June 8, „ Ditto Ditto 27 i4 „ 28, „ Ditto Ditto 27 io n 28, „ Chief Commissioner H. T. Kemp 27 i6 „ 28, „ Ditto Ditto 28 17 July 1, „ H. T. Kemp Chief Commissioner 28

BAY OF ISLANDS DISTRICT— (continued).

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v

H M o ftH K is O DATE. NAME OP WRITER. TO WHOM ADDRESSED. subject. 4 6 58 „ 8 , ;, Chief Commissioner H. T. Kemp Kawakawa—Declining gift of land by Maihi P. Kawiti. Kohumaru and Maungataniwha—Recommending purchase of these Blocks. (Enclosure to No. 59.) Mawhe —The price has been fixed for the Mawhe Block. Mokau Block—Naming the sum agreed upon for this Block. KOIIUMAEU AND MAUNGATANIWHA As to the naming of Blocks of land. General—Report of lands which it is proposed to purchase. Patunui, &c- —Reporting survey of four small Blocks. General—To complete purchases of Blocks under negotiation. Hauotapiri—Kawakawa. Kawakawa—Respecting offer of land by Maihi P. Kawiti. Blocks at Mangonui—Reporting prices fixed for Blocks at Mangonui. Mawhe —Forwarding Deed of Conveyance of Mawhe Block. Mokau—Forwarding Deed of Conveyance of Mokau Block. General—To purchase land, if possible, in the vicinity of former purchases. Matawheroia. Kawakawa—Reporting survey of this Block. Kawakawa—Reporting purchase of the Kawakawa Block. Matawerohia —Reporting completion of the purchase of this Block. General —To suggest a scale of prices for his District. Oeueu —Relative to purchase of Noble's Reserve in the Oruru Block. Kohumaeu, &c.' —-The purchase of three Blocks near Mangonui authorized. Kawakawa —Approving of proceedings in connection with Kawakawa Block. Blocks at Monganui—Reporting payment for Blocks of land at Mangonui. Mangonui, Bay or Islands —Forwarding descriptions of Blocks for Proclamation. Ahipaea—-Purchase of Ahipara has been approved. Waiake—Inconvenience of giving two names to one Block. Ahipaea—To complete the purchase without delay. Ahipara—Te Puhipi offers to extend the Ahipara Block. Kohumaru —Approval of payment of £50 in excess of the original sum for this Block. Ohaeawai—The price asked by the Natives for this Block is too high. Taraire—Reporting negotiations for additions to Taraire Block. 29 59 Sept. 22, „ H. T. Kemp Chief Commissioner 29 Oct. 2, „ Ditto Ditto 29 60 61 „ 4, „ Ditto Ditto 30 62 „ 12, „ Chief Commissioner H. T. Kemp 30 63 „ 16, „ H. T. Kemp Chief Commissioner 31 64 „ 25, „ Ditto Ditto 32 65 66 67 Nov. 29, „ Dec. T. H. Smith, for Chief Commissioner H. T. Kemp Chief Commissioner H. T. Kemp Chief Commissioner H. T. Kemp 32 32 33 „ 14, „ 68 Jan. 18, 1859 H. T. Kemp Chief Commissioner 33 69 „ 20, „ Ditto Ditto 34 70 „ 29, „ Ditto Ditto 34 71 72 73 74 March 7, „ „ 4, „ April 21, „ June 10, ,, T. H. Smith, for Chief Commissioner Ditto H. T. Kemp Ditto II. T. Kemp Ditto Chief Commissioner Ditto 35 35 35 36 75 „ 10, „ Ditto Ditto 36 76 „ 14, „ T. H. Smith, for Chief Commissioner Ditto II. T. Kemp 37 37 77 Aug. 1, „ Ditto 78 „ 10, „ Ditto Ditto 37 79 „ 24, „ Ditto Ditto 38 80 Sept. 12, „ H. T. Kemp Chief Commissioner 38 81 Oct. 26, „ Ditto Ditto 39 82 „ 28, „ T. H. Smith, for Chief Commissioner Ditto II. T. Kemp 39 83 „ 28, „ Ditto 39 84 Nov. 17, „ Ditto Ditto 40 85 Dec. 3, „ Ditto Ditto 40 86 ?) " Ditto Ditto 40 87 Feb. 28, 1860 H. T. Kemp Chief Commissioner 40 88 March 28, „ Ditto Ditto 41

C—No, 1.

BAY OF ISLANDS DISTRICT— (continued.)

WHANGAREI DISTRICT.

VI

o w w DATE. NAME OF WRITER. TO WHOM ADDRESSED. SUBJECT. (fl o d w < f-c 19 10 May 10, „ Aug. 25, „ H. T. Kemp Ditto W. B. White Chief Commissioner Chief Commissioner Ditto II. T. Kemp Ditto Four Small Blocks—Transmitting Deeds of Conveyance of Hikuwai, &c. Hikurangi Block—Reporting the survey of this Block. Enclosure in No. 90. Whakapaku—To report on Reserve on this Block. 41 41 Oct. 6, „ 42 42 •1 >2 Dec. 15, „ Ditto Ditto Parengarenga—To report upon offer of land at this place. Hikurangi—Reporting completion of the purchase of Hikurangi Block. North Cape—Negotiations for Block near North Cape postponed. General—Report of land operations in his District. Enclosure 1 in 95. Enclosure 2 in 95. General —Reporting further as to state of District. 42 13 April 14, 1861 H. T. Kemp Chief Commissioner 43 14 „ '■>> i> Ditto Ditto 43 >5 June 7, „ Ditto Ditto 43 Ditto Ditto 44 „ 10, „ 45

3 4 5 6 7 8 I 2 Jan. 22, 1854 March 20, „ „ 30, „ May 18, ,', June 3, „ a « „ 10, „ 17 Colonial Secretary J. G. Johnson Ditto Chief Commissioner J. G. Johnson Ditto Ditto Ditto J. G. Johnson Colonial Secretary Ditto J. G. Johnson Chief Commissioner Ditto Ditto Ditto General —Conveying authority to Mr. Johnson to buy land. Mangawhai—Forwarding Deed of Purchase and reporting on Mangawhai, Waipu, and Ruakaka. Five Enclosures in No. 2. Ahuroa and Kourawhero—Is negotiating for the purchase of the Kaipara Flats. General—Instructions as to purchase of Native Lands. Parekakau—Reporting offer by Wiremu Rewiti of a Block of 1500 acres. Wainui —Reporting offer of this Block of 14,000 acres. Ahuroa and Kourawhero—Reporting offer of these Blocks. Ahuroa and Kouraw 7 hero —Reporting on the quality, &c, of the Kourawhero Block. Kourawhero—To effect the purchase of this Block. Wainui —Authorising the purchase of this Block. Kourawhero—Has purchased the Kaipara Flats for £900. Wainui —Has paid the sum of £600 for this Block. Takahiwae—Has purchased this Block of 1500 acres. Mangawhai and Waipu—Has paid balance of purchase money on these Blocks. Takahiwae —Approving of purchase. North Side, Whangarei—Natives have offered land for sale on the North side of the Harbour. 47 47 & 48 52 52 53 58 54 55 9 19 5, xu l ,, Chief Commissioner J. G. Jonnsou 56 10 „ 20, „ Ditto Ditto 56 11 ,, **> „ J. G. Johnson Chief Commissioner 57 12 „ ,, Ditto Ditto 57 13 Aug. 2, „ Ditto Ditto 58 14 ,, » Ditto Ditto 58 15 16 Sept. 18, „ Chief Commissioner J. G. Johnson J. G. Johnson Hon. Colonial Secretary 58 59

WHANGAREI DISTRICT— (continued.)

C—No. 1.

VII

H M p w H (ft o DATE. NAME OP WRITER. TO WHOM ADDRESSED. SUBJECT. d 17 Oct. 7, „ Ditto Colonial Secretary Departmental—Has placed himself under the direction of the Chief Commissioner. Kourawhero—Te Kiri Kaiparoa is entitled to purchase 40 acres in this Block. General —Relative to instructions for purchase of Native Lands. General—To acquire certain information respecting Titles to Land. General—Forwarding extract from a letter of the Colonial Secretary. Mangatapere—Reporting offer of this Block Waipu—Natives wish to purchase 400 acres in the Waipu Block. Mangatapere—Reporting a further offer of this Block. Omaha —As to the claim of the Government to land at Omaha. Maungatapere—Authorising the purchase of this Block. 59 18 ,, 16, „ Ditto Ditto 60 19 ,, *', „ Chief Commissioner F. G. Johnson 60 20 ,, ,, Ditto Ditto 60 21 „ 27, „ Ditto Ditto 61 22 23 Nov. 12, „ F. G. Johnson Ditto Chief Commissioner Ditto 61 61 7) ?J 24 „ 20, „ Ditto Ditto 62 25 Dec. 23, „ Ditto Mr. Kemp, (for Chief Commissioner) J. G. Johnson 63 26 Jan. 9, 1855 Chief Commissioner 63 ,, ,, Colonial Secretary Chief Commissioner Maungatapere—To purchase the Block of land for sale at Whangarei Mangatapere—Authorising survey of selection for Te Tirarau. Mangatapere—Te Tirarau has made a selection of 1000 acres. Authorising purchase of Blocks on North and South sides of Whangarei Harbour. Matakitaki—Hori te More offers Matakitaki for sale. Maungakaramea—Relative to purchase of this Block. Offering a small Block of 157 acres for sale. Mangatapere—Recommending purchase of frontage of Mangatapere Block. Maungakaramea—Reporting reserves in the Maungakaramea Block. Ruarangi—Reporting completion of purchase of Ruarangi Block. Wiiareora—Reporting offer of a Block 10,000 acres. Maungakaeamea—Forwarding Deed of Conveyance, Maungakaramea Block. Ruarangi—Forwarding Deed of Conveyance of Ruarangi Block. Respecting land offered by Kiri and More. Maungakaramea—To postpone the payment of £700 for this Block. Circular—To furnish a report of land purchases in his District. General—Report on the state of land purchases in his District. (2 Enclosures to No. 42). Maungakaramea—Enclosing surveys of lands which are to be repurchased by the Natives. General—To furnish a report of Blocks under negotiation. Respecting offer of small Block on South side of Whangarei. Respecting land purchased from Te Uriohau. (2 Enclosures to No. 46). Respecting land in dispute between Tirarau and Te Uriohau. 63 27 99 Ditto J. G. Johnson 64 28 „ 30, „ Chief Commissiouer Colonial Secretary 64 29 May 18, „ Ditto J. G. Johnson 64 30 22 Ditto Ditto 64 31 Aug. 24, „ J. G. Johnson Chief Commissioner 65. 32 33 Sep. 5, „ „ 10, „ Ditto Ditto Ditto Ditto 65 65 34 „ 10, „ Ditto Ditto 66 35 JJ **■) 5> Ditto Ditto 65 36 J? » 3? Ditto Ditto 66 37 Oct. 10, „ Ditto Ditto 67 38 ,, ,, a Ditto Ditto 67 39 40 ,, 20, „ Nov. 1, „ Ditto II. T. Kemp (for the Chief Commissioner) Chief Commissiouer Ditto J. G. Jo'mson 68 68 41 March 18, 1856 Ditto 69 42 April 3, „ J. G. Johnson Chief Commissioner 69 May 3, „ Ditto Ditto 71-2 73 43 Sept. 9, „ Chief Commissioner J. G. Johnson 73 44 45 „ 16, „ J. G. Johnson Chief Commissioner 73 46 No v. 3, „ Chief Commissioner J. G. Johnson 74 75 75 47 Dec. 5, „ J. G. Johnson Chief Commissioner

WHANGAREI DISTRICT— (continued.)

C—No. 1.

VIII

H M O ft K © d A DATE. NAME OF WRITER. TO WHOM ADDRESSED. SUBJECT. H O -=1 ft 48 Marcb.21,1857 Chief Commissioner J. G. Johnson Pakiri—Relative to Survey of boundaries of Omaha Block. Parua—The Survey of Parua Block has been interrupted. General —To carry on the Survey of new Blocks. 75 49 April 7, „ J. G. Johnson Chief Commissioner 76 50 „ 15, „ May 9, „ Assistant Native Secretary (acting for the Chief Commissioner) Chief Commissioner J. G. Johnson Ditto 76 51 52 53 54 55 56 57 58 59 60 „ 14, „ ;, 26, „ June 25, „ Aug. 10, „ Sept. 25, „ „ 30, „ Oct. 19, „ Nov. 12, „ „ 19, ,, Ditto J. G. Johnson Chief Commissioner Ditto Ditto J. G. Johnson Chief Commissioner Ditto J. G. Johnson Ditto Chief Commissioner J. G. Johnson Ditto Ditto, Chief Commissioner J. G. Johnson Ditto Chief Commissioner Kaurihohore, &c.—To complete purchase of Kaurihohore, Parahaki, and Whareora Blocks. Parua —Approving his proceedings respecting opposition to Survey. Parua—Has made a Survey of part of Parua Block. Kaiawa—To purchase this portion of Parua Block. Ohiwa Block. Kaiawa —A further sum of £50 authorised for Kaiawa Block. Parua—Respecting payment for Parua Block. To purchase a Block of 20,000 acres at not more than 7d. per aero. Tamatebau—To explain discrepancy of area in this Block. Parua Block —Reporting that he has paid for Parua Block. Various Blocks—To ascertain the lowest price at which they can be purchased. To survey a Block between Whangarei and Ngunguru. Mata—To complete the purchase of Mata. To purchase a Block on the Wairua river. Wairua —Approving a purchase on the Wairua river. General —Return of all transactions relating to Land Purchases from June 1856 to December 1857. (Two Enclosures to No. 66. Mahe —Approval of price fixed for Mahe Block. Whauwhau and Kamo —To complete the purchase of these Blocks. Kaiawa —To effect settlement of Native Claim to Kaiawa. 77 78 78 78 79 79 80 80 80 77 61 Nov. 24, „ Chief Commissioner J. G. Johnson 81 62 J? JJ Ditto Ditto 81 63 64 65 Dec. 21, „ J) ?J Ditto Ditto Ditto Ditto Ditto Ditto 81 82 82 J) ?> 66 Feb. 11, 1858 J. G. Johnson Chief Commissioner 82 83 84 67 " 15, „ Mr. Rogan (acting for Chief Commissioner) Ditto J. G. Johnson 85 68 ,, „ Ditto 85 69 March 15, „ Assistant Native Secretary (for Chief Commissioner) J. G. Johnson J. G. Johnson Chief Commissioner 85 70 71 72 73 „ 22, „ May 17, „ „ 29, „ „ 31, „ Ditto Ditto Chief Commissioner Ditto Ditto J. G. Johnson Parua —Relative to Claim preferred by Hata Kingi to Kaiawa. Kaiawa —-The Natives have ceased to oppose the sale of Kaiawa Block. Kaiawa—Eru Pohe has withdrawn his opposition to its occupation. Waikaee—To complete the purchase of the Waikare Block. Kaiawa—Approving of Mr. Commissioner Johnson's arrangemejits. Parua—Hoani Papita and others have agreed to price named for Parua Block. Waikeriawhea —Reporting paymentof £500 for this Block. 85 86 87 87 74 June 4, „ Memorandum by Chief Commissioner Chief Commissioner J. G. Johnson 87 75 Sept. 8, „ 88 76 Aug. 19, 1859 Commissioner Rogan Chief Commissioner 88

WHANGAREI DISTRICT— (continued.)

C—No. 1.

KAIPARA DISTRICT.

IX

H M o ft DATE. NAME OF WRITER. TO WHOM ADDRESSED. SUBJECT. ft O S H ft 6 77 78 79 Sept. 28, „ „ 30, „ ,, „ Commissioner Rogan Ditto Ditto Chief Commissioner Ditto Ditto Pakiei —Respecting Te Kiri's Claim to the Pakiri Block.' Whangarei—Respecting offer of a Block by Natives inland of Kaurihohore. Whangateau—Respecting Tawhitu's Claim to land claimed by Mr. Dacre. Pakiri—Respecting Te Kiri's Claim to Omaha. Omaha —Enclosing receipt for Claims of Te Kiri to land at Omaha. One Enclosure. 89 90 90 80 Feb. 13, 1861 Ditto Ditto 90 81 „ 20, „ Ditto Ditto 91. 91

2 Dec. 18, 1854 ,, » J. G. Johnson F. D. Fenton Ditto J. G. Johnson Chief Commissioner J. G. Johnson Ditto Chief Commissioner Recommending purchase of Tokatoka block. Enclosure to No. 1. " to No. 1. Reporting reconciliation of the hostile tribes at Kaipara. Enclosing Deed of 500 acres purchased from Manukau. 93 93 94 94 3 ,, ,, Ditto Ditto 95 4 April 19, 1855 Chief Commissioner Colonial Secretary Tokatoka—Transmitting Deed of Tokatoka Block. Tokatoka —Respecting advance of £20 to Parore on account of Tokatoka. Tokatoka —Explaining receipt for £20 advanced to Parore on account of Tokatoka. Okahu —Forwarding Deed of Conveyance of this Block. Enclosing Deed of Conveyance of a Block of land at the head of the Otamatea river. Matakohe—Enclosing Deed of Conveyance of Matakohe Block. Kaukapakapa—Enclosing Deed of Sale for this Block. Paparoa—Forwarding Deed of Sale of this Block. 95 5 June 26, 1856 Ditto H. T. Kemp 95 6 July 4, „ H. T. Kemp Chief Commissioner 96 7 Nov. 25, 1857 John Rogan, Esq., Ditto 96 8 Feb. 24, 1858 Ditto Ditto 96 9 March 20, „ Ditto Ditto 97 0 Dec. 11, „ Ditto Ditto 97 1 Dec. 23, „ Ditto Ditto 98 2 Feb. 22, 1859 Ditto Ditto Arapohue—Forwarding Deed of Convey98 Ditto ance. 98 3 March 28, „ Ditto Kaukapakapa West —Forwarding Deed of Conveyance for a Block of land situate on the Kaukapakapa river. Pukekaroro—Enclosing Deed of Sale of this Block. General—Reporting as to the state of land purchasing operations in the Kaipara District. Whakatiwai, n.r.—Enclosing Deed of Sale for a Native Reserve at Whakatiwai. Kaukapakapa, n.r.—Enclosing Deed of Sale for this Block. Oruawharo —Enclosing the Deeds of Sale for this Block. July 20, 1859 Ditto Ditto 98 4 .5 Oct. 16, „ Ditto Ditto 99 Jan. 10, „ Ditto Ditto 100 17 1860 Ditto Ditto 100 18 Feb. 15, „ Ditto Ditto 100

KAIPARA DISTRICT— (continued).

C—No. 1.

AUCKLAND DISTRICT.

X

H M o ft a M ft 0 DATE. NAME OF WRITER. TO WHOM ADDRESSED. subject. ft 6 •a 19 Aug. 24, 1860 John Rogan, Esq. Chief Commissioner Mairetahi—Enclosing Deed of Sale of Mairetahi Block. General—Reportiug as to the state of land purchasing operations in the Kaipara District. 101 20 June 5, 1861 Ditto Ditto 101 May 10, „ Ditto Ditto General —Further report as to state of land purchases in his District. Enclosure in No. 21. 103 103

1 2 April 26, 1854 Aug. 21, „ Colonial Secretary Chief Commissioner Chief Commissioner J. G. Johnson General —To make Auckland the head quarters of his Department. Waikato—To conclude negotiations for purchases in the Waikato District. Waikato —Reporting on his mission to Waikato. 105 105 3 Oct. 6, „ J. G. Johnson Chief Commissioner 105 4 Nov. 1, ,, Memorandum by Mr. Kemp Colonial Secretary Oruarangi—Reporting Claims of Ihaka to Oruarangi. Waiuku—Authorising a further payment of £300 on account of Waiuku Block. Waiuku —Has paid the sum of £1500 on account of the Waiuku Block. Orakei —Reporting offer by the Natives of a Block of land at Orakei. Tirikohua—Reporting on Native Claims to Tirikohua. 107 5 „ 13, „ Acting Chief Commissioner The Honourable Colonial Secretary Ditto 108 6 „ 14, „ Acting Chief Commissioner Ditto 109 7 Dec. 13, „ Jan. 4, 1855 Feb. 3, 1857 Memorandum by Mr. Kemp (for the Chief Commissioner) Chief Commissioner J. G. Johnson 109 109 0 I 2 3 June 8, „ July 6, „ „ 25, „ Aug. 1, „ Mr. Searancke Ditto Ditto Mr, Smith (for the Chief Commissioner) Chief Commissioner Ditto Ditto J. G. Johnson Pukekohe —To define the boundary of a Native Reserve in the Pukekohe Block. Enclosures 1 and 2 in No. 9. Manukau—Reporting on different Blocks of which the survey has been completed. Ramarama—Reporting on disputed boundary of this Block, Ramarama —Reporting settlement of disputed boundary. Pukekohe—To report on Claims of Ihaka and Mohi to Pukekohe Block. Four Enclosures to No. 13. Pukekohe —Reporting on Claims of Ihaka and Mohi to Pukekohe. Pukekohe—Relative to boundaries of Pukekohe Reserve. Pukekohe —Reporting on Native claims to Pukekohe. Manukau —Reporting on meeting to receive payments for land on the south side of Manukau. no 111 112 112 113 „ 12, „ J. G. Johnson Mr. Smith (for Chief Commissioner) 113 114 4 5 12 Memorandum by Mr. Johnson Mr. Searancke 115 6 Sept. 16, „ Chief Commissioner 115 7 Oct. 5, „ Ditto Ditto 115 „ 8 , « Ditto Ditto Puketapu—Reporting offer of this Block. 116 8 9 Nov, 17, „ Ditto Ditto Memorandum, Manukau —Completion of negotiations for Manukau Blocks. 116

AUCKLAND DISTRICT— (Continued.)

C—No. 1.

COROMANDEL DISTRICT.

XI

I S NAME OP WRITER. SUBJECT. DATE. TO WHOM ADDRESSED. © * 6 20 Nov. 17, 1857 Mr. Searancke Chief Commissioner Pukekohe—Report on disputed Reserve at Pukekohe. 117 21 Dec. 4, „ Na Mohi His Excellency the Governor. Pukekohe—Desiriug that the European settlers may be removed from Pukekohe. Translation of No. 21. Subject as in 21 and 22. Enclosure 1. Pukekohe—Reporting on the Native Reserve in the Pukekohe Block. Pukekohe —Forwarding Deed of Conveyance of Pukekohe Reserve. Ramarama—The Native owners will not accept the price fixed for Ramaroa Block. 118 22 23 5) > 5; 5? :: Na Mohi The Bishop of New Zealand Mr. Rogan His Excellency the Governor Chief Commissioner 118 118 119 119 24 July 19, 1858 25 5, 26, „ Ditto Ditto 121 26 April 26, 1859 Ditto Ditto 121

1 Sept. 7, 1857 Chief Commissioner Mr. Preece Whakahore—To report on Eruera Ngahue's claim to Whakahore. General—Transmitting memorandum by Mr. Heaphy. (Enclosure in No. 2.) General —Acknowledging receipt of letter. Whakahobe—Respecting Eruera's claim to land. Memorandum—Description of Motu Tapere Island. Mercury Island—Respecting offer of land on Big Mercury Island. Genebal—Relative to certain claims in his District. 123 2 „ 15, 1860 Ditto Ditto 128 Oct. 5, 1857 Mr. Preece Chief Commissioner 123 124 124 4 14 >J x ■*> » Mr. Heaphy 125 5 » » Chief Commissioner Mr. Preece 125 6 » *9 » Ditto Ditto 126 7 „ 16 > !, Ditto Ditto CoROMANDEL —Forwarding £120 to extinguish Native Title to land. General—Acknowledging receipt of various letters. Waiau and Awakanae—Has paid a deposit on these Blocks. Ahuahu—Forwarding Deed of Ahuahu Block. 126 8 » 26, „ Mr. Preece Chief Commissioner 127 9 May 6, 1858 Ditto Ditto 128 30 July 16, „ Ditto Ditto 129 11 >3 *<> » Ditto Ditto Coeomandel—Reporting on claims of Paora Te Putu. 130 12 Oct. 22, „ Ditto Ditto General —Reporting on various claims to land in his District. Mahurangi—Karaitiana objects to money being paid to Maihi for Mahurangi Island. Mahurangi—Respecting Karaitiana's claim to Mahurangi Island. General —To confine his negotiations to contiguous Blocks. General—To defer surveying operations until the summer time. General —Reporting as to the state of land purchasing operations in his District. 130 13 June 8, 1860 Chief Commissioner Mr. Preece 131 j> 23, „ Mr. Preece Chief Commissioner 14 131 15 May 3, 1861 Chief Commissioner Mr. Preece 131 16 5? "J J J Ditto Ditto 132 17 July 16, „ Mr. Preece Chief Commissioner in

C—No.l.

THAMES AND PIAKO DISTRICT.

WHAINGAROA DISTRICT.

XII

H A o ft 'A K DATE. NAME OF WRITER. TO WHOM ADDRESSED. SUBJECT. ft o d m M ft 1 9 3 6 7 8 9 June 26, 1855 Feb. 28, 1857 April 3, „ June 5, „ May 13, „ Oct. 21, „ Nov. 11, „ Dec. 18, „ Jan. 22, 1858 Feb. 2, „ Chief Commissioner Mr. Drummond Hay Ditto Chief Commissioner Mr. Drummond Hay Ditto Ditto Mr. Rogan for Chief Commissioner Ditto Mr. Drummond Hay Chief Commissioner Ditto To the Governor Chief Commissioner Ditto Ditto Mr. Drummond Hay Ditto Waiheke—To undertake the survey of some land at Waiheke. Waiheke and Piako —Reporting as to his proceedings at these places. Piako—Recommending survey of Blocks which have been purchased. General —Report on the state of the Thames and Coromandel Districts. Enclosure in No. 4. Piako—Reporting as to his proceedigs ant Piako. Piako—Reporting difficulties attending settlement of this claim. General —reporting on surveys and negociations on the Thames and Piako. Waiheke—Notice will be given to Natives to accompany the Surveyor. Whangamata—Enclosing letters offering to sell this Block. Kohatuanoa—The sale of this Block has been stopped. Piako —Relative to the Ngatihaua boundary. General —Reporting on certain Native claims referred to him. General —The Ngatitamatera refuse to cede land on account of money advanced to Ngatai. General —The Natives prefer to sell their land in small Blocks. General—To avoid purchasing small and disconnected Blocks. General—Report as to the land purchasing operations in his district. Enclosure to No. 16. 135 135 136 136 136 138 139 139 140 140 ,, 21, „ Mr. Drummond Hay Chief Commissioner 141 1 2 May 27, „ June 13, „ Ditto Ditto Ditto Ditto 142 143 July 18, „ Ditto Ditto 143 I 4 Aug. 31, „ Ditto Ditto 143 5 Sept. 20, „ Chief Commissioner Ditto 144 6 Mr. Drummond Hay Chief Commissioner 144 145

1 2 3 March 29, 1854 !> )) April 1, „ Msy 8, 22 Chief Commissioner Ditto Ditto Ditto Ditto Mr. Rogan Mr. Cooper Colonial Secretary Mr. Rogan Colonial Secretary General—Instructions to Mr. Rogan. AwAKiNO—Informing him of the purchase of a Block of land from Takerei. Awakino—Has bought a Block of land at Awakino near Mokau, forwarding dged and translation. Mokau —Acknowledging receipt of deed of land at the entrance of the Mokau river. Authority to expend money. General—Has instructed Mr. Eogan to carry on negotiations for the purchase of land in the Waikato district. To proceed to Taranaki and confer with the Commisioner of Crown Lands and Mr. Cooper as to the most expeditious mode of settling the Native reserves in the Hua Block. 151 151 152 132 152 5 » 29, „ Ditto Mr. Rogan 153

WHANGAROA DISTRICT— (continued).

C—No. 1

TARANAKI DISTRICT.

XIII

ftc ft N H c DATE. NAME OP WEITER. to whom addressed. SUBJECT. 6 "A « o ■4 ft 9 7 8 July 31, 1854 „ 13, 1855 Aug. 9, „ Chief Commissioner Ditto Mr. Rogan Mr. Rogan Ditto Chief Commissioner General—Appointed District Land Purchase Commissioner. Whaingaroa—To ascertain position and extent of various Blocks on which advances have been made. Karioi —Reporting completion of the Survey of Karioi Block. Karioi—Approving of price offered for Karioi Block. Ruapuke—Ha» completed survey of Ruapuke. The Natives Aiill not accept £300 for it. 153 153 154 JO ,, x < i ,, Chief Commissioner Mr. Rogan 154 11 23 ,, - , °i ,, Mr. Rogan Chief Commissioner 155 12 24 Ditto Ditto Ruapuke—Natives will not agree to payments being made in Auckland to absentees. Ruapuke—To report more fully as to the price fixed for this Block. Ruapuke—Natives have consented to accepthe £300 previously offered. Te Mata Reserve —Has made a sketch survey of Te Mata Reserve. Hauraki —Reporting on the Hauraki purchase. 15S Sept. 12, ,, Chief Commissioner Mr. Rogan 155 13 14 Oct. 8, „ Mr. Rogan Chief Commissioner 156 15 !, » Ditto Ditto 156 16 , 13, „ Ditto Ditto 156 17 „ 13, „ Mr. Rogan Chief Commissioner Karioi—The Native owners of this Block will accept £475 for the same. General—To furnish a Report of sums that may be required by him for land purchases. Karioi —Forwarding Deed of Sale of Karioi Block. 157 18 ,, 22, ,, Chief Commissioner Mr. Rogan 157 19 Nov. 6, „ Mr. Rogan Chief Commissioner 157 20 „ 15, ,, Ditto Ditto TAWATAni, Oioroa—Reporting on these Blocks. 185 21 ,, 16, ,, Ditto Ditto General Report—Forwarding a Return of lands surveyed in his District. (Enclosure to No. 21.) Aotea —The sum of £300 for Aotea has been authorised. Ruapuke—Forwarding Deed of Sale for a Block of land near Aotea. Karioi —Certain lands claimed by Ruihana are excluded from the Karioi purchase. Rauroa, Mokau District — Forwarding Deed of Sale of a Block of Land called Te Rauroa. 185 '2 Dec. 7, „ Mr. Johnson, for the Chief Commissioner Mr. Rogan Mr. Rogan 159 13 Feb. 4, 1856 Chief Commissioner 159 14 April 7, „ Ditto Ditto 160 \5 August 8,1857 Ditto Ditto 160 Sept. 15, „ Ditto Ditto General —Forwarding Deed of Sale of certain lands near Kawhia and Whaingaroa. Wharauroa —Forwarding Deed of Sale of Te Wharauroa Block. Te Mata, n.r.—Has concluded the purchase of Te Mata Native Reserve. * 160 16 17 Dec. 28, „ Ditto Ditto 160 18 June 18, „ Ditto Ditto 161

Extracts from first Despatches of Colonel 163 Wakefield to the Now Zealand Company after his arrival in New Zealand. Extracts from Deed of Sale by Ngatiawa 164 Chiefs to Colonel Wakefield for the New Zealand Company, $th November, 1839.

TARANAKI DISTRICT— (continued).

C—No. 1.

XIV

P3 O ft w n ft o TO WHOM ADDRESSED. SUBJECT. DATE. NAME OF WRITER. 4 o •4 ft d A 3 Extract from Deed of Sale by Natives resident at Taranaki to the New Zealand Company, dated 15th February, 1840. Extract from Despatch from Governor Hobson to the Secretary of State, 13th November, 1841. Extract from Despatch from Governor Hobson to the Secretary of State, 15th December, 1841. Deed of Sale from Te Wherowhero to Her Majesty, dated 31st January, 1842. Copy of Despatch from Commissioner Spain to Governor Fitzroy, dated 12th June, 1844. Judgment of Mr. Commissioner Spain delivered at Taranaki on the 8th June, 1844. Extract from Chief Protector Clarke's report to Government, dated 31st July, 1844. Extract from Sub-Protector Clarke's report to the Chief Protector, dated 29th June, 1844. Extract from Despatch from Governor Fitzroy to the Secretary of State, dated 19th December, 1844. Memorandum by Governor Fitzroy on the Taranaki Land question, dated 2nd December, 1844. Extracts from final report of Commissioner Spain. Despatch. 165 •'4 167 5 167 6 167 7 168 8 171 9 173 10 173 11 174 12 174 176 13' 14 July 2, 1846 Secretary of State His Excellency Governor Grey Secretary of State 181 15 March 2, 1847 His Excellency Governor Grey Ditto Ditto His Honor the Superintendent Despatch. 181 16 17 18 April 5, „ March 5, „ July 26, „ Ditto Mr. McLean His Excellency Governor Grey Despatch. Instructions. Extract from letter. 183 184 185 19 20 21 22 23 Sept. 20, 1848 Oct. 24 ,„ ,, ,, ,, . ,, Mr. McLean Ditto Ditto Ditto Colonial Secretary Ditto Ditto Ditto Commissioner McLean's list of the Waikanae Emigration in April, 1848. Certain Natives have peremptorily warned Mr. Flight to remove from the section occupied by him. Has been instructed by the Governor-in-Chief to remain at Taranaki. Intends to visit Wiremu Kingi at Warea, relative to annoyances experienced by Mr. Flight. Reporting the good conduct of Katatore relative to the threats of annoyance to Mr. Flight. Hua —Reporting purchase of Mr. Cook's Section at Te Hua from the Puketapu Tribe. Bell Block —Reporting on the purchase of land commenced by Mr. Dillon Bell. Omata —The last instalment of £100 for 12,000 acres at Omata has been paid. Omata —An absentee Chief Rawiri, reqsuests payment for his claim to Omata Block. 186 187 188 188 189 24 Nov. 27, „ Ditto Resident Magistrate, New Plymouth 190 ,, 28, „ Ditto Resident Magistrate, New Plymouth The Honorable Colonial Secretary Resident Magistrate, New Plymouth 190 25 26 Sept. 11, 1849 Ditto 191 27 Oct. 13, „ Ditto 192 „ 18, ,, To the Resident Agent New Zealand Company 192 28 Ditto Omata —Relative to claims of Rawiri Pekorangi to portions of the Omata Block.

TARANAKI DISTRICT— (continued.)

C—No. 1

XV

M o ft ft ftft o DATE. ,NAME OF WRITER. TO WHOM ADDRESSED. SUBJECT. 6 A ft < ft W 31 32 33 34 15 16 »7 Oct. 19, 1849 „ *.V, „ ,, » ,, 31, „ Nov. 23, „ Dec. 1, „ „ 20 „ Jan. 25, 1850 Feb. 6, 1854 Mr. McLean Ditto Ditto Ditto Ditto Ditto Ditto Ditto Colonial Secretary Resident Magistrate, New Plymouth The Hon. the Colonial Secretary Colonial Secretary Ditto Resident Magistrate, New Plymouth Colonial Secretary Resident Magistrate, New Plymouth His Excellency Governor Grey G. S. Cooper, Esq. Handing over Deeds of Lands purchased in the Taranaki District. Ngamotu oe Grey Block—Has paid the Natives the final instalment of £120 for the Ngamotu Block. The Puketapu Tribe oppose the location of Settlers upon a Block recently purchased. Omata —Reporting on claims of Rawiri Pekerangi to the Omata Block. Respecting annoyance to Major Lloyd by Pita and others. Reporting as to the feeling of the Taranaki Natives on the purchases made by the New Zealand Company. Furnishing translations of seven Deeds of land purchased at Taranaki. Paora Kukutai of Warea has offered to dispose of a Block of land. Appointing him to be a Sub-Commisioner for the purchase of land from the Natives. Has paid £800 for a Block of land, north of the Waiwhakaiho River. The negotiations for land at Taranaki are in a complicated state, and will require much time and care to effect a settlement. Hua—Has succeeded in settling negociations for a Block of land near the Town of New Plymouth. Hua—Approving of arrangements for the purchase of a block of 12,000 acres to 14,000 acres. Hua —Approving of arangements for the purchase of the Hua Block. Waitara- —Relative to offer by Tamati and lhaia of land at Waitara. Hua —Mr. Rogan has been directed to survey Native Sections in the Hua Block. Reporting the affray among the Puketapu. 193 193 193 194 194 195 195 196 196 !8 7 Chief Commissioner Ditto 197 ;9 „ 20, „ Ditto Ditto 197 March 7, „ Ditto Ditto 198 „ 24, „ Colonial Secretary Mr. Cooper' 19 ,, " Ditto Chief Commissioner 199 42 43 j, ,» Chief Commissioner Mr. Cooper 199 44 „ 27, „ Ditto Ditto 200 45 Aug. 7, „ Ditto Memorandum for the Resident Magistrate 200 16 47 48 49 ,, ", i> ,, 1", ,, „ 21, ,, Oct. 27, „ G. S. Cooper Chief Commissioner Ditto Ditto Colonial Secretary Ditto Ditto Report dated 8th August, 1854. Has reference to Native feuds. Further reference to Native feuds. General —Reporting on the affray in which Rawiri Waiaua was killed. Waiwhakaiho —Respecting Reserves for Natives in this Block. Hua —'Relative to survey by Mr. Rogan of Native sections in the Hua Block. Enclosure to No. 51. Relative to precautionary steps in the Taranaki District. 201 203 203 204 50 May 15, 1855 Ditto Mr. Cooper 204 51 June 19, „ Chief Commissioner Colonial Secretary 203 Nov. 1, „ Ditto Ditto 207 52 53 54 Jan. 27, „ „ 11, 1858 Native Secretary Assistant Native Secretary Halse Mr. Rogan Mr. Parris Native Secretary Report. Report, of Katatore's death. 208 209 55 56 July 26. 1857 Aug. 10, „ Chief Commissioner Ditto Ikamoana —Reporting on Te Ikamoana. Mahau and others offer land at Te Ikamoana and Waiongana for sale. Instructions to District Land Purchase Commissioner. Reporting further as to the offer of land at Te Ikamoana and Waiongana. 209 211 57 „ 26, „ Chief Commissioner Mr. Parris 211 58 „ 27, ,, Mr. Parris Chief Commissioner 213

TARANAKI DISTRICT— (continued.)

C—No. 1

XVI

H o ft ft M ft o date. NAME OF WRITER. TO WHOM ADDRESSED. SUBJECT. 6 ft o ft i9 iO )2 i3 >4 i5 56 Aug. 31, 1857 „ » Sept. 9, „ ,, 21, „ Oct. 5, „ » 23, ,, Nov. 4, „ » 6, ., Chief Commissioner Ditto Mr. Parris Ditto Ditto Ditto Chief Commissioner Mr. Parris Mr. Parris Ditto Chief Commissioner Ditto Ditto Ditto Mr. Parris Chief Commissioner Authorised to purchase block of land (40,000 acres) offered by Katatore. Respecting certain arrangements for an association of other Natives with Mahau and lhaia, relative to the cession of their claims at Taranaki. Reporting tho feeling of the Natives generally regarding the offer of land by Katatore. The Ninia Natives refuse to surrender the land offered by Katatore. The Puketapu Natives consent to the sale of land offered by Katatore. Has cut the boundary line of Block of land offered by Katatore. Regarding the cutting of boundary line of land offered by Katatore. Enclosing copies of Native letters regarding the sale of land. Enclosure 1. Enclosure 2. Enclosure 3. Whakangerengere—Reporting progress of negotiations for this Block. Whakangerengere—Regarding negotiation s for this Block. Native Secretary's Report on the Memorial of the Provincial Council of New Plymouth. Reporting the probability of fresh negotiations being opened for land. Not to negotiate for land until Native feud is ended. Reporting that he has been to visit lhaia at Te Mimi. Cautions to be observed in dealings respecting Land question. Not to purchase the Whakangerengere Block. 214 214 214 216 216 216 217 217 218 219 219 220 „ IS, „ Mr. Parris Ditto fl 18 „ 30, „ Chief Commissioner Mr. Parris 221 \ 19 June 1, 1858 222 14 Mr. Parris Chief Commissioner 223 0 '1 29 Chief Commissioner Mr. Parris 223 '2 July 10, „ Mr. Parris Chief Commissioner 223 '3 Aug. 2, „ Chief Commissioner Mr. Parris 224 •4 14 „ „ Ditto Ditto 224 ■5 Document read to the Natives of Taranaki District, setting forth the boundaries of the Waitara Block. Copy of a letter from Te Teira and Retimana to His Excellency the Governor. Copy of a letter from Te Teira and Retimana to His Excellency the Governor. Despatch. 224 76 March 15,1859 225 77 20 ,, *= v , ,, 78 29 „ ,, His Excellency Governor Browne Assistant Native Secretary (acting for Chief Commissioner) Ditto To the Rt. Hon. Sir E. B. Lytton, Bart. Mr. Parris 226 79 » >, Requesting him to see Te Teira on the subject of his letter. 227 SO April 2, „ Ditto Enclosing letters to Teira and King. Enclosure 1 in No. 80. Enclosure 2 in No. 80. Acknowledging receipt of No. 80. Enclosure in No. 81. 227 227 228 228 81 82 „ 23, „ ,, 2o, „ Mr. Parris Wiremu Kingi Assistant Native Secretary His Excellency Governor Browne Assistant Native Secretary Mr. Parris 229 S3 May 23, „ Mr. Parris Enclosing a letter from Te Teira. Enclosure 1 in 83. Acknowledging receipt of No. 83. 229 229 230 84 „ 27, „ Assistant Native Secretary

TARANAKI DISTRICT— (continued.)

C—No. 1

WELLINGTON DISTRICT.

XVII

H ft © ft ft s ft o DATE. NAME OF WRITER. TO WHOM ADDRESSED. SUBJECT. ft < ft d S5 July 19, 1859 Assistant Native Secretary Mr. Parris Enclosing a letter to Teira from the Gover230 86 Sept. 27, „ Ditto Ditto nor. Enclosure in No. 85. Authorising payment of instalments on Waitara. Relative to the Waitara land. 230 230 87 Oct. 18, „ Te Teira To His Excellency Governor Browne Chief Commissioner 231 88 Dec. 4, ,„ Mr. Parris Intimating payment of £100 to Teira, and a further conversation on the Waitara land with Wm. King. Relative to their letter No. 87. 231 „ 21, ,, Assistant Native Secretary Te Teira and others Te Teira and others 232 •9 JO n >2 •3 14 Jan. 19, 1860 ,, 2o, „ „ >, Feb. 20, „ March 18, „ Governor Gore Browne Minister for Native Affairs Mr. Parris To His Excellency Governor Browne His Grace the Duke of Newcastle Mr. Parris Lieut.-Col. Murray Commander of Forces Recommending speedy settlement for Waitara. Despatch. Enclosure No. 1. Sub-Enclosure in Enclosure No. 1. Waitaea—The Governor has determined to proceed with the purchase of Te Teira's land. Relative to the Native interferences wilh the survey of the Waitara. Statement relative to the purchase by the British Government of Te Teira's land at Waitara, Taranaki. Copy of a memorandum by Mr. Richmond. Appendix No. 1. Appendix No. 2. Appendix No. 3. Waitaea —The purchase money for Waitara to be retained for the present. General—General Report on the state of land purchasing operations at Taranaki. 232 232 233 233 234 234 234 15 April 27, „ 238 242 243 243 243 Nov. 13, „ Chief Commissioner Mr. Parris 96 97 June 6, „ Mr. Parris Chief Commissioner 244

1 March 27,1848 Mr. Serrantes Colonial Secretary Pokirua —Furnishing information relative to land purchased at Porirua. Whauganui—Conveying thanks of the Government for settlement of the Whanganui land question. Whanganui—General Report on the settlement of the Whanganui land question. Whanganui—Relative to share of purchase money, Whanganui Block, set apart for Te Mamaku. 247 2 July 31, „ Colonial Secretary Mr. McLean 247 Sept. . „ Mr. McLean Colonial Secretary 248 3 4 Dec. 4, „ Ditto Hon. C. A. Dillon Civil Secretary 250 1 9 ;) 11 Colonial Secretary Mr. McLean General —To purchase land for the Natives on the Northern shores of Cook's Straits. Waikarapa—To complete arrangements for purchase of land from the Wairarapa Natives Waibarapa—The price demanded for land is unreasonably high. Manawatu-—Relative to the sites for Native Villages laid out by Government. 251 5 6 11 11 Ditto Mr. H. T. Kemp 251 Jan. 24, 1849 Ditto Ditto 252 7 8 March 20, ,, Ditto Mr. McLean 252

WELLINGTON DISTRICT— (continued.)

C—No. 1.

XVIII

ft K O ft ft ft ft' o c K DATE. NAME OF WRITER. TO WHOM ADDRESSED. SUBJECT. 15 10 11 12 13 14 April 25, 1849 May 20, „ July 6, „ „ 10, „ Aug. 31, „ Nov. 9, „ „ 4, 1850 Colonial Secretary Ditto Mr. McLean Colonial Secretary Mr. McLean Ditto Ditto Mr. McLean Ditto Colonial Secretary Mr. McLean Colonial Secretary Ditto Ditto Rangitikei—Approving of terms proposed by him for purchase of land at Rangi* tikei. Whanganui—To instruct Mr. Park, Surveyor to lay off a village site at Putiki, Wharanui. Whanganui—Relative to a village site laid off by Mr. Park for the Putiki Natives, Makawatu—Urging the necessity of completing arrangements for the acquisition of land at Manawatu. Whanganui—Explaining reasons for instructing Mr. Park to survey two villages at Putiki Wharanui. Wairarapa—Relative to his proceeding to Wairarapa to negotiate for the purchase of land Whanganui—Has adjusted the inland boundary of the Whanganui and Rangitikei Block. Whanganui—On various subjects connected with the Whanganui Settlement. Whareroa—The Natives of Waikanae desire to dispose of land called Whareroa. Waieaeapa—Reporting purchase of a block of 150,000 acres at Wairarapa, Barton's Run—Reporting circumstances connected with dispute regarding Barton's Run. Memorandum —Allsop's Station, Wairarapa—Reporting pprchase of the Lower Wairarapa Valley. McMaster's Run —Has concluded negotiations for a Block of land including McMaster's Run 252; 253 254 254 253 255 16 Q Ditto Ditto 256 17 „ 26, „ Ditto Ditto 258 18 Sept.. 2,1853 Chief Commissioner Civil Secretary 258 19 J) V} 5? Ditto Colonial Secretaiy 259 20 21 7 Ditto Ditto Civil Secretary 260 261 22 ?> 13, „ Ditto Ditto 261 23 „ 20, „ Ditto Ditto Huangaeua—Forwarding Deed of a block of 800 acres, including Smith's and Tully's Stations. Wairarapa—The Wairarapa Natives have signed a deed of sale for 300,000 acres. Waieaeapa—Reporting purchase of four homesteads, comprising 1,100 acres. Wairarapa—To commence the survey of a large block of land at the head of Wairarapa Valley. Waieaeapa—Has agreed to purchase from the Na.tives 19,000 acres, including the site of Featherstone. Geneeal —Reporting that he has been detained in the Southern Provinces by difficulties connected with the purchase of land. Enclosure No. 1 in No. 28. Sub-Enclosure No. 1 in No. 28. Enclosure 2 in No. 28. Papawai-—.Relative to a mill promised by Sir G. Grey to the Chief of Wairarapa. WhArehama —Regarding reserve of 50 acres on the banks of the Whareliama river. 262 22 Ditto Ditto 262 24 25 .'Oct. 20, „ Ditto Ditto 263 26 ,, ™> j. Ditto Capt. Smith 263 27 Dec.- 23, „ Ditto Commissioner of Crown Lands. 26,4 28 Feb. 6, 1854 Ditto Colonial Secretary 2S4 235 Ditto Ditto 266 29 May 18, 1855 SO May 26, „ Ditto Ditto 837

WELLINGTON DISTRICT- (continued.)

C—No. 1.

XIX

§ DATE. NAME OF WEITEE. TO "WHOM ADDRESSED. SUBJECT. c> 6 K e> Zl 32 m June 1, „ » 15, „ Sept. 15, „ June 21, „ Chief Commissioner Colonial Secretary Chief Commissioner Ditto Ditto Mr. Cooper Chief Commissioner Mr. Cooper Ditto Ditto Waieaeapa—Transmitting Bill of Exchange for £2,250 to pay instalments on purchase at Wairarapa. PapawAi—Regarding mill promised by Sir G. Grey to Wairarapa Chief. Genebal—To report fully as to land purchasing operations in the Province of Wellington. Ruamahanga—Relative to 40 acres to be purchased by Tutere at Ruamahanga. General —To use great caution in negotiating for blocks of which the title is disputed. To ascertain the extent, value, and quality of the different blocks of land upon which instalments have been made. Hutt—Relative to £40 advanced to Taringakuri to purchase a Section in the Hutt. Relative to surveys of Native Rese rves. 267 268 268 268 269 35 Sept. 15, „ 36 92 Ditto Ditto 269 37 July 27, „ Ditto Colonial Secretary 270 Dec. 17, „ Ditto D. Porter, Esq., Surveyor Mr. Cooper 270 38 39 Jan. 18, 1856 Ditto Relative to Europeans purchasing land from Natives 271 40 j) ?? Ditto Ditto Genebal —Regarding the occupation of Native lands by English Lessees. Bidwell's Run. 271 41 j> 23, „ Ditto Commissioner of Crown Lands Ditto 271 42 Ditto Ohaeiu —Has purchased three reserves at Ohariu for £100. Geneeal—Forwarding the Deeds and Receipts of seven blocks of land. Geneeal—Reporting generally as to the state of land purchasing operations in Wellington Province. General —Forwarding original Deeds of Lands on which instalments have been paid. Manawatu—Forwarding Mr. GrindelFs Report on the Manawatu. Enclosure 1 to No. 46. Respecting the completion of the purchase of the Waikanae Block. Manawatu—Reporting proceedings in connection with the purchase of Upper Manawatu. Waikanae —Relative to the price for the Waikanae Block. Manawatu —Reporting the difficulty attending the purchase of land from Hiriwanu. Awaiiou —Reporting on the state of negotiations for the Awahou Block. Whaeeeoa—Has not been able to effect the purchase of Whareroa Block. Geneeal —As to the scale of prices to be paid for land in his district. Waieaeapa—Reporting on the difficulty which has arisen in the Wairarapa District. Relative to advances made for lands. Wainui—Reporting the completion of the purchase of Wainui Block. Geneeal —Forwarding a Memorandum explanatory of the boundaries of various blocks. 272 » ;> 43 Feb. 26, „ Mr. Searancke. Chief Commissioner 272 44 May 31, „ Ditto Ditto 273 to July 5, „ Ditto Ditto 274 m j) 31, » Ditto Ditto 276 f? Aug. 6, „ Ditto Ditto 279 ts Sept. 27, „ Ditto Ditto 279 Ditto Ditto 281 49 Oct. 11, „ 50 Nov. 12, . „ Ditto Ditto 281 51 >> ii} > Ditto Ditto 282 52 »s 27, „ Ditto Ditto 283 53 „ 30, „ Ditto The Hon. the Minister for Native Affairs Chief Commissioner 284 54 •» « Ditto 284 55 56 Dec. 30, „ July 6, 1859 Ditto Ditto Ditto Ditto 284 285 57 Q J) °? J? Ditto Ditto 286

C—No. 1.

WELLINGTON DISTRICT— (continued.)

XX

« O Ai W PI o d TO WHOM ADDRESSED. DATE. NAME OF WRITER. SUBJECT. i f4 19 19 Aug. 24, „ Nov. 7, „ Mr. Searancke Ditto Chief Commissioner Ditto Manawatu. General—-Transmitting descriptions of boundaries of various blocks. A-rangi-te-kura—Relative to Matiaha Te Parata's claims upon A-rangi-te-kura. General—Reporting on the state of land purchasing operations in Wellington District. Wainui—Crown Grants are to bo issued to certain half-caste children for portions of Wainui Block. Tutaekura—The Natives have offered a portion of the 40 mile bush for sale. Various Blocks —Memorandum relative to boundaries of certain blocks. Enclosure 1 in No. 64. Manawatu—Certain Natives have expressed dissatisfaction at his having commenced a survey at Manawatu. Manawatu —Explaining reasons for commencing survey of land at Manawatu. General—Relative to the desirability of suspending land operations. Wairarapa—Forwarding a general report on land purchase in the Wairarapa District. Enclosure 1 in No. 68. Manawatu—Forwarding plans of the Awahou Block, and of the Upper Manawatu Block. 286 287 10 Feb. 20, 1860 Ditto Ditto 288 Fob. 21, „ Ditto Ditto 288 March 6, „ Ditto Mr. Searancke 289 13 April 2, „ Ditto Chief Commissioner 290 A » 3, „ Ditto Ditto 290 May 25, „ Chief Commissioner Mr. Searancke 290 291 16 >y 31, „ Mr. Searancke Chief Commissioner 291 17 June 18, „ Ditto Ditto 292 13 July 28, „ Ditto Ditto 293 Aug. 6, „ Ditto Ditto 293 295 '0 I „ 20, „ „ 29, „ Ditto Ditto Ditto Ditto General —Forwarding account current. General —Report of a visit to the West Coast and up the Manawatu River. General —Forwarding a return of all outstanding contracts for purchase of Native Lands. Submitting blocks of land in the Wairarapa District for completion. Wellington—Enclosing tracings of Reser295 296 '2 Oct. 17, „ Ditto Ditto 297 73 Nov. 28, „ Ditto The Hon. the Minister for Native Affairs Chief Commissioner 297 74 >> >> Ditto 298 75 Ditto Ditto ves. 300 OQ 3) 7 ) )> Pahaua —Relative to Mikaera's claims on the east side of Waioranui. Acknowledges receipt of Patoromiu te Apatu's letter. Has had a meeting of Natives interested in the Hokowhitu sections. Te Awahou recommending that the Awahou Block be proclaimed. Whareama—Has investigated Aperahama Te Ao's claim. Relative te Matiaha's land situated on the Waitaagi stream. Memorandum. General—Forwarding general report of land purchases in his District. 70 Feb. 1, 1861 Ditto Ditto 301 ,,. >> j> Ditto Ditto 301 78 Ditto Ditto 301 >> » r<? March 4, „ Ditto Ditto 302 80 » 5, ,, Ditto Ditto 302 81 82 99 jj "*•) j> June 6, „ Ditto Ditto Ditto 303 304

COMMISSIONERS' REPORTS

C—No. 1

BAY OF ISLANDS DISTRICT.

No. 1. MR. COMMISSIONER JOHNSON TO THE CHIEF COMMISSIONER. Mangonui, 23rd February, 1855. Sir, — I have the honor to report the result of investigations into claims raised by certain Natives to the valley of Oruru, which I was commissioned to inquire into by His Excellency's directions conveyed in your letter of the 28th November last.* This valley is situated on the tract of debateable ground which usually lies between the possessions of every two great Tribes in New Zealand, and has been a bone of contention for generations past, between the two great divisions in the North, the Ngapuhi and the Rarawa. Besides the Ngapuhi and the Rarawa, another party have now appeared, headed by a young man named Tipene, of the Ngatikahu Tribe, the original possessors of the land in question who were formerly on the side of the Rarawa, taking part with them against Ngapuhi in 1842. They have now quarrelled with their late Chief Noble, and are urging their claims under the auspices of Tamati Waka. It appears that all parties partook more or less of the payments made by Dr. Ford and the other Europeans, the original purchasers, through whom the lands reverted to the Crown; and had the ground been actually taken possession of at that time, it is very probable that no difficulties would have been raised by the Natives. During the twelve years which have elapsed since that event, affairs have changed. A war between the Earawa and Ngapuhi, who suffered considerable loss of life on both sides, has taken plaoe, about the right of selling lands in the district of Mangonui, and it happened that the valley of Oruru was the scene of the hostile encounter. Whatever the rights of these belligerent Tribes may have been respectively, prior to this war, an equal loss of life raised the claims of both parties upon a new basis, and not being able to agree together, the place was by mutual consent abandoned. Noble appears to have been the first to return to the contested ground, with tho sanction, he affirms, of the Government, in consideration of the services he rendered in the war against Heke. These circumstances have led to a complication of Native difficulties; and the land being required for the location of settlers, it became evident that the first step was to extinguish the claims of Noble, the party in possession, and this was done recently for the sum of One hundred pounds through the hands of Mr. White, the Eesident Magistrate, and Noble now without equivocation acknowledges the land to be Crown property. Next in importance, with a view to quiet occupation, is the settlement of the demands of Pororuaand the Ma Uri Uri of Hokianga (Ngapuhi,) and I think a sum of One hundred and fifty pounds might be advantageously spent in attaining that object, as well as a sum of One hundred pounds to the young Chief Tipene who has now headed a third party of claimants. Pohipi, a chief of the Earawa, also advances a claim of Fity pounds, maintaining that he ha* as good a right as the other parties, having lost several men in the defence of his claims in the war with Ngapuhi in 1842; and I would also recommend the liquidation of this claim, after which the question will be settled on a satisfactory footing, and considerable blocks of land can be obtained from the Rarawa without any of these complicated difficulties with which the present claim is surrounded. The aggregate amount now required will be Three hundred pounds, which, together with the former payments, will raise the cost of the valley of Oruru to about the same amount as would have been paid for a new purchase of the same size in the present time; and I beg to request you to move His Excellency the Officer administering the Government to approve of the foregoing arrangements being carried out, and the amount transmitted for me, to the care of the Sub-Treasurer, Bay of Islands. I beg further to state, that some of the foregoing parties of claimants are very insolent in their demands, notwithstanding the liberal manner in which I have dealt with their claims, and propose referring their case to a higher authority in Auckland; but as I have acted in co-operation with Mr. White tho Eesident Magistrate, who is also of opinion that the measures I have proposed are the best that can be devised, I hope that a firm refusal will meet them in Auckland, after which I have no doubt but that they will accede to the terms offered them. I have, &c, John Grant Johnson, Donald McLean, Esq., District Land Commissioner. Principal Land Commissioner, Auckland. * At the date of this letter the whole of the Land Purchasing operations to the North of Auckland were conducted by Mr. Johnson. •)■ These figures refer to the Registration number of the Original Letters in the Records of the Native Land Purchase Department.

fR. 55-33.

OIUTIUX. Reporting on Native Claims to Oruru Valley.

RELATIVE TO LAND PURCHASES.

C-No. 1

COMMISSIONERS' REPORTS

No. 2. MEMORANDUM BY MR. COMMISSIONER KEMP. By His Excellency's directions, Tamati Waka appeared at the Land Purchase Department in 7 reference to the claim of a young chief, named Tipene, to a portion of the payment for the Valley '■ of Oruru, near Mangonui, or Doubtless Bay, for the purchase of which the Government is now under negotiation. In explanation of this claim the following paragraph from Mr. Johnson's Eeport of the 23rd February, 1855, will show the position in which the applicant stands:— " Next in importance, with a view to quiet occupation, is the settlement of the demands of " Pororua and the Mauriuri of Hokianga." (Mem.: their chief is Moses Tawai.) " Besides the Ngapuhi and the Earawa, another party have now appeared, headed by a young " man, Tipene, of the Ngatikahu tribe, the original possessors of the land in question, who were " formerly on the side of the Earawa, taking part with them against the Ngapuhi in 1842. They " have now quarrelled with their late Chief, Noble, and are urging their claims under the auspices " of Tamati Waka." Mr. Johnson, in recommending a division of the money, proposes a sum of One hundred pounds (£100) to be given to the Chief Tipene. Tamati Waka has represented his claim to be nearly equal to that of Pororua, who is to receive, I understand, £150; and suggested that Tipene's people should receive the same amount in order more effectually to satisfy several outstanding claimants, of whom the very influential Chief Eangatira, of Hokianga, is one, and to enable the Government to take quiet possession of the Valley in so far as they are concerned. Although in all Native transactions it is very objectionable, and often entails trouble, to interfere with another officer's arrangements, still, as Tamati Waka had already seen Mr. Johnson, and having come to Auckland with those Chiefs principally to lay the case before the Governor; and having, moreover, strongly recommended an additional sum of £50 to be given,'—l undertook to submit tho question for His Excellency's favorable consideration and approval, upon the understanding that, if Mr. Johnson completed the purchase, they would pledge themselves that no further claims should be made upon the Government for the land in question. 11. T. Kemp, Native Secretary, Land Purchase Department, Auckland, 4th May, 1855.

E. 55-1691.

Oruru. Report on Claims of Tipene to a portion of Oruru Valley. Vide Letter No. 1.

No. 3. CHIEF COMMISSIONER TO MR. COMMISSIONER KEMP, Land Purchase Department, Auckland, Ist June, 1855. Sir, — j I have the honor to request that you will avail yourself of the earliest opportunity to 'proceed to the Bay of Islands, in order that you may make arrangements for the purchase of land from the Native Tribes in that district. From your practical knowledge of the Bay of Islands and its inhabitants, European and Native, you are peculiarly qualified for undertaking this service; I shall, therefore, trust to your own prudence and discretion in making such arrangements as you may deem advisable for carrying out an object of such importance; and, in order that you should not be delayed for want of funds, a sum of Seven hundred pounds (£700) is placed at your disposal for this purpose. I have, &c, Donald McLean, Principal Commissioner. H. T. Kemp, Esq.

Instructing Mr. Kemp to proceed to the Bay of Islands.

Uo. 4. MR. COMMISSIONER KEMP TO THB CHIEF COMMISSIONER. District Commissioner's Office, Waimate, Bay of Islands, August 5, 1855. Sir.— I have the honor to report for the information of His Excellency the Officer Administering the Government, that the purchase of a block of land, estimated to contain from twelve to eighteen hundred acres, in the Bay of Islands, was finally completed on the 2nd inst., and payment to the amount of One hundred pounds sterling (£100) made to the Native owners, in the preser.ee of Pene Taui, one of the leading Chiefs of this part of the Island.

E. 55-100. ! Kaipatiki. 1 Repotting the completion of Kaipatiki Block. *

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C—No. 1

The particulars connected with this purchase are these:—Some time ago, two or three of the leading Chiefs of the Urikapana tribe visited Auckland, and offered this block to the Government, when they received from tho Governor a promise that, so soon as an officer was appointed to the Bay of Islands, the purchase, if a desirable one, should bo made. In compliance with His Excellency's promise, I entered upon an early investigation of the ownership of this land, and, after allowing time sufficient for any outstanding claimants to appear, with the assurance also of Tamati Waka and Pene Taui that the proper claimants had been consulted, I concluded tho transaction, and the Deed, which is herewith enclosed, with its translation, was duly signed, and the money equally distributed between the parties concerned. A rough sketch of the Block is also enclosed for His Excellency's information. The land described in this Deed is situate on the shores of the Bay of Islands; is for the most part hilly, but abounds with timber suitable for ship or boat building and for fuel, and is accessible by, boats at high-water. It is known as the Waitapu and Kaipatiki. I believe this is the first purchase made by the Government direct from the Natives in this neighbourhood. The price paid is, perhaps, somewhat higher than is usually given by the Government; but, as a preliminary measure, and as an inducement for further and more extensive sales, the sum thus given will not, I think, be considered unreasonable. I have, &c., H. T. Kemp Donald McLean, Esq., J.P., District Commissioner. Principal Commissioner, Auckland.

No. 5. MR. COMMISSIONER KEMP TO THE CHIEF COMMISSIONER. District Commissioner's Office, Waimate, Bay of Islands, August 18th, 1855. Sir,— I have the honor to report for His Excellency's information that I have been for some time past in treaty for a block of land estimated to contain about seven thousand acres, known by the name of Omawake, an open, undulating country, with a small portion of excellent timber attached to. it, but the soil, generally speaking, of an inferior description. Its position, however, and proximity to the harbour of Eussell, (being not more than twenty miles distant in a Westerly direction,) point it out as a tract of land which it is desirable should be as soon as possible in the hands of the Government. It is, moreover, unoccupied by tho Natives, is the key to the rich country skirting the lake Omapere, and would, if purchased, taken in conjunction with other blocks which have been, or may be hereafter, acquired, form an excellent site for an inland settlement. After taking considerable pains to ascertain the nature of the several claims to ownership, together with a personal inspection of the land, I decided to offer the Chiefs concerned in the offer of sale the sum of Three hundred pounds, (£300) which, however, has been for the present declined. I think, perhaps, that it would be unwise to press the matter, and that the negotiations may be suspended for a little time longer with advantage to all parties; and, should the Chiefs not accede to these terms, an additional hundred might be offered, if the Government would sanction my doing so. The Bum asked for by the Natives at present is Two thousand pounds (£2000). I have, &c, H. T. Kemp, Donald McLean, Esq., District Commissioner, Principal Commissioner, Auckland.

E 55-101. Omawake. Reporting negociation for Omawake Blocks.

No. 6. MR. JOHNSON (ACTINS CHIEF COMMISSIONER) TO MR. COMMISSIONER KEMP. Land Commissioner's Office, Auckland, December 7th, 1855. Herewith I have the honor to forward for your information the copy of a letter from Mr. Commissioner McLean, relative to the negociations to be entered into for the purchase of a Block of land near Mangonui, in order to afford every facility for the settlement of a body of Canadian Immi. p-rants in that District. I have, &c, John Grant Johnson. H. T. Kemp, Esq., Acting for Chief Commissioner. " District Commissioner, Bay of Islands.

Victoria Vallet, To ncgociale for land at Mangonui for Canadian Settlers. Vide Letter No, 16.

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RELATIVE TO LAND PURCHASES.

C—No. 1

COMMISSIONERS' REPORTS

Enclosure to No. fi. Wellington, 17th November, 1855. Sir,'— In order to give every facility to the settlement at Mangonui of a body of Canadians, which Dr. Stratford has come out to establish, I have the honor to request that you will take an early opportunity of instructing Mr. Johnson to take charge of the office at Auckland, so as to enable you to proceed without delay to your District at the Bay of Islands. After arriving at Waimate you will consult Tamati Waka, Pene Taui, and other influential Chiefs, in reference to the object of your visit to Mangonui, to which place you will repair with the least possible delay to confer with the Chiefs of that District in reference to the lands which they wish to dispose of. Every care should be taken to distinguish between lands which have been already ceded to private individuals, and those which have never been purchased from the natives. For instance—lt may be presumed that lands already purchased do not require to be interfered with on the part of the Government. Your operations will therefore be principally directed to the acquisition of fresh tracts of land for the purposes of colonization. In making preliminary negociations for the purchase of lands, it will be necessary for you to enquire the extent of land that has already been alienated by the natives, as well as the extent, capabilities, and position of those unalienated lands which they may now wish to dispose of; the price for which (subject to ample reservations for their own present and future wants) such lands can be obtained by the Crown; and whether the payment for it can be judiciously extended over a period of years, conditionally, perhaps, that, in order to satisfy the numerous claimants, the first instalment may b« made equal to one-half the whole purchase money. It is of importance that all Eeserves made for the natives should be distinctly marked by natural boundaries, such as rivers or other conspicuous features of the country; as this will be the means of saving expense in surveying Eeserves, and of preventing differences, from the unalterable nature of such boundaries. Before leaving Auckland, you should supply yourself with the reports and other documents that have passed through the hands of the Commissioners appointed to investigate titles to land in your District, together with every other document you may be able to procure having any reference to the purchase of land in thai; District. His Excellency has impressed upon me the necessity of cautioning every Officer of this Department to use the utmost care and discretion in acquiring lands from the natives, as each Officer will be held responsible for any difficulties or disturbances that may arise out of any purchase in which he is engaged. Of course, you will not conclude any definite arrangement with the natives until you have first reported the nature of them to me for the information of the Government. From the prudence you have displayed in former negociations, and the long and intimate knowledge you have had of the natives of your District, I have every reason to hope that your negociations will be attended with success. I have, &c, Donald McLean, Chief Commissioner. H. T. Kemp, Esq., J.P., Acting Chief Commissioner, &c, &c. P.S. —In making arrangements for the acquisition of laud it may be found advisable to issue a few Crown Grants, of from ten to one hundred acres each, to four or five of the principal Chiefs out of the lands they may surrender to the Crown. Donald McLran, Commissioner.

No. 7. MR. COMMISSIONER KEMP TO THE CHIEF COMMISSIONER. District Commissioner's Office, Waimate, Bay of Islands, 28th" February, 1856. Sir,— Eeferring to my letter of the 18th of August, stating the negociations which had been entered upon for a Block of land known as " Omawake," containing about Seven thousand acres (7000), I have now the honor to report for the information of His Excellency the Governor that the purchase ha 3 been finally completed for the sum of Four hundred (£io6) pounds sterling, agreeably with the recommendation made in the letter above alluded to. The Deed, which has been duly signed, shall be forwarded with its translation by the next conveyance. Before concluding this purchase, I was anxious to bring together the principal Chiefs concerned in the reservation of a wahi tapu, or sacred place, (the only reserve in the Block, known as the Wiroa,) of some importance to the natives, which I succeeded in doing, taking advantage of a onsiderable

R 56-10. Omawark Reporting completion of purchase of the Omaivake Block. Vide Letter No. 5.

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meeting which took place a few days since, upon the occasion of their exhuming the remains of several influential Chiefs for the purpose of removing them to their final resting place. The boundaries of the rvahi tapu, or sacred burial ground, having been carefully marked off by the parties concerned, they left me free to treat with the proper owners of the land, and in doing so it has been the means of setting at rest a question which had, on more than one occasion, been the cause of dispute and annoyance among the Native claimants. A reference to the position of this Block has already been made in the Report above mentioned. Upon a more minute examination of the country surrounding it, I think it will be found eventually to bring into close connection the important harbours and water communication of the Bay of Islands and Whangaroa on the Eastern side, and of Hokianga on the West; more especially if I should succeed in acquiring the adjoining Blocks known as Pirau and Mokau. The interior communication is unusually good for this country, and it presents also the advantage of being unoccupied by the Natives. The district thus described comprises the land from whence the three rivers emptying themselves into the Baj of Islands, Hokianga, and Whangaroa, take their rise, and adjacent to which is (fhe spot selected by Sir George Grey as an inland Township or Military post. Adjoining the Block thus purchased for the Government, is one which was originally acquired from the Natives by Mr. James Shepherd, on behalf of J. M. Osmond, No. 333 G. As far as I can ascertain, the maximum grant for 2560 acres has been made out, and issued to Mr. Osmond on the 22nd October, 1844, under a minute of Governor Fitzroy's, dated 12th September of the same year. No survey has ever been made of this land, or boundaries defined of the quantity granted, by which to guide the Government, the claimant, or the Natives. This is by no means an isolated case from among the claims scattered throughout this district. So soon as the quantity granted to Mr. Osmond is selected and surveyed, 'which I think should be done with the least possible delay,) I believe it will then be found that the surplus, together with what ha* now been purchased, will form a considerable Block, over which the Native title has been extinguished, becoming at once the property of the Crown, probably to an extent of twenty thousand acres (20,000). On the importance of having these surveys made I think I cannot speak too strongly; politically, it seems to be growing into a grave question within which the interests of the Government, the settlers, and the Natives are closely interwoven. His Excellency will be glad to learn that I continue to receive the assistance of Tamati Waka, Mohi Tawhai, and other influential Chiefs of this district. I have, he, H. T. Kemp, District Commissioner. The Principal Commissioner, Land Purchase Department, Auckland.

No. 8. MR. COMMISSIONER KEMP TO THE CHIEF COMMISSIONER. District Commissioner's Office, Waimate, Bay of Islands, 3rd March, 1856. Sir — I have the honoi to forward herewith the original deed, with translation and sketch of the purchase of land referred to in my letter of the 28th ultimo, known as Te Wiroa and Omawake, and shall feel obliged with an acknowledgment of the same by the first convenient opportunity. I have, &c, H. T. Kemp, District Commissioner, Bay of Islands, The Principal Commissioner, Land Purchase Department, Auckland.

E 56-17. Omawake Block. Forwarding Deed of Omawake Block. V. Letters No». 6, 7.

No. 9. MR. COMMISSIONER KEMT TO THE CHIEF COMMISSIONER. District Commissioner's Office, Waimate, Bay of Islands, 6th April, 1856. Sir, — Agreeably with the request contained in your Circular, I have the honor to enclose a statement connected with Land Purchases, for the information of His Excellency the Governor. With reference to the 3rd paragraph of that Circular, I beg to state, that all Deeds, or other Documents connected with the transfer of land in this District, have already been transmitted to the Land Purchase Office at Auckland, accompanied by duly certified translations; and, in reference to the last clause, have to report generally upon the state of the Natives as follows.

E 56-37. Gewebal Rbport.

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RELATIVE TO LAND PURCHASES.

C—No. 1

COMMISSIONERS' REPORTS

.1. The Natives in this District are, generally speaking, peaceably inclined, and I think well disposed towards the Government; at the same time, it is very apparent that they have made but little advance in civilization, owing probably to the limited trade that is carried on, compared with other districts more frequented by shipping, and where the number of European settler* is more numerous. 2. Native customs are also now in more repute than they were a few years ago; but the observance of them is strictly confined to themselves, and does not in any way interfere with the Europeans. 3. In a moral point of view, no improvement is visible, and the habit of intemperance prevails in almost all districts where spirits are to be obtained; they are, moreover, lax in the outward observances of Religion, whereas, in the earlier stages of the Colony, their attendance was regular and punctual, and its influence very generally, and very beneficially, felt; some allowance is, I think, to be made, when it is considered that the Missionary agency has been reduced to a comparatively small and feeble body. 4. A tacit assent to British law, I think, everywhere exists; practically, it cannot be said to be in operation amongst the mass of the Native people; notwithstanding this, but little real crime is committed. Fortunately, the distribution of the pensions to several worthy Chiefs have been the means of checking the more turbulent spirits, while at the same time the services of several intelligent Chiefs of rank have been given to the Government authorities without any return, and often at personal inconvenience and loss. Pene Taui, whose death I reported, was one of that number. 5. Maize, potatoes, and pigs are raised in quantities only sufficient for their own wants, a small quantity of wheat is shipped from the western coast; but kauri gum, the article now in demand by the merchants in Auckland, forms a source of profitable employment. In the districts of Mangonui and Kaitaia, for example, an order for five hundred (500) tents has recently been sent by the Natives to Auckland, to afford them shelter at the diggings, should the rainy season overtake them. They have a few cattle, but horses are numerous. 6. The supply of arms and amunition is, generally speaking, kept up amongst the different tribes, but more, I think, as weapons of defence against each other. It is difficult to trace from whence the supply is obtained, since great secresy prevails on this subject. 7. Land is offered for sale in almost every part of the district, but not in very large blocks, perhaps from one to five thousand (1,000 to 5,000) acres, having an equal proportion of good and bad soils, and in some parts very fine timber. Assuming that an efficient purchasing agency were at work, and that cash could be tendered to the natives on the spot, and that without delay, the price to be paid would be but trifling compared with what it may be under the present system, and at the same time the whole of the surplus land be in a few years transferred to the Crown, and so long too as the preemptive right of purchase rested entirely in the hands of the Governor. If however direct purchases were sanctioned by private parties, the prices realized by the Natives would no doubt be nominally much larger; but, nevertheless, barter of this kind would be so much mixed up with other trading operations, that in many cases the Natives would be deeply plunged into debt, in the shape of mortgages upon the land, thereby causing quarrels amongst themselves, and entailing annoyance, expense, and trouble to the Government. Of the importance of surveys, whether as regards the Government, the settlers, or the aborigional owners, the past, present, or future dealings with the Natives for land, it would, I think, be impossible to speak too strongly. The Government is hardly aware of the extent of its possessions, the Native title to which has been extinguished many years since, and taken for scrip; but as no surveys have been made, and many of the original sellers have been removed by death or other causes, some difficulty will be found in reclaiming this land; hence it is that the greatest care and caution is requisite in fixing the boundaries of such blocks as are now being offered for sale; one great object indeed has been, to unite, as well as to extend, the property of the Government, and as these purchases proceed, to elicit from the Natives an acknowledgment of the title of the Crown to lands they originally sold to the Europeans under the arrangements above mentioned. Hoping this imperfect outline will meet with approval, I have, &c, H. T. Kemp, District Commissioner Bay of Islands. The Principal Commissioner, Land Purchase Department, Auckland.

No. 10. MR. COMMISSIONER KEMP TO THE CHIEF COMMISSIONER. District Commissioner's Office, Waimate, Bay of Islands, 11th April, 1856. Sir, — I have the honor to report for the information of His Excellency the Governor, that I have just returned from visiting the district! to the northward of the Bay of Islands. Agreeably with the request contained in your letter, my attention was directed towards the acquisition of the Victoria Valley, upon which to establish a body of Canadians under the agency of Dr. Stratford. The valley of the Victoria, better known to the Natives as Takahue, is situated on the ' northern side of the Rua Taniwha range, and about midway between the Oruru Valley and the

R 56-45.

VICTOJUA VaLLET. . Relative to land for Canadian settlers. •

V. Letter No. 6.

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C—No. 1

Western coast, the two valleys being separated by a bush of from seven to eight miles in length; which I traversed, and through which a road might be easily opened up, thereby connecting the two districts, and thus forming a nearly direct line of communication with the Harbour of Mangonui, the principal port of safety in that part of the island. The Victoria Valley is nearly triangular in shape, is well watered, and skirted with excellent timber, the soil of a rich alluvial deposit, and, at a rough estimate, may be said to contain about twenty thousand (20,000) acres. A large portion of it has been under cultivation by the Natives, and there exist at present some few scattered plantations of no very large extent. Noble Panakareao, the chief of the Earawa tribe, is the principal owner of the valley, and upon my expressing a desire to visit it, he informed me that it had never been offered for sale, that it was more than probable it would be required for the use of the Natives, whenever the surrounding districts shall have been purchased by the Government. At the same time he led me to infer that a large price would be asked if the Crown should propose to buy. I regret that, owing to the very sudden and serious illness of Noble, further enquiries have been postponed; but judging from what I have heard in other influential quarters, I think a sum of £3,000 (Three thousand pounds) if the money were on the spot, and a few reserves, comprising in all about two thousand (2,000) acres, would effect the purchase. Of its importance taken in conjunction with the settlements of Oruru and Mangonui, there seems to be no doubt; and that a large portion of it would be taken up at once by settlers, if the Native title were extinguished. It is decidedly the finest district in that part of the Province, and presents great facilities for settling. If His Excellency should deem it advisable to make an offer of the sum above-mentioned, I think it might be done without prejudice to either party, but I would respectfully urge, as a prior arrangement, that the long outstanding claims for the Valley of Oruru should be brought to a final and amicable conclusion. I have, &c, H. T. Kemp, District Commissioner. The Principal Commissioner, Land Purchase Department, Auckland.

No. 11. MR. COMMISSIONER KEMP TO THE CHIEF COMMISSIONER. District Commissioner's Office, Waimate, Bay of Islands, 12th April, 1856. Sir, — I have already adverted to the importance of settling tho outstanding Native claims to the Valley of Oruru. I beg now to state as briefly as I can the particulars connected with these claims for His Excellency's information: The Valley of Oruru was originally said to be purchased by Mr. S. 11. Ford, and afterwards transferred by him to tho Government for scrip. There were at the time of sale to Mr. Ford two distinct parties, resident owners, headed by their respective chiefs, Noble and Pororua. The purchase seems to have been defective, inasmuch as Noble's party alone received the bulk of the property paid by Mr. Ford. Pororua repudiated the sale in so far as his claims to half of the valley were concerned, and when Colonel Godfrey opened the Commission for investigating claims at Mangonui, Pororua joined issue with Noble, and hence followed the war, which ended by the latter giving up the contest, with considerable loss in killed and wounded. Pororua was advised to retire, which he did, and resided with his friends at Whangaroa, and for some time it was considered as neutral ground. Noble, I believe, afterwards received Sir George Grey's sanction to return to Oruru for hie tervices during the rebellion, and renewed his claim, which was met by Mr. White paying him the •urn.of £100 and a section of land of 100 acres, upon which he now resides. This being done, the land was thrown open for sale by the Government, and the sum of between Three and Four thousand pounds (£3,000 and £4,000) realized. To a portion of the land thus sold, Pororua continued to urge his claim, and a young Chief named Tipene, connected with Noble's party. Both these parties have since visited Auckland, and their claims have been submitted for consideration, through Tamati Waka. His Excellency the Officer administering tho Government promised that they should meet with every attention. Mr. White, the Eesident Magistrate at Mangonui, is most anxious that these claims should be speedily and finally settled, and the Natives are equally anxious for an amicable settlement. After a careful hearing of the two claims, their demands (being much reduced from what they originally were) were left standing thus :—-To Pororua, representing the powerful Ngapuhi tribes, Two hundred pounds (£200) in caeh, or One hundred and fifty pounds (£150) and a section of land of one hundred acres. To Tipene, representing Moetara, Busby, and other northern tribes, £150.— Total, £350, cash.

R 56-46. Oruru. Reporting on *latiYe claims to Oruru. V, Letter Nos. I, i.~~

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RELATIVE TO LAND PURCHASES.

C—No. 1

COMMISSIONERS' REPORTS

The occupation by Pororua of a section of land in the Oruru, would be to briDg two opposing chiefs into collision; which for the sake of the district and of the settlers, it would be very desirable indeed to avoid. If you concur in this view of the case, the payment of the money would, I think, be by far the most satisfactory means of removing the present serious difficulties, and setting the question at rest. Enclosed is a copy of a letter which has already been forwarded by Mr. White, and shews how important it is that no time should be lost in meeting the claims of these Natives. I have, &c, H. T. Kemp, District Commissioner. The Principal Commissioner, Land Purchase Department, Auckland.

Enclosure to No. 11. 6 o nga ra o Pepuere, i tuhituhi ai. E MARA, E TE X A WAN A, Ka tuarua whakawa o tenei kainga o Oruru; ko te Honihana te Kaiwhakawa ; Ko Henare Kepa te Kaiwhakawa ki Akarana; kei aia te pukapuka o nga moni o te whakawa ki Akarana. Ko te karangatanga tenei, kotahi rau erima tekau; koia ka inoi atu nei matou kia homai, no te mea' karua o matou tau i tatari ai kia homai enei moni; kite kahore koe c tuku mai i enei moni ka tangohia Oruru. Me he mea ka ngawari pu koe i tenei wahi, kite homai i nga moni nei, ekore c mau Oruru. Ko ta matou whakaaro tenei kia kotahi taha pouri, ki a kotahi taha marama, ko te taha kia matou kia marama, kia kotahi ai tatou. Etc Kawana, ko te whakaaro tenei o matou o te kai tuhituhi i tenei pukapuka ote hunga o runga ite iwi. Ka mutu. Na te Hira, Na Penehama, Na Ptjahtj, Na Rahoe, Kei Taipa, 1856.

No. 12. MR. COMMISSIONER KEMP TO THE CHIEF COMMISSIONER. District Commissioner's Office, Bay of Islands, 13th April, 1856. Sir,' — I have the honor to report for the information of His Excellency the Governor, that two blocks of land have been offered for sale on the North and South sides of the Whangaroa Harbour, .known as Taraire and Whakapaku, both of which I have examined and ascertained the boundaries as laid down by the Native sellers. The block known as the Taraire, on the South, comprises both open and forest land (some very fine kauri), and is accessible by land carriage from the Bay of Islands, and by water from Whangaroa. It has good natural boundaries, no Native Reserves, is adapted for grazing or agricultural purposes; would furnish some very fine spars; adjoins land which is already in the hands of the Government, forming altogether a compact and valuable estate. The portion offered bythe natives may be estimated at from three to four thousand acres. This block might, I think, be purchased for Three hundred and fifty or Four hundred pounds. The block Te Wlnikapaku on the North Shore is chiefly open land, with scattered portions of forest, is well adapted for grazing, is easily accessible from the Port of Mangonui, would be very soon occupied as sheep runs, and joins land exchanged by private owners with the Government; estimated to contain about three thousand acres, might, I think, be purchased for Three hundred pounds. Total, Seven hundred pounds sterling. The principal Chiefs concerned in these sales are Tamati Waka, Ururoa, Hongi, Kingi Wiremu Hakiro, Pakira, the sons of the well known Te Puhi, and several inferior persons. These blocks were offered many months since, negotiations have been steadily going on, and no difficulties that lam aware of exist, for final completion. I would very respectfully urge that these offers be accepted, and the money tendered to the Natives as early as it may be convenient to the Government. I have, &c, H. T. Kemp, District Commissioner. The Principal Commissioner, Land Purchase Department, Auckland.

R 56-47. Taraire and WhaKArAKU. Reporting offer of Taraire sod Whakapaku Blocks.

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No. IS. W. B. WHITE, ESQ., RESIDENT MAGISTRATE, TO THE CHIEF COMMISSIONER. Resident Magistrate's Court, Mangonui, June 25, 1856. Sir — I have the honor to call your attention to the very serious difficulties the settlers and resident Natives at Oruru are subject to, in consequence of no steps having been taken to extinguish the claims of certain Natives acknowledged by the District Commissioner, Mr. Johnson. When Mr. Kemp visited this District, he informed me that certain promises had been made to Tipene, by : which his claim was computed at One hundred pounds ; Pororua's is One hundred and fifty pounds, the Rarawa Fifty pounds. Tipene is constantly at variance with the people at Oruru, and is making vigorous efforts to return to settle there. Pororua the same. Between the two, the settlers are kept in a constant state of excitement, and a sense of insecurity very much cripples their enterprise. Moreover a portion of Mr. Campbell's land has been occupied, but I cannot interfere in consequence of the unsettled question of payment. May I request you will take the earliest opportunity of setting this question at rest, as it causes many disputes; one has lately occurred which the Natives are apprehensive will lead to serious difficulties. I have, &c, W. B. White. The Principal Commissioner Land Purchase Department, Auckland.

R 56-73. Oruru. ■ Reporting difficulties aris" . ing out of the non-settle- . ment of claims to Oruru V. LetterTNos. 1, 2, n~

No. 14. THE CHIEF COMMISSIONER TO MR. COMMISSIONER KEMP. Land Commissioner's Office, Auckland, July 31, 1856. Sir, — I have the honor to transmit for your information and guidance a copy of Mr. Johnson's Report on the claims adduced by the Ngapuhi and Rarawa Tribes to the Oruru valley. I think it necessary that you should be furnished with a copy of this Report, as the Resident' Magistrate (Mr. White) informs me that the settlers at Oruru may be subject to annoyance from' Pororua, Tipene, and other claimants, if this question is not speedily settled; and I am now bring-' ing under the notice of His Excellency the propriety of your proceeding to Mangonui to effect a final adjustment of these claims. In the meantime, and pending His Excellency's authority for undertaking this duty, I shall feel obliged by your fully acquainting yourself with the merits of this case ; in order that you may guard against any future claims being adduced to this debateable territory, beyond those stated in the Enclosures herewith. I have, &c, Donald McLean, Chief Commissioner. H. T. Kemp, Esq., District Commissioner, Bay of Island*.

: Oruru. Forwarding Mr, Com-. . missioner Johnson's Report on Oruru. . V. Letters Nos. 1, 2,11,13

No. 15. MR. COMMISSIONIR ILEMP TO THE CHIEF COMMISSIONER. ] District Commissioner's Office, Waimate, Bay of Islands, 13th August, 185«. Sir, — In my Report of the 13th April last, I had the honor to bring under the consideration of the Government, offers of two distinct blocks of land on the North and South sides of the Whangaroa Harbour, and the prices at which I thought they might be purchased. The negociations for the purchase were entered upon very soon after my appointment to this district, under the general instructions I then received. In both cases the details have been so fully entered into, that I think it would be very desirable indeed if a definite and speedy reply could be given to the Native sellers. The extent and position of the Blocks are such as to make them a valuable acquisition to the Government, and the sums recommended are, I think, as low as they could be made to meet the several claims.

R 56-103.

Taraire and , Whakai-aku. Requesting authority to purchase Taraire and Whakapaku. V. Letter No, 12.

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Under the circumstances, I would request you to be good enough to move His Excellency the Governor to authorise my offering the sums (£4OO and £300) named in the Report alluded to, leaving it to the Native owners to decline the offer, which is not unlikely, when compared with their present large expectations. I trust you will agree with me in the reasonableness of this suggestion, both in as far as the Government is concerned, and in satisfying the minds of the Natives concerned. I have, &c, 11. T. Kemp, Donald McLean, Esq., Distriot Commissioner. Chief Commissioner, Auckland.

No. 16. THE CHIEF COMMISSIONER TO MR. COMMISSIONER KEMP. Chief Commissioner's Office, Auckland, 29th August, 1856. Sir, — I have the honor, by direction of the Governor, to inform you that His Excellency has been i pleased to authorise the expenditure of a sum not exceeding Three hundred pounds (£300) Jin the settlement of the outstanding claims to the Oruiu Valley at Mangonui; and I have to request that you irill take immediate steps for the final extinction of these claims. A warrant has been issued authorising the Sub-Treasurer at Eussell to pay the sum of Three hundred pounds (£300) to you, upon your Requisition in the usual form. You will, however, be good enough to abstain from withdrawing this sum from the Sub-Treasury, until the Natives are prepared to receive it in full settlement of all claims, and to execute a document securing the Government from all future claims on the part of either of the tribes who are interested in the land. You will have to account for this money to the Sub-Treasurer within one month from the date of drawing the advance, by furnishing him with attested copies of the Native Deeds, and of this letter of authority. This sum of Three hundred pounds (£300) is the amount recommended by Mr. Johnson in his Report of the 23rd February, 1855, and sanctioned by the Colonial Secretary's letter of the 7th of April following-; but I perceive from your letter of the 12th of April last, that either a sum of Three hundred and fifty pounds (£350) will now be necessary, or that a grant of One hundred (100) acres of land will have to be made to Pororua. I trust, however, that you will use your best exertions to effect the final settlement for the sum now sanctioned, and that you will use your utmost endeavour to avoid giving Pororua the land grant of one hundred (100) acres, as his retention of any land in the Oruru will, I apprehend, give rise to disputes with the Rarawa, which, in the final settlement now to be effected, should be carefully avoided. I conceive it would be more advisable even to give an additional Fifty pounds (£5O) to Pororua if you cannot settle it otherwise, than to make him a grant of land that may be a fruitful source of discord hereafter. In the event of your having occasion to pay Fifty pounds (£5O) beyond the sum now authorised, this amount may be disbursed out ot the balance of One hundred and one pounds, thirteen shillings, and five pence (£lOl 13s. 5d.) you have in your possession ; and should it be impossible to effect a settlement without the one hundred (100) acres of land, you must have a conveyance from all the Natives concerned, giving up their entire interest and claims to the one hundred (100) acres in question in favour of Pororua. I have no doubt Mr. White will aid you in carrying out the necessary arrangements with the Natives. I have, &c, H. T. Kemp, Esq., Donald McLean, District Commissioner, Chief Commissioner. Bay of Islands.

Oruru. To settle Native Claims ' at Oruru. V. Letters, Nos. 1,2, 11, 13, 14, '

No. 17. MR. COMMISSIONER KEMP TO TOE CHIEF COMMISSIONER. District Commissioner's Office, Bay of Islands, 7th September, 1856. Si», — I beg to acknowledge receipt of your letter of the 29th inst, in reference to the settlement of the Oruru claims. It is not, I think, improbable that, owing to the decease of the chief Noble (whose assistance was very beneficial to tho Government) subsequently to the arrangements reported in my communication of the 12th April last, the position of this long vexed question may in some measure become altered. In anticipation of this, I propose to invite Tamati Waka to accompany me, if he conveniently can, and as he has considerable influence with Pororua's party, his services would be very acceptable, and be approved by Hie Excellency the Governor.

R 56-102. Oruru. Requesting a further , sum of money on account of Oruru claims. V. Letters, Nos. 1, 2, 11,1 13. 14, 16,

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As you so fully concur with Mr. White and myself in withholding, if possible, the grant of any land in the Valley to Pororua, I would respectfully urge the propriety of having placed at my disposal, and without delay, an additional sum of Two hundred pounds (£200) to meet any new difficulties that may arise, and as by your instructions the sum of Three hundred pounds (£300) already advanced, is not to be withdrawn from the Sub-Treasury until the Natives have, in the first instance, signed over their claims, I shall proceed at once to the District to comple' c these arrangements if I can, and in the mean time I trust that a further sum of Two hundred pounds (f200) will be made available at the Sub-Treasury in the event of its being required, or any part thereof. You will no doubt see the policy of this arrangement when I add in explanation that the planting season has already begun, and the difficulties that generally follow, when the Natives obtain a firm footing on the land. Hitherto, Tipene's party have abstained from cultivating, at Noble's request, and lam in great hopes of still finding it an open question, and if so, of bringing it to a conclusion, without much additional trouble and expense. I have, he, 11. T. Kemp, Donald McLean, Esq., J.P., District Commissioner. Chief Commissioner, Auckland.

No. 18. THE CHIEF COMMISSIONER TO MR. COMMISSIONER KEMP. Land Commissioner's Officej Auckland, Bth September, 1856. Sir,— I have the honor to request that you will furnish me, at your earliest convenience, with a Eeport, for the information of His Excellency the Governor, of the lands under offer to the Government by the Natives of your district, describing the position, extent, capabilities, price and probable time that it may take to complete the purchase of each block; together with the surveying strength that may be requisite in order to define the external boundaries and reserves for the Natives in each purchase. The boundaries of each block must bo carefully perambulated, as well as the reserves for the Natives, and a plan made of the same to be attached to the Deed of Sale before any payment is made to the Natives. The periods at which monies will be required to complete purchases should be distinctly stated. Every exertion should be used during the spring and summer months to acquire such lands as may be approved by the Government for the purposes of colonization. I have, &c, Donald McLean, H. T. Kemp, Esq., J.P., Chief Commissioner. District Commissioner, Bay of Islands.

General. To report on Blocks of land under offer in his District.

No. 19. THE CHIEF COMMISSIONER TO MR. COMMISSIONER KEMP. Land Commissioner's Office, Auckland, September 16th, 1856. Sir,— I beg to acknowledge the receipt of your letter of the 7th instant, in reply to mine of the 29th August, in reference to the settlement of the Oruru claims. I am most anxious that you ; should not lose any more time in effecting the arrangement proposed in your letter of the 12th April' last, as any further delay in adjusting this matter may lead to the conjectural difficulties alluded to in your communication of the 7th instant. Mr. White, tho Resident Magistrate, has been written to, requesting that he may assist you in settling this case, and I feel satisfied that you may rely on that gentleman's cordial co-operation. I have the pleasure to inform you that Mr. White's services have been secured to this Department upon the same terms as those with which he was connected with the Surveyor-General's. Your application for a further provisional sum of Two hundred pounds (£200) in addition to what has been already authorized, is more than I can, under the present circumstances, recommend the Government to advance. I have, &c, Donald McLean, 11. T. Kemp, Esq., J.P., Chief Commissioner. District Commissioner, Bay of Islands,

Oruru. To lose no time in ef. fecting settlement of claims to Oruru. V. Letters, Nos. 1, 2, H' 13, 14,16, 17.

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COMMISSIONERS' REPORTS

No. 20. MR. COMMISSIONER KEMP TO THE CHIEF COMMISSIONER. ! District Commissioner's Office, Bay of Islands, 29th September, 1856. Sir, — I have much pleasure in reporting for the information of His Excellency tho Governor, ;; that the outstanding claims to the Valley of Oruru have been finally and amicably disposed of, and, toas I have every reason to believe, to the satisfaction of the whole of the Natives concerned. 2. On receipt of the instructions which accompanied the sum of Three hundred pounds (£300) ' forwarded through the Sub-treasurer at Eussell, I lost no time in proceeding to Mangonui and Oruru, where, having assembled the different claimants, they finally agreed, after a series of wellconducted discussions, to receive the sum of Three hundred and fifty pounds (£350 j in full compensation for their claims to the Valley. 3. Pororua, who is a chief of considerable importance, and a lineal descendant of Hongi Hika, for several days insisted upon having a section of one hundred acres granted (100 acres) to him upon the same terms with Noble, the late Chief of the Rarawa tribes; and as he had already commenced to cultivate, it seemed to be for some time doubtful whether he would consent to receive a money compensation, although an additional sum of Fifty pounds (£5O), authorized in the fourth paragraph of the instructions, was tendered to him. He however finally accepted the sum of Two hundred pounds (£200), the amount allotted to him, as a full compensation for his claims ; and his immediate followers, who occupy but a small plantation (about an acre and a half) are under a written agreement to leave the ground so soon as they have removed their crops. 4. Two small reserves, of about a quarter of an acre each, at the entrance to the Oruru River, have been set apart for the use of the Natives generally, near to the public road, as a convenience to travellers, and where they might also haul up their canoes while upon their trading excursions. These reserves will be laid and mapped off by Mr. White, who has also undertaken the survey of the external boundaries of the block, so soon as the young chiefs deputed to accompany him have finished putting in their crops. 5. There were present at this meeting several influential chiefs from the north, with Busby, tho successor of the late Noble Panakareao. He is a man of good standing, a friend to the Europeans, and his influence extends over a large body of Natives in the North. He has suggested that the section of 100 acres granted by the Government to Noble, and now occupied by his widow and her attendants, should be purchased, if a favourable opportunity presented itself, with a view to the Valley of Oruru being left entirely to the Europeans, who may thereby be induced to settle in larger numbers. Of Mr. White's assistance, most kindly given, I was glad to avail myself. By his previous acquaintance with the details and bearings of these claims, a vexatious and troublesome questio* has at length been finally and amicably settled. I have, &c, H. T. Kemp, District Commissioner. The Chief Commissioner, Land Purchase Department, Auckland.

R 56-122. Oruru. Reporting final settle. ment of all claims t< Oruru, V. Letters, Nos. I, 2, 11, 13, 14, 16, 17, 19.

No. 21. THE CHIEF COMMISSIONER TO MR. COMMISSIONER KEMP. Land Commissioner's Office, Auckland, 3rd October, 1856. Sir,— With reference to your letters of April 13th and August 13th, reporting the offer by the Natives of your district of two blocks of land named Taraire and Whakapaku, and recommending the purchase of these blocks for the sums of Four hundred and Three hundred pounds respectively;—I hare the honor to inform you that the price is considered by the Government to be excessively high, and, that as a general rule, the purchase of such small blocks should be avoided as entailing great expense in the purchase and survey, which might be obviated by treating in a more general manner for a considerable extent of country. Tamati Waaka, when last in Auckland, suggested with reference to Okaihau that it would be advisable to purchase the whole of the land from Te Wiroa to Hokianga, including Okaihau, instead of purchasing in small quantities. If such an idea is enunciated by Te Waaka, it does not appear impracticable to make arrangements in future for the acquisition of land on a much larger scale, and in a much less expensive manner than is suggested in your letters.

Taraire and Whakapaku. Price named for Taraire and Whakapaku ia too high. V. Letters, Nos. 12, 15.

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C—No. 1

At the same time, I have reason to believe that your object in recommending these preliminary purchases is with the view of ultimately acquiring larger tracts of country, and of unlocking some of the valuable waste lands of your district. . And it is only on the latter supposition that the Government have been induced to sanction the completion of these purchases on the terms proposed by you. I have, &c, Donald McLean. H. T. Kemp, Esq., J.P., District Commissioner, Bay of Islands.

No. 22. THE CHIEF COMMISSIONER TO MR. COMMISSIONER KEMP. Land Commissioner's Office, Auckland, October 7th, 1856. Sir, — With reference to your letter of the 29th ult., reporting the settlement of the outstanding claims to the Oruru Valley, it is with much pleasure that I have the honor of conveying to you the thanks of the Government for the very satisfactory manner in which this long pending and troublesome question has been adjusted by yourself and Mr. White, to whom I feel much obliged for the assistance he has rendered to you in this matter. I have, &c, Donald McLean, H. T. Kemp, Esq., J.P., Chief Commissioner. District Commissioner, Bay of Islands.

Orurbt. Thanking him and Mr. Whke, R.M., for settling claims to Oruru, V. Letters Nos. 1, 2, 11, 13, 14, 15, 17, 19, 20.

No. 23. MR. COMMISSIONER KEMP TO THE CHIEF COMMISSIONER. District Commissioner's Office, Bay of Islands, 23rd October, 1856. Sm,— I have the honor to forward herewith the Deed, with Translation, under which the final payment of £350 has been made for the Valley of Oruru, the receipt of which please to acknowledge. Copies of the same have been duly furnished to the Sub-Treasurer, as requested in your letter accompanying the money (£300). I have, &c, H. J. Kemp, The Chief Commissioner, District Commissioner. Auckland.

E 56-161. Oruru. Forwarding Deed of Conveyance of the Oruru Valley. V. Letter No. SO.

No. 24. THB CHIEF COMMISSIONER TO MR. COMMISSIONER KEMP. Land Commissioner's Office, Auckland, October 24, 1856. Sir, — I have the honor to acknowledge receipt of your report of the Bth instant, in reference to certain blocks of land which you propose purchasing from the Natives in your district. With reference to the first block, at Herd's Point, comprising only a few acres, which you state may be purchased for One hundred pounds (£100) from Mohi Tawai, I have to direct your attention t» the following paragraph in my instructions to you, dated November 17th, 1855 :— " Every care should be taken to distinguish between lands which have been already ceded to " private individuals, and those which have never been purchased from the Natives. " For instance, it may be presumed that lands already purchased do n»t require to be interfered " with on the part of Government. Your operations will, therefore, be principally directed to the " acquisition of fresh tracts of land, for the purposes of colonization. " In making preliminary negotiations for the purchase of lands, it will be necessary for you to f enquire the extent of land that has already been alienated by the Natives." Having thus adverted to the necessity of being careful not to purchase lands twice oyer from the Natives, I am at a loss to know why you should recommend the purchase of Herd's Point, when you

Herd's Point. Respecting Undpurchased twice over.

V. Enclosure to Letter No, C.

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COMMISSIONERS' REPORT

yourself drew up a declaration, a copy of which is signed by Mohi Tawai, admitting that the land has been already ceded. Enclosed, I send you extracts from correspondence in further elucidation of this subject. Instructions have been forwarded to you with reference to the Taraire and Whakapaku blocks. I have now the honor to request that you will get the following blocks surveyed, on as reasonable terms as possible, with a view to their being purchased without delay;— Pukekohe, 7000 acres £350 Kokako, 500 „ 35 Whangaruru, 3000 „ 200 (If really good land.) Okaihau, 3000 „ 204 I have, &c, Donald McLean, Chief Commissioner. H. T. Kemp, Esq, J.P., District Commissioner, Bay of Islands. P.S. —You must, of course, get the surveys of the several blocks conducted under your own direct superintendence, on the most reasonable terms possible; and all boundaries should be distinctly defined previous to any payment being made to the Natives. Donald McLean.

V, Letters Nos. 12 IS' 21.

No. 25. MR, COMMISSIONER. KEMP TO THE CHIEF COMMISSIONER, District Commissioner's Office, « Bay of Islands, 16th November, 1856» Sir,— I have the honor to acknowledge receipt of your letter of the 24th instant, with extracts, and other particulars in reference to the proportion of land commonly known as Herd's Point. As I think that some misconception has arisen on this question, I think it will be right if I state briefly,— First, that the portion proposed to be purchased forms no part oF the land described within the sketch by Mr. Aubrey, which is exceedingly limited. Secondly, that with a view to enlarge the property of the Crown in that particular locality, the offer made by Moses Tawhai of an additional quantity, although small, was not rejected, until finally decided upon by the Government. The offer was made in a generous manner, and I think as much to benefit the Governor as himself, there being no other spot so eligible for the site of a township on Hokianga. I have, ho., H. T. Kemp. District Commissioner. The Chief Commissioner, Auckland.

R 56-172. Herd's Point. Importing on offer by Moses Tawai of land at Herd's Point, V. Letter No. 24.

No. 26. THE CHIEF COMMISSIONER TO MR. COMMISSIONER KBMP. Land Commissioner's Office, Auckland, December 9th, 1860. Sir, — A letter addressed to His Excellency the Governor, fiom a Chief named Ruhe, has been received at this office in reference to certain claims at Oruru, but there is no means of ascertaining, except through you, whether the land is comprised within the ckims recently settled by you, oi whether it is a new piece of land. If the land is situated within the purchase already settled, no fresh claim can be admitted, but if it is land which he wishes to sell outside of the Oruru Block, his best course is to confer with you on the subject. I have written to him accordingly, and transmit the letter through you, for your information and report. I have, &c, Donald McLeacj, H. T. Kemp, Esq., J.P., Chief Commissioner. &c, &c, Bay of Islands.

Oruru. Eelative to claims pre- 1 lerred l)y Ruhe to Oruru. ( V. Letter No, 20. j

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No. 27. THE CHIEF COMMISSIONER, TO ME. COMMISSIONER KEMP. Land Commissioner's Office, December 11th, 1856, SIR,— I have the honor to inform you that certain Hokianga Chiefs, names as per margin,* have come to Auckland to request a further payment for Oruru. They have been informed that the whole amount the Government intends to pay for that lind, has been transmitted to you and paid to the Native owners. It appears that Tipene is at fault in not having j. aid Rangatira Moe tara his share of the Fifty pounds (£5O) he received for the purpose. 2. They offer to sell the Maungataniwha district, and you will be good enough to report if they are the real claimants; whether it would be a desirable purchase; and ascertain ttie extent of the land, and the terms on which it can be purchased. 3. They advance a claim to land purchased by the Rev. Mr. Matthews, and you will also report what the nature of their claims to that land is, and whether that question can be easily adjusted by you. They wish to exclude a piece of land called Pararaki from the sale to Mr. Matthews. 1 have, &c, Donald McLean. 11. T. Kemp, Esq. J.P. Chief Commissioner. District Commissioner, Bay of Islands.

Oruru. Certain Hokianga Chiefs prefer claims to Oruru. V. Letter N0,20l

No. 28. mr. Commissioner kemp to the chief Commissioner. District Commissioner's Office, Bay of Islands, Bth January, 1857. Sir, — _ . I have much pleasure in forwarding herewith the original deeds, accompanied by translations, of the blocks of land known as Te Taraire and Te Whakapaku in the district of Whangaroa, for which the sum of Five hundred pounds (£500) has been paid to the Natives. Attached also to the deed is the survey made by Mr. White, showing not only the extent, but the reserves which have been set apart for the Natives. From this survey it will be observed that the quantity ascertained, does not fall very far short of the original rough estimate forwarded when the land was first offered for sale. The position, as well as junction with other blocks which have fallen into the hands of the Government, under scrip exchanges, and with good natural boundaries, will I trust recommend the purchase as a favourable one on the part of the Government. The extent of Crown land in this locality cannot now be far short of ten thousand (10,000) acres. I have, &c, H. T. Kemp, District Commissioner. The Chief Commissioner, Land Purchase Department, Auckland.

Taraire ak» Whakapaku. Forwarding deeds and plan of Taraire and Whakapaku. V, Letters Nos. 12,15, 21.

No. 29. MR. COMMISSIONER KEMP TO THE CHIEF «OMMISSIONER. District Commissioner's Office, Bay of Islands, 3rd February, 1857. Sir,— 1 am anxious to bring under the notice of the Government the follswing particulars in reference to a Block of superior land known as Mawhe or Mawhe Kairangi, in the district of the Bay of Islands, the ownership of which is in the hands of several influential Chiefs, including Tamati Waka, i Patuone, Ururoa, Hongi, Moses Tawhai, Adam Clarke, Rewa, and many other Chiefs, who all have an interest either directly or derivative in the land herein described. 2. I think it would be right if I were first of all to state for the Governor's information that the district of Mawhe was one chosen by Sir George Grey, assisted by officers of the R.E., as a site in every way suitable for an inland settlement and military post, comprising, as it does, some of the finest arable land beautifully situated on the shores of Omapere lake, commanding a central position, and the key to the whole of the interior. It does not, perhaps, contain more than five thousand acres in the whole. It is, moreover, uninhabited by the natives.

R 57-44. Mawhe. Reporting upon offer of Mawhe Block.

« Wiremu T»na Pspahia, Tomairasgi, Ngarewa, Tt Kuru, Murupo. 1

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COMMISSIONERS' REPORTS

3. I have the honor to state for His Excellency's information that I entered upon negotiations several months ago, since which I have been endeavouring to bring to light the man)' claims connected with this land. I think I have so far succeeded that the two points now to be decided ;are, first, who of the Chiefs should, with the concurrence of the others, undertake its sale, and what amount would be deemed sufficient to enable the principal seller to make such an equal subdivision of the money as would give general satisfaction. •4. If this land could be purchased, I believe it would form at once the nucleus of an important European settlement, and the opinions of the settlers leave but little doubt that it would realize a considerable sum if laid off into small farms. 5. Under these circumstances, and bearing in mind that the natives attach great value to the land from its fertility, and from the fact of the Governor of the Colony having applied for it on a former occasion, I would ask leave to be allowed to offer them the sum of Two thousand pounds (£2000), and, if approved, that the money should be made available at the Sub-Treasury here, I would also beg leave to suggest that, in the event of the Chiefs coming to terms, a preliminary survey only should, in this case, take place, prior to the payment of the money, which could be then immediately followed up by a complete survey of the whole. 6. I think I can safely recommend this arrangement to the favorable consideration of the Government as one which would tend mast of all to promote the interests and prosperity of this part of the Province. I have, he, H. T. Kemp, District Commissioner. The Chief Commissioner, Land Purchase Department, Auckland.

No. 30. MR. COMMISSIONER KEMP TO THE CHIEF COMMISSIONER. District Commissioner's Office, Bay of Islands, 11th February, 1857. Sir,— I do myself the honor to enclose, for the information of the Government, a rough estimate of certain Blocks of land which, properly speaking, belong to the Crown, having many years ago been exchanged for scrip by the parties who originally purchased from the natives ; the extent, you will observe, is very considerable. 2. These claims frequently come to notice during negotiations with the natives. I have, therefore, thought it my duty to bring this subject before you, inasmuch as they form a very large part of the Public Domain, and, in some instances, are connected together by the purchases which have recently been made; but more especially as it is to be feared that, since many of the original settlers are not now to be found, a further postponement of the survey by the Government of these Blocks may be attended with considerable difficulty and expense. 3. If you think the subject of sufficient importance, perhaps you would deem it advisable to bring it under the consideration of His Excellency's Government as early as may be convenient. I have, &c, H. T. Kemp, District Commissioner. The Chief Commissioner, Land Purchase Department, Auckland.

R 57-99. Scrip Lands. _ Giving estimated area of scrip lands in his district.

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Enclosure to No. 30. ROUGH ESTIMATE OF LANDS OVER WHICH THE NATIVE TITLE IS SUPPOSED TO BE EXTINGUISHED IN THE DISTRICT OF THE BAY OF ISLANDS, AND EXCHANGED BY THE CLAIMANTS, OR ORIGINAL PURCHASERS, FOR GOVERNMENT SCRIP.

District, Claimant, or Original Purchaser. Acres Total. 1. —District of Hokianga. Oakes Baker Baker Baker Cassidy ... Cassidy ... Chadwick ACRES. 300 1000 1200 1000 1500 1000 1000 Chambers Cochrane... Cochrane... Chapman... Chapman... Cooper ... Egert Fishwick... 300 100 1000 300 900 1000 350 1200 7000 5150 !. —District of Hokianga. Gundry ... Hunt Baker Marmon ... Marriner... 500 3000 2000 450 1500 7450 Nimmo ... Poynton ... Harrison ... Johnson ... Harddiman Tuite 200 2650 600 1800 600 500 6350 Twisted ... P. Walsh W. White W. White Russell ... W. White F. and Wm. White... 500 350 150 1000 250 470 10,000 12,720 Young Wright ... Clark Parkins ... Amoyl 1500 1100 19,000 200 2000 Mitchell ... Birch Marriner ... Grant Wing Harris Cousins ... McDonnell 1700 300 1000 1000 200 5000 500 3000 23,800 3.—District of Hokianga. 12,700 :, —District of Whangaroa. Hugh McLiver Powditch Powditch Powditch Florance ... 3600 140 1080 3000 2560 10,380

COMMISSIONERS' REPORTS

C—No. 1

ROUGH ESTIMATE OF LANDS, ETC.- continued.

11. T. Kemp, District Commissioner.

No. 31. THE CHIEF COMMISSIONER TO MR. COMMISSIONER KEMP. Land Commissioner's Office, Auckland, March 10, 1857. Sir,— I have the honor to acknowledge the receipt of your letter of 3rd February last, marked " Special," recommending the purchase of a valuable block of land, named Te Mawhe, in your district, for which you recommend that a sum of Two thousand pounds (£2000) should be placed in the Sub-Treasurer's hands at Russell to enable you, by having the funds at hand, to compl«t« the purchase, if a favorable opportunity offers. The subject of your letter is now under consideration of the Government, and while the advantage of possessing such a valuable block as To Mawhe is fully recognised, I fear that the Government will not entertain your proposal of paying Two thousand pounds (£2000) for five thousand (5000) acres of land. In the mean time, however, you should ascertain the extent of tho land, and the lowest price at which it can be obtained, in order that the Government may have further data to enable it to come to a decision on the subject. I have, &c, Donald McLean, Chief Commissioner. H. T. Kemp, Esq., J.P., District Commissioner, Bay of Islands.

mawhe .• The 'price recommended for Mawhe block is too high. V. Letter No. 29.

E 57-101.

No. 32. MR. COMMISSIONMR KEMP TO THE CHIEF COMMISSIONER. District Commissioner's Office, Bay of Islands, 19th March, 1857. _ Sir, —; In reply to your letter of the 2nd inst., enclosing tho copy of a letter from Rangatira, and other Hokianga Chiefs, offering a piece of land at Oruru for sale, and requesting a Report thereon,

ORURU.

18

5.—District of Mangonui. Ryan Thomas Phillips Partridge Ford Ford Acres. 2280 3000 8000 2000 3000 6. —District of Russell, neighborhood. and Murphy ... Aberline ... C. B. Waitford Polack 700 200 600 300 18,280 1800 District of Hokianga. Recapitulation. f" 7000 5150 7450 < 6350 12,720 23,800 _ 12,700 10,380 18,280 1800 Diitrict of Whangaroa, District of Mangonui. District of Russell. Grand Total 105,630

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I have the honor to forward for your information the copy of a Memorandum I have recently received from Mr. White on the same subject. I have, &c, H. T. Kemp, District Commissioner. The Chief Commissioner, Land Purchase Department, Auckland.

Enclosure to No. 32. MEMORANDUM BY MR. WHITE, SURVEYOR, MANGONUI. The land referred to is a small piece at Taipa, about 4 acres, and the back land of Mangonui, comprising some five or six hundred (500 or 600) acres, but the quantity I shall be able to give accurately in the course of two months, as I shall survey the greater portion of it in concluding the survey of Oruru. The land is barren, but valuable to Government in consequence of its proximity to the village, and is surrounded on all but one side with land over which the Native Title has been extinguished. £400 is asked, £100 ought to purchase it. I would strongly urge its purchase, not only for the convenience of settlers, but it will relieve the Natives of this neighborhood from a serious difficulty in which they have embroiled themselves, by neglecting the claim of some powerful Chiefs related to them at Hokianga. Pororua is the only objecting Chief, but I think his opposition can be overcome, although the Natives in this district treat his opposition with some contempt. W. B. White, Surveyor.

No 33. THE CHIEF COMMISSIONER TO MR. COMMISSIONER KEMP. Land Commissioner's Office, Auckland, March 25, 1857. Sir, — I have the honor to enclose a copy of a letter addressed to me by Tipene of Mangonui,respecting some land which has bee» purchased from the Natives of that district, to which he lays claim, but of the payment for which he states he has received no share. I shall, therefore, feel obliged for your report on his claim, so that, if there has been any mistake, by which Tipene has been overlooked in the negotiations for the land in question, it may be rectified without further delay. I have, &c, Donald McLean, Chief Commissioner. 11. T. Kemp, Esq., J.P., District Commissioner, Bay of Islands. P.S.—A letter has been written to Tipene, informing him that I suppose the arrangements for the laad to which he refers have been finally settled by you : if, however, any injustice has been done towards him, it must be rectified.

OBUKH. To report on claims of , Tipene to Oiuru Valley.

No. 34. MR. COMMISSIONER KEMP TO THE CHIEF COMMISSIONER. District Commissioner's Office, Bay of Islands, 26th March, 1857. but, — In reply to your letter of the 10th instant, referring to the acquisition of the Mawhe district, I beg leave to acquaint you for the information of the Government, that a few days since a number of' influential Chiefs concerned were present at the disinterment of the remains of their relatives, on which' occasion it is usual for them to discuss subjects of any importance. 2. Nothing further transpired at this meeting than that Tamati Waka gave notice of his intention to remove the bones of some of his nearest relatives, with a view to preliminary arrangements being made for the sale of the district to the Government.

R 57-132.

MAWHE. Nothing further has been > done with reference to Mawhe. V. Letters Nos. 29, 31,

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3. From all I can ascertain, however, it seems probable, I think, that it will devolve upon the Government to initiate measures in this case, more particularly as regards the sum they may be pleased to direct should be offered to the Natives. I have, &c., H. T. Kemp, District Commissioner. The Chief Commissioner, Land Purchase Department, Auckland.

No. 35. MR. COMMISSIONER KEMP TO THE CHIEF COMMISSIONER. District Commissioner's Office, Bay of Islands, 10th June, 1857. Sir,— In my communication dated the 20th April, No. 14, 1857, I had the honor of informing you of a journey I proposed to undertake for the purpose of examining and entering into negotiations with the Natives for certain blocks of land near Parengarenga (North Cape). I have now the pleasure to report my retura from that expedition, and to state, for the information of His Excellency the Governor, the progress made towards the extinguishment of the Native title over a considerable portion of available country within that district. In these arrangements I was favored with the advice and assistance of Mr. White, who accompanied me throughout. 2. Enclosed, I forward a rough sketch of the blocks we are in treaty for, as well as of those which have been already alienated by the Natives, shewing, as nearly as possible, their connection with each other. At a rough estimate, these cannot, I think, in the whole, be far short of forty thousand acres (40,000), thirty thousand (30,000) of which are included in the land now offered to the Government. They stand thus:— No. I.—Muriwhenua (South): A rough estimate, about 25,000 acres. No. 2.—Wharemaru: A rough estimate, about 3000 acres. No. 3.—Otengi (sketch not given): A small block adjoining the Oruru purchase, about 2000 acres. 3. The boundaries of these blocks have already been carefully traversed, and were pointed out to us by the leading chiefs of the district, including Busby, Walker, King, Bobart, Clarke, and others, •who are the principal sellers of the land. The negotiations have been conducted in the most public manner, and every facility given to claimants, or other interested persons, to appear. 4. The land comprised within these blocks is open and undulating; on the western shore a ridge of sand hills prevails, but on the eastern side soil of a good description. The beautiful harbour of Houhora, cr Mount Campbell, nearly central, affords easy communication, and makes it at all times accessible. The land in its present state is well adapted for sheep farming. 5. Adjacent to these blocks are two smaller ones near Ahipara and Kangiawhia: from the former, a supply of useful timber can be obtained. The arrangements, however, for the purchase have been postponed at the instance of the Native Chiefs. To these may be added, also, a portion, if not the whole, of the Victoria valley, which may, in all probability, be negotiated for in a few months, and forming altogether a valuable acquisition to the Crown lands in this district. I have, &c, H. T. Kemp, District Commissioner. The Chief Commissioner, Land Purchase Department, Auckland.

R 57-220.

MtmrWHENTJA, &c. Reporting on blocks near the North Cape.

No. 36. THE ASSISTANT NATIVE SECRETARY (ACTING TOR THE CHIBF COMMISSIONER) TO MR. COMMISSIONER KEMP. Land Commissioner's Office, Auckland, 12th June, 1857. SiR) — With reference to your letter of the 11th February last, enclosing, for the information of tht Government, a rough estimate of certain blocks of land which haTe been exchanged for scrip by th* original purchasers;

scrip lakds;_ Mr. Commissioner Bell will investigate Titles to Scrip Land. ' v7~Letter No, 30.

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I have the honor, by direction of His Excellency the Governor, to inform you that Mr. "Commissioner Bell's attention has been directed to this very important subject, which he will fully investigate when he visits the Bay of Islands. I have, he, For the Chief Commissioner, Trios. H. Smith, 11. T. Kemp, Esq., J.P., Assistant Native Secretary. District Commissioner, Bay of Islands.

No. 37. MR. COMMISSIONER KEMP TO THE CHIEF COMMISSIONER. District Commissioner's Office, Bay of Islands, June 12th, 1857. Sir,— During my recent visit to the North, I observed a difficulty ill which the settlers as well as the Natives residing in the Oruru valley are placed with reference to the occupation of a Eeserve which was made by the late Chief Noble Panakareao, with the sanction of the Government, and for which a Crown Grant had, I believe, been given previously to the first settlement of the outstanding Native claims in that district. Allusion to this Eeserve is made in my report of the Oruru, dated 29th September, 185G . 2. The case seems to be simply this:—Noble leaves an infant daughter, his legal representative. There are also the immediate followers and servants of Noble who still reside and cultivate upon this Reserve. They have been urged to move to their respective locations by the Government and by the Chiefs, and it was agreed that they should have done so some time ago. It is understood, however, that some of the settlers, whose interest it is to keep these people at Oruru, have since advised them to remain where they are, and the consequence is that the Natives are in doubt as to which course it would be right for them to adopt. Mr. White, the officer of the district, has requested me to make a statement of the circumstances for the information of the Government; and, as the majority of the settlers are unwilling that any annoyance should arise between them and the Natives, I would respectfully recommend for consideration that this Reserve be purchased, if possible, from the Native trustees, and the money invested in some more suitable manner for the benefit of Noble's child, if it were thought desirable by ■the Chiefs interested. If this suggestion is approved, Mr. White could soon supply a plan of the Reserve, and furnish any further details you might wish for. The section itself, being an extremely valuable one, would be very soon purchased, and the Government would be at once reimbursed in the outlay that may be necessary for the extinguishment of the Native Title. I have, he, H. T. Kemp, The Chief Commissioner, District Commissioner. Land Purchase Department, Auckland.

R 57-222. 5 OItURIJ. Recommending purchase F of Noble's Reserve. p V Letters Nos. 11, it. a

No 39. THE ASSISTANT NATIVE SECRETARY (ACTING POR THE CHIEF COMMISSIONER) TO MR. COMMISSIONER KEMP. Land Commissioner's Office, Auckland, August 10th, 1857. •Sir,— I have the honor herewith to transmit copy of a letter received at this office from the Native Chief Te Ahuahu, preferring a claim upon land within the limits of the Whakapaku Block, .negotiated by you in conjunction with Mr. W. B. White, and to request that you will have the goodness to report thereon. I have, he, Thos. H. Smith, For the Chief Commissioner. S. T. Kemp, Esq., J.P., District Commissioner, Bay of Islands.

WIIAKAI'AKU. Te Ahuahu prefers a claim to the Whakapaku Block. V. Letter No. iS.

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No. 40. THE CHIEF COMMISSIONER TO MR. COMMISSIONER KEMP. Land Commissioner's Office, Auckland, August 25th, 1857. Sir,— I have the honor, by direction of his Excellency the Governor, to enclose herewith a tracingof the Northern part of this Province, and to request that you will be good enough to fill it in, showing all the lands which have been purchased in your district, what are now under negotiation, and also those which are designated Old Land Claims. Each class having a distinctive color, and exhibiting the date of purchase since 1855. I have, he, Donald McLean, Chief Commissioner. 11. T. Kemp, Esq., J.P., District Commissioner, Bay of Islands.

General. To fill in an outline map with lands which have been purchased,

No. 41. THE CHIEF COMMISSIONER TO MR. COMMISSIONER KEMP. Chief Land Purchase Commissioner's Office, Auckland, September 26th, 1857. Sir,— With reference to your letter of the 10th June last, reporting the progress made by you towards the extinguishment of the Native Title over an extent of country estimated by you at thirty thousand (30,000) acres, and comprised within the Blocks named in the margin, I have the honor by direction of His Excellency the Governor to request that you will be good enough to carry out the negotiations for the above named Blocks ou the most economical terms. I have, he, Donald McLean, Chief Land Purchase Commissioner, H. T. Kemp, Esq., J.P., District Commissioner, Bay of Islands.

Muriwhenua, &c. To carry on negociatioiiß for Blocki near the North Cape. Muriwhenua, 25,000 acres. IVharemaru, 3000 acres. Otengi, 2000 acres.

No. 42. MR. COMMISSIONER KEMP TO THE CHIEF COMMISSIONER. District Commissioner's Office, Bay of Islands, 7th December, 1857. Sir, — Agreeably with the instructions contained in your letter No. 216, September 26th, 1857, authorizing me to carry out the negotiations for certain Blocks of land in the Northern part of this district on the most economical terms, I have the honor to report for the information of His Excellency's Government, that the following sums of money have been fixed upon in payment lor the several Blocks alluded to, viz. :— Acres. £ a. A. No. 1. Muriwhenua (South) ;.. ... ... 86,885 1,100 0 0 No. 2. Wharemaru, joining the above ... ... ... 13,555 400 0 0 Ship land within the boundaries, Stephenson's claim ... 2,482 102,922 No. 3. Otengi, adjoining Government Block of Oruru and Mangonui 2,722 230 0 0 . 105,644 1,730 0 0 Total acreage —One hundred and five thousand six hundred and forty-four acres (105,644) Total amount required— One thousand seven hundred and thirty pounds sterling (£1,730). The plan, which is to be forwarded by first safe conveyance direct from Mangonui, will show the purchase in its compact form, and from its position and other advantages will make it, I trust, a valuable addition to the Crown Lands of the District. All the proceedings connected with the fixing of these sums have been carried out in the most public manner, on the spot, in which I enjoyed the benefit of Mr. White's advice and assistance, who travelled with trie ; and while the sums named arc as economical as they could be expected, we both have every reason for believing that, if approved

X 57-415. Muriwhenua, &£. Respecting the prices fixed for Blocks near the North Cape. V. Letter No. 41.

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by His Excellency, they will give satisfaction to the whole of the Native sellers, and help to pave the way for future negotiations. I have, &c, H. T. Kemp, District Commissioner. The Chief Commissioner, Land Purchase Department, Auckland.

No. 43. THE CHIEF COMMISSIONER TO MR. COMMISSIONER KEMP. Chief Land Purchase Commissionei's Office, Auckland, December 21st, 1857. Sir,— With reference to your letters (Nos. 57, 32) of the 7th inst., stating that the following sums have been fixed upon in payment for the several blocks the negotiations for which you were authorised to carry out in my letter of September 26th last, viz.— Acres. £ s. d. 1. Muriwhenua, South ... ... ... ... 86,885 1100 0 0 2. Wharemarr ... ... ... ... 13,555 400 0 0 Shipland ... ... ... ... 2482 3. Otengi ... ... ... ... 2722 230 0 0 105,644 1730 0 0 —I have the honor, by direction of His Excellency the Governor, to request that you will be good enough to conclude these purchases at the above named rates, for which purpose the sum of One thousand seven hundred and thirty pounds sterling (£1730) will be transmitted to the Sub-Treasurer at Russell, to be handed over to you upon your Requisition in the usual form = You will use the greatest care iv making the deeds and translations as perfect as possible, and endeavour to render the arrangements final and complete. It having been observed that certain passage? in the deeds transmitted by you to this office are vague, and therefore objectionable, I have to request that you will adhere as closely as circumstances will permit to the form of deed used by the other Commissionei's, which have proved to be intelligible to, and binding upon, the Natives. A desire having been expressed by the Natives to sell other and more valuable lands for immediate occupation than those in the Northern extremity of your district, you will be good enough to direct your attention to the acquisition of those lands which are more immediately required for settlement, without overlooking the offers of such larger and less valuable blocks that may be offered ; but in. every instance you should give prior consideration to such blocks as the Kawa Kawa, and others in that vicinity, which I understand the Natives are anxious to dispose of. I have, &c, D. McLean, H. T. Ken.p, Esq., Chief Commissioner. Bay of Islands.

i [ Mueiwhenua, &c. To conclude purchase of Blocks near the North ! Cape. ____ I V. Letter No. 42.

No. 44. MR. COMMISSIONER KEMP TO THE CHIEF COMMISSIONER. District Commissioner's Office, Bay of Islands, 26th December, 1857. Sir, — I have the honor to acknowledge receipt of your letter of the 12th inst., calling my attention to former communications, and beg to state that to Nos. 216 and 147 replies have already been _ addressed to you, dated respectively 7th and 12th inst. I No. 197. In terms of your letter, no reference has been received by me from Mr Commissioner Johnson, notwithstanding 1 believed it to be the block under negotiation. I was reluctant to make any overtures to the Natives until your instructions had been carried out. In further explanation, I beg to refer to my report of the 3rd April, and approved on the 14th May succeeding. The terms I then offered I still think liberal; but, as the Kawa Kawa Natives enjoyed the trade with the troops at the time, they were not in . want of money, and I thought it prudent to defer negotiations for a few months. The offer will probably be soon renewed by the Natives with, perhaps, a considerable audition of land. ...,-. ,

R 57-439. MuKIWHEMUA. Kawakawa. Relative to various ■ Blocks of land. V. Letters Nos. 42, 43.

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Ahuahu.

No. 143. In reference to the conflicting claims at the Ahuahu, upon which I am now engaged, I heg to be allowed further time for reporting, as it is a case involving many claims, the majority of which I hope to be able in a short time to extinguish. I have, &c, H. T. Kemp, mi ™• ~ . . District Commissioner, lne Chief Commissioner, Auckland.

No. 45. MR. COMMISSIONER KEMP TO THE CHIEF COMMISSIONER. District Commissioner's Office, a _ Bay of Islands, 9th February, 1858. I have the honor to report for the information of His Excellency the Governor that the payment for the several blocks of land in the neighborhood of Mangonui known as 1. Muriwhenua, South 2. Wharemaru 3. Otengi, was completed on the 3rd and 4th inst. Copies of translations from the original deeds, describing the boundaries, are herewith forwarded prepared for proclamation, in accordance with your Circular of the 18th December,lBs7 The plans of survey, carefully executed by the Messrs. Campbell, having already been transmitted to you by Mr. White, I shall feel obliged (if not already submitted for His Excellency's inspection} by your allowing them to accompany the descriptions of the boundaries herein enclosed. I have, &c, . .. H. T. Kemp, The Chief Commissioner, DlstHct Commissioner. Auckland.

X 58-67. MUHXYVHENUA, &C. Reporting completion of purchase of Blocks near the North Cape. V. Letttrs Nos. 42, 43.

No. 46. MR. COMMISSIONER KEMP TO THE CHIEF COMMISSIONER. District Commissioner's Office, Bay of Islands, 16th February, 1858. Sir, — J ' Agreeably -with your request, I have the honor to forward herewith an estimate of th. probable expenditure for land purchases in this district, for the present and ensuing quarter, viz.:— Mawhe, or Lake Omapere Block, including Okaihau, eight miles "West of proposed Township ... ... ... ... 1000 Q Kawa Kawa Block; or, if not, Matawherohia Block ... ... 359 0 0 Pirau and Mokau, ten miles distant, West of proposed Township ... '" 359 0 0 Several small Blocks, immediately in the vicinity of, and joining, the proposed site for a Township, now under negotiation, agreeably with Mr. Whitaker's verbal instructions ... ... ... >jqq q « Several of the foregoing Blocks are especially recommended for purchase with a view to connect and consolidate the lands already in the hands of the Government, as well as of thoss which will probably fall into the hands of the Crown under the " Land Claims Settlement Act." I have, &c, The Chief Commissioner, tt m ttLand Purchase Department, Auckland.

R 58-71. General. Estimate of mm required for purchases in his District.

No. 47. MR. COMMISSIONER KEMP TO THE CHIEF COMMISSIONER. District Commissioner's Office, Bay of Islands, 2nd March, 1858. I have the honor to enclose herewith the original deeds of the following Blocks of Land

E 58r103. Muriwhenua, &c. Forwarding Deeds of Blocks near the NorU* ('ape. V. LtHter No. 45,

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over which the Native Title has been extinguished in the District of Mangonui: — Muriwhenua, South Wharemaru Otengi. Translations of the boundaries of these Blocks have already been forwarded to your Office in my letter of the 9th ultimo. Copies of the originals, together with translations, have also been furnished to the Sub-Treasurer at Russell, agreeably with your instructions previously transmitted to me. I have, he, H. T. Kemp, The Chief Commissioner, District Commissioner. Auckland. ___________________

No. 48. THE ASSISTANT NATIVE SECRETARY (ACTING FOR THE CHIEF COMMISSIONER) TO MR. COMMISSIONER KEMP. Chief Land Purchase Commissioner's Office, Auckland, March 15, 1858. Sir, — Maihi Paraone Kawiti, and other Chiefs of the Bay of Islands, having repeatedly expressed a wish that the Government would accept a Block of Laud at Te Kawa Kawa, in token of their reconciliation, and as a pledge of their loyalty and attachment to Her Majesty the Queen; I have the honor, by direction of His Excellency the Governor, to request that you will be good enough to obtain the necessary conveyance of the land in question to the Crown (should no objection to your doing so occur to you); first, however, ascertaining all particulars relative to the position, extent, &c, of the land, and reporting thereupon for the information of the Government. Should you, however, see any objection to the acceptance by the Government of the land offered, as a gift, you will have the goodness to report your opinion for the information of His Excellency's Government. I have, &c, Thos. H. Smith, H T. Kemp, Esq., Assistant Native Secretary. District Commissioner, Bay of Islands. ___________________

Kawakawa. Respecting offer by Maihi Kawiti of land to the Government. V. Letter No. 29.

No. 49. MR. COMMISSIONER KEMP TO THE CHIEF COMMISSIONER. District Commissioner's Office^ Bay of Islands, 17th March, 1858. Sir,— The survey of the Lake Omapere or Mawhe Block having been just completed, I avail l myself of an early opportunity of submitting some farther particulars in reference to the acquisition t of this Block, for the information of His Excellency the Governor, in addition to those already furnished to your Office in my report of the 3rd February, 1857, marked " Special." 2. I have the honor to report that the surveyor's estimate of the quantity corresponds with " what I then reported, viz., about five thousand (5000) acres. I also stated that there were numerous claimants interested in the sale of this land. The adjustment of these claims, followed by the survey of a few Native reserves (presently in occupation) within the Block will, I think, convince the Natives of a liberal arrangement on the part of the Government, at the same time that it is proposed that at least one-half of the cost of the survey of these reserves should be borne by the Natives, forming as it were, a deduction from the price which may be paid for the entire block. 3. With reference to the amount required for the purchase, I beg leave respectfully to submit the following points for consideration: —• Ist. Its position. 2nd. The number of claimants interested. 3rd. And thus desirable to abolish the Native Title as soon as possible. On a previous occasion I had the honor of applying for an advance of Two thousand pounds (£2000) for this and the Okaihau districts; but, as the Natives have for the present declined to sell the Okaihau forest, I think that a sum of (£BOO to £1000) Eight hundred to One thousand pounds will be found sufficient to meet all the claims concerned. Enclosed is a Requisition for the num of One thousand pounds (£1000). It is proposed by the Natives that the payment should be made as soon as the map is completed by the surveyor, which will be in a few days. Taking the average value of the Block as it stands, it is thought by good judges to be worth at least £5000. I have, &c, H. T. Kemp, Thp Chief Commissioner, District Commissioner, Land Purchase Department, Auckland.

R. 58-102. Mawkb. v Respecting completion of the survey of Mawhe. V. Letter No. 29.

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No. 50. MR. COMMISSIONER ROGAN (ACTING FOR THE CHIEF COMMISSIONER) TO MR. COMMISSIONER KEMP. Chief Land Purchase Commissioner's Office, Auckland, April 21st, 1858. Sir, — I have the honor, by direction of His Excellency tho Governor, to enclose herewith a copy of a letter from W. B. White, Esq., relative to tho Reserve made in the Otengi purchase for Tipene, with the request that you will have the goodness to state your views as to the purchase of the reserve for the information of the Government. I have, &c, For the Chief Commissioner, John Rogan, H. T. Kemp, Esq., J.P., District Commissioner. District Commissioner, Bay of Islands.

Relative to Tipene's Reserve in the Otengi Block.

No. 51. MR. COMMISSIONER KEMP TO THE CHIEF COMMISSIONER. District Commissioner's Office, Bay of Islands, 7th May, 1858. Sia, — I have the honor to report for the information of His Excellency the Governor that I have entered into negotiations with the Natives for the purchase of a small Block of land of about i, Two thousand acres in extent, which, I think, may be got upon reasonable terms. It is situated , " between the districts of Waimate and Kawakawa, and forms a part of the unsold land between Pakaraka on one side, and the Western shores of tho Bay on tho other. The whole of this Block is available, comprising chiefly soil of the best description, and well - supplied with timber and water, and would, if purchased, be the means of connecting tho lands already acquired by private hands from the Natives. It also joins the Kawakawa Block, for which I have been some time in treaty. In the present instance the title is clear and indisputable, and I beg leave to recommend the purchase for His Excellency's approval. I have, &c, The Chief Commissioner, H. T. Kemp. Laud Purchase Department, Auckland.

R. 58-196. Pukekohe. Reporting negotiations for a block of 2000 acres.

No. 52. MR. COMMISSIONER KIMP TO THK CHIEF COMMISSIONER. District Commissioner's Office, Bay of Islands, 29th May, 1858. Sir, — I have the honor to report for the information of His Excellency's Government, that I ~, have just returned from an expedition during which I visited and examined several Blocks of land which have been offered for sale by the Natives, all of them within tho immediate neio-hbor-hood of the Bay of Islands. Of the particulars connected with these Blocks, I shall do myself the honor to report in detail by an early opportunity. 2. In the course of these negotiations, and of those already entered upon and approved by the Government, my attention has been given to the subject of surveys, much of the work having already been completed by private claimants, whose plans, together with a large proportion of surplus land, fall to the Crown under the operation of the Land Claims Settlement Act, and might therefore be made available for the purposes of the Government, when found desirable. 3. With a local knowledge of the district, I think I may suggest for your own consideration and for the approval of the Government, that the simplest form of survey by fixing the principal points, and ascertaining as nearly as possible the area of the land to be sold, would be effectual and binding upon the Natives where purchases become connected, and would for the present entirely meet the wishes of the Government in so far as the extinguishment of the Native title is concerned. 4. Tho sanction of tho Government to a system of survey above described, I am anxious to obtain, as I have every reason to believe that, in this district in particular, it will be found in many respects to be advantageous and economical, especially in cases where surveys have already taken place. I have, &c, The Chief Commissioner, H. T. Kemp. Land Purchase Department, Auckland.

R. 58-207. Gbneral. Reporting on several blocks in his district.

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No. 53. MR. COMMISSIONER KEMP TO THE CHIEF COMMISSIONER. District Commissioner's Office, Bay of Islands, Bth Juno, 1858. Sir, — In acknowledging the receipt of your letter in reference to a piece of land tendered to _ the Government as a gift by the Native Chief Maihi Paraone Te Kuhanga of the Kawakawa, ' I have the honor to report that I have examined the land in question, which is situated on the South bank of the Kawakawa River, and estimated to contain about seven hundred acres. As a precedent, I could scarcely recommend the acceptance of this land as a gift, but I might suggest that, as negotiations have been entered into with this Chief and his people for the purchase of the whole of the Ruapekapeka Block, of which the above forms a part, it might then be very conveniently included, and a small sum allowed by way of compensation. This arrangement would, I believe, meet the wishes of all the parties concerned. I have, he., H. T. Kemp, Donald McLean, Esq., J.P., District Commissioner. Chief Commissioner, Auckland.

R. 38-232. Kawakawa. Eeporting on offer of land at Kawakawa. V, Letter No. 48,

■ mi li iiißM—i——__________ No. 54. MR. COMMISSIONER KEMP TO THE CHIEF COMMISSIONER. District Commissioner's Office, Bay of Islands, 28th June, 1858. Sir,— Adverting to my letter of the 29th ultimo, I have now the honor to report in detail for the information of His Excellency's Government the Blocks of Land which have been recently offered for sale by the Natives, and which I examined in the order in which they stand. No. 1. A Block of Land on the South side of the Kawa Kawa, including the district of tho Rua Peka Peka, estimated to contain about (10,000) Ten thousand acres, offered for sale by Marsh Brown Te Kuhanga, and other chiefs, and of which the small block offered by Nini as a. gift to the Government forms a part. No. 2. A small Block of Land called Patunui on the Eastern side of the Mangonui or Tareha's Bay, near the confluence of the Mangonui and Keri Keri rivers, estimated to contain about Three hundred acres (3QO), offered for sale by the Chief Waikato and others. Survey being carried on under Mr. Whitaker's instructions. No. 3. A Block called Te Kauri, in the same locality, joining Government Block known as Te Wiroa, estimated to contain about Five hundred acres (500), offered for sale by King William Te Hakiro. Survey being carried on also. No. 4. A Block on tho South side, and joining the Government Block known as Te Taraire, midway between the Bay of Islands and Whangaroa, estimated to contain (3,000 acres) Three thousand acres, offered for sale by King George Kira and others. No. 5. A small Block on the North bank of Keri Keri, opposite proposed site of Township, known as Ilikuwai, estimated at about Three hundred (300) acres, offered for sale by Tango, an influential and useful Assessor. Survey being carried on. No. 6. A small Block, joining site of Township, known as Te W T harau, 3, few acres only, in a commanding position, offered for sale by the Chief Ruhe and others. Survey completed. The purchase of the whole or any of the above-mentioned Blocks is respectfully recommended for the approval of his Excellency's Government.' I have, &c, 11. T. Kemp, The Chief Commissioner, District Commissioner. Land Purchase Department, , Auckland.

R. 58-269. Vakiotjs Blocks. Reporting on blocks which have been recently offered for sale. V, Letter No. M. RUAP£KAP£KA.

Patunui. Te Wiboa. Ta Tarairb. Hikuwai. Ta Wharab.

No. 55. THE CHIEF COMMISSIONER TO MR. COMMISSIONER KEMP. Chief Land Purchase Commissioner's Office, Auckland, June 28th, 1858. Sir,— With reference to your letter of the 7th ultimo, relative to a Block of Land near Pakaraka, I have the honor, by direction of his Excellency the Governor, to request that you will be good enough to carry on the negotiations for the purchase of the block, as its purchase is recommended by you, and its acquisition desirable; first reporting, however, as nearly as possible, the price for

Pukekohe. To carry on negociations for Pukekohe Block. V. Letter No, 51.

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COMMISSIONERS' REPORTS

■which the Natives agree to alienate their title to the land in question, for the information of th« Government. I have, &c, Donald McLean, H. T. Kemp, Esq., J.P., Chief Commissioner. *• District Commissioner, Bay of Islands.

No. 56. THE CHIEF COMMISSIONER TO MR. COMMISSIONER KEMP. Chief Land Purchase Commisioner's Office, Auckland, June 28th, 1858. Sir, — I have the honor to acknowledge the receipt of your letter of the 29th ultimo, reporting that you had examined several Blocks of Land offered for sale by the Natives, and am directed by Hi* Excellency the Governor to request that you will have the goodness to furnish as detailed a* account of the Blocks of Land referred to by you as possible, stating the estimated area of each Block, its position, availability for agricultural or pastoral purposes, proximity to harbour and suck other particulars as may suggest themselves to you. With reference to your suggestions on th* subject of external surveys, I have to observe that the Government is most anxious to adopt th« most economical system; provided always that such surveys are so clear and distinct that no question can afterwards arise respecting the boundaries. If the Government were surveying the Old Land Claims as well as the Native Blocks, your proposal might advantageously be agreed to, because the same person would take up the work from time to time after the principal natural features had been fixed. But at present, and as a general rule, considering that so many surveyors are engaged under separate employers, His Excellency deems it unadvisablo to discontinue the plan of accurately surveying the exterior boundaries of each Native purchase, except where a previous survey is known to have been furnished. You will have the goodness to bear fully in mind that every transaction with the Natives for the purchase of land should be so clear, distinct, and well understood, that no possibility of a question arising in consequence of insufficient surveys should ever exist. The subsequent evils resulting from undefined boundaries are often much greater than the first expense of an accurate survey. The Government, therefore, expects that each transaction with the Natives of your district shall in every way be so final and conclusive, that there shall be no further embarassment caused by disputes arising which might have been obviated. A copy of a [plan which is being compiled of the old. land claims in the Bay of Islands district, showing their relative positions and extent, will shortly be transmitted to you for your information and guidance. I have, &c, Donald McLean, H. T. Kemp, Esq., J.P., Chief Commissioner. District Commissioner, Bay of Islands. _

General. Relative to survey of external boundaries. V. Letter No. 52.

No. 57. MR. COMMISSIONER KEMP TO THE CHIEE COMMISSIONERDistrict Commissioner's Office, Bay of Islands, Ist July, 1858. Sir, — I do myself the honor to report for the information of his Excellency the Governor that the survey of a Block of Land known as Mokau has just been completed. It is one of the Blocks already reported on as under negotiation, and is estimated to contain Ten thousand (10,000) acres, chiefly forest, comprising some very fine kauri and other timber. It is situated North West of Waimate, distant ten miles, with an available road. It stands connected with blocks over which the Native title has been extinguished, and is in every other respect a desirable purchase. The Chief Wi Hau, a well known and useful servant of the Government, is the seller; and as he is anxious to assist the Government in establishing a settlement here, I beg to recommend that I may be authorized finally to conclude this purchase. I have, &c, H. T. Kemp, The Chief Commissioner, District Commissioner, Land Purchase Department, Auckland.

R. 58-271. Mqkap Block. The survey «f Mokau Block has been completed. V. Letter No. 46.

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No. 58. THE CHIEF COMMISSIONER TO MR. COMMISSIONER KEMP. Chief Land Purchase Commissioner's Office, Auckland, July Bth, 1858. Sir, — With reference to your letter of the Bth ultimo, relative to Maihi Parone Kawiti's offer of a piece of land to the Government, I have the honor, by direction of tho Governor, to inform you that His Excellency fully concurs in the opinion expressed by you as to the inadvisability of accepting the land in question as a gift, and also in your suggestion that it should be purchased in connection with a larger block of land. You are, therefore, authorized to inform Maihi Parone, if you see fit to do so, that while His Excellency fully appreciates Maihi's friendship, and the motives which have induced him to offer the land, he cannot accept it as a gift from him, or from any other person. I have, &c, Donald McLean, H. T. Kemp, Esq., Chief Commissioner. District Commissioner, Bay of Islands.

Kawakawa. Declining gift of land by Maihi P. Kawiti. V. Letter No. 48.

No. 59. MR. COMMISSIONER KEMP TO THE CHIEF COMMISSIONER. District Commissioner's Office, Bay of Islands, 22nd September, 1858. Sir, — I have the honor to forward, for the information of His Excellency's Government, the enclosed copy of a letter from Mr. White in reference to the acquisition of two Blocks of land which are immediately in the district of Mangonui. The negotiations for these Blocks were entered upon agreeably with the instructions given in your letter of the 28th October, 1857, urging the acquisition of land in the neighbourhood of Mangonui, when available for colonization. Mr. White now states that the Natives have fallen in with our view r s with regard to the boundaries, the object having been to buy up the whole of the available land between the Oruru and Victoria plains, and by this means to connect the Blocks as soon as possible. Having explored the country at the head of the Oruru valley, I am able to report that a junction with the Victoria could be made with but little difficulty, thereby bringing the whole of that fertile district into connection with the Port of Mangonui ; and on the grounds also submitted in Mr. White's letter would respectfully recommend the purchase for the approval of His Excellency the Governor. I have, &c, The Chief Commissioner, 11. T. Kemp, Land Purchase Department, District Commissioner. Auckland.

Kohumahu and Maungatatutwha. Recommending purchase of Kohumaru and Manga-, taniwha Block;,

Enclosure to No. 59. MR. WHITE TO THE DISTRICT COMMISSIONER. Mangonui, September 7th, 1858. Sir,— The Natives having consented to meet our views relative to the boundaries of Kohumaru Block and the Wai Kainga or Maunga Taniwa Block, which adjoins the Kohumaru, both of which overlap the Oruru Block surveyed by me, being most desirable purchases, I beg herewith to report them as ready for survey, and w r ould recommend that the work be commenced as soon as possible, as the payments for these Blocks will hasten the acquisition of the Victoria valley, about which there has been much discussion of late; and, as you are aware, these lands will be a valuable acquisition, not only on account of the good soil, but fine timber. May I request your early attention to this communication ? I have, &c, H. T. Kemp, Esq., W. B. White, District Commissioner.

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No. 60. MR. COMMISSIONER KEMP TO THE CHIEF COMMISSIONER. District Commissioner's Office, Bay of Islands, 2nd October, 1858. Sir, — I have much pleasure in reporting, for the information of His Excellency's Government i that the price of the Mawhe Kairangi or Lake Block has been finally fixed at Four hundred and fifty pounds (£450). Its position, the quality of the soil, and connection with other lands over which the Native title has been extinguished, make it, I think, a desirable and valuable acquisition to the Government, and the price to be paid as reasonable as might have been expected taking the number of claimants and other circumstances into consideration, and one which I have reason to hope, will meet with His Excellency the Governor's approval. The sum of Two hundred pounds (£200) has already been advanced through your office on account of this purchase, and I boo- leave to request that the remainder may soon be furnished from Auckland, or through the Sub-Treasurer at Russell, from the unappropriated funds now in that Officer's hands. I have, &c, H. T. Kemp, District Commissioner. The Chief Commissioner, Land Purchase Department, Auckland.

R 58-395. Mawhe. The price has been fixed for Mawhe Block. VTLeUer7Nos729, 497

No. 61. MR. COMMISSIONER KEMP TO THE CHIEF COMMISSIONER. District Commissioner's Office, Bay of Islands, 4th October, 1858. Sir, — I have the honor to report, for the information of the Government, that the price for the Mokau Block, referred to in my letter of the Ist July, and containing by survey 7225 acres has been fixed at the sum named in the margin (£240). The particulars connected with the negotiations for this Block have already been transmitted to your office. I now beg to recommend for the Governor's approval the payment of the above named sum, which I think fair and reasonable, and as low as it could be made taking the ascertained quantity and other favourable points into consideration. If approved, I shall feel obliged by your forwarding the amount as early as may be convenient. I have, &c, 11. T. Kemp, District Commissioner. The Chief Commissioner Land Purchase Department, Auckland.

R 58-397. Mokau Block. Naming the sum agreed upon for the Mokau Block. ¥, Letter No. 57,~

No. 62. THE CHIEF COMMISSIONER TO MR. COMMISSIONER KEMP. Chief Land Purchase Commissioner's Office, Auckland, October 12th, 1858. Sir, — Adverting to your letter of the 22nd ult., enclosing a communication from Mr. W. B. White, and recommending the purchase of two Blocks of land named Kohumaru and Mauneataniwha, which you state were negotiated for in accordance with my instructions of the 28th October last, I have the honor to make tho following observations thereupon :— Ist. The letter referred to by you was based upon an offer made by Heremia Te Ara to dispose of a Block named Matawherohia. 2nd. You were requested on the 22nd January last to carry on negotiations for the purchase of the Matawherohia Block, and to report the probable cost and area thereof. 3rd. In your letter of the 22nd ult. you speak of the two Blocks Kohumaru and Mauneataniwha under names which have not been previously used, stating at the same time that these Blocks were referred to in my communication of the 28th October last. It is obvious, therefore, either that Kohumaru and Maungataniwha must be other names for one and the same Block, previously known as Matawherohia, or that one Block has been confounded with another.

kohdmaku and Macngataniwha. As to the naming of Blocks of Land. V. Letter No. 59, Matawhbrohia.

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To prevent the recurrence of any mistakes in future, you will be good enough in reporting a Block in any stage of its acquisition : To give, on the first mention thereof, the principal name by which the Block is known, and strictly to adhere to such name in all after communications. 2nd. To refer to former letters, if any, on same subject, giving the number and date thereof; and in acknowledging receipt of letters sent hence, to adhere to the same rule—all communications issued from this office being numbered on tho first page. It will readily occur to you, from the above observations, how liable any person unacquainted with the localities is to fall into unavoidable mistakes, being misled by names which are entirely new to him. If these Blocks should be identical with that hitherto known as Matawherohia, you are already in possession of the necessary authority for having the external boundaries surveyed, which service may be performed by the surveyor attached to your district. I have, &c, Donald Mclean, Chief Commissioner. H. T. Kemp, Esq., J.P., District Commissioner, Bay of Islands.

No. 63. MR. COMMISSIONER KEMP TO THE CHIEF COMMISSIONER. District Commissioner's Office, Bay of Islands, 16th October, 1858. Sir, — I do myself the honor to make the following Report of the Blocks of Land it is proposed should be purchased by the Government during the ensuing summer in the District of the Bay of Islands.

R 58-423. General. Report of lands which it n proposed to purchase.

The outline surveys of the foregoing Blocks will probably occupy the whole of the summer months, and during that time negotiations for additional portions may be going on. These, if kept steadily in advance, will furnish I think more than sufficient employment for a permanently attached surveyor throughout the year. The delay and uncertainty in the negotiations with the Natives is not so great as it was, and the terms under which the Government propose to deal with them for their waste Lands are now becoming better understood; so that while tho pre-emptive right of purchase is exercised only by the Crown, the extinguishment of the Native Title may go on uninterruptedly for some time to come in this District. I have, &c, H. T. Kemp, The Chief Commissioner, District Commissioner. Land Purchase Department, Auckland.

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No. Estimated Quantity. Probable Price. Locality. Acres. £ 1 2 3 Puheke Block Kohumaru Maungataniwha 3000 4000 8000 150 200 250 District of Mangonui 4 5 6 Matawherohia Taraire (south) Western side of Lake Oma8000 4000 250 200 District of Whangaroa (south side) 7 8 9 10 pere Ilauotapiri Kawa Kawa Ruapekapeka Puawa 5000 3000 5000 10,000 1000 300 150 350 350 100 District of the Bay of Islands, (western side) Acres, 51,000 £2,300

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No. 64. MR. COMMISSIONER KEMP TO THE CHIEF COMMISSIONER. District Commissioner's Office, Bay of Islands, 25th October, 1858, Sir, — Referring to my letter of the 28th June 1858, reporting certain Blocks of Land offered for sale in the neighbourhood of the Bay of Islands, some of -which, although small, are described as being within the limits or joining the site for the proposed Township. I have now the honor to report for the information of His Excellency's Government, that these blocks have been surveyed, the quantities ascertained, and the prices fixed as follows : — A. R. P. £ s. d. No. 2. Patunui 118 0 2 50 0 0 No. 3. Te Kauri 289 2 27 25 0 0 No. 5. Hikuwai 875 1 32 35 0 0 No. 6. Wharau 81 229 10 0 0 1434 3 21 £90 0 0 I have further the honor to report that the extinguishment of tho Native Title over thes» blocks removes all Native claims of importance within the boundaries set apart by the Government; and the prices named are lower than I had any reason to expect under the circumstances, but the Native sellers have in this, as well as in other instances of a similar kind, shown a disposition to meet the wishes of the Government, and to do all in their power to benefit the district at large. I have, &c, H. T.. Kemp, The Chief Commissioner • District Commissioner. Land Purchase Department, Auckland.

R 58-421. Patpnui, Ac. Reporting survey of four small Blocks. — vTYetter No, 54.

No. 65. THE ASSISTANT NATIVE SECRETARY (ACTING FOR THE THE CHIEF COMMISSIONER) TO MR. COMMISSIONER KEMP. Chief Land Purchase Commissioner's Office, Auckland, November 29th, 1858. Sir, — With reference to your letter of the 16th ulto., reporting on certain blocks of land which. you recommend should be purchased by the Government during the present summer. I have now the honor, by direction of the Governor, to inform you that His Excellency considers your report to be satisfactory, and to request that every advantage will be taken of the summer season to get the most valuable of tho Blocks specified in your Report surveyed by Mr. Kempthorne, who has been attached to your department for the purpose. I am further directed to urge upon you the necessity of your using your best endeavours to complete the purchases under negotiation in your district with the least possible delay, the quantity of land at the disposal of the Provincial Government being insufficient to meet the requirements of immigrants expected to arrive in the Colony within the next year. I have, &c, For the Chief Commissioner, H. T. Kemp, Esq., Thos. H. Smith, District Commissioner,' Assistant Native Secretary. Bay of Islands.

Geneeal. To complete purchases of Slocks under negociations. V. Letter Ko. 63,

No. 66. MR. COMMISSIONER KEMP TO THE CHIEF COMMISSIONER. District Commissioner's Office, Bay of Islands, December, 1858, Sir, — Adverting to my letter of the 2nd October, No. 29, and to yours of the 20th of the same month, No. 225, in reference to the surveys of the Hauotapiri and Kawa Kawa Blocks, I regret to have to report for the information of His Excellency the Governor that the sellers in the. first case, having changed their minds, are not willing to part with that small Block, as will b@ seen by their letter, a copy of which is herewith enclosed.

R 58-481. Hatjotapim. Kawakawa.

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2. With reference to the negotiations for the Blocks on the North and South banks of the Kawa Kawa, the former known as Pukekohe, the latter as Ruapekapeka, I have the honor to report that the Native sellers have from the first considered the sums offered to them, viz., Three hundred pounds (£300) for each block, as too low. At a rough estimate of the quantity, and taking into account the position of the land, the quality of the soil, with the average prices paid for other Blocks, I have thought the sums named to be liberal offers. 3. As some difference of opinion existed as to the quantity as well as the quality of the lands offered, I thought it my duty to enter upon a further examination, which I accordingly did, accompanied by the surveyor, Mr. Kempthorne, whose Report I now enclose, together with a sketch indicating the Blocks as originally offered, and the further extension of the boundaries, at my own suggestion, with a view to a larger sum being offered to the Natives, as well as to simplify the surveys. 4. I have further to report that the claimants (who are all of one tribe) having agreed to the suggestion made to them, I offered them on the spot the sum of One thousand pounds (£1000), subject to the approval of His Excellency the Governor, for the two Blocks thrown into one, as shown upon the sketch, and to survey their reserves for them: the entire Block averaging from eighteen to twenty thousand acres (18,000 to 20,000 acres). 5. This offer, which I thought a liberal one, taking all things into consideration, they have also declined, I therefore now beg leave to submit the case for the consideration of the Government, and to ask ■whether I may be authorized to offer the Natives a larger sum than that named; and, if so, to what amount? I should be glad to receive the instructions of the Government on this point. The position of the Block commends it to favorable consideration, and probably it may become of value in connection with a settlement in that neighbourhood. I propose, therefore, to suspend negotiations until I receive the pleasure of the Government thereupon. I have, &c, H. T. Kemp. Tho Chief Commissioner, Land Purchase Department, Auckland.

No. 67. THE CHIEF COMMISSIONER TO MR. COMMISSIONER KEMP. Chief Land Purchase Commissioner's Office, Auckland, December 14th, 1858. Sir, — I have the honor, by direction of His Excellency the Governor, to enclose herewith a copy of a letter from Maihi Paaone Kawiti, relative to some land which he wished to dispose of to the Government, with the observation that if the land is really valuable and extensive the price should be fairly proportionable to its actual value. It is my intention shortly to visit the district of the Bay of Islands for the purpose of arranging with the natives for the acquirement of this as well as of other Blocks of land, and to settle any question that may be pending with reference to land purchases in that locality, and you may inform Maihi Paaone Kawiti accordingly. I have, &c, Donald Mclean, Chief Commissioner. H. T. Kemp, Esq., District Commissioner, Bay of Islands.

Kawakawa. Respecting offer of land by Maihi P. Kawiti. V. Letters Nos. 29, 53,

No. 68. MR. COMMISSIONER KEMP TO THE CHIEF COMMISSIONER. District Commissioner's Office, Bay of Islands, 18th January, 1859. Sir, — I do myself the honor to report, for the information of His Excellency the Governor, the result of negotiations for land within the District of Mangonui, from whence I have recently returned. Kindly assisted by Mr. White, our attention was principally given to fixing the prices for the three following Blocks of land, which had already been examined by us, viz.:— No. 1. Kohumaru Block, estimated to contain about Ten thousand acres, (10,000) for which we offered the sum of Three hundred and fifty pounds (£350), but which, for the present, has beendeclined by the Natives.

i Blocks at Makgonui. Reporting prices fixed for Blocks at Mangonui. Kohumaru. i • V. LeileTNoTE'i, "

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No. 2. The Puheke Block, estimated to contain about eight thousand acres, (8000 acres) for which the sum of Three hundred pounds (£300) has been fixed. No. 3. Roihana's, or the Upper Aurere Block, estimated to contain about Five thousand (5000 acres) for which the sum of Two hundred and twenty pounds (£220) has been fixed. The above mentioned Blocks are all within a short distance of the Harbour and Township of Mangonui. Tho Ist, or Kohumaru Block, is easily accessible by water, and although the surface is very broken, there is much of the land that is desirable, with a plentiful supply of timber, including some very fine Kauri. Nos. 2 and 3 join each other, and arc open undulating land, with a great part flat. They form a part of Doubtless Bay, and are an extension of the Mangonui Country District. The soil is light and poor, and fitted principally for grazing. These purchases, if completed, will connect a long line of country North of Mangonui, over which the Native title will have been extinguished. I have, &c, H. T. Kemp. The Chief Commissioner, Land Purchase Department, Auckland.

No. 69. MR. COMMISSIONER KEMP TO THE CHIEF COMMISSIONER. District Commissioner's Office, Bay of Islands, 20th January, 1859. Sir, — I do myself the honor to transmit herewith the original Deed of the Mawhe or Lake f Block, executed by the Native Chiefs on the Bth day of December, 1858. The Block, which > contains nearly five thousand (5000) acres, is in many respects available. It is well situated, and connects, to a considerable extent, the lands over which the Native title had already been - extinguished by the Government and by private persons. The price originally asked by the Natives was, I regret to say, unreasonably high; but finally, after several months' deliberation, with the assistance of Tamati Waka, the sum of Four hundred and fifty pounds (£450) was fixed and paid—an amount less than was offered by Sir George Grey when His Excellency had it in contemplation to form a strong military position on the borders of the lake. I trust that it will be found, when surveyed, to be a desirable location for a small body of settlers, and may, in other respects, realize the wishes and expectations of the General Government, in whose hands, as a Reserve, it may be well recommended. I have, &c, H. T. Kemp, The Chief Commissioner, District Commissioner. Laud Purchase Department, Auckland.

R. 59-73. Mawhe. Forwarding Deed of Conveyance of Mawhe Block. V, Letter No. 60.

No. 70. MR. COMMISSIONER KEMP TO THE CHIEF COMMISSIONER. District Commissioner's Office Bay of Islands, 29th January, 1859. Sir — I beg to forward by this conveyance the original Deed of sale of a Block known as Mokau or Manginangina, executed by the Natives on the 28th instant, and for which the sum of Two hundred and forty pounds sterling (£240) has been paid into their hands, agreeably with your instructions. I have, &c, H. T. Kemp, District Commissioner. The Chief Commissioner, Auckland.

R. 59-74. Mokau. Forwarding Deed of Conveyance of Mokau Block. V. Letter No. 61.

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No. 71, THE ASSISTANT NATIVE SECRETARY (ACTING FOR THE CHIEF COMMISSIONER) TO MR. COMMISSIONER KEMP. Chief Land Purchase Commissioner's Office, Auckland, March 7th, 1859. Sir, — In acknowledging receipt of your letter of the 18th ult., No. 46, I am directed by His Excellency the Governor to request that you will be good enough to attend more particularly to the purchase of land in the immediate vicinity of the Bay first, as the purchases referred to in your letter of the above date can be concluded afterwards. In every instance, the surveys of external boundaries should precede the purchase of any Blocks of land that may be offered for sale by the Natives, in order to avoid dispute and misunderstanding relative thereto. Although the Blocks referred to in your letter are not required for immediate use or settlement, it is desirable that the negotiations for their acquisition should be undertaken as soon as possible after the purchase of the Kawa Kawa and adjacent Blocks has been completed. I have, &c, T. H. Smith, For the Chief Commissioner. H. T. Kemp, Esq., District Commissioner, Bay of Islands.

General. To purchase land, if possible, in the vicinity of former purchases,

No. 72. THE ASSISTANT NATIVE SECRETART (ACTING FOR THE CHIEF COMMISSIONER) TO MR. COMMISSIONER KEMP. # Chief Land Purchase Commissioner's Office, Auckland, March 4th, 1859. Sir, — With reference to your letter of the 26th January, reporting the completion of the survey of the Matawherohia Block, and that the price has been fixed at Two hundred and fifty pounds (£250), I have the honor to direct your attention to the great discrepancy between the area of this Block as ascertained by survey and ascertained by you in your Report of the 16th October, 1858— a discrepancy which has the effect of nearly trebling the price per acre, as compared with your original estimate. Under these circumstances, it will be desirable that the matter should stand over until the return of His Excellency from the South. Meanwhile, I have the honor to request that you will report for the information of the Governor whether the negotiation for this Block has proceeded so far as to commit the Government to the terms named by you, viz., Two hundred and fifty pounds for three thousand two hundred (3200) acres. I have, &c, T. H. Smith, For the Chief Commissioner. H. T. Kemp, Esq., District Commissioner, Bay of Islands.

Matawh*br«hia. V.Tetler No. 68.

No. 73. MR. COMMISSIONER KEMP TO THE CHIEF COMMISSIONER. District Commissioner's Office, Bay of Is'ands, 21st April, 1859. I have the honor to report, for the information of His Excellency the Governor, that the surveys of the Kawa Kawa Block, including the Native Reserves, have just been completed. The quantity, as at present ascertained, is as nearly as may be fifty thousand acres (50,000), inclusive of Native Reserves, (about 1500 acres). 2. That there may be no delay in making the payment, I have requested Mr. Kempthorne to furnish me with a rough copy of his plan, which I propose, for the present, to attach to the Deed of Sale. An arrangement has also been made with the Chiefs for a meeting, at which the money is to be paid. The Native Magistrate, Mr. Clendon, has undertaken to be present, so that I hope within a few days to have the pleasure of reporting to you the final completion of the

R, 59-212. Kawa Kawa. Reporting survey of the Kawa Kawa Block. V, Letter No, 66,

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COMMISSIONERS' REPORTS

purchase, with any other details connected with the cession of this Block that I think may be int»restiug and acceptable to the Government. I have, &c, H. T. Kemp, District Commissioner. The Chief Commissioner, Land Purchase Department, Auckland.

No. 74. MR. COMMISSIONER KEMP TO THE CHIEF COMMISSIONER. District Commissioner's Office, Bay of Islands, 10th June, 1859. Sir, — I do myself the honor to report, for the information of His Excellency the Governor, that as soon as the plan was prepared by the Surveyor, I proceeded on the 29th ult. to pay for the Kawa Kawa Block, accompanied by Mr. Clendon, the Resident Magistrate, Tamati Waka, and several of the Native Assessors. 2. After several addresses had been made by the Chiefs, as is the custom on these occasions, the Chief Marsh Brown Kawiti stated his unwillingness to receive the sum of Two thousand pounds (£2,000), which had been fixed by the Government as a fair and reasonable payment for the Block. 3. I have before reported that this Block was divided into two portions, one on the North bank of the river Kawa Kawa, the other on the South; Marsh Brown's claims being chiefly confined to the Southern portion. The two Blocks in point of value are nearly equal, but not in extent. 4. The proceedings were finally brought to a close by the Chiefs Tamati Pukututu, George, Renata, and others, who accepted the sum of (£1,000) One thousand pounds for the North side, which was paid to them and their followers, the Deed of Sale for that portion having been executed on the 2nd instant. The North side comprises the finest part of the land in the entire Block, and is a valuable addition to the Crown Lands in this District. 5. While abstaining from any comment on M. Brown Kawiti's general behavour throughout the negotiation, I nevertheless beg strongly to recommend that no addition be made to the sum of One thousand pounds (£1,000) set apart for his Block; as besides being its full value, the effect would be prejudicial upon the minds of the other section of his tribe, who have willingly met the terms of the Government, and are in other respects a well conducted body of Natives. I trust that these arrangements will meet with the approval of his Excellency the Governor. I have, &c, H T.Kemp, District Commissioner. The Chief Commissioner, Land Purchase Department, Auckland.

R. 59-308. Kawa Kawa. Reporting purchase of the Kawa Kawa Block. ~v7Letters Nos. 66, 73,

No. 75. MR. COMMISSIONER KEMP TO THE CHIEF COMMISSIONER. District Commissioner's Office, Bay of Islands, 10th June, 1859. Slß,^I have the honor to report, for the information of his Excellency the Governor, that the purchase of the M atawerohia Block, in the district of Whangaroa, was completed on the Bth instant, for which the sum of Two hundred and fifty pounds (£250) was paid to the Natives, and the Deed duly executed, which shall be forwarded to your office by an early opportunity. I have, he, H. T. Kemp, The Chief Commissioner, District Commissioner. Land Purchase Department, Auckland.

R. 59-309. Matawebohia, Reporting completion of the purchase of Matawerohia Block. Yrfcetters Nos, 62,72,

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No. 76. THE ASSISTANT NATIVE SECRETARY (ACTING FOR THE CHIEF COMMISSIONER) TO MR. COMMISSIONER KEMP. Chief Land Purchase Commissioner's Office, Auckland, June 14th, 1859. Sir,— With reference to your letter of the 4th November last, desiring to be informed as to what price you shall offer to the Natives for certain descriptions of land. I have the honor by direction of his Excellency the Governor to request that you will have the go©dness to suggest what you consider to be a prop* r scale for your district. I have, &c, For the Chief Commissioner, Th'os. H. Smith. H. T. Kemp, Esq., Bay of Islands.

General. To suggest a scale of prices for his District,

No. 77. THE ASSISTANT NATIVE SECRETARY (ACTING FOR THE CHIEF COMMISSIONER) TO MR. COMMISSIONER KEMP. Land Commissioner's Office, Auckland, August Ist, 1859. Sir, — I have the honor to acknowledge receipt of your communication, bearing date 12th June, in which you recommend the purchase by the Government of the Native Reserve in the Oruru Valley granted to the late Chief Nopera Panakareao. In reference thereto, I have the honor to inform you that His Excellency is not at present prepared to authorize the proposed purchase, but defers giving a final answer until further information shall enable him to form an opinion as to the expediency of the course recommended by you. I have therefore to request that you will state more particularly your reasons for recommending the alienation of this reserve by the family of the late Chief Noble : also to expresss the opinion of the Government that ample provision ought to be made in landed property to be secured to his heirs, and that it is not apparent why the Oruru is an unfit or undesirable locality for the purpose. The annoyance caused to the European settlers through the irregular occupation of the reserve by Noble's followers might possibly be removed by leasing it for a term of years. Upon the expediency or otherwise of such an arrangement you will have the goodness to report. I have, &c., Tuos. H. Smith, For the Chief Commissioner. H. T. Kemp, Esq., J.P., District Commissioner, Bay of Islands.

ORURtr. Relative to purchase of Noble's Reserve in the Oruru Block, V. Letter No. 57,

No. 78. THE ASSISTANT NATIVE SECRETARY (ACTING FOR THE CHIEF COMMISSIONER) TO MR. COMMISSIONER KEMP. Native Land Purchase Department, Auckland, August 10th, 1859. Sir — I have the honor to inform you with reference to your letter of the 7th June last that his Excellency the Governor has been pleased to authorize the purchase of the three blocks recommended by you, and at the prices therein named, Upper Kohumaru ... ... £350 Puheke ... ... ... £300 Upper Aurere ... ... ... £220 £870 And that the sum of One thousand pounds (£1,000) has this day been remitted to the Sub-treasurer at Russell, to be advanced to you upon your requisition in the usual manner. I have, he, T. H. Smith, Pro Chief Commissioner, H T. Kemp, Esq., District Comuiissioner, Bay of Islands.

Kohumaru, &c. The purchase of three Blocks near Mangonui authorized. V. Letter No. 60.

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COMMISSIONERS' REPORTS

No. 79. THE ASSISTANT NATIVE SECRETARY (ACTING FOR THE CHIEF COMMISSIONER) TO MR. COMMISSIONER KEMP. Native Land Purchase Department, Auckland, August 24th, 1859. Sir,— In acknowledging the receipt of your letter of 10th June last, reporting your proceedings in connection with the negotiations for the purchase of the Kawa Kawa Block, I have the honor by direction of the Governor, to convey to you his Excellency's approval of the same; and to inform you that the reason assigned by you for not making any addition to the (£1,000) One thousand pounds set apart for the Southern portion of the block is considered by the Government to be a valid one, I have, &c, Thos. H. Smith, Assistant Native Secretary. H. T. Kemp, Esq., District Commissioner, Bay of Islands.

Kawa Kawa. Approving of proceedings in connection with Kawa Kawa Block. V. Letter No. 74,

No. 80. MR. COMMISSIONER KEMP TO THE CHIEF COMMISSIONER. District Commissioner's Office, Bay of Islands, 12th September, 1859. Sir,- — I have the honor to report for the information of his Excellency the Governor the result of negotiations in the district of Mangonui, from whence I have just returned. 2. I have the pleasure to state that the whole of the arrangements, including the payments made as well as those fixed, have been concluded in a satisfactory manner. The plans of survey and other details of each block having been previously completed, and submitted for the inspection of the Native sellers. 3. The Blocks which have been paid for stand thus, and are all of them connected by surveyed lines with former Government purchases, or with private lands, making, with but little interruption, one continuous and complete block. Blocks. Acres. Amount paid. Waiake 6,950 ... £220 Ohinu 2,703 ... £33, with £67 advanced through Mr. White. Kaiawe 1,375 ... £58 Puheke, about ... 6,000 ... £300 Upper Kohumaru ... 11,062 ... £400 28,090 £1,011 4. In addition to the foregoing are the two following Blocks, which also join :—Ahipara, containing 9,470 acres of the finest land, for which the sum of £800 has been fixed ; and the Mangatete Block, of 4,880 acres, recovered under the Land Claims Act, for which no remuneration is required by the Natives, making the total to be — Acres. Blocks paid for ... ... ... ... ... Do. payment fixed ... ... ... ... 9,470 Do. recovered under the Land Claims Act, forming part of the entire quantity surveyed ... ... ... ... 4,880 Total, 42,440 acres. 5. By the next conveyance I hope to be able to forward the plans and descriptions of these Blocks, the Native title to which has now been extinguished. Mr. White and myself are able, in the meantime, to report them as ready for survey and occupation without any delay whatever. I have, he, 11. T. Kemp, District Commissioner. The Chief Commissioner, Land Purchase Department, Auckland,

R. 59-483. Blocks at Mangonui. Reporting payment for Blocks of Land at Man. gonui.

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No. 81. MR. COMMISSIONER KEMP TO THE CHIEF COMMISSIONER. District Commissioner's Office, Bay of Islands, 26th October, 1859. Sir, — I do myself the honor to forward descriptions of the following blocks of land surveyed and purchased within the districts of the Bay of Islands and Mangonui, for the purpose of insertion in the Government Gazette, and are all of them certified copies of the description given in the original Deed. ACRES. f 1. Matawherohia 3,746 \ 2. Kawa Kawa, (North) 15,000 Bay of Islands. 1 3. Te Kauri 289 ) 4. Patunui 188 ( 5. Wharau 18 ( 1. Kohumaru 11,C62 \ 2. Puheke 6,000 Mongonui < 3. Waiake 6,950 ) 4. Ohinu, 2,703 ( 5. Kaiawe 1,375 I have, &c, The Chief Commissioner, H. T. Kemp. Land Purchase Department, Auckland.

Bat op Islands. Mangonui. Forwarding descriptions of Blocks for Proclamation,

No. 82. THE ASSISTANT NATIVE SECRETARY (ACTING FOR THE CHIEF COMMISSIONER) TO MR. COMMISSIONER KEMP. Native Land Purchase Department, Auckland, October 28, 1859. Sir, — With reference to your letter of 13th ult., concerning a requisition for the purchase of the Ahipara block, I have the honor, by direction of the Governor, to inform you that His Excellency has been pleased to prove of the purchase being made, and that the Sub-Treasurer at Russell has been instructed to advance to you, upon your Requisition, the above-named sum for that purpose. I have, &c., 11. T. Kemp, Esq., For the Chief Commissioner, District Commissioner, Thos. 11. Smith. Bay of Islands.

R. 74-82. Ahipara. Purchase of Ahipara has been approved.

No. 83. THE ASSISTANT NATIVE SECRETARY (ACTING FOR THE CHIEF COMMISSIONER) TO MR. COMMISSIONER KEMP. Native Land Purchase Department, Auckland, October 28th, 1859. Sir,— With reference to your letter of 12th ulto., No. 73, I have the honor, by direction of His Excellency the Governor, to request that you will have the goodness to state whether the block referred , to in this Report, under the name of Waiake, is the same as that called Upper Aurere in your Report t of June 7 (No. 68). If this be the case, I am directed to call your attention to the inconvenience arising from having different names to the same block. I am further to request that you will state the circumstances which induced you to exceed the sum authorized, Three hundred and fifty pounds (£350), for the Upper Kohumaru block, and to inform you that in all cases where you find it necessary to exceed your instructions, the circumstances should be fully reported to the Government without delay, with a view to obtaining His Excellency's sanction to the same. I have, &c, H. T. Kemp, Esq, For the Chief Commissioner, District Commissioner, Thos. 11. Smith. Bay of Islands.

vTaiake. Incouvenieuce of giving two names to one block. V. Letter No. 80.

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COMMISSIONERS' REPORTS

No. 84. THE ASSISTANT NATIVE SECRETARY (ACTING FOR THE CHIEF COMMISSIONER), TO MR. COMMISSIONER KEMP. Native Land Purchase Department, Auckland, November 17th, 1859. Sir,— I have the honor, by direction of His Excellency the Governor, to request that you will have the goodness, with as little delay as possible, to complete the purchase of the Ahipara block, as authorized in my letter to you of 28th ulto., No. 149, and to forward the deed of sale, with description of boundaries, to this office, in order that this block may be proclaimed and made available for settlement. I have, &c., H. T. Kemp, Esq., Thos. H. Smith, District Commissioner, For the Chief Commissioner. Bay of Islands.

Ahipara. To complete to purchase of Ahipara Block. V. Letter No. 82,

No. 85. THE ASSISTANT NATIVE SECRETARY (ACTING FOR THE CHIEF COMMISSIONER) TO MR. COMMISSIONER KEMP. Native Land Purchase Department, Auckland, December 3rd, 1859. Sir,— His Excellency the Governor having been informed that the Native Chief Te Poihipi is willing to give up a piece of land as an extension of the Ahipara block now under negotiation, for the purpose of including within its boundaries a portion of forest land, which will add greatly to the value of the block, I have the honor, by direction of His Excellency, to request that you will as soon as possible communicate with that Chief, and take the necessary steps for securing the cession of the land referred to on reasonable terms, reporting the same for the information of the Government. I have, 856., 11. T. Kemp, Esq., J. P., Thos. H. Smith, District Commissioner, Assistant Native Secretary, Bay of Islands.

Ahipaka. Te Poihipi offers to extend the Ahipara Block, V. Letters Noa. 68, 84.

No. 86, THE ASSISTANT NATIVE SECRETARY (ACTING FOR THE CHIEF COMMISSIONER), TO MR. COMMISSIONER KEMP. Native Land Purchase Department, Auckland, December, 1859. Sir, — With reference to your letter of 12th ulto., No. 80, I have the honor to inform you that the reasons given for your paying the sum of Fifty pounds (£5O), in excess of the sum authorized for the purchase of the Upper Kohumaru block, are considered by the Governor to be satisfactory, and that the payment of the additional sum has been approved by His Excellency. I have, &c, H. T, Kemp, Esq., Thos. 11. Smith, District Commissioner, For the Chief Commissioner. Bay of Islands.

R. 59-629. KOHUMAKH. Respecting excess of £50 in payment for Upper Kohumaru, V, Letters Nos. 78, 80.

No. 87. MR. COMMISSIONER KEMP TO THE CHIEF COMMISSIONER. Land Purchase Department, Bay of Islands, 28th February, 1860. Sir,— In acknowledging receipt of your letter, of the 21th December, No. 186, requesting a further report on the offer of land at Ohaeawai, I beg leave to say, that the amount asked by the Natives

R. 60-157.* Ohaeawai. The price asked by the Natives for Ohaeawai is too high,

40

C~~No. 1

puts it out of my power, at present, to report as favourably as I could wish as to the probable completion of the purchase. The Block, which is not an extensive one, about three thousand (3000) acres of good land, has been already surveyed by the Natives—of which they hold a plan—so that, in the event of their coming to reasonable terms, there will be no delay on that account. In further compliance with the instructions of His Excellency the Governor, expressed in your communication of the 25th August, 1859, my attention has been given to the acquisition of some portion of the Native lands lying between the Waitangi and the Hokianga Road. But the Natives remain, as yet, undecided as to what part they will give up. The price authorised in your letter has been named to the principal Chiefs, and they express a desire to see that portion settled upon which has already been sold before entering into further negotiations. I have, &c, H. T. Kemp, District Commissioner, The Chief Commissioner, Land Purchase Department, Auckland,

No. 88. MR. COMMISSIONER KEMP TO THE CHIEF COMMISSIONER. Land Purchase Department, Bay of Islands, 28th March, 18(30. Sir, — I have the honor to acknowledge the receipt of yours of the 7th instant, in reference to a plan deposited by Mr. Kempthorne of an addition of 883 acres to the Taraire Block, and requesting to know if it might be proclaimed in the Government Gazette. I beg leave to report that this Block has been some time under negotiation, but the sum asked by King George is so far beyond what the Government would sanction, that I have thought best to defer its completion for the present. It is a beautiful piece of land, and would be an exceedingly valuable addition to the former Block, and would soon be taken up. I think that the sum of Ninety or One hundred pounds (£9O or £100) might be given ; and it would assist King George in paying for a vessel which has been built for him, but not delivered until the balance due is paid down. Before I make this offer, I should be glad to receive the approval of the Government. I have, &c, 11. T. Kemp, District Commissioner. The Chief Commissioner, Land Purchase Department, Auckland,

R. 60-215, Taraire. Reporting negotiations for addition to Taraire Block. V. Letter No. 54.

R. 60-340. Fqpe Small Blocks. Transmitting Deeds of Conveyance of Hikuwai, ftc. Hikuwai .. .. £35 Te Kadri ■. .. 25 Patunui .. .. 20 Wharau .. .. 10 m

No 89. MR. COMMISSIONER KEMP TO THE CHIEF COMMISSIONER. Land Purchase Office, Bay of Islands, 10th May, 1860, Sir, — I beg leave to forward the Deeds and Plans of the Blocks named in the margin. I have not been able to transmit them before, owing to the final settlement of one of the Blocks having been delayed, and subject to a decision of the Land Claims Commissioner, but which was completed on the 29th March. I have, &c. IE T. Kemp. The Chief Commissioner, Land Purchase Office, Auckland,

No. 90. MR. COMMISSIONER KEMP TO THE CHIEF COMMISSIONER. Land Purchase Office, Bay of Islands, Mem. 25th August, 1860. With reference to the accompanying letter, the District Commissioner beers to state that the Block of land known as Hikurangi has been surveyed and contains (4705 acres) four thousand

R. 60-522. Hikpbangi. Reporting the survey of Hikurangi Block.

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C—No. 1

seven hundred and five acres. It joins the Government Block at Oruru, and is in other respects a desirable purchase. Th» sum named by Mr. White, viz,, (£250) Two hundred and fifty pounds, and (£10) Ten pounds for contingent expenses, is respectfully submitted for approval, and that the amount should be forwarded by vessel by the first convenient opportunity to Mr. White's care. I have, &c, H. T. Kemp, District Commissioner. The Chief Commissioner, Auckland.

Enclosure in No. 90. Mangonui, August Bth, 1860. Sir,— I have the honor to inform you that I have this day agreed with the Native owners relative to the price of the Hikurangi Block, the survey of which I forwarded some days since. They have consented to take Two hundred and fifty pounds (£250) for the Block. The expenses for entertainment of Natives and travelling expenses will not exceed Ten pounds (£l©). I would urge that the money be paid as soon as possible, the Natives being very sickly, and the money would be the means of providing them with food of a nourishing nature, of which they stand much in need. Mr. Kemp being perhaps in Auckland will facilitate the arrangements relative to the purchases of this Block. I have, &c., W. B. White, Resident Magistrate.

No. 91. THE CHIEF COMMISSIONER TO MR. COMMISSIONER KEMP. Land Purchase Department, Auckland, October 6th, 1860. Sir, — Rawiri Parawhati having made an application at this office for a Crown Grant for a piece of land called Motukahakaha, being a Native reserve in the Whakapaku Block, purchased by you on the 22nd December, 1856. It appears that the elder brother of Rawiri, called Ruakaitoke, was a party to the deed of sale, and the applicant's name does not appear on the Deed. I have, therefore, the honor to request that you will have the goodness to report the particulars connected with this reserve, and who you consider fairly entitled to it, for the information of the Government, with as little delay as possible. I have, &c, Donald McLean, Chief Commissioner. H. T. Kemp, Esq., J.P., District Commissioner, , Bay of Islands.

WHAILAfAKU. To report on Reserve in the Whakapaku Block. V. Letter No, 28.

No. 92. THE CHIEF COMMISSIONER TO MR. COMMISSIONER KEMP. Native Land Purchase Department, Auckland, 15th December, 1860. Sir, — I have the honor by direction of His Excellency the Governor to request that you will, with the least possible delay, proceed to Mangonui and Parengarenga for the purpose of enquiring into and reporting upon the offer by the Rarawa tribe of a Block of land at the latter place, the particulars of which you will learn by perusal of the letters addressed by W. B, White, Esq., to this office, copies of which are enclosed for your information. I have, &c, Donald McLean, Chief Commigsioner. H. T. Kemp, Esq., District Commissioner, Bay of Islands.

Parengarenga. To report upon offer of land at Parengarenga.

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No. 93. MR. COMMISSIONER KEMP TO THE CHIEF COMMISSIONER. District Commissioner's Office, Bay of Islands, 14th April, 1861. Sir,— I do myself the honor to report, for the information ot His Excellency the Governor, that I recently proceeded to the districts of Mangonui and Whangaroa, carrying with me the sum of Two hundred and fifty pounds (£250), the amount agreed upon for the purchase of the Hikurangi Block, which was duly paid to the Native claimants, in the presence of the Resident Magistrate and other Officers of the Government. During my stay at Mangonui, I accompanied Mr. White to Whangaroa, for the purpose of holding a Circuit Court. I availed myself of this opportunity to hold a final meeting of the principal Chiefs concerned in the sale of a considerable Block of land ai the head of the Whangaroa Harbour, estimated to contain from thirty to thirty-five thousand acres (30 to 35,000 acres). For the Block I have been some time in treaty. Apart from its other advantages, its acquisition would be very desirable as connecting the whole of the public lands between the Bay of Islands and Mangonui, and is the only intervening Block over which the Native title has not been extinguished. Owing to the death of the principal Chief, Ururoa, of the district, our arrangements have been interrupted, and the purchase will in consequence be delayed for some time. I proposed to the Chiefs, as a safe way of ascertaining all claims, that they should with their own people first cut the lines (for which some allowance should be made at the time of offering the payment) ; and that the Government would undertake to furnish a surveyor. They promised to give a reply on a reconsideration of the proposal there made. During the holding of the Court, the state of the country and other political subjects were freely discussed by the Chiefs ; and in reply to many questions put by them, Mr. White and myself furnished them with such information as we were able, and thought suitable under the circumstances. I have, &c, H. T. Kemp, The Chief Commissioner, District Commissioner. Land Purchase Department, Auckland.

R. 61-215. Hikurangi. Reporting completion of the purchase of Hikurangi Block. V, Letter No. 90.

No. 94. MR. COMMISSIONER KEMP TO THE CHIEF COMMISSIONER. District Commissioner's Office, Bay of Islands, 17th April, 1861. Sir, — In continuation of my Report of the 14th instant, I have the honor to report, for the information of His Excellency, that the remainder of the Block of land near the North Cape, which i has been under negotiation, has been withdrawn for the present in consequence of a disagreement' between the Native claimants. The terms proposed to them were these : That if they required a' Reserve for their own use, the Government would have it surveyed for them, and then to offer them a lump sum for the Block. The necessity for an outline survey of the whole Block being in this instance dispensed with, from the fact of its being clearly defined by natural lines, as well as by other surveys, already made at the Government expense. This claim, although of considerable extent, is inferior in quality, and not required at the present time for settlers. Should the Natives agree to our terms, I think'it may be purchased for a reasonable sum, I have, &c, H. I. Kemp, The Chief Commissioner, District Commissioner. Land Purchase Department, Auckland.

R. 61-216. North Cape. Negotiations for Block near the North Cajie postponed,

No. 95. MR. COMMISSIONER KEMP TO THE CHIEF COMMISSIONER. District Commissioner's Office, Bay of Islands, 7th June, 1861. Sir, I have the honor to acknowledge your letter of the 16th ult,, requesting a general report on land purchasing opeiation in this district from the Ist to the 31st March, 1861; a visit to the Natives on the coast has prevented my replying to it as early as I could have wished, I beg now to forward

General. General Report of Land operations in his district.

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COMMISSIONERS' REPORTS

the form filled in, with such other information as I think the Government would desire to have on the subject. During the period above named, it would be observed that but little land has been added to the blocks already in the hands of the Government. In noticing the cause which has led to this deficiency, I should briefly state that the differences which have unavoidably arisen between the Government and the Natives in the South connected with extinction of the Native Title have been the permanent subject of discussion with the Natives here, and to that they have given their earnest attention; while this question remained, as it were, in abeyance, it seemed to be desirable in the meantime to endeavour to remove any impression which might be found to be in opposition to the views and wishes of the Government on this head. Another view of the question has been this, it has been suggested to the natives, that the present system of purchase has been but part of a scheme under which to dispossess them of their lands, (the price given for below its real value,) and eventually to confirm their own claims to certain limited spots; the residue to hecome unconditionally the property of the crown. I think that the Natives here would be glad to see some modification in the present mode of extinguishing the Native Title—at present, their confused notions of the real value of land, make it sometimes very difficult to convince them, that the price paid per acre by the Government for Waste Lands is generally speaking fair and reasonable. I have, &c, The Chief Commissioner, H. T. Kemp, Land Purchase Department. District Commissioner. Auckland.

Enclosure 1 to No. 95.

H, T. Kemp, District Commissioner.

Enclosure 2 to No. 95.

H T. Kemp, District Commissioner,

44

Blocks. .a 3 52 £ rfl IJ1 \U <D "fl g +3 fcJD S-43H .13 * - O Ci H - 0 o 02 CO ,9 o o 3 to I S te =*« o o O te S §sS o ■C O ; S cf-3 c.SS H o S3 IS H , o 03 o Acres. Acres. Ahipara Block (additional) 800 Waipapa E40 or nearly so. Waipapa Head of Waihou, Hokianga | Bush 9,000 180 Te Pupuke Head of the Wangaroa Bush and open ground; kauri 1 35,000 Ngahikunga Sikurangi 5,000 Parengarenga Adjoining the Ahipara block,south side Kawa Kawa. Open sandy ' country | 40,000 Kawa Kawa Good, in small patches. I 25,000 Taraire South Head of the Takou riyer. Good, open and bush 1 800 109,800 5,098

Bay of Islands District. Land Under Purchased. Negotiation. Total of Area. Sums Paid. Sums Payable. i Acres. Acres. Acres. £ 'o March, 1861 217,718 109,800 327,518 7,558 Bfone.

C—No. 1

No. 96. MR. COMMISSIONER KEMP TO THE CHIEF COMMOSSIONER. District Commissioner's Office, Bay of Islands, 10th June, J 861. Sir,— I have the honor to supply the following information, on the several points called for in your letter of the 20i.h ultimo, in reference to land purchases in this district. The form filled in as first requested has been already forwarded, shewing the quantity of land now in the hands of the Government, and the blocks for which it is now in negotiation with a view to purchase. To the first clause of your letter, as to whether any difficulties or claims exist, with reference to any particular block, I have the honor to report, that a claim has been made by Marsh Browne Kawiti, for a small portion on the North Kawa Kawa block, of about eight hundred acres (800 acres), for which he asks the sum of Two hundred pounds (£200). This claim was not made by him until after the purchase was completed and the money paid. His reason for making this claim is this, that he did not receive, through his representatives present at the sale, a fair share of the payment which was by general consent and arrangement apportioned to Marsh Browne and his immediate followers for that particular part of the block. This land is not required for immediate use, and I have therefore felt it that to be my duty to refuse, under the circumstances, the payment of so large a sum. I believe that the claim may, in cours ■ of time, be met and settled for the sum of forty or fifty pounds. In reply to the second part of your Circular, 1 beg to repoit that I am not aware of any claims which arise out of transactions not yet completed, neither are there any out-standing payments to be made to the Natives on account of any blocks purchased; and in reference to the last paragraph, I have the pleasure to state, that I am not aware of any disputes connected with boundaries of lands or reserves within the blocks already purchased, or those under negotiation. Bearing in mind the instructions from time to time received as regards the investigation of claims and their final adjustment, I have endeavoured, as nearly as it was possible to do so, to ascertain all, individual as well as general or tribal claims. In some instances, much time has been unavoidably taken up, so as to arrive at a satisfactory conclusion and settlement of these claims. Referring to the blocks purchased throughout the district as they now stand, I do not find any claims or opposition on the part of the Natives, with the exception of the one above mentioned. On a subject involving so many interests, and a fruitful source of dispute and litigation, as between the Natives themselves, it became necessary to be guarded and watchful, lest^ those annoyances should be entailed on the Government or the settlers. I have every reason to hope that this state of things will remain undisturbed, so long as agents conversant with the various claims are on the spot prepared to meet any objections that might eventually arise on the part of any unknown Natives claimants. I desire, at the same time, to be allowed to express an opinion that some modification on the present mode of extinguishing Native Title would be acceptable to the Natives, under which individuals as well as tribes might convey portions of land to persons of the European race; the Government always exercising a check, where the parties purchasing are found to be mere speculators, rather that bona fide settlers. The question, however, is one deserving such grave consideration, that I hesitate to do more than make this incidental reference to a change that might perhaps be beneficial in certain districts to persons of both races, always assuming the Government to be, in such districts, in the full exercise of its power and authority. On looking through the claims in this district, I cannot find at present any claims or objections on the part of the Natives which could not be settled with a little care and management, and none I think that would be found to entrammel the Government, or bring about a collision with the original sellers. I have, &c, H. T. Kemp, , District Commissioner. The Chief Commissioner, Land Purchase Department, Auckland.

General, Reporting further as to the state of his District,

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WHANGAREI DISTRICT.

No. 1. THE HONORABLE THE COLONIAL SECRETARY TO MR. COMMISSIONER JOHNSON. Colonial Secretary's Office, 22ud January, 1854. Sir, — In the event of any offer to sell land being made to you by the Natives while on your visit to the North, I am directed by his Excellency the officer administering the Government to inform you that you are at liberty to complete an agreement with them on the following terms, viz., If for a large block, including all lands, not more than 6d. an acre. If for smaller desirable blocks, which may prove available at once, and likely to be soon required, you may give as much as Is. per acre. I have, &c., Andrew Sinclair, Colonial Secretary. J. G. Johnson, Esq., Sub-Commissioner for the Purchase of Native land.

__ General. Conveying authority to Mr. Johnson to purchase land.

No. 2. MR. COMMISSIONER JOHNSON TO THE HONORABLE THE COLONIAL SECRETARY. Whangarei, 20th March, 1854. Sir,— I have the honor to inclose the Deeds of conveyance from the Aboriginies to the Crown, of the three purchases named in the margin, which will be now finally completed, if His Excellency the officer administering the Government should be pleased to approve of the measures which I beg to propose for arranging the obstructions which still attend them. It will be observed, that I have included in the receipts attached to the Deed of the Mangawhai, the additional sum of Sixty pounds (£6O), the outlay of which I reported in my letter of the 3rd instant. It became necessary to settle this demand of a Chief named Paratene Taupuhi, who disputed a part of the boundary, after all the details had been arranged by a Committee of the Chiefs, and had nearly prevailed on them to break off the negotiations; but on consideration of the said sum of Sixty pounds, he gave a range of valuable kauri timber, part of which was included in the original boundary agreed upon, and part in addition of about 1000 acres in extent, the particular portion alluded to being shown in the enclosed sketch of these purchases. I had the honor to bring under your notice in my preliminary report of the 31st December last, the claim of the Chief Tirarau, for the sum of One hundred pounds (£100), over this block as I then stated, for a battle fought between the Ngapuhi and Ngatiwhatua tribes at the Ikaranganui, but which claim could not be sustained, as that place was not included in the present purchase; and I now regret to state that Tirarau urges the same claim, on account of a canoe upsetting on the bar of the Mangawhai river, in which a relative of his was drowned, a Chief named Hikaotote, a brother of Parore. The Ngatiwhatua tribes, the owners of Mangawhai, remonstrated with apparent justice, that as this catastrophe was occasioned by the sea, they would not submit to their land being taxed with it, and absolutely refused to sell their land subject to the condition of this payment, and I hoped that Tirarau would have relinquished this unreasonable demand; but on the contrary, on my arrival at Whangarei he came over from the Wairoa to see me, and urged his claim with great firmness, threatening to burn the house of any settler who might go to the land, unless his claim is satisfied. From the well known character of this Chief, I have no doubt but that he would attempt to put his threat into execution; and I would therefore bring this claim to His Excellency's favourable consideration, more on the ground of its involving the question of the peace of the country, than because of its equity. Notwithstanding this exaction on the part of Tirarau, which proceeds more from a species of Native pride than from avarice, he is a Chief well disposed towards the Government and the Europeans generally, and incongruous however as these circumstances may appear, he has taken the lead of the

Mangawhai. Forwarding Deed of pur chase, and reporting on Mangawhai, Waipu, and Ruakaka-

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COMMISSIONERS' REPORTS

parly in favour of selling their lands to the Government, and has offered a valuable tract of country for sale, extending into the centre of one of the finest districts in the Colony, and which will be the means, I hope, of its eventually being all purchased; his influence is paramount, in whichever way it is directed in this part of the island, and his good offices being obtained in our favour, will materially assist the more firm establishment of the authority of the Government in these newly acquired districts, where the Natives are not in such an advanced state of civilization, or so attached to the Government, as in many other parts of the Colony. I would next proceed to report upon the settlement of the two purchases named from the rivers which intersect them, the Ruakaka and the Waipu, which comprise a portion of the enormous extent of country claimed by Mr. Busby, and inhabited by that party of the Aborigines who opposed the Government in the War in the North. The attempts of Mr. Busby to frustrate my operations, together with the efforts of a socity which exists amongst the Natives, at the head of whom is the widow of John Heke, for the purpose of preventing the sale of land to the Europeans, caused me much trouble and anxiety, and as it may not be uninteresting, I beg to enclose a copy of a circular letter of the said society at Kaikohe addressed to the Chiefs of Whangarei, which, by the Native mind, is considered a very talented exhortation, and which met with great applause when read at the several meetings of the claimants; and had I adopted the usual and safer method of assembling all the claimants before making my payment, the influence of <he before-mentioned agencies would have been apt to have terminated in preventing the sale of the land; but bearing in mind the strong desire which His Excellency had expressed to have lands obtained for the settlers, I felt assured that the Government would approve of my obtaining this tract of country, even at some further outlay, than of my relinquishing the attempt from the apparent difficulties which appeared to surround it; and, actuated by this principle, I accepted the offers of the Chiefs who first came forward to sell the Ruakaka, and paid to them the sum of One hundred pounds (£100) for their claims, reserving the sum of Two hundred arid fifty pounds (£250) to satisfy the other parties with whom 1 had not yet come to terms. This decisive step showed the opposition that when the real owners of land are disposed to sell to the Government it is not to be intimidated by the clamour of disaffected factions, exercising very little, if any, ownership at all over the lands sought to be purchased ; and with the assistance of the Chiefs Mate and Pwihoro, whom, in anticipation of these attempts to frustrate my object,! had prevailed on to accompany me to Whangarei from Mahurangi and Kaipara, I was enabled finally to overcome these obstacles and bring this purchase to a conclusion, on the conditions that a certain portion of the block reserved by the Natives at the Ruakaka be purchased by the Government for the sum of Seventy pounds (£7oj, that portion being the private property of the Chief Mate who resides at Kaipara, and which he does not choose to leave for the use of the Ruakaka Natives; and as, being a new purchase, I propose to make it the subject of a separate communication. With reference to the Waipu, I adopted a similar course, and having first ascertained by a careful enquiry that the Chief Te Wiremu and party were the principal owners, I paid to them an instalment of Two hundred pounds (£200); they on their part undertaking to satisfy the claims of the Chiefs Tirarau and George King Tahua. Two other parties of claimants next appeared, and their claims having been investigated and admitted to be just by the other parties, I paid to them a sum of One hundred pounds (£100), reserving the remaining Fifty pounds (£5O) to meet any unforseen difficulties which might arise. On the 17th instant a general meeting of all the claimants connected with this block was held at Otaika in Whangarei, and although the payments which I had made to the varinus claimants met the approval of this meeting, the Chief's Tirarau and George King Tahua refused the share alloted to them by Te Wiremu's party, and are not contented with the Fifty pounds (£5O) at my disposal, but demand a further sum of Fifty pounds (£5O), and also a Chief named; Pirihi urges a further sum of Ten pounds (£10), on account of relatives massacred on the ground. Ido not think that the nature of their claims, which are liens on the laud, on account of their relations who have been killed on it by the Ngatiwhatua, entitle them to more than the Fifty pounds (£5O), which 1 have appropriated to this purpose; but they are powerful Chiefs and measure the value of their claim by their power to enforce its payment, and lookingto the future peace and prosperity of this part of the country, as well as the influence which these Chiefs are able to exert over the future further acqusition of land, I do not believe that the expenditure of these sums of money will ultimately prove a loss to the Crown, and I have the most solemn assurances from the Chiefs at the meeting- at Otaki, that, if the demands are Complied with, the undisputed possession of the land will be obtained for ever. Taking this tract of country of 22 miles frontage to the sea, and extending back from 6 to 10 miles inland, at a very moderate calculation to contain 100,000 acres, the amount already advanced as per enclosed Schedule, together with the sum required to meet the out-standing claims, and new purchases, to satisfy the claimants, will not quite increase the average cost of these three blocks to the sum of Five pence (5d.~) per acre. I have, &c, John Grant Johnson, Sub-Commissioner for purchase of Native Lands. The Honorable The Colonial Secretary. &c, &c, &c.

V Enclosures Nos. 1, 2.

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COMMISSIONERS' REPORTS •

Enclosure 1 to No. 2. Tautoro, February, 1854, Office of Korongohi and Kuao. 0 Chiefs op Whangarei,— Let your deliberations he guided by wisdom, and do not let your thoughts be averse to our word. The reason we so addre"ss you is because we have fought together (against the Europeans) for the land, which was the reason of the message we sent by the Maremare. Let the hill of Manaia stand for ever. Let the hill at Whara remain untouched for ever; vessels are broken, money is lost, but the land does not fade away. If we were wishing this land for ourselves, you might be displeased with us, but we wi«h you to keep it for a hearth for your own fires. It is the possession of our land which makes us esteemed. Whether a child, a woman, or a man, if the land goes into the possession of the European, we shall not be so regarded; one man may be esteemed, and another may not. If the land is not given away, even the lowest among us can till his ground, and obtain tobacco and clothes, and all the other articles of the Europeans; but there is nothing that can be obtained from them without payment, nothing at all. Perhaps to the Chiefs they may give something. What else have we to depend upon? Therefore we say, hold fast the land, —bye-and-bye we shall find what value it is, as we have been told by the Europeans who formerly lived amongst us. All the sea-birds return to the dry land to hatch their young under the cover of their wings. It was never intended that they should be brought forth on the sea —not at all. Likewise the vessels, they return to the shore, and obtain their freight, potatoes and corn and pumpkins: thus this description of canoe obtains its cargo. Therefore we say the land is of more importance than ns: it is above us, and we are its children. Pohe thinks otherwise, —these sentiments are wrong in his idea. Therefore we say to you, do not be angry .with Sydney: these opinions are the grounds of his conduct, good or bad—hold the land, hold it fast; therefore he says — (Here follows a popular War Song.) To Maunsell To Stephen Hari, To A mo, To Kare Kare, To Pohe.

Enclosure 2 to No. 2. No Tautoro, Pepuere 18, 1854, Whare Tuhituhi o Korongohi raua ko Kuao. E nga Rangatira .o Whangarei,— Kia marama nga whakaaro; kei pouri o koutou whakaaro ki to maua kupu, ta te mea maua i pena atu ai, ko koutou ko matou i whawhai tatou mo te whenua; koia ta maua kupu i maua atu na c te Maremare. Koia tenei puke i Manaia, tv te ao tv te po; puke ite Whara, tv te po, tv te ao. Ko te kaipuke kua pakaru, ko te moni kua ngahoro, kot.e whenua i kore i memeha. Kapatau he whenua mo maua, c kino ai koutou; tena he kaanga ano mo tau kapura, ma te whenua ka meinga he tamaiti, ka meinga he wahine, ka meinga he tangata ; kite. riro i te Pakeha te whenua, c kore c meinga ko tatou, penei kotahi tangata c paingia, kotahi c kore c paingia. Tena kite kore c riro te whenua, ka mahi nga tutua kite whenua, ka tahi ka riro mai te tupeka, me te kahu, me nga mea katoa a te Pakeha c mahue atu ana. Otira, hore rawa kia kotahi he mea homai noa, engari pea nga rangatira, kahore ranei. Mavvai ranei ka tika ai te tikanga mo tatou? Koia maua ka mea atu nei, kia v mai; tena ano tona wahi c kite ai tatou i tona nuiriga. E rongo ana hoki tatou ki nga Pakeha Maori o mua; ma hoki ko nga manu katoa o te moana c hoki ana kite tuawhenua whakaimi ai i ana pi ki ana pakau, kihai i mea kia wnanau kite moana, kahore rawa. Ko nga kaipuke c v ana ki uta; ko ona utangahe riwai, he kaanga, he paukena, ka whai utanga tena waka, te kaipuke. Koia maua ka mea atu nei, ko te whenua kei runga ake i a tatou, ko tatou hoki ana tamariki. Kia Pohe pea ehe ana ki ona whakaaro. Koia maua ka mea atu nei kia koutou, kei riri koutou kia Hirini, no kona ano ana mahi kino fina malii pai Puritia mai te wherua, kia v mai ; ma hoki c mea ana ia, "Ko te Puru, ko te Puru Tokatoka kia uwe uwe, a kia tutangatanga ai te riri ia. Ekore te riri c tae mai ki Kaipara, %c. ' Kia Te Manihera, Kia Tipene, Kia Te Amo, Kia Te Karekare, Kia Pohe.

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50

Enclosure 3 in No. 2. SCHEDULE OF NATIVE CLAIMANTS TO MANGAWHAI, SHEWING THEIR GROUND OF CLAIM, AND THE AMOUNT AWARDED TO THEM.

John Grant Johnson, Sub-Commissioner.

Enclosure 4 to No. 2. SCHEDULE OF NATIVE CLAIMANTS TO THE RUAKAKA AND WAIPU, SHEWING THEIR GROUND OF CLAIM, AND THE AMOUNT AWARDED TO THEM.

Name. Nature of Claim. 'Locality. Amount. Parihoro Te Uranga Kiri Honi Tanga Te Tatana Kakano £ s. d. Right by inheritance, being progenitors of the Kawerau tribe, who owned this part of the country. The Arai, southern extreme of the purchase. 200 0 0 Putahi Maewa Matikikuha Paramene Karawai ... Mate Taupuhi Pita Wakapoe Toimara Iraia... Heremaia Parata Nikora Pehimana Tahere Karore Te Awaiti Topa Tatana Manukau Himeona Right of inheritance from their ancestors, the Ngaitahuhu, the owners of this part of the country; also occupancy and possession to the present time. The portion to the back and the eastward and south of the Mangawhai. 360 0 0 Hone Ariki Wiremu ... Tipene Pehimana MSiaka Waitoitoi Te Kepa Korehunga ... Hemi Tetaha Ihimaira Ipamoka Anara Te Awe Kaipaka Poare Wiremu Tamihana ... Tianui Pakerin Paikea, Arama Karaka... Hone Waiti Pueniko ... Taimona, Wetere Pou... Puhipi Mekekati Tamati Taia, Te Whai... Hemi Kawewai Wiremu Karaka Apo... Matiu Kuia Puriri Right of inheritance from their ancestors, the Ngaitahuhu, the original owners; also occupancy and possession to the present time. Northern side of Mangawhai, Bream Tail, The Rao Bao, and to the extreme at Wakatarariki. 500 0 0 £1,060 0 0

Names of Claimants. Nature of Claim. Locality. Amount awarded. Pou Wi te Whai Heke Tahu TotaraWata Matiu Descendants of the Earaku, to whom the lower portion of the valley of the Ruakaka was given by the Kahore, Chief of the District, also possession up to the present time. Lower portion of the valley of the Ruakaka. 50 0 © Te Mania. Wiromu ... Karore, Patu Owha ... Karaka Maki ... Herewhii Waitapu Paraone Ngariki AnaruWhetu Descendants of a family who were allowed to settle on Eangiora, and whose Chief was buried there. North-western side of Eangiora. 50 0 0

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COMMISSIONERS' REPORTS

SCHEDULE OF CLAIMANTS TO THE RUAKAKA AND WAIPU, continued.

Fifty Pounds of the amount authorised for these purchases has not yet been expended,—it having been ased in the payment of the extra Sixty Pounds for the Mangawhai. r J John Grant Johnson, Sub-Commissioner.

Enclosure 5 in No. 2. LIST OF FURTHER SUMS DEMANDED BY THE NATIVES, TO COMPLETE THE PURCHASE MANGAWHAI, RUAKAKA, AND WAIPU.

John Grant Johnson, Sub-Commissioner.

51

Nature of Claim. Locality. Amount awarded. Names of Claimants. Mate, Maewa ... Ngahuru, Hone Putahi, Kongo... Parata, Mum ... Kawanui Pera Pirita Pita Tawaiwai... Potaka ... - '■" J Descendants of a Chief, named the Kahore, who, after conquest of the Ngaitahuhu, married a Chieftainess of that Tribe, and obtained possession of this District, and who have kept possession ever since. Part of the west or inland o: Native Reserve. 150 0 0 Pirihi ... Paora Peu Ti Era Toenga §1 Ngapuhi, who have crossed the harbour of Whangarei, and hold by conquest possession of the north side of Ruakaka river. Side next Rangiora. 50 0 0 Te Rehe And party ... ::: i Inherited from his grandfather Ngaki, descendant of the Raraku. Pohuenui. 50 0 0 Tutahi Ponahia Wakataka Bameka Hei Mohi .*. i Right by conquest of Waipu some generations back by their ancestor, Te Hakiki, and undivided possession held ever since. Waipu. 200 0 0 Hemara Rimi Whiri Ngahuru TeWhetu Patuhiwi ... - Descendants of the Te Hahiki, related to the Ngaitahuhu and Koriri, the original possessors. 50 0 0 Hone Kingi Tipa Te Hu ::: ) Waipu. TeRehe Descendant of Te Hakihi and Te Raraku. 50 0 0 £650 0 0

Name. Nature of Claim. Amount. £ s. d. 60 0 0 Paratene Taupuhi For extension of boundary of Manga whai,of 1000 acrcs,reported March3,1854. Mate Por portion of Native Reserve surrendered to Government, 1500 acres. 70 0 0 Tirarau ... Claim for upsetting of a canoe on the bar of the Mangawhai, in which his relative was drowned. 100 0 0 Ho'ri Kingi Tahua Te Pirihi I Claims for their relations killed in various encounters at Waipu. 60 0 0 £290 0 0

C—No. 1

No. 3. . MR. COMMISSIONER JOHNSON TO THE HONORABLE THE COLONIAL SECRETARY. Mahurangi, 30th March, 1854. Sir, — I have the honor to state for the information of His Excellency the Officer Administering the Government, that I have returned from Whangarei, and am engaged in negociating with the Natives, for the purchase of a tract of country, known as the " Kaipara Flats," and situated to the westward of this place. Having fully reported upon the purchases lately effected in the Whangarei district, in my letter of the 20th instant, I deemed it more conducive to the public service to proceed with the purchase of land in the Mahurangi district, complaints having been macie by the Natives that the settlers were pushing beyond the boundaries of the Government Block, and upon the land offered lor sale. The chief Mate has preceded me to Auckland, and it would be very desirable if the arrangements suggested in my report of the 20th instant, relative to the Native Reserve at the Ruakaka be approved by His Excellency, that the sum of Seventy pounds (£7O), which would then, be eligible for that Chief, be paid to him without awaiting my arrival. The claimants to the Kaipara Flats are now assembled together, and appear intent on selling; but even my temporary absence for a few days might result in the postponement of the purchase of this part of the country, which 1 learn from the District Surveyor is much required by intending settlers. I have, &c, John Grant Johnson, Sub-Commissioner for the Purchase of Native Land. The Hon. the Colonial Secretary.

Ahuroa and Kourawhero. Is negotiating for the purchase of the Kaipara Flats. V. Letter No. 2,

No. 4. THE CHIEF COMMISSIONER TO MR. COMMISSIONER JOHNSON. Land Commissioner's Office, Auckland, 18th May, 1854. ►SIR, — The increasing demand for land by the European inhabitants of this Province renders it necessary that measures should be at once adopted to acquire additional tracts of country from the Natives. Ist. Your residence for so many years in the Northern portion of this Island, and the knowledge you possess of the different tribes inhabiting it, suggest that you are peculiarly qualified to undertake negociations for the purchase of land in the Northern part of the Auckland Province. 2nd. The District, therefore, which I propose for the present to assign to you for carrying on these duties, comprises the whole of the country lying North of the portage between the Waitemata and Kaipara; I have every confidence that you will use your utmost exertion to acquire from the Natives the whole of their lands within this District,' which are not essential for their own welfare, and that are more immediately required for the purposes of colonization. 3rd. Having thus conveyed to you in general terms the urgent necessity for acquinng'land, you must use your own discretion as to the particular tracts of country which you should first endeavour to purchase; but it is important before entering on fresh negociations that you should pay the instalments due "to the Natives for the purchases you have been conducting at Wangarei; for this purpose, a sum of Two hundred and twenty pounds (£220) is placed at your disposal. 4th. It is essential that you should take an early opportunity to visit the Ka'para District, to arrange a dispute between the Ngapuhi and Uriohau tribes, respecting some land claimed by Mr. O'Brien, as the dispute is likely, if not speedily adjusted, to interfere with the important trade carried on in that River. sth. I need not point out to you the necessity of encouraging the Natives to act with greater fidelity in their !and transactions than they have been recently in the habit of doing ; and I trust that by a careful, steady, and systematic arrangement of their claims, with a clear understanding respecting the external boundaries of the lands they dispose of, and the blocks they retain for their own use, that many of the impositions; they have been practising will be abandoned Wherever practicable, it would be most advisable that the reserves for the Natives should be situated within natural boundaries, such as rivers, creeks, bills, ranges, or other conspicuous features of the country. 6th. The Natives should be advised of the advantages of re-purchasing properties lor themselves out of the Crown Lands, under the Regulations of the 4th March, 1853, as nothing will more effectually improve their condition, than substituting their present precarious and unsatisfactory tenure for a permanent holding under the Crown, which also extends to them an interest in the political institutions of the Colony from being qualified to vote at elections. 7th. When you have established yourself in some central position io your District, I shall write you more fully as to any change in the system which should in future be adopted for acquiring land

General. Instructions as to purchase of Native lands.

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from the Natives, and I shall be glad to hear frequently from you, and to receive any suggestions on this subject, which your local experience may enable you to give. Bih. In any treaty with the Natives for the cession of their lands, it is most desirable that they should fully comprehend its nature, and the boundaries should be inserted with the greatest possible care, and in general they should be read aloud three times in the presence of the Natives, whose assent should be unanimously given before appending their signatures to the transfer. Two copies of the description of deeds that I have been in the habit of using are herewith enclosed for your guidance; and, as far as the circumstances are applicable to your District, this form of deed should be adopted, but you are not to insert any clause for additional per centage being paid ta the Natives until definite instructions are issued to you on this subject. In order to facilitate the arrangements for the acquisition of land from the Natives, it is my intention to submit for the consideration of His Excellency the Officer Administering the Government, a statement of the necessary expenditure and department that may be required for this purpose, but as the local requirements of each District must be in many instances dissimilar, and subject to contingencies which cannot be at present anticipated, you will be kind enough to give the earliest information of what you consider are the particular requirements of this department in the Northern. District. I have, &c, Donald McLean, Land Commissioner. John Grant Johnson, Esq., J.P., Sub-Commissioner for the purchase of lands from the Natives.

No. 5. MR. COMMISSIONER JOHNSON TO THE CHIEF COMMISSIONER. Hot Springs, Mahurangi, June 3rd, 1854. Sir, — I have the honor to inform you that I have seen the piece of land offered for sale by Kereihi, the wife of the Chief Wiremu Reweti of Orakei,fand beg to recommend its purchase for the sum of One hundred pounds (£100) being the amount which she expressed her willingness to receive for it some time since. The name of the place is Parekakau, and it is, properly speaking, a portion of the Wainui, reported. on in my letter to yourself of this day's date, and to the plan accompanying which I beg to refer you for a description of it. It appears to have been given up as a portion to Kereihi and her immediate relations by the Natives of this place ; and I think it would be advantageous to purchase it for the sum I have named, which might be paid at Auckland, where the owner resides. The extent is about fifteen hundred acres, and the quality of the ground is of much the same character as the rest of the block which I have already described. I have been disposed to recommend a liberal price for these two blocks with a view to incite the owners of the land behind Mahurangi, known as the " Kaipara Flats," to bring the negociations -which are being carried on with them to a favourable termination. I have, &c, John Grant Johnson, Sub-Commissioner for purchase of Native Land. Donald McLean, Esq., J.P., Commissioner for purchase of Native Land. "iimmwi iiimp.Wiwmw.wwwwiTr»f'mi»HW».rwawwißsBß»ai3CM

E. 54-45. Parekakau. 1 Reporting offer by Wiremu Reweti of a block of 1500 acres. [ V. Letter No. &

• No. 6. MR. COMMISSIONER JOHNSON TO THE CHIEF COMMISSIONER. Hot Springs, Mahurangi, June 3rd, 1854. Sir, — I have the honor to inform you that I have this day returned from the inspection of a tract of country offered for sale by certain Natives named in the margin,* who are descendents of the ancieDt Kavcrau tribe, for the sum of Eight hundred pounds (£800.)

K. 54-44. "Wainui. Reporting offer of the Wainui block of 14,1)Q acres.

* Note. —Hemara, Te More, Tirohia, Kahe, Tutamoe, Paora, Tamiwahine, Pani, Wakatea, Hori Kingi Te Eoa, Taikiamana, Wi Hemara, Koniria, Pohipi Ngonge, Makaore, Eapana, Arama Karaka, Heiiare Winiata, Te Peta, Te Waka Tuaea, Henare Te EawHti, Paora Kawaru, Kaupapa, Tohetai, Toehau, Kawerahi, Te Hemara Tamaiti, Herewini, Tamihaua, Perte, Te Beweti, Hira, Mereana, Hiria, Heni, Matiu, Makereta, Piri Paraone, Takaia, Nikora, Herekino, Taihora,

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COMMISSIONERS' REPORTS

This tract of country is known by the name of the Wainui, and is situated immediately behind that part of the Mahurangi Block which lies between the Orewa and Waiwerawera creeks ; and I estimate the contents, after a careful survey of two of the sides according to the enclosed plan, to contain fourleen thousand acres. The flooded state of the creeks during the late rains prevented my reaching the North-western angle of this block ; but the bearing being taken by compass from the other points would leave the boundary sufficiently determined, until a proper survey could be undertaken at a more propitious season of the year. This block is of an available character, being composed of low ranges covered with the most magnificent kauri forest, and intersected with hollows of open land capable of cultivation ; and I would urge you to recommend its purchase by the Government, as it is only distant about twelve miles from the North Siiore of the Waitsmata River, and lies in the direct track of the proposed Northern road through Mahurangi to the Bay of Islands. The position of the back boundary of the old Mahurangi purchase, which was cut by Mr. Reader Wood, the present Deputy Surveyor General, does not appear to be known by the persons engaged in the timber trade, and several parties with Government licenses are now cutting wood on the Native lands. The Maories, in the first instance, rather'connive at these proceedings; but when a large quantity of sawn stuff has accumulated at the pits, they come down upon the sawyers suddenly, and detain the timber until their demand for compensation is satisfied. A case of this nature came to my knowledge, where the European had to pay this party of Natives the sum of One hundred pounds (£lo0) ; and in other cases " bushes," or portions of forest land, have been purchased for as much as One hundred and fifty pounds (£150) ; and in one instance a Mr. Maurice Kelly is reported to have monopolized the timber over all the country between the Weiti and the Waitemata River, by direct purchase from the Native owners; and that he retails portions of the same to other Europeans at a great profit, much to the dissatisfaction of the public, who consider the right of leasing timber on land which is not private property to belong to the Crown alone. You will no doubt see, without further explanation, the very detrimental effect that these irregular proceedings must produce upon the endeavours which are made to extinguish the Native title to this part of the country ; and it also prevents the sawyers from settling down and purchasing land, which many of them would do, where they could combine a small farm with their avocation, which would tend much to elevate the condition of this class of laborers in the colony ; and for which purpose the portion of country now offered appears well adapted. I would therefore suggest for your consideration that the sum of Six hundred pounds (£600), be paid down immediately to the sellers ; and that the sum of Two hundred pounds (£200) be retained until the Ist of January, 1855, by which time a survey of the land can be undertaken, if the adjoining blocks should not be previously obtained from the Natives, Should the foregoing arrangements receive the sanction of His Excellency the Officer Administering the Government, the Natives are desirous that the Six hundred pounds (£600), which will then be payable to them, should be transmitted here to me for distribution ; and I think that it would be conducive to the public service if you could comply with their request, as the parties interested, about fifty in number, are nearly all assembl-d as this place, and could not repair to Auckland at this season of the year, without great inconvenience to themselves. I have, &c, John Grant Johnson, Sub-Commissioner for the purchase of Native Lands. Donald McLean, Esq., J.P., Native Land Commission?r, &c, he, &c.

No. 7. MR. COMMISSIONER JOHNSON TO THE CHIEF COMMISSIONER. Mahurangi, 10th June, 1854. Sir, — I have the honor to forward to you, for the consideration ot His Excellency the Officer Administering the Government, the offer of the Natives named in the margia,* (whom I believe to be the sole owners), to sell the District named the Kaipara Flats, and estimated to contain about thiry-two thousand acres, for the sum of Twelve hundred pounds (£1200); Nine hundred pounds (.£900) of which to be paid to them on execution of the deed of conveyance, and the remaining Three hundred pounds (£300) on the Ist day of January, 1855. Portions of this block have been much sought after by intending settlers ; and, independently of its intrinsic value, there exist several cogent reasons for concluding this purchase.

E, 54-46. Ahukoa and KouKAWHEEO. Keporting offer of the Ahuroa and Kaurawhero Blocks, V. Letter No. 3.

* Note. —Koukawhero. —Te Kiwi, Te Urunga, Te More, Kawea, Te Kora, Eahui, Panapa, Te Eawhiti, Poihip Mekekati, Eamari, Te Poari Totara, Hori Kingi, Pavilioro, Arama Karaka, Hone Waiti, Wiremu Apo, Te Roa, Parahi. Ahuroa. —Hori Kingi, Piri Paraone, To Hemara, Kaupapa, Tohetai, Kawerahi, Toehau, Hiria, Ileni, Hemara Tamaiti, Hercwini, Makare.

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The original Mahurangi sale was made in the year 1841, by the Ngatipaoa and Ngapuhi, whom the right of conquest placed in possession of the land, and the descendants of the Kawerau and Ngaitahu who are,the roots of the soil were not directly treated with at all, and were, at that time, too obscure, and persecuted by their more powerful neighbours, to urge their own cause. Subsequently, however, they united and located on their land which had been sold to the Queen. Hemara taking possession of a part of Mahurangi, and Parihoro, ma similar way, a portion of Matakana. Notwithstanding that ample resejves, and also a small money payment, have been lately granted to satisfy these men, they still waited the opportunity of obtaining some further payment for the lands of their tribe. The back boundary of the Mahurangi having been overstepped by the Europeans, and several selections and surveys under the new Land Regulations having been made, infringing on land claimed by these Natives, has at length afforded them the opportunity they sought for; and had I not brought about the offer which is the subject of this letter, considerable embarrassment might have arisen to the purchasers of land from the Crown, and I am of opinion that if these arrangements be carried out, which I beg leave to request to urge upon the favorable notice of His Excellency, that the remainder of the Native land in this District will be purchased at a less rate, and that all ill-feeling with the Natives resulting from the former purchase will be forgotten. I have not yet had time to make a sketch survey of this block, but I am well acquainted with the locality ; and with a view of illustrating what 1 have said, I enclose for your guidance, a small map of the Mahurangi and Kaipara districts, shewing the portion already the property of the Crown, and that offered for sale, by which you will perceive that a portion of Native land lies between the two proposed purchases. And I would suggest that a right of road through it be stipulated for, so that the track of the Northern road may be unobstructed as far as the Northern end of the Mahurangi. The Natives are anxious that the instalment also of Nine hundred pounds (£900), should be paid at this place ; and as it is my intention to make another excursion for the purpose of making a running survey of this block also, on the usual scale of one mile to an inch, no time will be lost in my performing that duty. I received word that all is quiet on the Wairoa. Taramoeroa is still at Hokianga, and Tirarau is perfectly satisfied about the arrangements relative to the land at Whangarei, and has told me that I need not hurry on his account. I have, &c, John Grant Johnson. Sub-Commissioner for the purchase of Native land. Donald McLean, Esq., J.P., Commissioner for the purchase of Native land.

No 8. MR. COMMISSIONER JOHNSON TO THE CHIEF COMMISSIONER. Township, Mahurangi, June 17th, 1854. Sir,— With reference to my letter of the 10th instant, covering the proposals of certain Natives therein mentioned, to sell a block in this Bistrict to the Government, for the sum of Twelve hundred pounds (£1200), I have the honor to inform you that there is embodied in that offer, under one head, two adjoining tracts of land known as the Kourawhero and the Ahuroa. The former is estimated at nineteen thousand acres, and the latter at twelve thousand acres, for the sums of Eight hundred pounds (£800) and Four hundred pounds (£400) respectively; and, as you will perceive by reference to the margin of my communication of the 10th instant, belonging to the parties therein named under the above mentioned separate heads. I have also to report for your information that I have returned from exploring the Kourawhero or Kaipara Flat, and have embodied the result of my observations of this part of the country, hitherto untraversed by Europeans, in the accompanying sketch, on the scale of one mile to an inch. I think that the Government will have every reason to be satisfied with this block, and as every information on a new tract of country is grateful to new settlers, I would trespass on your time for a few moments by recounting a short narrative of my journey. On the 13th instant I pitched my camp on the back line of the old Mahurangi purchase, about two miles westward of the mill, and on the fork between the two rivers, which is the spot marked by the Natives as the boundary of the Government land. I thence proceeded westward through a plain about two mites wide, consisting of undulating open land, well adapted for sheep walks. After proceeding for about, a mile, an opening in the hills is visible to the South-west through which the small stream of Kourawhero flows. This valley is from a half mile to a mile in width, and is composed of alluvial lands of the richest description. About four miles further inland the main valle}' terminates in an amphitheatre surrounded by hills, containing several thousand acres of the richest flats, interspersed with belts of the most valuable timber. I penetrated to the extreme North-west angle of this valley, and ascended an open hill, from which I was enabled to take the compass bearings of the north and west boundary of the block. From this point, stretching away in a South-easterly direction, another

R. 54-48. Ahtjkoa and KoceaWHEKO. Reporting on the quality, &c, of the Kourawhero Block. "v. Letters Nos. 3, 7.™

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valley could be seen, which appeared to join the western portion of the Ahuroa ; and from the fact that I was unable to see the termination of this valley from the elevated situation I occupied, I should say it was of very considerable extent. Throughout every part of this country the ranges are covered with the heaviest timber, mostly kauri, and when once opened out by the proposed Northern road, many capabilities which are not at present apparent, will be developed by the energy of the settlers. I returned to this place on the 16th instant, where I am waiting to hear the result of my communications of the 3rd and 1 Oth instant, to yourself. The party of Natives whom I arranged with to transport me on the Kaipara being in town, it would be equally convenient for me to summon the rest of the Natives to Auckland, and have the instalments paid at that place, as Ido not know but what I may be necessitated to repair thither and take a fresh start to the North, either by sea, or down the waters of the Kaipara. The Ahuroa is bounded by a very inaccessible range on this side, and is very heavily timbered. The available land will be found in the back or western end of it, but I am afraid it will not be accessible from the east side, as the ranges all run North and South. On this account, the price demanded has only been one half that of the other blocks. I have, &c., John Grant Johnson, District Land Commissioner. Donald McLean, Esq., Land Commissioner. &c., he, he.

N0.9 . THE CHIEF COMMISSIONER TO MR. COMMISSIONER JOHNSON. Land Commissioner's Office, Auckland, 19th June, 1854. Sir, —■ I have the honor to acknowledge the receipt of your letter of the 10th instant, in reference " the sale by the Natives of the district known as the Kaipara Fiats, and estimated to contain three thousand two hundred acres for a sum of Twelve hundred pounds (£1200), Nine hundred pounds (£900) of which you wish to pay to the claimants at once. I fully concur in the reasons adduced by you for making this purchase, and I have the pleasure of transmitting to you His Excellency's authority for making this purchase, together with the funds necessary for paying the first instalment. The right of road through the Native land you allude to should be stipulated for by yourself in whichever way you consider most conducive to the interests of the public. I have, &c, Donald McLean, Land Commissioner. J. G. Johnson, Esq , J.P,, District Commissioner, Mahurangi.

_ Kockawheeo.'* Te effect the purchase of Kourawhero Block, V. Letteffl Nok 3, 7, 8,

No. 10. THE CHIEF COMMISSIONER TO MR. COMMISSIONER JOHNSON. Land Commissioner's Office, Auckland, 20th Js.nc, 1854. Sir, — I have the honor to acknowledge receipt of your letters of the 3rd instant. With reference to the purchase of the Wainui Block, estimated by you to contain fourteen >c thousand acres, for a sum of Eight hundred pounds (£800), Six hundred pounds (£600) of which you intend to pay at once to the Natives, and the remaining sum of Two hundred poundsi (£200) in January, 1855:—I have the pleasure of conveying to you his Excellency's authority for concluding the arrangement, and to enable you to do so with as little delay as possible, the sum of Six hundred pounds (£600) for this purpose is forwarded to you to the care of Te Hemara by Mr. Daldy's boat that sails this evening for Maharangi. The leasing of timber from the Natives, which you describe as being carried on to a great extent, must be gradually checked, so that the existence of such an irregular system, that has grown up in consequence of land purchasing being so much in arrear, may not impede your operations. This subject I have brought fully under the notice of Government, and means will soon be adopted to check the evil, probably without any immediate intervention on your own part beyond discountenancing the system as far as yen can. In accordance with your recommendation, I have offered Kereihi of Orakei the sum of One hundred pounds (£100) for her claims to a piece of land at Mahurangi, bat she seems to expect a horse, which

"Wainci. Authorising the purchasi of Wainui Block. V. Letter No, g.

V, Letter No. 5.

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she says was promised to her by Sir George Grey in addition to the sum of One hundred pounds. I would thank you to inform me if you have any recollection of such a promise being made, as Major Nugent is not aware of it. I have, &c, Donald McLean, Land Commissioner. J. G. Johnson, Esq., J.P., District Commissioner, Mahurangi.

No. 11. MR. COMMISSIONER JOHNSON TO THE CHIEF COMMISSIONER. Mahurangi, 22nd June, 1854. Sir, — I had the honor to receive your letter of the 19th instant, transmitting the necessary authority for the purchase of the Kaipara Flats, and advising the transmission of the sum of Nine hundred pounds (£900) which I required for that object. The amount I have paid this day to the claimants here assembled, and beg to forward herewith the Deed of Conveyance from the Natives to the Crown. The Ahuroa, Kourawhero, and Kaipara Flats being all contiguous, I have included the whole in one transaction and in one Deed. In carrying through these negotiations, I have endeavoured strenuously to extend the payments ever a time, and to induce the Natives to re-purchase from the Crown any land they may wish to retain in the blocks for themselves ; both measures being, I conceive, when acted upon judiciously, a great improvement on the system of purchasing land from the Natives which has been hitherto adopted. Both these measures are, however, strongly opposed by the Natives in this District, because they are new to them. , You are already aware of the extent to which the term of payment has been carried ; and on reference to the Deed you will perceive a promise that the Native Chief Te Kiri Kaiparaoa stipulates for the right of purchase of forty acres (40 acres) in this Block at Ten shillings (10s.) per acre under the new Regulations ; and he has further authorized me to deduct the amount required out of the instalment payable in January, 1855. This, I am aware, is irregular; but, as the principle sought to be carried out is a very important one to be introduced in this district, where the sellers of land are so fond of making reserves, which are very inconvenient to the settlers, when they can do so without paying for them, I beg to request you to obtain an advance of the sum required to purchase the said forty acres out of monies in the hands of the Government applicable to Native purposes, and have this arrangement completed, which the parties concerned are favourably inclined to by this new project, for which purpose a similar opportunity might not readily again present itself. I have, &c, John Grant Johnson, District Commissioner. Donald McLean, Esq., Land Commissioner, he, he

R. 54-50. KOUKAWIIEEO. Has purchased the Kaipara Flats for £900. V. Letters Nps. 3, 7, 8, 0.

No. 12. MR. COMMISSIONER JOHNSON TO THE CHIEF COMMISSIONER. Mahurangi, 22nd June, 1855. Sir, — I have the honor to acknowledge the receipt of your letter of the 20th instant, conveying his Excellency's authority for concluding the purchase of the Wainui Block, and forwarding the sum of Six hundied pounds (£600) for that purpose. This sum has been paid by me this day to the claimants assembled at the village on the Native Reserve, and the subsequent further division of the same amongst themselves, and the amounts which have been devoted to appease the jealousy of the Ngatiwhatua has entirely set at rest any apprehension which may have existed of uneasiness in that quarter. I beg to enclose the Deed from the Natives to the Crown, duly signed and executed according to your general instructions and precedent furnished, as far as the circumstances will permit. I have, &c, John Grant Johnson, District Commissioner, Donald McLean, Esq., Land Commissioner.

R. 54-49. Wainiji. Has paid the sum of £GOO for Wainui Block. V. Letters Nos. G, 10.

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No. IS. MR. COMMISSIONER JOHNSON TO THE. CHIEF COMMISSIONER. Land Commissioner's Office, Whangarei, August 2nd, 1854. Sir, — With reference to the sth clause of your letter of instructions, dated the 18th of May, on the subject of Native Reserves, I have the honor to inform you that I have purchased a tract of fifteen - hundred acres, having a frontage to a creek called the Takahiwae, in order that the land occupied by the natives at that place might be separated by that creek from the Government land. Independently of these considerations, the water frontage to the creek affords a communication to the back country, without which it would not have been taken up by the settlers eventually. The amount which I have paid is Seventy-five pounds (£75), and the Deed is enclosed herewith ; and I have the honor to request that 1 miy be relieved to that amount of the public monies in my charge. I have, &c, John Grant Johnson, Donald McLean, Esq., J. P., District Commissioner. Land Commissioner.

R. 54-68. Takahiwae. Has purchesed the Takahiwae Block, 1,500 acres V. Letter No, i.

No. 14. MR. COMMISSIONER JOHNSON TO THE CHIEF COMMISSIONER. District Commissioner's Office, Whangarei, 2nd August, 1854. Sir, — I have the honor to report for your information that I have now paid to the Natives the additional sums required to complete the purchases of Mangawhai and Waipu blocks, recommended in my letter to the Colonial Secretary, dated 20th March, 1854, and approved by His Excellency the officer administering the Government, amounting to the sum of Two hundred and twenty pounds (£ :20). The receipt of Sixty pounds (£6O), which was paid for an extension of the original boundaries is included in the deed of Mangawhai from the Ngatiwhatua, and was forwarded by me to the Colonial Secretary under cover on the 20th March last, The sum of Ten pounds (£10), for extinguishing the claims of Te Pirihi on a portion of Waipu named Te Paritu, was paid by me at Auckland to a relative of his named Eru Toenga, and the document of surrender of the said claims is filed in your office. I now beg to enclose the deed ot final extinction of the chims of the chiefs and their followers who are named in the margin,* over Mangawhai and Waipu, for the sum of Two hundred pounds, Fifty pounds was issued to me at the time of the former payment in March list, and the remaining One hundred and fifty pounds from the amount of Two hundred and seventy pouuds above alluded to. This document will complete the vouchers for the who'e of the sums issued to me on account of Mangawhai, Waipu, and the Ruakaka, and I have accordingly to request a release from the charge of the,e sums of money. I have, &c, John Grant Johnson, Donald McLean, Esq., J.P., District Commissioner. Land Commissioner, Auckland.

R. 54-73. Mangawhai and Waipu. Has paid balance of purchase money of Mangawhai and Waipu. V. Letter No, 2,

Takahiwae. Approving of purchase of Takahiwae.

No. 15. THE CHIEF COMMISSIONER TO MR. COMMISSIONER JOHNSON. Land Commisioner's Office, Auckland, 3rd August, 1854. Sir, — , I have the honor to acknowledge the receipt of your letter of the Bth ultimo, enclosing a deed of sale for a block of fifteen hundred acres of land at Whangarei, which you have purchased from the Natives for a sum of Seventy-five pounds (£75). I have only to observe that the arrangements you have made in reference to this purchase are vej-y satisfactory. I have, &c, Donald McLean, J. G. Johnson, Esq., J .P., Land Commissioner. District Commissioner, Wangarei.

„ ~ —' ■ —— , * Tirarau, Parore, Taurau, George King Tahua, Te Manihera, Toko, Karawai,

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No. 16. MR. COMMISSIONER JOHNSON TO THE HONORABLE THE COLONIAL SECRETARY. Land Commissioner's Office, Auckland, 18th September, 1854. Sir, — Certain Natives of Whangarei have offered lands for sale to the Government, situated on the North side of the harbor. An undefined grant for four hundred and fourteen acres (414 acres) has been issued to Gilbert Mair, Esq. (and is now held by Messrs. Brown & Campbell) for the same locality, which grant includes boundaries containing an area of about Three thousand acres (8,000 acres), and the holders of the grant are reported to claim in the whole a tract estimated at seven thousand acres (7000 acres) in extent, in virtue of this grant for 414 acres. This claim embraces a large portion of the most valuable water frontage of the harbour, and many Natives own different spots in and also adjoining to the said land, which lands they are willing to dispose of to the Crown; and I beg therefore to suggest that it would be very conducive to the interests of the settlers, and just to the Natives, if the limits were fixed of the land to which assignees of the original grantee are entitled; and beg therefore to suggest the propriety of this case being brought ander the provisions of the Crown Titles Ordinance, previous to my entering into negotiations for the purchase of that part of the country. I have, &c, John Grant Johnson, District La.d Commissioner. The Hon. the Colonial Secretary, &c, &c.

North Side, Whah GAKEI. Natives have offered land for sale on the North side of the harbor-

No. 17. MR. COMMISSIONER JOHNSON TO THE HONORABLE THE COLONIAL SECRETARY. Land Commissioner's Office, Auckland, 7th October, 1854. Sir, — I have the honor to inform you that in compliance with your letter of the 26th April last, I placed myself under the direction of Mr. Commissioner McLean, and shortly afterwards was directed by that officer to conduct the purchase of land in a district comprizing the portion of this island to the north of the Waitemata river, and to establish myself in some central position for that purpose. I accordingly undertook this duty, and made several purchases in the neighbourhoods of Mahurangi, Kaipara and Whangarei, and reported that Whangarei was the most central place for me to reside while conducting the land purchases in the northern district of this Province. Untoward and unforeseen events having occurred at Taranaki requiring the Principal Commissioner's absence in the south, I was requested by him to leave the Northern district, to which I had been confined for nearly twelve months,' and employ myself in completing certain negotiations commenced in the Waikato district; and I have now returned from an attempt to perform that service, which I regret to state has not been attended with success. The various complications of the land question in the Waikato country, and the excited state of a portion of the aborigines there, which circumstances have prevented my achieving the object of my visit, are explained in a report which I have addressed to Mr. Commissioner McLean; and I would beg most respectfully to state for the information of His Excellency the officer administering the Government that the occasional visit of officers of this department to a district will not be attended with great results, and that if tracts of country are desired by the Government in the Waikato, a Commissioner will have to reside at least for some time amongst the Natives in that locality, to arrange their conflicting claims and disputes, and by patient attention to the adjustment of their real and imaginary grievances, dispel their erroneous ideas of the result of European colonization, and conciliate the adverse party, whose difference with the parties disposed to alienate their lands to the Crown is gradually assuming the aspect of a bitter quarrel, which, unless carefully watched, may terminate like that which took place at Taranaki so fatally. I would beg leave further to suggest that the arrangement most conducive to the vigorous administration of the Land Purchase Department would be that contemplated originally by Mr. Commissioner McLean, that the district to the south of Auckland be assigned as a field for the operations of one of the officers of this Department in the same manner as the northern district of this Province has been assigned to myself, with an understanding that during the absence of Mr. Commissioner McLean from the seat of Government that either one or other of the officers conducting the purchases in the northern or southern district of the Province remain at the seat of Government till his return. Calculating on the permanency of the arrangements made regarding my duties by Mr. Commissioner McLean, I have made engagements to meet certain parties of Natives at Whangarei in October, at the Wairoa in December, and at Mahurangi in January next, to receive and investigate their offers of lands for sale, and the conflicting claims connected therewith; and in the last-mentioned locality to pay the remaining

Depaktmental. Has placed himself under the direction of the Chitf Commissioner.

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instalments for the blocks lately acquired; and I have now the honor to request that I may be informed of the pleasure of his Excellency the officer administering the Government, whether 1 am to consider myself as stationed at Whangarei, or whether I am to remain at Auckland, and proceed from time to time to the different parts of the Province as occasion may reqnire. I have, he, John Grant Johnson. The Hon. the Colonial Secretary, Auckland.

No. 18. MR. COMMISSIONER JOHNSON TO THE HONORABLE THE COLONIAL SECRETARY. Land Commissioner's Office, 16th October, 1854. Sir, — I have the honor to inform you that a selection of 40 acres has been made under the newland regulations on behalf of a chief named Te Kiri Kaiparaoa, in the Kourawhero block, lately purchased at Mahurangi. The land in question is a sacred place, which the seller desired to re-purchase, and was allowed the privilege of doing so by a clause inserted in the deed of sale to the Crown, guaranteeing him priority of selection. It would be very desirable that a Government surveyor do survey, and put the Native applicant in possession of his purchase, and I have accordingly to request that you will be pleased to give the necessary instructions to that effect. I have, &c, John Grant Johnson, Land Commissioner. The Hon. the Colonial Secretary.

Kourawhero. Te Kiri Kaiparaea is entitled to purchase 40acres in this block. V. Letter No. 11.

No. 19, THE CHIEF COMMISSIONER TO MR. COMMISSIONER JOHNSON. Land Purchase Department, Auckland, 17th October, 1854. Sir, — You have already been furnished with instructions under date 18th May, 1854, in which I conveyed to you the views of the Government in reference to the negotiations to be undertaken by you for the purchase of land from the natives. In those instructions, I think I have given you a general outline of the course it might be desirable to follow within the district which has been assigned to you. Nothing now remains for me but to add the expression of an earnest hope, that the same success may attend! your future operations, and that the acquisitions you have already made may go on steadily progressing, and that through your influence and perseverance a sufficiency of land may be found to meet the wants of the settlers who may be willing to locate themselves in the neighbourhood of your operations. I have, &c, Donald McLean, J. G. Johnson, Esq., J. P., Principal Commissioner. District Commissioner,

General. Relative to instructions for purchase of Native Lands. V. Letter No- 4.

No. £0. THE CHIEF COMMISSIONER TO MR. COMMISSIONER JOHNSON. Land Purchase Department, Auckland, 17th October, 1854. ' Sir — I think it would be very desirable to ascertain as nearly as you can the following particlulars in reference to the Native claims within the district which has already'been assigned to you. Information of this kind seems to be so desirable not only for the present use of the Government, but for the future well-being of the" Natives, that I would recommend it to your earnest attention, feeling assured that you will from time to time be able to note down such data as will be included under the following heads :*—

Gekbbal. To acquire certain information respecting Titles to land,

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1 st. The o- iginal and derivative rights of conquest. 2nd. The rights of occupancy by permission of owners. 3rd. How these rights originated. 4th. The division or boundaries between the different tribes inhabiting the country between the North Cape and the district of Auckland. Information of this kind cannot fail to be of real service to yourself, and I need not add that it would be very acceptable to the Government, and to the Department with which you are now intimately connected. I have, &c, Donald McLean, J. G. Johnson, Esq. Principal Commissioner.

No. 21. THE CHIEF COMMISSIONER TO MR. COMMISSIONER JOHNSON. Land Purchase Office, Auckland, 27th October, 1854. Sir, — I have the honor to call your attention to the following extract of a letter I have this day received from the Honorable the Colonial Secretary, in reference to lands purchased from the Natives, and request that you will have the goodness to comply with it accordingly. I have, &c, Donald McLean, J. G. Johnson, Esq., Land Commissioner. District Commissioner, Extract.—Whenever any block of land has betn purchased by the District Commissioners, the rough outline and mark of the boundaries should be sent in to the Colonial Secretary's Office, in order that the same may be referred to the Survey Office for the purpose of being at once surveyed and laid out. H. T. Kemp.

General. Forwarding Extract Worn a Letter of the Colonial Secretary.

No. 22. MR. COMMISSIONER JOHNSON TO THE CHIEF COMMISSIONER. District Commissioner's Office, Whangarei, 12th November, 1854. Sir,— I have the honor to report that I arrived at this place on the Ist instant, and have held a meeting of the Natives ht Maraekura, the residence of the Chief Te Tirarau, in the Wairoa river, at which it was arranged to offer the Maunga Tapere block for sale to the Government, containing from eighteen thousand to twenty thousand (18,000 to 20,000), acres for the sum of Two thousand pounds (£2000), the Chief Tirarau being guaranteed a pre-emptive right of purchase of one thousand (1000), acres at the rate of ten shillings (lOs.), per acre. I intend to make a sketch survey of the place to-morrow, and expect by an early date to be able to transmit to you a full report recommending the completion of the arrangements by the Government. I have, he, John Grant Johnson, District Land Commissioner. Donald McLean, Esq., Principal Land Commissioner, Auckland.

E. 113-54. Manga Tapere. Reporting Offer of the Manga Tapere Block,

No. 23. MR. COMMISSIONER JOHNSON TO THE CHIEF COMMISSIONER. District Commissioner's Office, Whangarei, 12th November, 1854. Sir — I have the honor to inform you that certain Natives of the Tawera tribe have made application to me to be allowed to select four hundred acres of land in the Waipu block, which they are willing to j pay for at the usual fixed rate of ten shillings per acre. a I am not aware of the precise arrangements which the Government have entered into with the l emigrants from Nova Scotia relative to the reservation of the Waipu for their future location; but if the compliance with this request can be made, it would be a practical lesson to the Natives of this

R. 114-54; Waipu. Natives wish to purchase 400 acres in the Waipu block.

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district that they can acquire,by right of purchase from the Government, ample lands for their use with a Crown title in exchange for their own unsatisfactory tenure ; and I am convinced that if this fact was once clearly demonstrated, they would all avail themselves of it, and in order to procure the necessary amount of money, they would part with a great portion of their common lands. The Tawera are a fugitive tribe, driven away originally from the Bay of Plenty, and living by sufferance in several parts of this island. They have no land of their own, and feel the domination of the Ngapuhi over them—which is the reason of their wishing to procure land from the Crown with a view to securing their independence. I have, &c, JonN Grant Johnson, District Commissioner. Donald McLean, Esq., Principal Land Commissioner, Auckland.

No. 24. MR. COMMISSIONER JOHNSON TO THE CHIEF COMMISSIONER. District Commissioner's Office, Parua, Whangarei, 20th November, 1854. Sir, — I have the honor to submit for the consideration of His Excellency the Officer administering the Government the offer of the Ngapuhi Chiefs named in the margin* to sell a block of land having frontage to the main harbour of Whangarei, and containing about eighteen thousand five hundred acres (18,000) acres, for the sum of One thousand five hundred pounds (1,500/.). A further condition of the sale is that a right be guaranteed to the Chief Tirarau of the first selection, under the present Land Regulations, by purchase at Ten shillings (10s.) per acre, of one thousand acres of any part of the block, the selection to be of a figure conformable to that prescribed under the existing law, so that the public interest may not suffer by a monopoly of any peculiar local advantages. I beg to enclose a sketch survey of the block on the scale of one mile to the inch, including a complete delineation of the natural features of the country. In the neighbourhood of the volcanic hills of Manga Tapere, Whatitiri, and Maunu, the timber is light, and the .soil of the most fertile nature, and the hill of Tikorangi, at the water side, being of lime-stone formation, is very choice land. The frontage to the harbour is also well suited for the site of a town or village. The intervening space between the available land on the shores of the harbour and the inland volcanic region is composed of sterile ranges which may eventually be converted into sheep pasture, but are at present of little value. I would however urge you to obtain the approval of His Excellency to the completion of this purchase without delay, as the acquisition of the land would be highly advantageous to the public, both from its geographic position and intrinsic value—as well as from the moral effect which would be produced on the Native mind by the example of an influential chief like Tirarau, in conjunction with several others who in the late war in the North fought against us* about the sovereignty over the country, now disposing to the Crown for European colonization, a tract situated in the midst of one of their most valuable and cherished localities. The land in question is situated on the most available line of road between Whangarei and the Wairoa—being accessible both from the East arid West Coast—-and very little expense would complete from the waters of the Kaipara to Whangarei, a cart road which has been already finished for half the distance by the private enterprise of the Messrs. Walton. The title of the settlers to this land is undisputed, it being the family hereditary possession of the Chief Tirarau and the late Iwitahi, father of Te Manihera. The oilier Chief, Kepa Tau, is the man in actual possession and occupation at Otaika on the Whangarei. The only Native reserve is a landing place near the mouth of tho Otaika river called Motukiwi, about an acre in extent, the scene of a hostile encounter, which we considered prudent to leave out of the purchase for the present, for fear of bringing the relatives of the people killed there to make claims on the block—but it can be purchased at a future time, and the proceeds devoted to the satisfying the relatives of the slain. I have, &c, John Grant Johnson, Donald McLean, Esq., District Commissioner. Principal Land Commissioner, Auckland.

R. 117-54. Manga Tapere. Reporting offer by the Natives of tbe Manga Tapere block. V, Letter No. 22,

* Tirarau, Manihera, Kepa Tau.

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No. 25. MR. COMMISSIONER JOHNSON TO THE CHIEF COMMISSIONER. District Commissioner's Office, Whangarei, 23rd December, 1854. Sir, — With reference to your letter of the 28th November, enclosing reference concerning Native claims to the Crown Lands at Omaha and Oruru, I beg to inform you that the Government merely extinguished the rights of the conquerors over Omaha, and that the original proprietors residing at Pakiii and in the Oruawharo maintain that the Ngatipaoa and Ngapuhi had a claim to the land they sold to Mr. Clarke to the North of Point Rodney—and I think it very questionable if they had— so that in this case I am not in a position to insist on their accepting a ceitain compensation for the land in question, but must wait until they choose to dispose of their ownership. fi. The case of Oruru I will attend to as soon as I have an opportunity of proceeding to the North, probably in February next. I have, &c, 11. T. Kemp, Esq., John Grant Johnson, Native Secretary, Land Commissioner. Land Department.

R. 11-55. Omaha. As to the claim of the Government on land at. Omaha. V, Ante, p. 3,

No. 26. THE CHIEF COMMISSIONER TO MR. COMMISSIONER JOHNSON. Land Purchase Office, Auckland, 9th January, 1855. Sir,— I have the honor to enclose herewith, for your information and guidance, the copy of a letter addressed to this Office by the Honourable the Colonial Secretary, in reply to yours of the 20th of November last, having reference to the purchase of a Block of land at Whangarei, comprising about eighteen thousand acres, for the sum of Fifteen hundred pounds. You will be gratified to learn that your recommendation has been approved of, and the purchase required to be completed with as little delay as possible. In addition to the instructions laid down in the Colonial Secretary's letter of this day's date, I have only to add that the sum of Fifteen hundred pounds has been drawn and placed to your credit in the Union Bank of Australia; and in reference to its transmission to Whangarei, it has considered advisable to wait for advice from yourself, since we have every reason to believe that your official duties have called you up to the district of Mahurangi. I have, he, J. G. Johnson, Esq., ■ Donald McLean, District Commissioner, Whangarei.

Manga Tapere. Authorising the purchase of Manga Tapere' block, V. Letter No, 24.

Enclosure to No. 26. THE HONORABLE THE COLONIAL SECRETARY TO THE CHIEF COMMISSIONER. Colonial Secretary's Office, Auckland, January 9th, 1855. Sir, — In reference to the letter dated 20th November last, from Mr. District Commissioner Johnson, reporting the offer of a block of land at Whangarei by the Natives to the Government of 18,000 acres for the sum of One thousand five hundred pounds (£1,500), and on the condition that the chief Tirarau have the first selection of One thousand acres at Ten shillings per acre, (the selection to be of a figure conformable to that prescribed by law) I am directed by his Excellency the officer administering the Government to convey to you his approval of the immediate purchase of this land on the terms specified. The only way of fulfilling the condition regarding the selection referred to, which should be made before the block is opeied to .the public, is to treat the existing regulations as not applicable to the Native seller, and to allow him at once to make a selection in the manner prescribed by the 15th clause of Sir G. Grey's Land Regulations, and to grant the land ai ten shillings per acre. His Excellency desire 3 me to request you to make the necessary communication to Mr. Johnson as soon a* possible, for his information and guidance. I have, &c, Andrew Sinclair, Colonial Secretary. Mr. Commissioner McLean.

Manga Tapere. To purchase the block of ' land offered for sale at . Whangarei,

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COMMISSIONERS' REPORTS

No. 27. THE HONORABLE THE COLONIAL SECRETARY TO SIR. COMMISSIONER JOHNSON. Colonial Secretary's Office, Auckland, 22nd January, 1855. Sir, — In reply to your letter of the 20th instant, I am directed by his Excellency the officer administering the Government to authorise your making arrangements with the convenience of thy Surveyor-General for the survey, in conformity with the 15th clause of Sir George Grey's Land Regulations, of the selection of One thousand (1000 acres) made by the chief Tirarau in the Manga Tapere block just sold to the Government. I have, he, Andrew Sinclair, Colonial Secretary. J. G. Johnson, Esq., District Commissioner.

R. 55-235. JManga Tapere. Authorizing survey of •election for Te (Tirarau. V. Letter No. 24.

No. 28. MR. COMMISSIONER KEMP (ACTING FOR THE CHIEF COMMISSIONER) TO THE HON. THE COLONIAL SECRETARY, Land Purchase Office, Auckland, 30th January, 1855. Sir, — In compliance with the terms of your letter of the 9th January, the chief Tirarau has selected from the Manga Tapere block at Whangarei one thousand acres (1000 acres) of laud, which he has paid for at the rate of Ten shillings per acre, thus amounting to the sum of Five hundred pounds (£500) sterling. I beg to report for his Excellency's information that this amount has been paid into my hands through Mr. Commissioner Johnson, and shall be glad to be instructed so as to be relieved from the charge as early as may be convenient. I have, &c, For Donald McLean, H. T. Kemp. The Hon. the Colonial Secretary.

Manga Tapere. Te Tirarau has made a selection of 10U0 acres. V. Letter No. 24.

No. 29. THE CHIEF COMMISSIONER TO MR. COMMISSIONER JOHNSON. Land Purchase Department, Auckland, 18th May, 1855. Sir, — I have the honor to acquaint you that His Excellency the Officer administering the Govern* ment has been pleased to approve of the purchases recommended by you to be made on the North and South-west sides of the Whangarei Harbour ; and that the sum of Nine hundred pounds sterling, being the total amount required in your Reports, has been placed under the charge of a police constable, to be transmitted by the steamer " Wongawonga," and to be delivered into your hands immediately upon her arrival at Whangarei. You will have the goodness to advise me of its receipt as soon as possible, taking care that receipts are exchanged when delivered to you. In addition, I have to express my entire concurrence in the measures you have adopted for securing Blocks of land of the extent and position described in your letters of the 26th March and l2th April, 1855. I have, &c, Mr. District Commissioner Johnson, Donald McLean, Whangarei.

Authorising purchase of blocks on North and South sides of WhaDgarei Harbour.

No. 30. THE CHIEF COMMISSIONER TO MR. COMMISSIONER JOHNSON. Land Purchase Department, Auckland, May 22nd, 1855. Sir, — I have the honor to inform you that the Native Chief Hori Kingi te More, of Kaipara, # has called at this office to offer for sale to the Government a Block of land situated in the Mahurangi

Matakitaki, Hori Te More offers Matakitaki for sale,

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district, the boundaries of which he describes as commencing at a place called Matakitaki, on the sea coast, thence to the Raetaea, Pukekohe, Puketotara, Ahuotarakuku, te Irihga, Kaituruki, Patatetahi, Omono, Waikirikiri, te Oronga, on to Kopuru. This land being situate within your district, you will be enabled to ascertain whether it has been previously purchased; whether the present man is the proper owner ; and if it would be desirable, from its proximity to Auckland, to acquire it from the aboriginal owners. I have, he, Mr. Commissioner Johnson, Donald McLean, Whangarei, Land Commissioner.

No. 31. MR. COMMISSIONER JOHNSON TO THE CHIEF COMMISSIONER. District Commissioner's Office, Whangarei, 24th August, 1855, Sir, — I have the honor to inform you that I have received a letter from the Chief Tirarau, stating his willingness to give up a sufficient quantity of land, as I requested, to enable me to recommend the payment of a sum of Two thousand seven hundred pounds, for the Maunga Karamea Block 1 have also seen the individual owners of the land in question; and they have agreed to the propositions made by Tirarau, on the understanding that certain reserves for their use are to be repurchased for them from the Government, at the rate often shillings (10s.) per acre. The great difficulty of procuring Native labour has prevented me from surveying these reserves at once, in order that the Government might be informed of the precise conditions of the purchase. The entire Block is estimated at thirty thousand (30,000) acres; and it rests with you to determine whether it would be expedient to wait for my report of the contents of the portions to which a pre-emptive right of purchase will be required, or to send the money at once, (as the Native Chief's are very impatient,) and trust to my prudence in concluding the most favourable arrangement for procuring as large a portion of the available land as possible for the European settlers as I can, without overlooking the welfare and the requirements of the Native race. I have, &c, Donald McLean, Esq., John Grant Johnson, Principal Commissioner, &c, Commissioner for purchase of Native Land. Auckland.

R. 55-105. Maungakakamba. Relative to purchase c? Maungakavanaea bleek.

No. 32. MR. COMMISSIONER JOHNSON TO THE CHIEF COMMISSIONER. Rangiora, Whangarei, sth September, 1855. Sir, — I have the honor to inform you that the Natives* named in the margin wish to dispose of a small block of land containing, by the enclosed survey, one hundred and fifty-seven acres three roods and thirty-six perches (1 57a. 3r. 36p.) to the Government, for the sum of Forty pounds (£4O). A condition of this purchase is, that the Chief Maketu be allowed apre-smptive right of purchasing four acres out of the Block at the rate often shillings (10s.) pet acre. Should the completion of this purchase be approved, the amount can be pail out of the funds in my bands for extinguishing Native claims. I have, &c, Donald McLean, Esq., John Grant Johnson, Principal Commissioner, &c, Whangarei. Auckland.

R. 55-112.

No. 33. MR. COMMISSIONER JOHNSON TO THE CHIEF COMMISSIONER. District Commissioner's Office, Whangarei, 10th September, 1855. Sir/— You will perceive on reference to the survey of the Manga Tapere Block at Whangarei that a small strip of land along the bank of the Otaika river, containing some cultivations, has been excluded from the purchase by the Natives.

R. 55-124. Manga Tapere. Recommending purchase of frontage of Maunga Tapere Block. V, Letter No. 24,

* Maketa, Te Pirihi, Te Koni Koni, Te Reweti, Ngakapa, ltipeka.

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COMMISSIONERS' REPORTS

The back country to the Otaika river is of such a nature that it is almost useless without this frontage, which it always was the intention of the Chief Tirarau should be given into the Block, but to conciliate the Natives living on the cultivations, the cession was postponed for a time. During the recent negotiations for the Maunga Karamea Block, I made it part of the agreement for that Block that the land in question should be given up for the sum of One hundred pounds (£100) and I have now the honor to request that I may be furnished with authority to expend that sum in the liquidation of this claim. A very good reason for making this purchase is, that so long as the Natives have cultivations on the same side of the Otaika stream as the settlers who locate on the Manga Tapers Block, the cattle of the latter will be trespassing on the crops of the Natives, and it is advisable on that account to separate the one from the other by good natural boundaries if possible. I have, &c, John Grant Johnson, The Chief Commissioner, District Commissioner. Land Purchase Department.

K. 55,130. Mabnga Kabamha. Respecting reserves in the Maunga Karamea block, V, Letter Na. 31.

No. 34. MR. COMMISSIONER JOHNSON TO THE CHIEF COMMISSIONER. District Commissioner's Office, Whangarei, 10th September, 1855. Sir,— With reference to my letter of the 24th ultimo, reporting the state of the negotiations fsr the Maunga Karamea Block, I have the honor to inform you that I have arranged with the NatWes on the Block, and that three reserves will be repurchased by the Natives, containing, as far ;is I.am able to judge without survey, at Mangapae, eight hundred acres (800 acres) ; at Mahakitahi, twenty acres (20 acres); and at Tangihua, four hundred acres (400 acres). These are all bona fide for the use of the people residing thereon, who wish the deeds to be made out for them as tenants in common. Enclosed is a sketch of the block, showing the position of these Native reserves, which, with the exception of the 20-acre piece would not from their intrinsic worth be purchased by Europeans, but ar« valued by the Natives, wahi tapus, &c, so that the public rather profit by the transaction than otherwise. I have, &c, John Grant Johnson, District Commissioner, Whangarei. Donald McLean, Esq., Principal Commissioner, &c, Auckland.

No. 35. MR. COMMISSIONER JOHNSON TO THE CHIEF COMMISSIONER. District Commissioner's Office, Whangarei, lith September, 1855. Sir, — I have the honor to report that the Ruarangi Block of Thirty-five thousand acres in extent has now been finally paid foj-, and that the survey of the external boundaries can be proceeded with. A sketch of the same was forwarded in my report of the 12th April last. I have, &c, John Grant Johnson, District Commissioner. The Chief Commissioner, For the Purchase of Land, Auckland.

R. 55-125. _RUABANGI. Reporting completion of purchase »f Ruarangi block.

No. 36. MR. COMMISSIONER JOHNSON TO THE CHIEF COMMISSIONER. District Commissioner's Office, Whangarei, 11th September, 1855, Sir,— I have the honor to submit for the approval of His Excellency the Governor the offer of the Native Chiefs named below to sell a block of land situated at the head of the North branch of the

E. 55-131. Whabboba. Reporting offer of a block f l»,O0e acres,

W. Eru Pohe, Whare, IJine Warn, T.e Manihera, Hirini Tiperu,

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Harbour of Whangarei, and estimated to contain about Ten thousand acres, for the sum of Seven hundred and fifty pounds (£750). I had the honor to recommend the purchase of this block to the Government so far back as 1853, but the opposition raised by a portion of the Native population at that time to the purchase of land was so great, that the sale could not be effected without the risk of a collision between those who were m favour of, and those who were against, disposing of their joint property to the Crown. I am happy to state that the Natives of this District now begin to see the benefit of European settlers locating amongst ihem, notwithstanding the disputes which will sometimes arise between individuals, and that the most violent opponents which I formerly had to contend with are now coming forward to join in the sale. The Whareora Block (the name by which this tract of land is known) is rather broken and hilly, but is valuable from its being immediately adjoining the principal settlement in this harbour, and the price has been reduced in consequence to a rate which I have calculated will be fair towards the Natives, and remunerative to the public. The European settlement at the Awatawliiti, which is only separated by a small stream from the Whareora Block, is the oldest settlement in the place. The whole extent of it is only about two thousand five hundred acres, which have been subdivided into some twenty farms, which aie being rapidly improved and brought under cultivaiion, but the settlers have no run for their cattle, neither have they fencing or firewood on their own block in sufficient quantity, and frequent petty disputes are occasioned by their crossing the creek and trespassing on the Native land to relieve their',want in these respects; but should His Excellency authorise the completion ot this purchase, they will have more room, and these causes of dispute with the Natives will be put an end to. I have, he, John Grant Johnson, Commissioner for Purchase of Native Land, Whangarei. Donald McLean, Esq., Principal Land Commissioner, &c.

No. 37. MR. COMMISSIONER JOHNSON TO THE CHIEF COMMISSIONER. District Commissioner's Office, Whangarei, 10th October, 1855. Sik,— I have the honor to enclose the Deed of Conveyance from the Natives to the Crown of the Maunga Karamea, upon which I have paid the sum of Two thousand pounds (£2,000). The boundaries have now been satisfactorily defined and set out, and I have to request that the remaining Seven hundred pounds may be sent to me per steamer " Wonga Wonga" at the next opportunity, as Tirarau will not consent to divide the money until the whole amount is received. With referencet o my letter of the 10th ultimo, on the subject of the portions over which tho Natives would require preemptive right of purchase in this block, I have the honor to inform you that the Tangihua reserve has been abandoned altogether, and that the Mangapae is to be reduced to something like four hundred acres (400 acres) The hundred pounds (£100) for the cultivations on the banks of Otaika river will also be required, about which I also wrote on the 10th ultimo. The price for this block was so large that I felt it my duty to gain this concession from the Natives, in conjunction with other points, as explained in my report to Mr. Commissioner McLean of the 30th May last, and circumstances have compelled me to include it in one transaction with the Maunga Karamea purchase, and consequently is must be regarded as part of an arrangement which the Government are bound to carry out. Under this view of the case I beg to send to you a cheque for One hundred pounds, to enable you to procure the Eight hundred pounds which I require without the delay of procuring an advance in the usual way. I have, &c. John Grant' Johnson, District Land Commissioner, Henry T. Kemp, Esq., J.P., Deputy Chief Commissioner, Auckland.

R. 55-145. Maunga Kaeam ea. Forwarding Deed of Conveyance—Maunga Karamea block, V. Letter No, 34,

V. Letter No. 31

No. 38. MR. COMMISSIONER JOHNSON TO THE CHIEF COMMISSIONER. District Land Commissioner's Office, Whangarei, 10th October, 1855. Sir, — I beg to enclose the Deed of the Ruarsngi purchase, in the district of Whangarei, with a .translation anaexed, A little explanation is necessary in this case to prevent confusion in the accounts.

R. 55-146. RUAKANGI. Forwarding Deed of Conveyance of Huarangi Eloek. Y. Letter No. 35,

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COMMISSIONERS' REPORTS

The amount authorised for this purchase was Seven hundred pounds, with which amount I was furnished by Mr. Commissioner McLean. Three hundred and fifty pounds (£350) of this amount was paid to the Natives of Whangarei, and One hundred and seventy-five pounds (£175) to the Ngatiwhatua in Auckland. The remaining Hundred and seventy-five pounds I kept in my possession, to pay to the Ngatiwhatua of Kaipara when I went there, intending to obtain all their signatures to the Deed collectively for the Seven hundred pounds (£700). In the mean time (Matikikuha I believe the name was) went to Auckland, and received tha One hundred and seventy-five pounds (£175) for the Ngatiwhatua of Kaipara from Mr. Commissioner McLean, so that deed or receipt from him must not be brought separately to account, but appended to the enclosed Deed, which acknowledges a receipt of Seven hundred pounds, while Five hundred and twenty-five (£525) is all that has been actually paid by me ; and I must be charged with the One hundred and seventy-five (£175) in my possession, which was advanced by Mr. Commissioner McLean at Auckland, in lieu of the similar sum which I hold, intended to be paid by myse If. I have, &c, John Grant Johnson, Commissioner for the Purchase of Land. The Acting Principal Commissioner, he, &c, Auckland.

No. 39. MR. COMMISSIONER JOHNSON TO THE CHIEF COMMISSIONER. District Land Commissioner's Office, Whangarei, 20th October, 1855. Sir, — 1 In reply to your letter of the 4th ultimo, intimating that the Chiefs Mate, Te Kiri, and Te More, have offered to dispose of their land at Whangarei, Pakiri, and other places, and requesting that I would direct my attention to an investigation of the exteut and validity of those claims, in order that an early adjustment of them may be effected, I have the honour to inform you that the Chief Mats came to Whangarei a short time since, and that in compliance with your request, I have examined the claims of himself and his followers, and bag to enclose a plan of the same as well as the surrounding district, based on Trignometrieal observations, which I took with a view of laying down the features of the country with some degree of accuracy. The portion offered for sale by the Chief Mata is coloured yellow, and the Government blocks by which it is surrounded, red. The land itself is of only average quality, but the situation is important as it opens an outlet to the Government blocks already acquired. The Ruarangi and the Maunga Karamea estimated to contain sixty-two thousand acres, are rather wanting in this respect. I should estimate the contents of the land offared for sale by Mate at from eight to ten thousand acres (8000 to 10,000), and on account of its imporlant position, I offered to recommend to the Government its purchase for the sum of One tnousand pounds (£1000). This was done previous to the recent instructions on financial matters issued by His Excellency Colonel Gore Browne, but any embarrassment which this matter might have occasioned has been avoided, for Mate treated this liberal offer with great contempt, and, I regret to say, went horns highly dissatisfied, having, as he affirms, been led to understand in town, that the Government were ready to advance him several thousands of pounds, contingent on my being able to certify that his claims were valid. This unforeseen termination of these negotiations will no doubt prevent Kiri and More offering their lands at present. I have written to inform Mate tint a* he rejected my offer, I consider myself no longer bound to make the purchase, I have, he, John Grant Johnson, Donald McLean, Esq., District Commissioner. Chief Land Commissioner, Auckland.

R. 55-141. Respecting land offered bj Kiri and More,

No. 40. MR. COMMISSIONER KEMP (ACTING FOR THE CHIEF COMMISSIONER) TO MR. COMMISSIONER JOHNSON. Land Purchase Department, Auckland, Ist November, 1855. Sir, — In reference to your application for the sum of Seven hundred pounds (£700) to complete tha payment of the Maunga Karamea Block, I beg to state for your information that in consequence of the repeated applications to the Government of several influential persons of Ngatiwhatua tribe residing at Orakei, it has been deemed advisable to postpone the payment of that amount uutil an opportunity shall have been offered to those Natives for visiting Whangarei, and settling their differences with Tirarau, Believing that this would be the prudent course to adopt under the circum-

JMau'kga Kakamea. To postpone the payment of £700 for Maunga Karamea. V. Letter No. 37.

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stances, the transmission of the money has been in consequence delayed until further advices are received from you on the subject. I have, &c, H. T. Kemp, Acting Chief Commissioner. J. G. Johnson, Esq., District Commissioner, Whangarei.

No. 41. HE CHIEF COMMISSIONER TO MR. COMMISSIONER JOHNSON. Land Commissioner's Office, Auckland, 18th March, 1856. Sir,—• I am directed by His Excellency the Governor, to request that you will furnish to this office, with the least possible delay, a statement of the laws that have been purchased by you from the Natives in your district, shewing the estimated number of acres in each purchase, the price paid, and whether in one or more instalments. You will also be good enough to send in an account, shewing the disbursements made by you up to the end of this month, either for the purchase, or for contingent expenses incurred in connection therewith, the balance in your hands, and whether there are any existing liabilities in the shape of promises to the Natives to purchase certain lands from them, which have not yet been fulfilled ; and if so, by whom such promises were made. You will also furnish, without delay, any Deeds or other documents connected with the transfer of land in your district, in order that they may be recovered in the Colonial Secretary's Office. In transmitting these documents, His Excellency further directs that you should furnish a general report of the state of the Natives in your district, their willingness or otherwise to dispose of land, stating the quantity and quality of such land, and the average price per acre, at which you think it can be obtained, with all such other information in reference to the feeling of the Natives towards the British Government as your local experience and general knowledge of your district may suggest. I have, he, Donald McLean, Chief Commissioner. J. G. Johnson, Esq., J.P., District Commissioner.

CIRCCLAE. To furnish a Report of Land purchases in his District.

No. 42. MR. COMMISSIONER JOHNSON TO THE CHIEF COMMISSIONER. District Commissioner's Office, Motupapa, Whangarei, 3rd April, 1856. Sir — In compliance with your letter of the 18th ultimo, I do myself the honor to furnish the information requested by His Excellency the Governor, relative to the state of the Land Purchases, and of the Natives generally, in this district. By the enclosed statement No. 1, the estimated extent of the lands which I have acquired for the Government, is two hundred and thirty thousand acres, at a cost of Nine thousand nine hundred and ten pounds (£9,910) ; of this quantity, about ninety five thousand acres have not yet been opened for sale, but the preliminary surveys of most of the blocks are now nearly completed by the General Government, and several blocks are in the course of being cut up for disposal by the Waste Lands' Board. I have also to transmit the two returns required, shewing all the disbursements which have been made by me, together with the contingent expenses incurred for the service of the Department in connection with Land Purchases. I would here remark that any payments I may make on account of contingent expenses, are only temporarily advanced by me out of funds in my hands for the purchase of land, and that the accounts under these two heads are kept distinct and separate. There are no liabilities existing in this district in the shape of promises to the Natives to purchase certain lands from them, as I have almost invariably acted upon the principle of first submitting every purchase for the approval of the Governor before making any promises or payments, and the Natives understand well that such is the case, and although they may wish to sell the lands about which I was iiegociiiting previous to the instructions issued on that head by His Excellency, they do not con;' i>r the Government bound to carry them out. All the deeds and documents connected with the transfer of lands which I have purchased, are lodged in your office at Auckland for transmission for final record in th# Colonial Secretary's Office.

R. 56-49. General.' Report on the State of Land Purchases in his District. V. Letter No. 4L

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COMMISSIONERS' REPORTS

In the different localities of this district, viz., Mahurangi, Whangarei, and Kaipara, the state of the Native population as compared with other parts of the Colony, I consider to be satisfactory at Mahurangi, their numbers are few, not perhaps more numerous than the European settlers there, between whom and them a very friendly spirit exists; they sold nearly all their lands, |and are located on two ample reserves with defined boundaries which have been set aside for their use. The portion of the Whangarei district to the south and west of the harbour, in which the recent purchases are situated, is inhabited by several Tribes who are well disposed to the Europeans, and to the Government, being under the authority of the Chief Tirarau, who has proved himself throughout, a staunch friend to the white race and of the Government of this Colony. Though nearly related to the Chief John Heke, it will be remembered that Auckland was saved from an invasion of the insurgent Natives from the Bay of Islands in 1843, by his refusing them a passage through his territory, and this Chiefs conduct has been consistent ever since. On my first arrival in this district, I committed myself to the policy of supporting this Chief in his authority over the tribes, and the results are that he has been a principal party to the disposal of about a hundred and fifty thousand acres to the Crown, which can now be occupied by settlers, without a single claim being raised to any part of it by the Natives. The northern side of Whangarei is not subject to Tirarau, the.Natives in that portion of the district are scattered in small parties, and are not under the immediate command of any important Chief; they may be said to be peaceably inclined, but having no controlling power over them, are guided in their disposition towards the Government by the attitude of the Chiefs in the Bay of Islands; they are in the habit of taking the law into their own hands when they have any grievances cto-ainst the Europeans, and have been hitherto kept a little in awe by the occasional visits of one of Her Majesty's Sloops of War to this harbour, when any petty outrage had occurred, and a repetition of occasional visits of Her Majesty's vessels would have a beneficial effect for some time to come. These Tribes have however offered considerable tracts of land for sale, a Schedule of which I have the honor to enclose. In connection with this subject, I might remark that the greater number of these petty outrages to which I have alluded are committed on account of the cattle of the Europeans trespassing upon the Native lands, eating their crops, and treading over the Native sacred places or burial grounds; and as the Natives are disinclined to fence in their cultivations properly, and the Europeans are unable to keep their cattle on their own laud, this evil is likely to increase; many cases are refeired to me, and settled by arbitration ; but in my absence the Natives do not hesitate to carry off calves by force in satisfaction of their demands. Notwithstanding a friendly feeling which they cherish towards the settlers, they are not at all inclined to submit to the English laws, except when decisions are given in their favour, although the increasing number of the settlers in many places would render a constituted authority, to whose decisions both races would submit, a desirable and necessary object. Drunkenness which threatened to become an enormous evil is not so prevalent as it was, but the sal* of fire arms and ammunition is secretly carried on to a greater extent than ever, and they all show a great desire to be well armed. A Resident Magistrate is much desired by the European inhabitants of Whangarei, •and although such a functionary could not expect to control the Natives much at first, an observance of the submission of the Europeans to the laws, and of the superior manner in which we settle our disputes, would have a very beneficial effect upon the Aboriginal population, and by degrees they might be persuaded to resort to the English Courts, and abide by their judgments. A considerable quantity of land between Whangarei and the Bay of Islands belongs to the Crown, in virtue of old Land Claims which were exchanged with the Government for scrip. The Natives have come from distant places, and located themselves on these lands, but after reserves have been set apart for them, and any previously unextinguished claims settled, the residue will boat the disposal of the Government. The tribes inhabitating the Kaipara, Oruawharo, and Otamatea, are a branch of the Ngatiwhatua who reside near Auckland, and are decidedly favourably inclined to the British Government; they have repeatedly offered large tracts of land for sale situated on the rivers which empty themselves into the sea through the estuary of the Kaipara, but their country is very inaccessible, and my instructions being only to acquire such lands as can be made immediately available, I intended to carry on my purchasing on the East Coast between Whangarei and the Bay of Islands, previous to proceeding to the West side of the Island. The tribes on the Kaipara are rather unsettled at present, the timber trade being principally confined to the Wairoa branch of the Kaipara, which formerly belonged to them, but was taken by the Ngapuhi under Tirarau, who still resides there; they do not partake of the lucrative trade carried on at that place, and show an inclination to attempt to recover it by force, although it has been in the possession of the Ngapuhi's for the last thirty -five years. lam not at present prepared with detailed reports of the various lands which have been offered for sale, as the complicated nature of the claims of tribes and individuals requiie much patient investigation before a conclusion can be arrived at but from former experience and a knowledge of the general desire of the Natives at large to effect further sales, I should estimate riiat a sum of not less than Four thousand pounds would be required to carry on the purchases in these districts during the ensuing year The average price that the land can be acquired at would be about Is 6d per acre, varying according to quality, position, number of claimants and other considerations, from 5d to 3s 6d per acre. I have, &c, John Grant Johnson, Donald McLean, Esq., Commissioner for the purchase of Native Land. Chief Commissioner for the purchase of Native Lands.

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Enclosure 1 to No. 42. Return of all Lands purchased from the Natives by John Grant Johnson, Commissioner for the District of Whangarei, from the 13th February, 1854, to the 31st March, 1856. 1854.

Acres. £ „ , T , ( 1854 148,000 4410 urantt lotai (1855— i856 ... 82,900 5500 230,000 £9910

John Grant Johnson, Commissioner N. L. P.

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1855-1856.

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District. Block. Extent. Price. Particulars of Payments. "Whangarei Ditto Ditto Mahurangi ... Ditto Ditto Ditto Whangarei ... Ditto Kaipara ... Ditto Mangawhai Waipu Ruakaka ... Wainui Parekakau Kourawhero Ahuroa Takahiwae Pouponwhenua Wakahara Matakohe ... Acres. 50,000 30,000 20,000 13,300 1,500 19,000 10,000 1,000 200 2,500 500 £ s. d. 1160 0 0 455 0 0 420 0 0 800 0 0 100 0 0 800 0 0 400 0 0 75 0 0 10 0 0 170 0 0 50 0 0 One payment of £1060; subsequent claim settled for £100, One payment of £350; subsequent Native claim £50, £15, £10. One payment. Two instalments; June 22nd £600, December 31st £200. One payment. Two instalments; June 22nd £600, December 31st £200. Two instalments; June 22nd £300, December 31st £100. One payment. One payment. One payment; old land claim £275 18s. previously paid. One payment. 148,000 £4410 0 0

Whangarei Ditto Ditto Ditto Ditto Kaipara Maungatapere Ruarangi Maungakaramea ... Otaika Manaia Toka Toka - ... 11,700 35,000 25,000 300 4,000 3,000 1500 0 0 700 0 0 2700 0 0 100 9 0 200 0 0 300 O 0 One payment. One payment. Oue payment. One payment. One payment. Two instalments; £100 paid July, 1854; £200 March, 1855, 82,000 £5500 0 0

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Enclosure 2 to No. 42. Return of all Sums of Money received by John Grant Johnson, Commissioner for the District of Whangarei, and of all Sums expended in the Purchase of Land, between the 13th February, 1854, and the 31st March, 1856.

— —^— —— ——^— ———______— tti, .. |i i John Grant Johnson, Commissioner N, L, P,

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Date. Received. Amount. Date. Expended. Amount. 1854 Eebraray 18 May 8 June 22 December 31 Per C. W. Ligar, Surveyor-General Donald McLean, Chief Commissioner ... Ditto ditto H. T. Kemp, Acting Chief Commissioner Ditto ditto ' Donald McLean, Chief Commissioner ... £ s. d. 1700 0 0 220 0 0 1500 0 0 500 0 0 1500 0 0 500 0 0 1854 March 3 July 20 March 20 Eor Mangawhai, as per Deed Mangawhai and Waipu ditto Waipu ditto Ruakaka ditto ... Wainui, 1st instalment, ditto Ahuroa ditto ditto Kourawhero ditto ditto Wainui, 2nd instalment ditto Ahuroa ditto ditto Kourawhero ditto ditto £ s. d. 1060 0 0 200 0 0 300 0 0 356 0 0 600 0 0 300 0 0 600 0 0 200 0 0 100 0 0 200 0 0 June 22 June 3 1855 May '18 March 1 . September 30 November 10 Ditto ditto H. T. Kemp, Acting Chief Commissioner Ditto ditto Ditto ditto 900 0 0 20 0 0 2000 0 0 700 0 0 » it December 31 a 1855 January 6 1854 July 20 Maunga Tapere Block ditto 1500 0 0 August 10 December 10 August 10 December 10 1855 September July 14 August 20 October 10 December 1 September 10 May 5 1854 December 10 Takahiwae ditto Poupouwhenua ditto Paritu, Waipu ditto Patuhiwi's claim ditto Whakahara ditto Toka Toka, 1st instalment, ditto... Matakohe, as per ditto 75 0 0 10 0 0 10 0 0 15 0 0 170 0 0 100 0 0 50 0 0 Total Ruarangi Block ditto Manaia ditto Parore's Claim, Tokatoka ditto Maunga Karamea ditto Ditto ditto Advance to Chief Pohe, Whareora Ditto on land, Whananaki 525 0 0 200 0 0 20 0 0 2000 0 0 800 0 0 25 0 0 1 0 0 Ditto Manukau Kaipara 5 0 0 Balance on hand, 31st March £9416 0 0 124 0 0 £9540 0 0 Total £9540 0 0

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No. 43. MR. COMMISSIONER JOHNSON TO THE CHIEF COMMISSIONER. Wellington, Bth May, 1856. Sir, — I have the honor to enclose two surveys of land over which the Natives have been guaranteed : a right of purchase at the rate of ten shillings (10s.) per acre, situated in the Maunga Karamea block " t at Whangarei; and also to request that you will be kind enough to receive the purchase money at Auckland, when tendered by the applicants or their authorised agent. The Mangapae Reserve contains three hundred and eighty-six acres (386); and the price will accordingly amount to One hundred and ninety-three pounds (£193). The grant has been arranged to be issued in the joint names of Hemi Pea, Eruera Toenga, and Paora Keri, sons of the late Chief Motutara. The Mahakitahi Reserve contains one hundred and thirty acres (130), and the price will amount to Sixty-five pounds (£65); and the Natives request the Deed of Grant for this section to be made out in the joint names of Tirarau and Te Ahiterenga. The Manga Karamea Block can now be safely handed over to the Province; the external survey having been completed, with the exception of the place called Kaiahopukia, Kahuera, aud Paraoanui; all of which are situated on the Western boundary, and have been laid claim to by the Ngatimauku, a portion of whom reside with the Te Uri-o-Hau tribe. I much regret that these places are claimed by the Natives, as it is the first case in which any of the purchases in the Whangarei District have been disputed; but the present state of the block has arisen from a native quarrel over which I had no control, originating about land in another part of the District, and which, by a combination of circumstances, frustrated the arrangements which I had made for the perfect settlement of the Manga Karamea purchase. I have, &c, John Grant Johnson, District Commissiener. Donald McLean, Esquire, Chief Land Commissioner, &c, &c.

R. 56-61. Maunga Kakamea. Enclosing surveys of lands which are to be repurchased by the Natives. V. Letter No, 34. Mangapae R, Mahakitahi R.

No. 44. TEE CHIEF COMMISSIONER TO MR. COMMISSIONER JOHNSON. Land Commissioner's Office, Auckland, September 9th, 1856. Sir,— I have the honor to request that you will furnish me at your earliest convenience with a repart, for the information of His Excellency the Governor, of the lands under offer to the Government by the Natives of your District, describing the position, extent, capabilities, price, and probable time that it may take to complete the purchase of'each Block, together with the surveying strength that may be requisite, in order to define the external boundaries and reserves for the Natives in each purchase. The boundaries of each Block must be carefully perambulated, as well as the reserves for the Natives, and a plan made of the same to be attached to the deed of sale, before any payment is made to the natives. The periods at which monies will be required to complete purchases should be distinctly stated. Every exertien should be used during the spring and summer months to acquire such lands as may be approved by the Government for the purposes of colonization. I have, &c, Donald McLean, J. G. Johnson, Esq., J.P., Chief Commissioner. District Commissioner, Whangarei.

Genebal. .To furnish a Report of Blocks under negotiation.

No. 45. MR. COMMISSIONER JOHNSON TO THE CHIEF COMMISSIONER. District Commissioner's Office, Otaika, Whangarei, 16th September, 1856. Sir, — With reference to the letter which 1 had the honor to address to you last September, relative to a desire on the part of the Natives named in the margin,* to dispose of a small piece of land on the

R. 56-110. Respecting offet'of a small block on South side of Whangarei. V. Letter No. 32,

* Note.—Ngakapa, Te Fuihi, Matutou, Te Reweti, Te X.-m, Tukuku, Te Kiretiu, Kipepe.

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COMMISSIONERS' REPORTS

shores of the south side of the harbour of Whangarei, containing by survey, one hundred and sixty-two acres, for the sum of Forty pounds, with a pre-emptive right on their part of repurchasing forty acres of the same at the upset price of ten shillings per acre, but which His Excellency the Governor was pleased to order to remain in abeyance until the next meeting of the General Assembly, and that event having now elapsed, I would beg to bring to your notice that the said Natives have reiterated their request to me to obtain a compliance of their wishes. The matter is a small one, involving no loss to the Crown, and I would suggest that by permitting transactions of this nature to a limited extent, they would prepare the Native mind for receiving Crown Grants by individuals, if such should be the intention of the Government at a future time. I have, &c, John Grant Johnson, District Commissioner. Donald McLean, Esq., Chief Commissioner, Auckland.

No. 46. THE CHIEF COMMISSIONER TO MR. COMMISSIONER JOHNSON. Land Commissioner's Office, Auckland, 3rd November, 1856. Sir, — Enclosed, I send open for your perusal, two letters, one to Tirarau, and another to Parore, which you will have the goodness to see delivered at your earliest convenience. These letters detail the nature of the arrangements entered into with Te Uriohau tribe since Tirarau and Parore left Auckland. You will observe that Te Uriohau tribe have disposed of the whole of the land claimed by them between the Tauraroa and Manganui rivers, extending to the back boundary of the block purchased by you from Te Manihera at Ruarangi. The price paid to the Natives has been £400, the block being estimated at 12,000 acres; should it exceed this quantity, they are to be paid at the rate of £30 for every 1000 acres in excess of the above estimate, or to refund £30 for every thousand acres under the estimate of 12,000 acres. The disputed land in Maungakaramea is not included in this purchase; the Natives declined to accept £100, which I offered in order to remove all future difficulties in connection with that transaction; it appeared to me that they felt apprehensive that Tirarau would make it a cause of quarrel with them if they accepted any payment on land sold by him and bordering go close on the Tangihua range, therefore it is perhaps as well that the matter should stand over, leaving Tirarau to adjust it himself. I have to request that you will use your influence with Tirarau to prevent his bringing any armed party to cut down spars on the territory now in dispute between him and Paikea, as it is reported that he intends bringing 400 of his allies to work a forest in the vicinity of Parore's present residence, which might, if the Uriohau also resort to similar steps, result in dangerous consequences, affecting the tranquility of that part of the Island. I have, &c, Donald McLean, Chief Commissioner, John Grant Johnson, Esq., J.P., District Commissioner, Whangarei.

Respecting land purchased from Te Uri-o-Hau,

Enclosure 1 to No. 46. Akarana, Nowema 4, 1856. E koro c Te Tirarau, — Tena koe. Tenei taku kupu ki a koe. No muri i a korua ko Parore ka tangohia c te Uriohau nga rau pauna c wha (£400) mo te wahi whenua ki waenganui o te awa o Tauraroa o te Manganui, huri noa kite marangai kite rohe o ta te Manihera hokonga ki Ruarangi, me tetahi wahi iti ki uta atu o Tokatoka, puta noa kite Manganui; heoi nga wahi i utua c te Uriohau. I tohe au ki a ratou kia tukua mai te wahi c tautohea nei kei roto ki to hokonga o Maungakaramea kihai ratou i pai; otira, mau c whakarite tera wahi, no te mea kei a koe ano nga tikangs mo reira, kei hoki te raruraru ki runga i nga Pakeha ana nohoia taua whenua a mua a ke nei. Kei a korua ko Te Honiana tetahi mahinga ma korua i nga whenua rarurarukore i tenei raumati, kia mahia paitia nga oneone kia wawe nga raruraru te pahure ake i a tatou ; kia whiti ha maramatanga ki tena pito o to tatou motu, kite pito i timata ai te noho a te Pakeha ; a c mau nei ano te tohe o Ngapuhi kia hoki ano te Pakeha ki tona puna i putake mai ai. Naku, &c, Na Te Makarini.

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Enclosure 2 to No. 46. Akarana, Nowema 4, 1856. E koro c Parore, — Tena koe. He tuhituhi atu tenei naku ki a koe kia rongo koe i nga korero i muri i a korua ko Te Tirarau. Koia tenei ; kua hoko a te Uriohau i te whenua katoa ki waenganui o te awa o Tauraroa puta noa kite Manganui, huri noa kite tai marangai kite hokonga a te Manihera ki Ruarangi, me tetahi wahi iti ki utu atu o Tokatoka, puta noa kite Manganui ; heoi nga wahi kua utua. Ko tenei, c Parore, kotahi tonu taku kupu ki a koe, kia pai to tirotiro i nga he o tena wahi; kia atawhai, kia ora ai te tangata, kia aroha tetahi ki tetahi, kia hoki iho ai te he o tera whenua o Kaipara, kia noho koutou katoa i runga i te ora i te rangimarietanga. Naku, &c, Na Te Makarini.

No. 47. MR. COMMISSIONER JOHNSON TO THE CHIEF COMMISSIONER. District Commissioner's Office, Otaika, Whangarei, sth December, 1861. Sir,— I have had the honor to receive your letter of the 3rd ulto., enclosing two letters for Tirarau and Parore, which I have forwarded to them. The Ngapuhi appear to be quite satisfied with the cession of the land in question by the Uriohau to the Crown. I shall use my best endeavours to dissuade Tirarau and Parore from bringing any of the Ngapuhi tribes to occupy the territory in dispute between them and the Uriohau, but at the same time I would observe that, if they persist in doing so, it cannot be construed into an aggressive movement on the part of those Chiefs, as it has for many years past been the practice of the Northern tribes to resort periodically to the Wairoa river for the purpose of squaring spars and collecting kauri gum for disposal to the merchants located there, and I fear it will be difficult to persuade them to relinquish this source of traffic to which they have been so long accustomed. I have, he, John Grant Johnson, District Commissioner. Donald McLean, Esq., District Commissioner, Auckland.

R. 56-192. Respecting land ki dispute between Tirarau and Te Uriohau. V. Letter No." 4*,

No. 48. THE CHIEF COMMISSIONER TO MR. COMMISSIONER JOHNSON. Land Commissioner's Office, Auckland, March 21st, 1861. Sib,— With reference to your letter of the 31st December last, reporting that you had been nego- . tiating with the Natives at Pakiri for a block of Land in that neighbourhood estimated by you at t from 45,000 to 50,000 acres. _ _ \ In order that your time and that of the surveyor at Whangarei should not be taken up with this negotiation, I have had the external boundaries perambulated by Mr. Churton, accompanied by some ef the principal Chiefs concerned in the sale thereof, who estimates the area of the block at 38,000 acres. I had previously intended to instruct you to come up to Pakiri to complete the purchase with the Natives, but from the information contained in your report above referred to I found that I should be able to effect the arrangements with the Natives without putting the Government to the expense, and yourself to the trouble, of coming up to Pakiri. The Natives have agreed to alienate their claims to this block for the sum of One thousand and seventy pounds, (£1070), of this amount Two hundred and seventy pounds (£270) were paid to them on the 12th inst., and the remaining sum of Eight hundred pounds will be paid when the arrangements for the purchase of the lands situated between Pakiri and Te Arai on the North and Te Ngaere on the South have been completed. The price for the large block is not to exceed Bd. per acre, and when it is considered that the whole of these lands have been previously paid for by the Government, it is absolutely necessary that the utmost economy should be exercised in making a payment to the few Natives resident on the land, as I find on enquiry that they also participated in the payments made to Ngatipaoa and others.

Pakiri. Relative to survey of boundaries of Omaha block.

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In all cases where lands have been purchased, and a fair price given to the Natives, it appears to me that a nominal sum is all that can be considered as justly due to those claimants whose rights from various causes may not have been recognised at the time. I mention this that you may bear it in mind in any future negotiations of a similar nature. I have been particularly anxious to avoid taking you away from the important duties you are now engaged upon, and am anxious to know when you have completed the arrangements for the Blocks now being surveyed by • Mr. Sinclair, in order that a definite report may be sent in to the Government on the Land purchases in your district, and also what progress you have made in your negotiations for Parua Bay. I have, &c., Donald McLean, Chief Commissioner. J. G. Johnson, Esq., Whangarei.

mWrWIWI—TOW Mil li I ■111 l I Ml IWITC»mBtrajU WI«MJUL^.WM«IIIJUJ^tdIJ'«IJM>W3^ia No. 49. MR. COMMISSIONER JOHNSON TO THE CHIEF COMMISSIONER. Parua, Whangarei, 7th April, 1857. Sir, — I have the honor to report for your information that on the completion of the survey of the blocks at the head of the Whangarei river, I made arrangements with the Natives for Mr. Sinclair to survey the block in Parua Bay. The survey was accordingly commenced on the 25th ultimo, and was being actively proceeded with, till the morning of Friday last, when a Native came suddenly before daylight, while the party were asleep in their tent, and pulled up the pegs, and with a drawn sword in his hand ordered them to quit the ground. I had remained a week at Parua on the commencement of the survey, to see that all was going on right, and had just returned to Otaika -when this happened. The Native who has behaved in this way is Haimona To Ilakiro, an old chief related by marriage to Mohi Tawhai of Hokianga. He has always strongly opposed the sale of land, but I was led to believe by the other Natives that he had relinquished his opposition in this instance. The Natives deny his hereditary right to any land at Whangarei; but however that may be, both Hakiro and his father before him, a Native of Pataua, have periodically resorted to Whangarei to plant and fish, which I consider to be quite a bona, fide claim; and I see no other course open, than to wait until Hakiro allows the survey to proceed; and 1 have told the Natives, that, although Hakiro is only one man, still we cannot force him to sell his claim against his consent, and that it rests with them to obtain it before I can allow the surveyor to proceed with the Parua block. Hakiro is the father of the young man whom Tirarau and George King spoke with at Cafler's, when you conferred with them on the subject of the Parua block during your recent visit to Whangarei, and who was charged with a message from those chiefs to his father to cease his opposition, and it has quite surprised all the Natives, as well as myself, that this old man should continue his opposition, which we thought now would be at an end. Every Native in the district is displeased with the conduct of Hakiro, and will most probably endeavour to turn him out of the country. This I will prevent them doing if I can, as it would be both unjust and improper for them to do so. Pending the settlement of this difficulty, I have instructed Mr. Sinclair to proceed with the survey of the Tamaterau block, situated between the Tawera settlement and the Parahaki block already reported. This block includes the peninsula opposite Limestone Island. Ngaitorowhare have settled their dispute with Tirarau, having conceded to that chief the boun-dary he contended for on the point opposite Limestone Island, which is so suitable for a township. . I have, &c., John Grant Johnson, Commissioner N.L.P. Donald McLean, Esq., &c. ; &c,

Parua. The SurTey of Parua block has been interrupted.

" " T, " , "'i"'rttnp"frTT'"ir ram—mmiiiiinmi/i No. .10. THE ASSISTANT NATIVE SECRETARY (ACTING FOR THE CHIEF COMMISSIONER) TO MR. COMMISSIONER JOHNSON. Land Commissioner's Office, Auckland, April 15th, 1857. Sir, — With reference to your letter of the 25th ultimo, enclosing a sketch survey of various blocks of land in your district, I have the honor to inform you that it is the wish of the Chief

General. To carry on the surve; ©f now blocks.

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Commissioner that you should have the external boundaries surveyed of as many new blocks as possible, including that of Mate on the East side of Whangarei harbour. The Chief Commissioner has accompanied his Excellency to Waikato, but on his return thence will issue further instructions to you relative to the blocks which have already been surveyed by Mr. Sinclair. I have, &c., Thomas H. Smith, Assistant Native Secretary. J. G. Johnson, Esq., District Commissioner, Whangarei.

No. 51. THE CHIEF COMMISSIONER TO MR. COMMISSIONER JOHNSON. Land Commissioner's Office, Auckland, May 9th, 1857. Sir, — With reference to your report of the 25th March last, notifying that the survey of certain blocks in your district has been completed, and that it now rests with the Government to decide what price should be paid to the Natives for each of these blocks. I have tho honor to inform you that, assuming the quantities stated by you to be exclusive of Native reserves, and of laud agreed to be resold to the Natives, you are authorized to complete the purchases at prices not exceeding the sums named by yourself, viz., Kaurihohore ... ... ... £550 Parahaki £200 Whareora £250 £10.00 To enable you to carry out these instructions, the sum of One thousand pounds has been forwarded to the Sub-Treasurer at Whangarei, subject to your requisition from time to time, to whom you should account at your earliest convenience for the expenditure of the sums advanced by him to you, and furnish him with a copy and translation of the Deed of Sale in each instance, in support of your accounts. Should any unforeseen delay arise subsequently to your receiving the purchase money, you will be good enough again to deposit it with the Sub-Treasurer, in whose custody it should reaaain until required by you for immediate payment. You should take an early opportunity of notifying to the Natives the decision of the Government as to the price to be paid to them for the above blocks, and to inform them that the money is ready for their acceptance for each of the blocks when they are prepared to execute a Deed of Conveyance to Her Majesty in the usual form. I have, &c, Donald McLean, J. G. Johnson, Esq., Chief Commissioner. District Commissioner, Bay of Islands.

Kaurihohore, &c. To complete purchase o f Kaurihohore, Parahaki, and Whareora blocks.

No. 52. THE ASSISTANT NATIVE SECRETARY (ACTING FOR THE CHIEF COMMISSIONER) TO MR. COMMISSIONER JOHNSON. Land Commissioner's Office, Auckland, May 14th, 1857. Sir, — With reference to a letter of the 7th ultimo, reporting that a chief named Haimona Te Hakiro had opposed the survey of the Parua block, and had ordered the survey party off the ground, and that in consequence of his disputing the sale, you had requested Mr. Sinclair to discontinue the survey. I have the honor to inform you that the course taken by you in this case has been approved by his Excellency the Governor. I have, &c., Thos. H. Smith, Assistant Native Secretary, J. G. Johnson, Esq., J.P., For the Chief Commissioner. District Commissioner, Whangarei.

Parua. Approving his proceed, ings respecting opposition to survey, V, Letter No. 4*

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No. 53. MR. COMMISSIONER JOHNSON TO THE CHIEF COMMISSIONER. Whangarei, 26th May, 1857. Sir, — With reference to my letter of the 7th of April last, reporting that I had been compelled to suspend the survey of the Parua block, on account of the opposition of a Native Chief, and that I had directed Mr. Sinclair to proceed with other work. I have now the honor to inform you, that, although the attempt to obtain a large block has been for the present unsuccessful, by dealing with it in separate portions, the acquisition of the whole will eventually take place; and that, through the influence of George King Tahua, I hav«r been enabled to make a survey of the part of the Parua block having frontage to Whangarei harbour. It contains one thousand three hundred and seventy-rVo acres, according to the enclosed plan. George King Tahua, and Te Hakiro, the chief who lately obstructed the survey, now offer it to the Government, and as it is an exceedingly valuable piece of land, and very much desired by intending settlers, I would strongly recommend you to obtain the necessary authority for its purchase, for a sum not exceeding One hundred and fifty pounds. This portion of the large block at Parua having been given up by the Natives to George King Tahua to satisfy his claim, the question will be more easily dealt with, and I have no doubt of being able to obtain the rest of the block from the Natives of Ngunguru and Pataua, who are now holding back, lest King and Tirarau should appropriate too large a share to themselves in event ef their making a sale in conjunction with those chiefs. I have, &c, John Grant Johnson. P.S. —The expense of this survey has been only £7 14s. (the cost of the Native laborers employed), having been done by myself, while Mr. Sinclair was engaged in doing the Tamateraw block. _^_^______________

Parua.' Has made a survey of part of Parua block. vTjLetter No. 49,

No. 54. the assistant native secretary (acting for the chief commissioner) TO MR. COMMISSIONER JOHNSON. Land Commissioner's Office, Auckland, June 25th, 1857. Sir, — With reference to your letter of the 26th ultimo, relative to, and forwarding a plan of, the Kaiawa block, a portion of the Parua, and recommending the purchase thereof for a sum not exceeding £150, I have the honor, by direction of his Excellency the Governor, to inform you that the Government authorise the purchase being made at any sum not exceeding the above named amount, the money for which purpose will be transmitted to you by the present opportunity. I have, &c, T. H. Smith. For the Chief Commissioner. J. G. Johnson, Esq , District Commissioner, Whangarei.

Kaiawa. To purchase Kaiawa, part of Parua block. V. Letter No. 53,

No. 55. THE ASSISTANT NATIVE SECRETARY (ACTING FOR THE CHIEF COMMISSIONER) TO MR. COMMISSIONER JOHNSON. Land Commissioner's Office, Auckland, August 10th, 1857. Sir, — I have the honor by direction of His Excellency to acknowledge the receipt of your letter of the 27th May in reference to the Ohiwa Block at Whangarei, negotiations for which cannot at present be continued at a price so much beyond that of ordinary rural land in the District. Tho eligibility moreover of the land for the site of a Township is disputed, nor does it seem advisable to buy it while leaving the extreme point of the Peninsula in Native hands. Under these circumstances, therefore, I have to inform you that His Excellency's Government, cannot sanction the purchase as recommended by you. I have, &c, Thos. H. Smith, For the Chief Commissioner. John Grant Johnson, Esquire, District Commissioner, Whangarei.

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No. 56. THE CHIEF COMMISSIONER TO MR. COMMISSIONER JOHNSON. Chief Land Commissioner's Office, Auckland, September 25th, 1857. Sir,— Referring to your report of the 7th April, and 26th May, 1857, respecting the purchase of a small but valuable block of Land at Parua estimated to contain (1372) thirteen hundred and seventy-two acres, and for which you applied for and received authority to pay (£150) One hundred and fifty pounds, which amount I am since given to understand the Native owners will not accept, Hori King, the principal claimant, demanding Three hundred pounds (£300.) The Natives are evidently aware of the importance of this position, situated as it is in the centre of 100,000 acres of Crown territory, and it is evident from what Tirarau informs me that a further concession of Fifty pounds (£5O) will be necessary to ensure a speedy and satisfactory completion of the purchase; under all the circumstances of the case, and considering the urgent necessity for acquiring this block without delay, His Excellency has directed me to cause a further advance of Fifty pounds (£5O) to be made for this purchase, and you will be good enough to confer with Tirarau and have a conveyance of land in question made without further delay. The failure of the negotiation with Hori Tahua should have been reported to me at an earlier period. I have caused a sum of Fifty pounds (£5O) to make up the Two hundred pounds (£200) to be paid into your account at the Bank this day. I have, &c, J. G. Johnson, Esq., J.P, Donald McLean, District Commissioner, Chief Land Commissioner. Whangarei. __^______^_^^__

Kaiawa. f A further sum of £50~ I authorised for Kaiawa , block. V. Letters Nos, 49, 53." } I

No. 57. MR. COMMISSIONER JOHNSON TO THE CHIEF COMMISSIONER. Whangarei, 30th September, 1857. Sir, — With reference to your letter of the 25th instant, on the subject of the Kaiawa block at Parua, intimating that an additional amount of Fifty pounds had been granted for the same, also directing me to confer with Tirarau and have a conveyance of the land made without further delay, I have the honor to inform you that Maunsell, Tirarau's nephew, was the bearer of this letter, demanding at the same time the £200, the price of the land. I was sorry that I felt it my duty not to comply with his request, Tirarau having passed over to the Wairoa, Maunsell being in no way connected with the land, and none of the other parties concerned being present to execute the deed. Ido not see how I could have acted otherwise under the circumstances of the case which I would lay before you with a view of obtaining your further instructions at your earliest convenience. This block is a peninsula in Parua Bay, adjoining the Manaia block and the Native lands, and belongs to Pohe's tribe, and is also partly claimed by an old Chief named Horuona who resides near it. On the extreme point of the peninsula is an old pa which was taken by the Ngatiruanui in former times, on which occasion some ancestors of Tahua and Tirarau were killed. On this account George King Tahua set up a claim to tho point, about 200 acres in extent ; and in order to make his claim sufficiently large for the Government to purchase the land, obtained from the other claimants an extension of the boundaries to 1372 acres, upon tho condition that the real owners were to receive a portion of the payment, which I promised them should be faithfully carried out. Tahua was then authorised by the other claimants to negociate the sale. These other claimants do not belong to the tribes of Tirarau and Hori King Tahua ; and they have warned me that, if these conditions are not complied with, they will resist the occupation of the land although it should be sold by Tahua ; and the only way I have of ensuring the fulfilment of the conditions on which the land was given up is, by taking care that the signatures of the other claimants are obtained to the deed before paying the money, by which means Tahua will be compelled to share the payment with them, or else they will not sign the deed; and I do not feel justified in paying the money over to Tahua or Tirarau alone, and leaving them to settle this question, without your special instructions to that effect. I was not aware, until the receipt of your letter, that Tirarau had been moving in the matter, as I had frequent interviews with Tahua on the subject, who was prepared to accede to my wishes; and his writing to you for £300 was more a matter of form than anything else, he having requested me not to report that the negociation for £150 had failed, as he did not expect to get more ; but Tirarau having made up his mind to demand £200 changed the state of affairs, and it was necessary to give that sum, or he would not have permitted the land to be sold for I have, &c, John Grant Johnson, Donald McLean, Esq., &c, &c, he

Parua. Respecting payment for Parua block. V. Letie7~No7a67

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No. 58. THE CHIEF COMMISSIONER TO MR. COMMISSIONER JOHNSON. Chief Land Purchase Commissioner's Office, Auckland, October 19th, 1857. Sir, — I have the honor to acknowledge the receipt of your letter of the 30th ult., reporting the exploration by you of a large block situated behind the recently purchased Kaurihohore block, and which is estimated by you at from 15,000 to 20,000 acres. I am directed by His Excellency to convey to you the authority of the Government for negociating the purchase of this land at any price not exceeding seven pence per acre, a sum which is considered to be sufficiently high for land which is described by you as being very poor and hilly with few exceptions. 1 have, &c, Donald McLean, Chief Commissiouer. J. G. Johnson, Esq., J.P., District Commissioner, Whangarei.

To purchase a block of ]5,00U acres at not more than ?d. per acre.

No. 59. THE CHIEF COMMISSIONER TO MR. COMMISSIONER JOHNSON. Chief Land Purchase Commissioner's Office, Auckland, 12th November, 1857. Sir, — It having been observed that there is a difference of sixty acres (60) in the acreage of he Tamaterau block as given by Mr. Sinclair in his description of the boundaries, three thousand eight hundred and twenty acres (3,820 acres), and the area of the block on the plan attached to the Deed of Sale, three thousand seven hundred and fifty-two acres (3,752 acres), I have the honor to request that you will be good enough to inform me how the discrepancy occurred, and which of tho two areas given is the correct one. I have, &c, J. G. Johnson, Esq., J.P., &c, &c; Donald McLean, Whangarei. Chief Land Purchase Commissioner.

Tamaterau. Te explain discrepancy of area in Tamaterau block.

No. 60. MR. COMMISSIONER JOHNSON TO THE CHIEF COMMISSIONER. Otaika, Whangarei, 19th November, 1857. Sir, — With reference to the subject of the purchase of the Kaiwa block of one thousand three hundred and seventy-two acres, and the payment of the money to the Chief Tirarau, about which I had the honor to address you on the 30th September last, I have to report that I had a long conference with that Chief on the 6th instant; and, as he promises to procure the signatures of the other claimants to the Deed, and pay them a share of the money for the land, I handed him over the money, taking, in the meantime, a Deed of Conveyance from him, which I have the honor to enclose herewith. I had observed lately that the opposition of Pohe's party to Tirarau's receiving the money had much diminished ; and I told Edward Pohe a few days since that Tirarau had been paid, at which he did not express any marked dissatisfaction. It would have been more agreeable to me to have received your instructions officially notified before taking this step ; but Tirarau was so impatient of any delay, and so bent on an immediate compliance with his wishes, and I being apprehensive of his quarrelling with the other claimants who had opposed him, and still further complicating the question, that I felt satisfied the course I took was the best for the public welfare. I told him that I was awaiting the further instructions of the Government on this matter; and be agreed that the money was to remain untouched in his possession until the final decision of the Government is obtained and communicated through me to him. I have, &c, Donald McLean, Esq., John Grant Johnson, Chief Land Purchase Commissioner. District Commissioner.

Parua; Reporting that he has paid for Parua block. V. Letter No. *7.

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No. 61. THE CHIEF COMMISSIONER TO MR. COMMISSIONER JOHNSON. Chief Land Purchase Commissioner's Office, Auckland, November 24th, 1857. Sir, — Mr. Sinclair having reported the completion of the survey of the blocks named in the margin,* and forwarded plans of the same to this office, I have the honor by direction of His Excellency the Governor, to request that you will be good enough to ascertain the lowest price for which these blocks can be purchased. I have, &c, Donald McLean, Chief Land Purchase Commissioner. J. G. Johnson, Esq., District Commissioner, Whangarei.

Various Blocks. To ascertain the lowest price at which they can be purchased.

No. 62. THE CHIEF COMMISSIONER TO MR. COMMISSIONER JOHNSON. Chief Land Purchase Commissioner's Office,. Auckland, November 24th, 1857. Sir, — With reference to your letter of the 16th instant, relating the offer by the Natives of your district of a small block of land, situated between the head of the Whangarei and Ngunguru harbours, I have tho honor, by direction of His Excellency the Governor, to request that you will be good enough to have the land surveyed, in order that a more correct estimate may be formed of its extent, and that the price to be paid for it may be more easily determined. It is observed, however, that your negociations lately have been for the purchase of very small blocks of land, which are open to this objection, that the prices paid for them is much larger than the average agreed upon by other Commissioners. I have, &c, Donald McLean, Chief Land Purchase Commissioner. J. G. Johnson, Esq., J.P., District Commissioner, Whangarei.

To survey a block between Whangarei and Ngunguru,

No. 63. THE CHIEF COMMISSIONER TO MR. COMMISSIONER JOHNSON. Chief Land Purchase Commissioner's Office, Auckland, December 21st, 1857. Sir, — With reference to your letter of the 7th instant, forwarding a plan of the Mata Block, containing eleven thousand one hundred and eight acres, exclusive of the Native Eeserves, being one thousand one hundred and eight acres in excess of the area as estimated by you in your letter of the 2nd October, 185.6. I have the honor, by direction of the Governor, to inform you that in consideration of the increased area of the block, His Excellency has been pleased to approve of your concluding the purchase at a price not exceeding Seven hundred pounds (£700), for which purpose that sum will be transmitted to you in the usual manner. I have, &c, Donald McLean, Chief Land Purchase Commissioner. John Grant Johnson, Esq., J.P., District Commissioner, Whangarei.

Mata. To complete the purchase of Mata block,

* Mangapae, 11,108 a.; Mahe, 1,646 a. ; Kopuawaiwaha, 1,588 a. ; Totara, 39a. ; Kahuieteeke, 35a., 3r., lOp. ; Pokapu, 36a., 2r. T0ta1—14,453a., lr., lOp.

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No. 64. THE CHIEF COMMISSIONER TO MR. COMMISSIONER JOHNSON. Chief Land Purchase Commissioner's Office, Auckland, December 21st, 1857. Sir, — I have the honor to acknowledge the receipt of your letter of the 7th December, reporting that another block has been offered for sale on the Wairua river, adjoining that which you had agreed to purchase at sixpence per acre, and approved by my letter of this day's date. I am directed by His Excellency the Governor, to convey to you the necessary authority for concluding the purchase of this block, if it can be acquired on the same terms as that above alluded to. . I have, &c, John Grant Johnson, Esq., J.P., Donald McLean, District Commissioner, Chief Land Purchase Commissioner. Whangarei.

To purchase a block on the Wairua river.

No. 65. THE CHIEF COMMISSIONER TO Mil, COMMISSIONER JOHNSON. Chief Land Purchase Commissioner's Office, Auckland, December 21st, 1857. Sir, — With reference to your letter of the 7th inst., stating that you had closed with the Native owners for the purchase of a block on the Wairua river, estimated to contain from fifteen to twenty thousand acres at the rate of sixpence per acre. I have the hoflor, by direction of His Excellency the Governor, to inform you that this arrangement is very satisfactory, and that the money required for this purpose, Five hundred pounds, (£500) will be transmitted to you in the usual manner. I have, &c, J. G. Johnson, Esq., J .P., Donald McLean, District Commissioner, Chief Land Purchase Commissioner. Whangarei.

Wairua. Approving of purchase of a block on the Wairua River. ' T. Letter No. 64,

No. 66. MR. COMMISSIONER JOHNSON TO THE CHIEF COMMISSIONER. District Land Commissioner's Office, Whangarei, 11th February, 1858. Sir, — I have the honor to enclose a Return of all transactions in which I have been engaged, connected with the purchase of land in the Whangarei District, since the 30th June, 1856, as requested in your letter of the 7th December, 1857. Some of the blocks, the purchase of which has been completed, will be observed to be of smaller extent than those at present under negotiation. 1 would therefore remark for your information, that it having been left by yourself to my discretion to judge which particular lands of those approved to bo purchased by the Government should be first proceeded with, I decided on acquiring those immediately adjoining, the already located districts, having frontage to Whangarei harbour, or connected with it by roads already opened up by the settlers, and thus available for immediate colonization; such lands are invariably more difficult to acquire from the Natives than the back country, and, if remaining in their hands, a value is progressively added to them by the improvements of the contiguous lands in the possession of European settlers. A disposition to sell them having opportunely manifested itself by the Natives, I embraced the opportunity at once, in preference to purchasing lands of greater extent in the interior, which I felt assured the owners would be willing to dispose of after the lands on the coast had been bought. These anticipations have now been completely realized, and there is no doubt but the that purchases of all the blocks under negociation will be speedily settled as soon as the district surveyor determines their extent. I have, &c, John Grant Johnson, District Land Commissioner. Donald McLean, Esq., Chief Commissioner, Auckland.

General. Return of all transactions relating to Land Purchases from June 1856, to December 1817.

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Enclosure 1 to No. 66.

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Date of Total Tribe Date of Extent in Date of Sums Sums from whom Commissioner District. Purchase. Acres. Description of Land. Payment. Paid. Payment payable. of each negotiating. to be made. Purchase. purchased. Whangarei. Agricultural and timber land, contains two small harbours, and two navigable rivers; fine Kauri timber. £ s. d. £ s. d. £ s. d. Pakiri Block 1857. March 12 Surveyed area 38,000 Mar ch 12 270 0 0 800 0 0 1070 0 0 Kawerau and Uri o Hau Messrs. McLean and Johnson Kaurihohore Block June 8 4,790 Excellent agricultural land, immediately adjoiniug the Settlement at Whangarei; accessible by good roads; partly forest,«level, and well watered land of volcanic nature. June 8 550 0 0 550 0 0 Ngapuhi District Commissioner Johnson Parahaki Block June 8 4,481 General character poor and hilly, situation "good, adjoining the Settlement at Whangaret, and frontage to navigable river; possess good Kauri timber. June 8 200 0 0 200 0 0 Ngapuhi District Commissioner Johnson Whareora Block June 23 4,939 Land of very fair quality and suitable for agricultural or pastoral purposes; most accessible from Ngungum river. June 23 250 0 0 250 0 0 Ngiphi District Commissioner Johnson October 2 200 0 0 200 0 0 Ngapuhi ■ Tamaterau Block 3,820 Agricultural land of very excellent quality, having frontage to Whangarei harbour; back range covered with valuable timber; land well watered. October 2 District Commissioner Johnson *Awaroa Block Kaiwa Block October 2 1,053 Agricultural and timber land. Ngapuhi District Commissioner Johnson Messrs. McLean and Johnson A peninsula, surrounded with deep water, running oat into the harbour of Whangarei; excellent soil, and valuable timber. November 6 200 0 0 200 0 0 Ngapuhi Mata Block 1858. February 2 11,108 1858. February 2 600 0 0 600 0 0 Ngapuhi District Commissioner Johnson Agricultural and pastoral; the greater portion of this block is hilly; has water frontage to a navigable branch of Whangarei harbour; is well timbered and watered; limestone formation. Parua Block estimated 10,000 not yet determined probably March 1858 estimated 500 0 0 estimated 500 0 0 Ngapuhi District Commissioner Johnson Poor and hilly on side next Whangarei; fine timber and good land on the Pataua river.

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John Grant Johnson, February 11th, 1858. District Land Purchase Commissioner.

Enclosure 1 in No. 66 — (continued.)

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Extent in Date of Total Tribe Date of Date of Sums Payments Sums of each from whom Commissioner District. Purchase. Acres. Description of Land. Payment. Paid payable. negociating. to be made. Purchase. purchased. Whangarei. £ s. d. £ s. d. £ s. d. District Commissioner Johnson Mahe Surveyed area 1,646 Agricultural land; frontage to Whangarei harbour; limestone formation. 1S58. February 23 100 0 0 100 0 0 Ngapuhi Whauwhau 1,351 Agricultural and timber land; adjoining Sir Osborne Gibbes' property. February 23 100 0 0 100 0 0| Ngapuhi District Commissioner Johnson Kamo 296 j Agricultural; richest volcanic soil adjoining Settlement. February 23 50 0 0 I I I 50 0 0 Ngapuhi District Commissioner Johnson f Whananaki Block estimatod 2,560 Agricultural and timber land, situated on the North bank of the Whananaki river; navigable for small craft and boats. probably April, 1858 100 0 0 100 0 0 Ngapuhi District Commissioner Johnson Wairua Block Nga Mako Block 20,000 15,000 Poor, hilly, and swampy; may be available at a future period when the great Wairua swamp is drained; suitable for rough cattle runs. Average quality, partly swamp; suitable for cattle runs. probably May, 1858 probably June, 18*58 estimated 500 0 0 at 6d. per acre, estimated 375 0 0 at 6d. per acre, estimated 400 0 0 estimated 500 O 0 estimated 375 0 0 Ngapuhi Ngapuhi District Commissioner Johnson District Commissioner Johnson Huanui Block 4,000 Excellent agricultural land, well timbered and watered; accessible by good roads from the Setlement at Whangarei; on volcanic plain. uncertain; negociations suspended during Native disputes; probablv April, 1858 estimated 400 0 0 Ngapuhi District Commissioner Johnson t Tutu Kaka 10,000 Heavily timbered and hilly; possesses harbour of Tutukaka for ships, and Matapouri for boats. 50 0 0 50 0 0 Ngapuhi District Commissioner Johnson * The Awaroa purchase, originally made from the Natives by Messrs. Gorrie and Greenhill, was exchanged for Scrip with the Crown; it was surveyed, and re-assumed by the Government without further payment. f The Whananaki Block was originally purchased by the late Capt. Salmon, of the Bay of Islands, from the Chief Waikato; but, as its sale was always opposed by the Kawakawa Natives, so that possession could not be obtained of it, the Crown granted other land to the representatives of the late Capt. Salmon, in exchange for the said claim, on Capt. Salmon's representatives undertaking to satisfy the rest of the claimants. They have consented to give up then-claim for £100, which was to be made after a survey of the land is made. X The Tutukaka case has been referred to Mr. Commissiouer Bell. It is also an Old Land Claim exchanged for Scrip, the £50 to be paid contingent on Mr. Bell's approval, at the approaching investigation on the spot, to satisfy claimants —Vide Messrs. Godfrey and Richmond's Original Report on the case.

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No. 67. ME. COMMISSIONER ROC4AN (ACTING FOR THE CHIEF COMMISSIONER) TO MR. COMMISSIONER JOHNSON. Chief Land Purchase Commissioner's Office, Auckland, February 15th, 1858. Sir — With reference to your letter of the 15th ultimo, enclosing a tracing of a survey of Te Mahe Block of one thousand six hundred and forty six acres, I have the honor, by direction of the Governor, to convey to you His Excellency's sanction for offering the Native owners of the block the sum of One hundred pounds (£100) for their claims, being the sum recommended by you. I have, &c, For the Chief Commissioner, John Rogan, District Commissioner, John Grant Johnson, Esq., J.P., District Commissioner, Whangarei.

3 Mahe. 3 Approval of price fixed for Mahe block.

No. 68, MR. COMMISSIONER ROGAN (ACTING FOR THE CHIEF COMMISSIONER) TO MR. COMMISSIONER JOHNSON. Chief Land Purchase. Commissioner's Office, Auckland, February 15th, 1858. Sir, — Eeferring to your letter of the 4th ultimo, relative to the negociations and survey of two blocks of land named as per margin, I have the honor, by direction of the Governor, to convey to you His Excellency's authority for your completing the purchase of the Whauwhau and Kamo blocks for the sums not exceeding One hundred pounds (£100), and Fifty pounds (£5O) respectively. I have, &c, For the Chief Commissioner, John Eogan, District Commissioner. J. G. Johnson, Esq., J. P., District Commissioner, Whangarei.

Whauwhau & Kamo. To complete thephrchase ) of Whauwhau and Kamo ) blocks.

No. 69. THE ASSISTANT NATIVE SECRETARY (ACTING FOR THE CHIEF COMMISSIONER) TO ME. COMMISSIONER JOHNSON. Chief Land Purchase Commissioner's Office, Auckland, March 15th, 1858. Sir,— I have the honor, by direction of His Excellency the Governor, to request that you will use your endeavours to effect a complete settlement of the claims of the Natives to the Kaiawa block, recently purchased by you, in order that it may be handed over to the Province with the least possible delay, as emigrants from Nova Scotia aro now waiting to settle upon it. I have, &c, Thos. H. Smith, Assistant Native Secretary. John Grant Johnson, Esq., J.P., District Commissioner, Whangarei,

Kaiawa. To effect settlement of Native claims to Kaiawa.

No. 70. MR. COMMISSIONER JOHNSON TO THE CHIEF COMMISSIONER. Whangarei, 22nd March, 1858. Sir — With reference to the letter of Hata Kingi, which has been referred to me for my report, I have the honor to state that it refers to the Kaiawa Block, the money for which was /

Parua. Heiative to claim preferred by Hata Kingi to Kaiawa,

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paid to Tirarau, on the recommendation of the Chief Commissioner, who has confidence in the integrity of that Chief. I would, however, observe that Tirarau is one of the most difficult Chiefs to deal with of any in the country; and every negociation with him must be conducted in the most guarded and cautious manner, as when he once takes up a point he will not swerve from it on any consideration. And, in the present instance, the reason I paid the money was that he considered it had been promised to him by Mr. McLean (without reference to me) and he had stated this before all the Natives, and had also made up his mind to tho disposal of it. Had it been withheld at my instance, he would have considered his dignity lowered, —ho would not only have stopped the sale of the 1,372 acres, but also that of 16,000 acres adjoining to it, the survey of which is now nearly completed, and perhaps put a veto on the sale of all the land in the district. The money for Kaiawa has not been divided yet amongst the claimants, and Tirarau has neither told me or them what he intends to do with it. They are all submitting to this without a remonstrance, with the exception of Haimona Hakiro and his three sons, the eldest of whom is the writer of the enclosed letter. I consider their claim to Twenty-five pounds of the £200 to be an equitable adjustment. My own opinion is, that possession might be taken of the land by Europeans, without any interruption on the part of the Natives, for their fear of Tirarau would prevent their taking any active measures: but, while this state of things exists, I cannot certify that the Native Title is extinguished. Symptoms of discontent among the Natives with the conduct of Tirarau in various other matters besides this are becoming apparent; and I would recommond that, in any future dealings with him, the system of the money being divided amongst the claimants by the District Commissioner be adopted, as it has been in all the dealings I have had with other Natives, to the general satisfaction of all parties concerned. I am informed that Tirarau proceeds shortly to Auckland to see the Chief Commissioner, when that gentleman or his deputy may be able to come to some satisfactory arrangement with him on the Parua question, I have, &c, John Grant Johnson, District Commissioner. Thos. H. Smith, Esq., Assistant Native Secretary, Auckland.

No. 71. MR. COMMISSIONER JOHNSON TO THE CHIEF COMMISSIONER. Whangarei, 17th May, 1858. Sir, — With reference to your letter of the 15th March last, requesting, by the direction of His Excellency the Governor, that I would use my best endeavours to effect a complete settlement of the claims of the Natives to the Kaiawa Block, I have the honor to inform you that the principal obstacle to the final settlement of this question has been overcome—the representatives (represented by Hata Kingi, whose claims I reported upon in my letter, dated 22nd March, 1858) having withdrawn their opposition to Tirarau, in compliance with my solicitations to that effect. Another party, also living in Parua Bay, named the Ngati Tv—whose cause William Edward Pohe advocated —have signified their willingness to be satisfied, whether Tirarau divides the payment of the land with them or not. A third party, however, including the Chief Edward William Pohe himself, still clamour that a share of the money in the possession of Tirarau be paid to them. The claims of this last party are, in my opinion, very vague and uncertain, arising from the hereditary right advanced by an old man, named Hine Waru, derived through some undefined ancestry belonging to the former but now extinct—tribe of Ngati Tahuhu, who inhabited this district at one time, but which appears to apply equally to almost every spot of land in this part of tho country. If it was a matter to be determined by me, I would be inclined to regard a claim of this nature as not valid; but, the point never having been, to my knowledge, defined by the Government as to what, in their opinion, constitutes a valid claim on the part of a Native to land, —or, if it has been determined, no instructions have ever been given on thesubject for my guidance, and the usages of the Aborigines themselves being so completely at variance in parallel cases that no rule of action can be formed from them, —the only course appears to be, cither to satisfy every claim brought forward with a payment, or procure its withdrawal on the part of the claimants ; which latter method, in the present instance, seems to bo the only way to attain the object desired, as any attempt to induce Tirarau to divide the money in opposition to his pre-arranged plans would be quite unavailing. Having thus fully laid before you the present aspect of this complicated case, you will no doubt, be enabled to judge whether the Native title can be proclaimed to have been extinguished

Kaiawa. The Natives have ceased to oppct*e the sale of Kaiawa block. vTLetlw No. 69.

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at once, and the land thrown open to the settlement of the Nova Scotian immigrants, or whether it will be necessary to await the relinquishment of this outstanding claim —or, in my opinion, pretended claim —on the part of the Natives. I have, &c., John Grant Johnson, District Commissioner. Donald McLean, Esq., Chief Commissioner.

No. 72. MR. COMMISSIONER JOHNSON TO THE CHIEF COMMISSIONER. Whangarei, 29th May, 1858. Sir,— With reference to my letter of the 17th instant, on the subject of the adjustment of the. Native claims to the Kaiwa Block, I have the honor to inform you that I have seen the Chief j Edward Pohe, and reasoned with him on the matter, and that the result is, that he now will consent < to the occupation of the Block by the Europeans, although he still expects to receive a portion of the money from Tirarau. The question would now appear to be entirely a Native one between themselves, and I do not see any reason why the land should be any longer withheld from settlement on account of Native opposition. I have, &c, John Grant Johnson, District Land Commissioner. Donald McLean, Esq., &c, &c.

Kaiawa. • Eru Pohe has withdrawn his opposition to its occupation. ' vrLeHerNe, JL

No. 73. THE CHIEF COMMISSIONER TO MR. COMMISSIONER JOHNSON. Chief Land Purchase Commissioner's Office, Auckland, May 31st, 1858. With reference to your Letter of the sth instant, forwarding a plan of the survey of the Waikare block and reporting thereupon;— I have the honor, by direction of His Excellency the Governor, to request that you will be good enough to complete the purchase of the block at the price named by you, viz., not exceeding ten pence per acre, as it is very important that the Native Title should be extinguished over the said block, it being much required for expected immigrants from Nova Scotia. I have, &c, Donald McLean, Chief Commissioner. John Grant Johnson, Esq., J.P., District Commissioner, Whangarei.

Waikabe. To complete purchase ttt the Waikare block,

No. 74. MEMORANDUM BY THE CHIEF COMMISSIONER. Recommended that Mr. District Commissioner Johnson should be informed that the arrangements he has made with the Natives for the withdrawal of their opposition to the sale of the Kaiawa block are very satisfactory. The claim adduced by Pohe, as being derived from one of his ancestors whose rights or occupancy according to Maori custom cannot be substantiated, is so vague and unsatisfactory that it appears no compensation should be made to Pohe, inasmuch as that Chief failed to produce any evidence of his having a valid right of ownership over the land, after a careful investigation which I made when he was last in Town. In fact the impression left on my mind by Pohe was that he

Kaiawa. Approving of Mr. Com. missioner Johnson's ar. raugements. ' Y. Letter Ne, 71,

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was endeavouring to extort money from Te Tirarau or the Government for a claim, the justice of which he could not substantiate. A right of ownership within 20 or 30 years should be proved by Pohe to enable him to make any claim. Under all the circumstances of the case, I recommend that this block, which is so much desired by the Nova Scotia settlers, should be proclaimed in the usual manner. Donald McLean. Chief Commiisioner. Chief Land Purchase Commissioner's Office, Auckland, June 4th, 1858.

No. 75. THE CHIEF COMMISSIONER TO MR. COMMISSIONER JOHNSON. Chief Land Purchase Commissioner's Office, Auckland, September Bth, 1858. Sir,— Hoani Papita and others, Natives of Pataua, are at present on a visit to Auckland and they have called upon me to discuss the Parua Block of twenty thousand acres (20,000) for which you have offered them about seven pence (7d.) per acre, or Six hundred pounds (£600). It appears they have resolved not to accept that sum, and that your late visit, during which time you spent a week with them as reported by you, has failed of bringing the question to a settlement, I have told him that, as the purchase of land in the Whangarei district has been delegated to you, I should not interfere in your absence with existing arrangements between you; but from letters recently received from you I had reason to expect you up here very soon, and if he then chose to discuss the subject, that it might probably be arranged. I gather from your report that it would be inexpedient to pay more for the land than you have offered. I have intimated this to the Natives, who seem desirous in such case to break off the negotiation altogether; I should regret their doing so, as the land, although some of it is of indifferent quality, is likely to be required for European settlement. If you are of opinion that the Ngunguru Natives could be negotiated with at Auckland to greater advantage than at their own place, it might be worth while to avail of their being here to get the question settled, as they appear anxious to have the matter decided either one way or the other without delay. I have, &c, Donald McLean, Land Commissioner, John Grant Johnson, Esq., J.P., District Commissioner, Whangarei.

Parua. Hoani Papita and others have agreed to price ffiarnsd for Parua block.

No. 76. MR. COMMISSIONER ROGAN TO THE CHIEF COMMISSIONER, Whangarei, 19th August, 1859. Sir, — I have the honor to inform you, for the information of His Excellency the Governor, that after my arrival at Pakiri on the 4th instant, for the purpose of paying the sum of Five hundred pounds (£500) to Te Kiri and others for the purchase of Waikeriawera, a messenger was immediately despatched to Kaipara for Arama Karaka to come and participate in the payment for that land, and as after the lapse of ten days, neither the messenger nor Arama Karaka made his appearance, Te Kiri, Te Urunga, Hori Te More, and the other Natives became so impatient, that I was compelled to pay over the money to them (they having promised to satisfy any claim which Arama Karaka has on the land), or run the risk of breaking off the arrangement altogether for an indefinite period, and on Monday the 15th the deed was executed and the money paid over to Te Kiri and Te Urunga. An instalment of One hundred pounds (£100) on account of an advance of Two hundred and fifty-one pounds one shilling (£251 Is.) which has been made to Te Kiri by the Government to complete the purchase of a vessel, was handed to me together with Twenty pounds (£2O) from Hori Te More on account of Fifty pounds (£5O) which has been advanced to him on the Mangawhara block, after which I proceeded on my way to Whangarei. On my arrival at Mangawhai in. the evening I was informed that Makoare and Timoti, two Kaipara Chiefs, were drowned, which was the cause of the messenger and Arama Karaka being detained at Kaipara. Tho Deed of cession, together with the description of boundaries, is enclosed herewith. I have no apprehension that Arama Karaka will raise any objection to my having paid the money to Te Kiri under the circumstances above stated. Yeti it may be advisable that the Proclamation of the

Waikebiawbka, Reporting payment of £500 for the Waikeriawera block.

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Block be deferred for a short period, until I have an opportunity of explaining to him personally the reasons which induced me to pay over the money to Te Kiri in his absence. I have, &c, John Rogan, District Commissioner. Donald McLean, Esq., J.P., Chief Commissioner, Auckland.

No. 77. MR. COMMISSIONER ROGAN TO THE CHIEF COMMISSIONER. Auckland, 28th September, 1859. Sir,— With reference to your letter, dated 27th ulto., requesting me to proceed to Omaha to communicate with Te Kiri, and enquire into and report on land claimed by him within the Pakiri blocks, for the information of His Excellency the Governor, I have the honor to acquaint you that I proceeded to Pakiri, and stated to Kiri the object of my visit, and he agreed to accompany me over the boundaries of the land claimed by him. Accordingly, on the following day, 15th instant, we proceeded to the ground, and followed along the Native pathway, which leads from Whakatuwhenua, or Cape Rodney, to Omaha, and when we arrived at a place which is marked M on the accompanying tracing, Te Kiri halted and pointed out a spade mark, which he stated was made by him in presence of a number of Natives and the Surveyor, previous to the survey of Pakiri block, and that he called Mr. Churton's attention to this place at the time, and Mr. McDonnell, who was one of the survey party, substantiated generally what Kiri stated. The claim he prefers is bounded by the line colored pink, and follows the water line from Whakatuwhenua along the coast to the point where that line strikes the Harbour, which is shewn on the accompanying tracing, and contains about (668) six hundred and sixty-eight acres. We proceeded to Omaha, and I said to Te Kiri that I considered he was in error, in the first instance, in not having a clear understanding as to the land he wished to have reserved. He replied that his boundary was pointed out to the Surveyor long before the land was surveyed, and, when it was being subdivided, he stopped the survey at the same place where the mark was made, and warned the Surveyor that the pegs would be pulled up. I then stated to Kiri, that, without entering into the question as to who was right, in order to get rid of the misunderstanding which existed as regards the whole question, I proposed at once, on my own account, that ho should waive his claim over the whole of the land .claimed by him, and that I should secure him, say, five acres (5) of land in the township, and that I should recommend the Government to give him some small sum in addition, more in consideration of labour expended in building houses, planting, fencing, and cultivating, than any claim he might have to the land, telling him at the same time that I was not authorised by the Government to do so, and was not at all certain that my proposal would be approved. He considered this over for some time, and when I pressed him for a reply, he said he would not accept from the Government land which belonged to himself, and a discussion ensued which arrived at a point beyond which I did not think it advisable to persevere, and told him that I should leave the whole matter as it stood before. .He was then told, that it was a matter between him and the Government, and not the survey party, who should be looked upon in the same manner as the bill-hooks with which the lines were cut. He then replied that the survey might be proceeded with, but he should pull up the pegs, and he considered this was a sufficient protest. After some time, I proposed that he should accompany me to Auckland, in order to decide the question in some way with Government, to which he at once assented. When the vessel was prepared to sail for Auckland, Kiri came to me and represented that he was in great trouble owing to his son being in the last stage of consumption, and that his friends objected to his leaving the settlement in consequence. I promised either to write to him from Auckland, or to call at Pakiri soon to bring the question to an issue. On my arrival in town I mentioned to Mr. Churton what Kiri advanced, and he admits having witnessed the mark being made, but is quite clear that Kiri is under a misapprehension as regards the Reserve, as he never, during the period of survey, exp 1 \ined to him that he intended to reserve this place, and that no question whatever arose unli after the survey was made and the money paid over to the Natives, and as the Chief Conkmissbner who negotiated this purchase is of the same opinion, I am inclined to think that the lai ge reserve which Kiri now claims was an after-thought of his, although he seems quite clear that he never alienated this portion of the block. I have, &c, John Rogan, Donald McLean, Esq., District Commissioner. Chief Commissioner, Auckland.

Pakibi. Respecting Te Kiri's claim to the Pakiri block.

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No. 78. MR. COMMISSIONER ROGAN TO THE CHIEF COMMISSIONER. Auckland, 30th September, 1859. Sir,— With reference to your letter of Ist August last, requesting me to proceed to Whangarei for the purpose of making inquiries into the offer of land referred to in Sir Osborne Gibbes' letter to His Excellency the Governor, I have the honor to acquaint you, for His Excellency's information, that at a meeting of the principal native claimants to the land situated inland of Kaurihohore block, it was agreed by the parties to dispose of some land in that locality, which was formerly offered on the 23rd and 27th of August. After my return from Pataua and Ngunguru, I received your letter requesting me to proceed forthwith to Pakiri, and I had, therefore, no time to examine the ground. I am informed by Mr. Bedlington that the probable extent of this offer is 10,000 or 12,000 acres in which there is a good proportion of volcanic land, and submit that I may be authorised to employ that gentleman in perambulating and surveying the boundaries of the land, as he is well acquainted with the natives, has an extensive knowledge of the country, and is a first class surveyor. I have, &c, John Rogan, Thos. H. Smith, Esq., District Commissioner. Assistant Native Secretary, Auckland.

Whangarei. Respecting offer by Natives of a block inland of Kaurihohore.

No. 79. MR. COMMMISSIONER ROGAN TO THE CHIEF COMMISSIONER. Auckland, Sir — At your request, I have the honour to state, for the information of His Excellency the Governor, that I proceeded to Whangateau to enquire into the nature of Tawhitu's claim to a piece of land situated on that river within an old purchase; and when I arrived at the settlement the natives had gone to Te Ngaere. The boundaries of the land claimed by him as a reserve were, however, pointed out to me by a native named Nuku, which correspond as nearly as possible with that shown on the tracing enclosed herewith. I overtook Tawhitu, who was on his way to Auckland to arrange with Mr. Dacre, the proprietor, and secure the possession of the land. As this place has been purchased many years ago, and included in the late Pakiri purchase, in the payment for which Tawhitu participated, I cannot see what claim the natives can have to this place except by occupation. At tho same time, as there are several plantations and houses on the land, and the natives have had undisturbed possession of the land for ten years, I submit that it would be very desirable to make some arrangement with Mr. Dacre, in order to secure the natives in possession of their homes. I have, &c, John Rogan, Donald McLean, Esq., District Commissioner. Chief Commissioner.

Whangateatj. Respecting Tawhitu's claim to land claimed by Mr. Dacre.

No. 80. MR. COMMISSINER ROGAN TO THE CHIEF COMMISSIONER. Auckland, 13th February, 1861. Sir, — With reference to a portion of land situated at Omaha in the Pakiri purchase held in dispute by Te Kiri, which is reported in my letter of 28th September, 1859, and according to an arrangement with him, I proceeded to Omaha on the 7th instant, with a view to arrive at a better understanding, and, if possible, to settle the question. On my arrival at Omaha, a messenger was despatched to Pakiri for Te Kiri and his brother, who arrived late on Saturday, the 9th inst. On Monday, the 11th, we proceeded to Whakatuwhenua, where the natives pointed out about ten acres of land, which embraces the landing place, together with a portion which is more particularly described on the accompanying sketch. Te Kiri insisted upon retaining this place before he would enter into any negociations with me regarding the part he was willing to cede, which, he stated, entirely depended on the terms I was prepared to offer him. We then returned to Omaha, and traversed the Kaiohuohu stream to its source, and on to Motururu, the sea coast. The whole of the land seaward of this boundary he has determined to hold for his own and his friends' use, and as there is a party of natives belonging to Tauranga located on a portion of it, he could not easily, if he would, dispose of it, as it would be difficult to oust these people from their cultivations. The land between Kaiohuohu and the straight line shown on the tracing, which comprises the greater portion of the land held in dispute, he agrees to waive all claim to, excepting the

Pakiri. Respecting T« Kiri's claim to Omaha. V. Letter No. 77.

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ten acres above referred to, for the sum of £100. After this arrangement was closed, a difficulty arose between Te Kiri and Te Tawera people regarding a cultivation within this boundary on an allotment of land purchased by a settler who is most anxious to occupy it, and, after a long discussion, Kiri gave me to understand that he would induce the Tawera natives to give up their cultivations, and a sum of £10 or £20 will bo required for this purpose. I have the honor to submit that I may be authorized to carry out the above arrangement without delay, as it will enable settlers to enter upon quiet possession of land which they purchased from the Government a considerable time ago, who have been waiting until the present time, in the hope that this question may be brought to a conclusion. With regard to the portion of land which contains 163 acres reserved by Te Kiri, it would materially facilitate my operations hereafter in negociating for the greater part of it, if I am authorized to purchase for Te Kiri, 30 or 40 acres of land which is situated on the coast line between Whakatuwhenua and Pakiri, which he is most anxious to obtain. The land is not likely to be purchased by any Europeans as it is very hilly. I have, &c, John Rogan, Donald McLean, Esq., District Commissioner. Chief Commissioner.

No. 81. MR. COMMISSIONER ROGAN TO THE CHIEF COMMISSIONER. Mahurangi, 20th February, 1861. Sir, — Referring to my letter of 13th instant, I have now the honor to enclose herewith a receipt for £100 and £10, which has been paid to Kiri in consideration of waiving his claim to a portion of land held in dispute at Omaha, and for defining the boundary between the part retained by himself and that disposed of to the Government. I succeeded in arranging with Kiri, as is stated on the receipt, to induce Te Tawera Natives to abandon their cultivation this season, and the balance remaining in my hands, £10, shall be paid into the Treasury when I return to Auckland. The boundaries of the reserve at Whakatuwhenua have been altered by Te Kiri, at my request, so as to leave out nearly the whole of the land on the east side of the road leading to the beach at that place. I have, he, John Rogan, District Commissioner. Donald McLean, Esq., Chief Commissioner, Auckland.

Omaha. Enclosing receipt for claims of Te Kiri to land at Omaha. V. Letter No. fey

Enclosure 1 to No. 81. No tenei ra, no te 18 o nga ra o Pepuere, 1861, ka riro mai i au, na te Rokena, Kotahi rau pauna moni. Ko te tikanga o enei moni, he whakapumautanga ite rohe ote wahi whenua kei Omaha, ka kapea nei ki waho ote rohe oto te Kuini wahi, he whenua moku. Kote rohe tenei:— Ka timata kite puwaha ote wai o Kaiohuohu, ka haere tata atu ki Motururu. kite moana. Ko te kumore kite taha kite marangai o tenei rohe ka puritia; ko te taha kite hauauru o tenei rohe kua, riro katoa atu ia Te Kuini i te hokonga o te Makarini i mua. Ko tahi wahi, kei te Whakatuwhenua, ka puritia hei nohoanga moku, kua oti i a maua ko te Rokena te whakarite, me te whakatakotoria nga rohe. A Kotahi to rau pauna i riro mai i au mo te waercnga o te Tawera i roto o te pihi whenua o te Pakeha, ko Kunihi (Duncan Matthieson), a maku te whakaaro ki aua tangata mo te mea ka whakarerea rawa o ratou mahinga ki taua wahi. The mark of x Te Kiri. Kai Titiro, Kenneth McKenzie, Te Keenc

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KAIPARA DISTRICT.

No. 1. MR. COMMISSIONER JOHNSON TO THE CHIEF COMMISSIONER. Omanu, Wairoa River, Kaipara, 18th December, 1854. Sir,— I have the honor to inform you that, adjoining to, and to the south of, Wakahara is situated Toka Toka, about which a dispute had arisen between Tirarau and Manukau; and which for the peace of the district demanded immediate adjustment, as well as being the position required by the Resident Magistrate and Sub-Collector of Customs at this port, with whom I have had a correspondence on the subject, a copy of which I beg to enclose for your information. Under these circumstances, lam induced to recommend jour obtaining the sanction of his Excellency the officer administering the Government to the purchase of the Tokatoka block, containing four thousand acres (4,000 acres), for the sum of Three hundred pounds (£300); One hundred pounds (£100) of which has been already paid at Auckland, and the remaining Two hundred pounds (£200) can be paid to the Chief named in the margin,* who has been deputed to receive the money by the rest of the claimants, except Twenty pounds (£2O) of the amount, which has been agreed to be given to Parore for his claims. This sum may be sent to him, to the care of H. Atkyns, Esq., Mangawhare, who, I have no doubt, will be kind enough to pay him the money, and see the Deed signed, as the old chief is too proud tg receive it at the hands of another Native. Enclosed is a sketch of the proposed purchase, and the deed detailing the boundaries which was executed at the time of the payment of the first: instalment of One hundred pounds is lodged in your office at Auckland. I have, &c, John Grant Johnson, District Land Commissioner. Donald McLean, Esq., Principal Commissioner, Auckland.

R—9. SS. Recommending puichase of Tokatoka Block.

Enclosure 1 to No. 1. F. D. FENTON, ESQ., R.M., TO MR. COMMISSIONER JOHNSON. Kaipara, December Ist, 1854. Sir,— I do myself the honor to call your attention to the urgent necessity which exists lor the immediate completion of the purchase of the Tokatoka block of land on this river. Apart from the urgent political reasons which exist for the immediate acquisition of this property by the British Government, the natural advantages of position, and the peculiar physical character of the Wairoa river, render this locality the only one available for the Government officers of this district. It is situated midway between the districts of country at present occupied by merchants and visited by ships, is equi-distant from, and will form a good neutral territory between the Ngapuhi and Ngatiwhatua tribes, recently at war, and possesses the only natural landing place for many miles in each direction. I fear that the price demanded by the Natives will be large, as they are well aware of the importance of the place, but I trust that no insurmountable difficulties will be found to the acquisition of this territory. Let me, however, remind you that the expense of making a landing place for the custom-house will in all probability far exceed the difference in price between the Tokatoka block and any other of similar extent, and I would urge you, if not incompatible with the instructions received by you from the Government, to complete the acquisition of this territory whenever you visit this river for the purpose of arranging Mr. O'Brien's claim, I have, &c, Francis D. Fenton, Resident Magistrate, The District Commissioner, &c, he, Whangarei.

'Taraone Te Bangi, of Kaipara.

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Enclosure 2 to No. 1. MR. COMMISSIONER JOHNSON TO F. D. FENTON, ESQ., R.M. Omanu, Kaipara, 18th December, 1854. Sir, — I have had the honor to receive your letter of the Ist instant, and having examined the localities in the river, I fully concur in the view you have taken of the importance of the acquisition of the Tokatoka block, and having, as you are aware, with your assistance, happily been successful in reconciling the animosities of the contending tribes, I entered into an arrangement for the completion of the purchase of the block in question, so soon as the sanction of his Excellency the officer administering the Government is obtained for the payment of the final amount agreed upon between the Natives and myself of Two hundred pounds (£200). I have, &c, John Grant Johnson, District Land Commissioner. F. D Fenton, Esq., Resident Magistrate, Kaipara.

No. 2. MR. COMMISSIONER JOHNSON TO THE CHIEF COMMISSIONER. Omanu, Wairoa River, Kaipara, 18th December, 1854. Sir, — In reference to my report on the Native disputes in the Kaipara, dated 20th July last, I am hgppy to inform you that I have carried out my intention expressed therein, and that, at a general meeting of the contending parties, which was held at Mangawhare last week, a complete reconciliation between the hostile tribes was effected, and the feud which threatened to disturb the very important and necessary trade of these rivers may now, I think, be safely considered to be set at rest. As I endeavoured to explain in my former report, the claims of Mr. O'Brien to the lands of Wakahara has been the cause of bringing the tribes of Hokianga with those of the Kaipara to issue with the Natives of the Wairoa under Parore and Tirarau. At this meeting the right of Taramoeroa over the Wakahara was fully admitted by Parore and Tirarau, and having been instructed to complete the purchase made by Mr. O'Brien of Wakahara, which now, through being the cause of contention among the Natives, had become a matter of necessity, I managed to extinguish the whole of the Native claims on the same for the sum of One hundred and seventy pounds (£170). The money was, by Tirarau's consent, placed before Taramoeroa, who immediately handed it over to Tirarau and Parore. These two chiefs having seen this mark of respect publicly shown to them as the former conquerors of the land in question, felt their pride satisfied, and formally placed the whole amount again before Taramoeroa, by whom it was divided among the real owners of the soil. On examining the ground contained in the claim of Mr. O'Brien as admitted by the Natives, and corresponding to the boundaries given in the original deed, I found the contents to be still less than.l supposed at the date of my last report. The purchase comprises a frontage of a mile and a quarter to the Wairoa river, and bounded on either side by the creeks named Waikaka and Horaka, and runs back to a stream called Ranawe, a tributary of the Mangonui river, which is a large tributary stream of the Wairoa, and may be about four miles inland from the Wairoa river. These estimates of the extent would, produce three thousand acres, (3,000 acres,) and the payments proved to have been made by Mr. O'Brien of Two hundred and seventy-five pounds eighteen shillings, as reported by the Surveyor-General, added to the subsequent payment of One hundred and seventy pounds (£170) made by the Government, would amount, to the sum of Four hundred and forty-five pounds eighteen shillings (£443 18s.) as the total cost of the Block. I beg to transmit to you herewith the conveyance from the Natives to the Crown, and also a sketch of the purchase, and hope that the measures I have taken will meet with the approval of His Excellency the Officer administering the Government. I have, &c. John Grant Johnson, District Land Commissioner. Donald McLean, Esq., Principal Land Commissioner, &c, &o. he

R—B. 55. .Reporting reconciliation «f the hostile tribes at Kaipara.

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No. 3. MR. COMMISSIONER JOHNSON TO THE CHIEF COMMISSIONER. Omanu, Wairoa River, Kaipara, 18th December, 1854. Sir,— ■ I have the honor to enclose a deed from the Native Chief Manukau of the Uriohau tribe to the Crown, giving up a piece of land guaranteed to contain five hundred acres which I have purchased for the sum of Fifty pounds. The circumstance which led to this pu-chase was, that Manukau offered a large Block on the rivers Wairoa and Otamatea, the merits of which I was unable to investigate through the various stages necesrary before purchase, on account of a press of more urgent business in another locality, and from the difficulty I have experienced in making an fquitable bargain with this Chief. I could not make him any advance on account; but, as he was anxious for cash, and having a strong voice in affairs here, I thought the most advisable plan was to make a purchase for a definite portion in the manner which has been dene; so that, in the event of my not being able to agree with Manukau about the large block, no disadvantage will accrue to the public interest. I have, &c., John Grant Johnson, District Commissioner. Donald McLean, Esq., Principal Land Commissioner, he, &c.

R. 13—55. Enclosing Deed for 500 acres purchased from Manukau.

No. 4. MR, COMMISSIONER KEMP (ACTING FOR THE CHIEF COMMISSIONER) TO THE HONORABLE THE COLONIAL SECRETARY. Land Purchase Department, Auckland, 19th April, 1855. Sir,— I do myself the honor to enclose for His Excellency's information the original Deed with receipt endorsed tr,e.recn, together with translation, for a block of land on the Kaipara, known as the "Toka Toka," by which it will be seen that the final instalment of Two hundred pounds (£200) has been paid to the natives, making in the whole the sum of Three hundred pounds (£3(0) for this block, estimated to contain about four thousand (4000) acres. It will be remembered as the site chosen for a Custom House, and is likely to become of value. The sum of Twenty pounds (£2O) has been placed to the credit of Mr. Johnson, as the portion due to the Chief Parore, and will be either handed to that Chief by Mr Johnson himself, or forwarded to the care of Hastings Atkyns, Esq., who has undertaken to ccc it delivered. In the meantime, I knew of no objection to the block being surveyed and laid open for selection. I have, &c, H. T. Kemp, The Hon. the Colonial Secretary, Native Secretary, Land Department, Auckland.

Tokatoka. Transmuting Deed of Tokatoka Block. V- Letter No. 1.

No. 5. THE CHIEF COMMISSIONER TO MR. COMMISSIONER KEMP. Land Commissioner's Office, • . Auckland, 26th June, 185 G. Sir, — I have the honor to request that ycu will furnish me with information upon the following point:—Mr. Johnson, in the purchase of the Tokatoka block, at Kaipara, made <*n arrangement with the consent of the selling party, that a sum of Twenty pounds should be paid to the Chief Parore for his claim upon that block, which amcunt it is evident from his report to me on the subject, Mr. Johnson intended to have deducted from the final payment of Two hundred pounds (£200) for the Tokatoka block. It appears that this final payment was made by ycu in Auckland on the 13th February, 1855, but there is nothing to show that the sum of Twenty pounds (£2O) paid to Parore, was refunded by the receipient of the final payment. Parore has given a separate receipt for Twenty pounds (£2O) on the ICth September, 1855, and Paraone and the other parties to whom you made the payment on the 13th February 1855, give a receipt in full for Two hundred pounds (£200). The point, therefore, on which I now request information from you is whether the Twenty pounds (£2O) was deducted by or repaid to

Tokatoka. Respecting advance of £20 to Parore on account, of Tokatoka.

V. Letter No. 4 t

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you out of the final Two hundred pounds (£200) for Tokatoka, whether that sum was paid in full to the natives, or whether it should be entered in my accounts as a separate payment over and above the amount originally fixed as the price of the block. I have, &c, Donald McLean, H. T. Kemp, Esq., J. P. Chief Commissioner.

No. 6. MR. COMMISSIONER KEMP TO THE CHIEF COMMISSIONER. District Commissioner's Office, Bay of Islands, 4th July, 1856. Sir,— In reply to your letter of the 26th in reference to the payment for the Tokatoka block, I have the honor to state that the arrangement made by Mr. Commissioner Johnson and finally carried out -by myself, stood thus :—The deed drawn out (I believe by Mr. Johnson), fixed the entire sum at Two hundred pounds (£200) out of which Twenty pounds was reserved and placed by me in the Union ;Bank, to the credit of either Mr. Hastings Atkyns, of Kaipara, or Mr. Johnson, at the request of the latter, on behalf of Parore, One hundred and eighty pounds having been handed over to Paraone and his party, and receipts given in full for the amount originally agreed upon. If Parore had not signed the deed, it was no doubt intended by Mr. Johnson that the receipt given by that chief for the Twenty pounds (£2O) should be appended to the original document, making but one entire and complete arrangement. I think that this explanation, as nearly as I can remember, will furnish the information requested, and will enable you to make the entry under one heading, which was evidently Mr. Johnson's intention when the arrangement was made by him for the purchase. I have, he, H. T. Kemp, The Chief Commissiouer, District Commissioner. Land Purchase Department, Auckland.

R. 56—75. Tokatoka Block. Explaining receipt for £20 advanced to Parore on account of Tokatoka. V. Letter No. 5. ']

No. 7. MR. COMMISSIONER ROGAN TO THE CHIEF COMMISSIONER. Auckland, 25th November, 1857. Sir, — I have the honor to enclose herewith, a deed of sale and conveyance of a block of land situated in the Kaipara district, containing about sixteen thousand (16,000) acres for which the sum of £500 was paid to Manukau, Paraone, and others on the 23rd instant. This land is bounded by the Tokatoka purchase, Matakohe block, the Manganui river, and native land. The survey of the land is completed with the exception of the river traverse, which, however, does not affect the present arrangement, as it is clearly understood that the title to the land is extinguished to the river boundary. The quality of the land is for the most part rich volcanic soil covered with fern, bush, kauri, and kahikatoa forest; but, owing to its position, it is probable the laud will not become available for many years to come. I have, &c, John Rogan, Donald McLean, Esq., District Commissioner. Chief Commissioner, Auckland, """""' ""■"■"" ■'■'-■' i • ■■■■■■ ■—■. #

Okahu. Forwarding Deed of Conveyance of Okahu Block.

No. 8. MR. commissioner rogan to THE CHIEF commissioner. Auckland, 24th February, 1858. Sir, — I have the honor to enclose herewith deed of conveyance of a block of land situated at the head of Otamatea, a branch of the Kaipara, and extends towards the East coast to the Hakoru river, which forms the boundary of the Mangawhai purchase, for which the sum of Five hundred pounds (£500) was paid to the chiefs of the Uriohau and Ngatiwhatua tribes on the 20th instant, and subdivided by those chief's amongst their followers in a very satisfactory manner.

Incloiing Deed of Conveyance of a Block of land at the head of the Otamatea RWer.

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A complete survey of the exterior boundaries of this block has been executed, which contains eight thousand one hundred and twenty-eight acres of a superior description of land, which is well adapted for agricultural purposes. The geographical position of this block, together with facilities of water communication which it possesses, both from the East and West coast, must ensure its becoming a place of importance. The enclosed description of boundaries is submitted for Proclamation in the New Zealand Gazette. I have, &c, John Rogan, District Commissioner. Donald McLean, Fsq., Chief Land Purchase Commissioner, Auckland.

No. 9. MR. COMMISSIONER ROGAN TO THE CHIEF COMMISSIONER. Auckland, 20th March, 1858. Sir — I have the honor to enclose herewith a deed of conveyance from the chiefs of Te Uriohau tribe of a block of land called Matakohe, situated on the left bank of the Wairoa river, in the Kaipara district, containing by survey sixty-eight thousand (68,000) acres, for which the sum of Two thousand pounds was paid to those chiefs on the 2nd instant. That part of the block which is bounded by the Wairoa, and extending towards the line of forest, comprises about fifteen thousand (15,000) acres of marsh land, covered with raupo, toetoe, coarse grass, wiwi, and other vegetation which usually grows on low land. There are several small creeks running from the forest through this marsh into the Wairoa river, the largest of which is called the Awaroa. These creeks would form good boundaries for small cattle runs, for which this portion of the block appears adapted. There is a limited extent of fertile land, covered with fern, light bush, and scrub, at the head of Te Arapaos, suitable for agricultural farms, and approachable by vessels of more than two hundred tons burthen from the Otamatea. The interior portion of the block is covered with dense forest, principally kauri, with occasional patches of kahikatea and manuka. The land is very superior in quality, but very broken towards the inland boundary line, and is not likely to be occupied by settlers for many years to come. A large tract of land, extending from the inland boundary of this block to the back boundary of the Mangawhai and Waipu blocks on the East coast, called Marutu, is now being surveyed, which, when purchased, the native title will be extinguished over the whole of that part of the district. The description of boundaries is enclosed herewith; and I submit that the proclamation of this block may be deterred for a time, as the chiefs decided at a meeting, during their recent visit to Auckland, that the amount which they received for this land should be deposited in my charge, until I should be at liberty to visit Kaipara, when the money will be subdivided amongst the claimants. I have, &c, John Eogan, District Commissioner. Donald McLean, Esq., Chief Commissioner, Auckland.

Matakohb. Enclosing Deed of Conveyance of Matakoha block.

No. 10. MR. COMMISSIONER ROGAN TO THE CHIEF COMMISSIONER. Auckland, 11th December, 1858. Sir, —■ With reference to a correspondence, numbered 58-645, connected with the purchase of a block of land called Kaukapakapa in the Kaipara district, I have the honor to enclose herewith a deed r f sale and conveyance of the same which was executed by the native owners, for which the sum of Five hundred pounds (£500) was paid on the Bth instant. This purchase includes Honey's Grant, excepting a strip of land which is colored yellow on the plan drawn on the margin of the deed; this the natives could not be induced to surrender. I also enclose a description of boundaries for proclamation in the New Zealand Gazette. I have, &c, John Rogan, District Commissioner. Donald McLean, Esq., Chief Commissioner, Auckland.

Kaukapakapa. Enclosing Deed of Sale for the Kaukapakapa block.

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No. 11. MR. COMMISSIONER ROGAN TO THE CHIEF COMMISSIONER. Otamatea, Kaipara, Dec. 23, 185 S. Sir,— I have the honor to forward herewith a deed of sale and conveyance of a block of land situated in the Kaipara district, called Paparoa, containing by survey fifteen thousand and twentyone acres (15,021), for which the sum of Five hundred pounds, fourteen shillings, (£5OO 14s. Od.) has been this day paid to the native claimants. Enclosed is a description of boundaries of the above named purchase for proclamation in the New Zealand Gazette. I have, &c, John Rogan, District Commissioner. Donald McLean, Esq., Chief Commissioner, Auckland.

Papaboa. Forwarding Deed of Sale of the Paparoa block.

No. 12. MR. COMMISSIONER ROGAN TO THE CHIEF COMMISSIONER. Auckland, 22nd February, 1859. Sir, — I have the honor to enclose herewith a deed of sale and conveyance of a block of land situated on the Wairoa river, called Arapohue, containing by survey nine thousand five hundred (9500) acres, for which the sum of Three hnndred and fifty pounds (£350) was paid to the native claimants on the 2nd instant. The description of boundaries for proclamation in the New Zealand Gazette is also forwarded herewith. I have, &c, John Rogan, District Commissioner. Donald McLean, Esq., Chief Commissioner, Auckland.

Arapohpe. Forwarding Deed of Conveyance, Arapohue block.

No. 13. MR. COMMISSIONER ROGAN TO THE CHIEF COMMISSIONER. Auckland, 28th March, 1859. Sir,— I have the honor to forward herewith a Deed of Conveyance for a block of land situated on Kaukapakapa River, in the Kaipara District, containing five thousand two hundred and twenty-three acres (5,223), for which Three hundred pounds (£300) was paid to the Native claimants on the 24th. instant. The description of boundaries for proclamation in the New Zealand Gazette is also enclosed. It may be stated that the Natives intend making a formal application to His Excellency the Governor to grant them permission to cut down two trees situated within this purchase, which the Natives assert have been marked by them for a long period past for the purpose of making canoes. ' I have, he, D. McLean, Esq., John Rogan, Chief Commissioner, District Commissioner. Auckland.

KaukapakapaWest. Forwarding Deed of Conveyance for a block of land situated on Kaukapakapa river,

No. 14. MR. COMMISSIONER ROGAN TO THE CHIEF COMMISSIONER. Auckland, 20th July, 1859. Sir,— I have the honor to forward herewith a Deed of Sale and conveyance of a block of land situated in the Kaipara District, called Pukekaroro, cont iidng eight thousand five hundred and fifty-

PCKBKAKOKO. Enclosing Deed of Sale of the Pukekaroro black.

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eight acres (8,558), for which the sum of Four hundred and twenty-two pounds eighteen shillings (£422 18s.) was paid to the Chief Arama Karaka and others, on the 21st instant, A reserve of fifty acres (50) for Arama Karaka has been made at Kohangatoke, on Kaiwaka River, which is coloured yellow on the plan in the margin of the deed. The description of boundaries is also enclosed for proclamation in the New Zealand Gazette. I have, he, Donald McLean, Eiq., John Rogan, Chief Commissioner, District Commissioner. Auckland.

No. 15. MR. COMMISSIONER ROGAN TO THE CHIEF COMMISSIONER. Auckland, 16th October, 1859. Sir, — I have the honor to forward the following statement for His Excellency's information, in j reference to the purchase and negotiation of land in the district of Kaipara from February 1857, the t period at which negotiations were first entered into by me in that locality, to the present time, ' showing the quantity of land over which the Native title has been extinguished, the quantity of land surveyed, the purchase of which is not yet completed, the cost of survey, and the probable quantity of land no* under negotiation. Land, the Native Title to which is extinguished. Name of block. Area. Sums paid. Cost of Survey. £ s. d. £ s. d. Tatarariki . . . 12,000 350 0 01 Okahu . . . 16,000 / 3,000 600 0 OV 926 18 7 Ika-a-ranganui . . 8,128 500 0 0 ( Matakohe . ' . . 68,000 2,000 0 0 J Kaukapakapa . . 7,200 500 0 0 114 5 6 Paparoa . . . 15,021 500 14 0 222 510 Arapohue . . . 9,500 350 0 0 168 16 6 Kaukapakapa (West) . 5,223 300 0 0 142 14 0 PukeKaroro . . 8,458 422 18 0 103 19 10 152,530 5,520 0 0 1,679 0 3 Land Surveyed, the purchase of which is not yet completed. Name of block. Area. Cost of Survey. £ s. d. Oruawharo . . . 30,000 321 6 5 Okaka and Whiritoa . . 3,500) re is Waioneke . . . 5,000) db id 9 38,500 378 0 2 Land now under offer to the Government which has not yet been surveyed. Acres. Maire Tahi, situated South of Waioneke on the South Head of Kaipara, recently offered by Paora of Orakei . . 10,000 Mangawhara, situated inland of the Pakiri purchase, and extending to Kaipara ...... 100,000 Piroa, situated inland of Graham's purchase, and extending to Waipu 10,000 Mareretu . . . . - . . 200,000 320,000 The Oruawharo block was included in Return to House of Representatives 1858, as the price was agreed to by the Natives, but the claimants subsequently differed amongst themselves, and no arrangement has as yet been arrived at between them. Okaka and Waioneke have not been purchased, as they are small detached blocks, and it was considered inadvisable by the Government to complete the purchase until a Ifnger extent of land should be offered in that locality. The land offered by Paora is adjacent to Waioneke, and it wil

Gekeeal. Reporting as to the state of land purchasing operations in the Kaipara district,

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probably be found, after the survey of Mairetahi, desirable to purchase these blocks, as the land situated on the Kaipara is of good quality. With regard to the survey of the large block called Mareretu, I hope to be able to report, after my next visit to Kaipara, that an arrangement can be made with the Natives for the purchase of this land, without the necessity of traversing the inland boundary, which runs through a rugged mountain forest and extends to the Whangarei district, the cost of surveying which would amount to a large sum, owing to the difficulty of carrying provisions such a distance through the forest. The amount of advances to Natives in the Kaipara district, on account of land, is not quite Three hundred pounds (£300). The survey of the inland boundary of Waikiekie, and a tie line from Graham's purchase to the inland corner of Paparoa, will require to be cut before I can furnish a complete plan of the different blocks above referred to, without which it is difficult to convey a correct impression of the locality to those unacquainted with the country. I have, &c, John Rogan, District Commissioner. Donald McLean, Esq., Chief Commissioner, Auckland.

No. 16. MR. COMMISSIONER ROGAN TO THE CHIEF COMMISSIONER. Auckland, 10th January, 1860. Sir, — I have the honor to enclose herewith a Deed of Sale and Conveyance of a Native Reserve, situated at Whakatiwai, in the Kaipara district, for which the sum of Twenty-seven pounds was paid to Te Otene on the :6th instant, together with a description of boundaries for proclamation in the New Zealand Gazette. I have, &c., John Rogan, District Commissioner. Donald McLean, Esq., Chief Commissioner, Auckland.

Whakatiwai. N. E. Enclosing Deed of Sale for a Native reserve at Whakatiwai,

No. 17. MR. COMMISSIONER EOGAN TO THE CHIEF COMMISSIONER. Auckland, 10th January, 1860. Sir,— I have the honor to forward herewith a Deed of Sale and Conveyance of a Native Reserve, situated on the Kaukapakapa river, in the Kaipara district, estimated to contain about one hundred acres (100 acres), for which the sum of Fifteen pounds was paid to Te Keene, Brown, and Paora, on the sth instant. I have, &c, John Rogan, District Commissioner. Donald McLean, Esq., Chief Commissioner, Auckland.

Kaukapakapa, K.E. Inclosing Deed of Sale of the Kaukapakapa Native reserve.

No. 18. MR. COMMISSIONER ROGAN TO THE CHIEF COMMISSIONER. Auckland, 15th February, 1860, Sir,— I have the honor to forward herewith two Deeds of Sale and Conveyance of a block of land called Oruawharo, situated in the Kaipara district, for which the sums of Five hundred (£500) and Seven hundred pounds (£700) were paid to the Ngatiwhatua and Uriohau tribes, respectively, on the 27th ultimo and 2nd instant.

Okuawhako. Enclosing the Deeds of Sale for the Oruawharo block.

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This purchase contains upwards of (30,000) thirty thousand acres, exclusive of a reserve and an old land claim of J. Hawk, for which Two hundred pounds (£200) of the above sum was paid to Paratene for himself and Matitikuha, with the consent of the Native claimants ; and the Native title to this claim beir.g now extinguished, it is submitted that this letter be referred for Mr. Commissioner Bell's information. Enclosed is a description of boundaries for proclamation in the New Zealand Gazette. I have, &c, John Rogan, The Chief Commissioner, District Commissioner. Native Land Purchase Department, Auckland.

No. 19. MR. COMMISSIONER ROGAN TO THE CHIEF COMMISSIONER. Land Purchase Department, Auckland, 24th August, 1860. Sir, — I have the honor to enclose herewith a Deed of Sale and Conveyance of a block of land situated on the left bank of Kaipara river, containing by survey five thousand nine hundred and fifty acres (5,950 acres), for which the sum of Two hundred and ninety-seven pounds ten shillings (£297 10s.) was paid to the Native owners this day, being at the rate of one shilling per acre. The description of boundaries is also enclosed for proclamation in the New Zealand Gazette. I have, &c, John Rogan, District Commissioner. The, Chief Commissioner, Land Purchase Department.

Mairetahi. Enclosing Deed of Sale, Mairetahi block.

No. 20. MR. COMMISSIONER ROGAN TO TnE CniEF COMMISSIONER. Auckland, sth June, 1861. Sir,— In accordance with the request contained in your Circular letter of the 15th ultimo, I have the honor to forward the following general statement of land purchasing operations in the Kaipara District in continuation of my general report dated 16th October, 1859. It will be seen by reference to the report above referred to that the quantity of land purchased from February, 1857, to October, 1859, amounted to one hundred and fifty-two thousand, five hundred, and thirty acres. ... ... ... 152,530 acres Subsequent purchases— Oruawharo Block, about ... ... 30,000 „ Waikeriawera, on the East Coast, near Mangawhai 12,758 „ Mairetahi ... ... ... 5,950 „ Waioneke ... ... ... 20,600 „ Te Kuri ... ... ... 13,220 „ Oruapou ... ... ... 8,842 „ Three reserves (Kaukapakapa) ... ... 200 „ Making a total of ... 244,100 „ purchased from the Natives in the Kaipara and Mangawhai from 1857 to the present tirre at a cost of £9151 which is at the average rate of about 9d. per acre, and the amount of advances on account of land in the Kaipara which is not yet purchased does not exceed £300. I am unable to state accurately the quantity of land surveyed last summer, as the field work is not yet protracted on paper, liut it will probably amount to more than 40,000 acres, and the quantity of land which may be consideied now under offer to the Government may he stated in round numbers to be 150,000 acres. The questions raised by some of the Natives in the Kaipara, excepting tho great question which is well known to the Government as existing between Tirarau and Paikea for several years past, are as follows:— A block of land (Te Kopuru) situated on the Wairoa river and adjoining the Tatarariki purchase, which Rapana and his people hold in dispute. This land was made over to Government many years ago, by way of compensation, by a number of Natives who were connected with the robbery of Forsaith's store at Mangawhare, the particulars of which are known to the Government; but as I have not been able to trace the documents connected with the cession of this block, I declined to express my opinion on the matter to the parties who represent themselves to be the real owners of the land, and who now repudiate the transaction.

GENERAL. Reporting as to the sftite of land purchasing ope. rations in the Kaipara district.

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There is a correspondence in the Land Purchase Office with Rapana, who is the principal party objecting on the part of the Ngatikawa tribe. "'? A question has been raised by the Kaipara Natives with reference to the inland portion of the Arapohue block, which has been disposed of to the Government with Pikaea's consent, who formerly gave over his interest to a Hokianga Chief, Tiopira, who received the money for this land together with the Ngatikawa Natives, and as no part of ihe money was returned to Paikea or any of his people, they have subsequently set up a claim to the inland portion of this block. I have met the Natives on the ground that they had requested that a surveyor should be sent by the Government who merely surveyed the land which was pointed out to him by the Natives (Ngatikawa) who they consented to" point out the boundaries. This may be considered a question more between the Natives themselves than with the Government, as, Paikea's people now insist on the other party refunding a portion of the purchase money to the Government, which is not likely to be carried out. There is a letter in the Native Office addressed to the Governor by Rapana, who asserts a claim to a portion of Oruapou which has been purchased by me from Paikea and his triba; and, previous t» the payment, Te Keene and I explained to the Natives that an objection was taken by the Native above named to the disposal of this block exclusively by the Uri-o-hau Natives, who denied his right to any portion of the land, and promised under any consideration to settle the question amicably, should any reference be made to the Government disputing their riffht to receive the money for this block. During my recent visit to Pakiri, a Native named Poari, from Oruawharo, demanded a small payment for an old cultivation within the vVaioneke purchase, which I decline to accede to, as the claim-. ants, including Poari, all agreed that Brown should have the distribution of the money for this purchase.' There is a letter from him in the Native Office, explaining that Poari's claim is insignificant, and that he will himself deal with it. The chief Arama Karaka, who offered for sale a block of land named Piroa, on which an advance of £100 has been made to him, applied for a surveyor, which was complied with, and in traversing the inland boundary, he insisted upon carrying it into the Waipu purchase, and almost over to the East coast, when the surveyor returned and reported the circumstance. On examining the deed of sale of Waipu, I find that the inland boundary has never been surveyed, which is the cause of the present encroachment. I have been unable to reconcile this question with Arama Karaka, and proposed that he should come to some understanding hereafter with _V!r. Johnson, who vvas the Commissioner negotiating the Waipu purchase, to which he assented. The above are the only questions of difference now existing on the part of the Natives, relating to the purchase of land in the Kaipara, and I submit that the difficulties are of a minor nature, which will easily be overcome by giving the Natives time to withdraw their objections, as has been the case with several other objections which were raised by them, such as the Oruawharo case, which is now finally settled. At Whangarei there are about 50,000 acres surveyed, including the Waikare and Whanui blocks, the negotiation for which is still pending, as the Natives have repeatedly refused the price offered by the Government for the purchase of these blocks. The Natives who offered the land lately surveyed by Mr. Bedlington are most anxious to come to an arrangement regarding the price to be given, and as 1 have had no opportunity since the survey was completed of visiting Whangarei, I have not been able to bring the negotiation to a conclusion. Ou the South side of Whangarei harbour there is a block of land called Poupouwhenua, which was ceded to the Government many years ago by the Chief Mate and others in payment for a robbery committed at Matakana, the inland boundary of which is disputed by the Natives. I have examined on the ground the boundary mark, and am of opinion that the Natives are laboring under a false impression as to the boundary of the land, and am supported in this view by Mr. Clarke, who accompanied the surveyor who marked out the boundaries at the time. The only other boundary question that I am aware of existing in this district has been brought forward by Mr. Anderson, a settler in the Maungatapero block, who states that the Natives dispute a portion of the boundary of his land, containing about half an acre. There is a letter in the Native Office iv reference to this dispute which will explain the particulars, and as I am not likely to visit Whangarei for a considerable time to come, I submit that the matter be referred to Mr. Johnson for his report, as he negotiated the purchase of Maungatapere and Ruakaka blocks, in which these disputes have arisen, ihe only question that I am aware of in which you are involved is at Whangateau in the Pakiri purchase, which is disputed by Kiri and Tauwhitu, in reference to which I beg to enclose a copy of my report which was called for by the Assistant Native Secretary while I was in that neighbourhood. I should state that wdiile I was at Mahurangi lately, Te Hemara said he was one of the party who pointed out the boundaries to tho surveyor, and that the boundary described in the deed of purchase is correct. It will therefore be seen by the above statement that 244,100 acres have been purchased, about 9f),C00 are surveyed, and about 150,000 under offer to tire Government; and these purchases, with the above unimportant exceptions, are free of dispute. I have, &c, John Rogan, District Commissioner.

V. Ante. Whargarei District, Nos. 79, SO.

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No. 21. MR. COMMISSIONER ROGAN TO THE CHIEF COMMISSIONER. Auckland, 10th May, 1861. SIR, I have the honor '(> forward herewith, in continuation of Returns previously furnished, a statement of tae differetic blocks of land purchased by me in the Kaipara district from January 1860, to the present time. I have, &c, John Rogan, District Commissioner. Donald McLean, Esq,, Chief Commissioner, Auckland.

General. Further report ay to stata of land purchases in his district,

Enclosure 1 to No. 21. STATEMENT OF LAND PURCHASES EFFECTED BY THE COMMISSIONER FOR THE KAIPARA DISTRICT FROM JANUARY, 1860, TO MAY, 1861.

Auckland, 10th May, 1861. John Rogan, District Commissioner.

Date of Payment. Name of Block. Commissioner Negotiating. Number of acres. Sums paid. Remarks. 1860 Aug. 24 Dec. 21 " 24 •" 27 Mairetahi Waioneke Te Kuri Oraupou J. Rogan acres. 5,950 20,600 13,320 8,842 £ s. d. 297 10 0 1,030 0 0 661 10 0 442 2 0 Hilly, fern, and stunted Manuka land. Hilly, fern land, and sand hills. Stunted Manuka, poor land. Do. For a full description of these blocks, see Mem. attached to 61-6. n » a 48,712 2,431 2 0

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AUCKLAND DISTRICT

No. 1. THE HONORABLE THE COLONIAL SECRETARY TO MR. COMMISSIONER MCLEAN. Colonial Secretary's Office, Auckland, 26th April, 1854. Sir,— I have the honor to inform you that, as you have arrived in Auckland, where your services hav"e been long and urgently required, the Officer Administering the Government requests that you will make this your head quarters till such time as you can effect the purchase of land in sufficient quantities to meet the probable requirements of this Settlement for some years to come, or at least until this Province is in as favourable a position in this respect as the other Provinces of the Colony. His Excellency has directed me particularly to request your attention to purchasing land in the neighbourhood of Waiuku, and indeed all the lands north of the Waikato. To enable you to carry out these instructions the whole management of the purchasing of lands from the Natives will be transferred from the Surveyor-General to you. You will be assisted by Messrs. Kemp and Johnson, who have been directed to place themselves under your orders, and the office contiguous to the Post Office, recently occupied by the Commissioner of Crown Lands, will be given up to you. I have, &c, Andrew Sinclair, Mr. Commissioner McLean, Colonial Secretary. he, he he

Gbnebai,. To make Auckland ike head-quarters of his Department.

No. 2. THE CHIBF COMMISSIONER TO MR. COMMISSIONER JOHNSON. Land Commissioner's Office, Auckland, 21st August, 1854. Sir,— As it appears from the information which I have received from yourself, on your arrival in town this day, that there is no likelihood of your being immediately required in your district for the purchase of any very desirable tracts of land, it would be more conducive to the public service if you would remain in this part of the country, and conclude the purchases which have been lately negociated in the Waikato and West Coast, during my temporary absence at the South in adjusting some unexpected affairs which have arisen at Taranaki. The balance of Four hundred and fifteen pounds, which is at your credit in the Union Bank of Australia, will be eligible |for the service of your own district in paying any instalments which may be due, or making deposits on new lands offered for sale. I have, &c, Donald McLean, John Grant Johnson, Esq., J.P., Land Commissioner. District Commissioner, &c. &c, &c. \

Waikato. To conclude negotiations for purchases in the Waikato district.

No. 3. MR. COMMISSIONER JOHNSON TO THE CHIEF COMMISSIONER. Land Commissioner's Office, Auckland, 6th October, 1854. Sir,—« I have the honor to inform you that I have returned from Waikato, ,whither I had proceeded to endeavour to arrange for the blocks, which have been partially negotiated ou that river, in accordance with your letter of the 26th August last.

Waikato. Reporting on his rcissiea to Waikato. V. Letter No, *,

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In obedience to your request, I not only carried the goodwill and advice of our ally Te Wherowhero with me, but also a young Chief named Seth, a relation of his, and an influential body of Natives from Pukaki and Ihumatao, being mostly composed of the sellers of the land; but, notwithstanding these measures, I regret to state that I was unable to obtain possession qf any part, or finally to complete any of the purchases on the river. The difficulties are of two distinct natures, being Ist,, those attending the claims of different tribes to the same piece of land; and 2nd, the obstructions opposed by a confederated body of Chiefs in Waikato, who have laid a tapu preventing the sale of the country within certain boundaries. The lands partially purchased at Wairere and the Koheroa are encumbered with the former difficulty, and the other purchases are within the line of the country tapued by the Waikato Chiefs. On arriving at Tuakau, the sale of the Wairere by Waata Kukutai was first discussed, and I should say from what transpired that Waata had no claim over the land. Tomo of Ngatipo, Paul of the Ngatikahu, and Pikiho of the Pokeno tribe, were admitted to be the rightful owners, but I could not get them to join in a sale. The Pokeno tribe offered to sell their claims, but the limited extent, and large expectations of the sellers, did not warrant me in making a purchase subject to a conflicting claim by the Ngatipo. Nini, one of the chief, of Ngatitipa, was present: he stated that he regretted very much that Waata should have sold land belonging to Ngatipo, and recommended that the money be returned. This, of course, I did not feel justified in accepting, in case it might furnish a dangerous precedent; but I informed him that Waata must explain his conduct to yourself. The Koheroa was next examined, and the claims of Ihaia and party who sold to the Government seemed so well supported, that I fully anticipated the completion of this purchase, and w« accordingly proceeded to the ground and traversed the boundaries and marked the extreme Northern end, which is a narrow neck of land. The Koheroa is a peninsula in the swamps which form the .beds of the Mangatawhiri and Whangamarino tributaries of the Waikato, and might contain about eight thousand acres of dry land. In addition to the former instalment, I offered the parties concerned a further sum of Three hundred pounds, and although they expressed dissatisfaction at thte smallness of this amount, and stated their determination of endeavouring to procure your sanction to giving them a larger sum, I have no doubt but that they will accept it. The counter claim of the chief Atua, of Ngatipo, however, presents an obstacle even to the adjustment of this, claim, and the Ngatitamaoho must, by promising to admit Te Atua's party in the final payment, procure his withdrawal of his demands (if they cannot do so without), before I should feel inclined to recommend the payment of any more money on this account. From all I have been able to learn, Te Atua's claims are not well grounded, and I believe that they were at one time considered finally extinguished by the sale of the Koheroa to Mr. Marshall, and the only reason for admitting his claim at all appears to be that the purchase may turn out not to have been finally completed by Marshall. All the other purchases named in the margin* are encumbered with the second class of difficulties, viz. : the tapu of the country by the Waikato chiefs in which the said lands are situated; the sellers to the Government have all valid claims, more or less, but they are to blame, inasmuch as they knew at the time of sale that they were unable to give possession of the land. The whole of the South bank of the Waikato from Taupo and the North bank, from its confluence with the Whangamarino and up that river to its source, is placed under a tapu. Our party were followed by the Waikato tribes, to the number of one hundred and fifty men, and were absolutely prevented crossing the aforesaid boundaries. Their arms were left at Mere Mere, and as I had,good reason to believe that our proceeding to take possession of the lands would have ended seriously, I at once desisted from the attempt. That this movement is nothing new, and has not been brought about by the late transactions of this department, you will perceive by an extract of a report which I had the honor to make to the Government in June 1853, enclosed herewith, but I would not conceal the fact that this confederation is gradually assuming a more extended influence and a bolder demeanour. The AntiEuropean feeling they profess to have, I am inclined to think, is not real, but merely put on to increase their number, as that plea always gets the adhesion of discontented individuals of every tribe, the true cause of the movement being the following : Nga tangata o waho, or the natives of Manukau, Te Wherowhero, Katipa, Wetere, Moses, Isac, Aihipene, Poharama, and their respective tribes, all lived originally in Waikato, or had possessions there. After the settlement of Auckland commenced, they gradually frequented less and less the Waikato, and have now permanently settled in the neighbourhood of the town, after, selling the districts round Waitemata and Manukau, and as the Waikato chiefs assert, did not give them a fair share of the payment which their joint origin entitled them to receive. Nga tangata owaho, or the men living at the sea, in contradistinction to those residing up the river, have not all their claims in Waikato in one block, or in one district, but they are scattered over the length and breadth of the river banks, and the Waikato chiefs, independently of the sacred feeling with which they view their native stream, are also afraid that if they allow Auckland natives to sell their claims, they will also sell those of the Waikato chiefs with them, in the same manner as is alleged has been done with the Waikatos' property in the region of Auckland. They also see that to separate the claims of those who wish to sell, from those of the party who wish to retain, their land, is a task which they cannot carry out, and their claims are so intermixed that they could hardly do bo even with the assistance of Europeans; and the only alternative they have of securing their rights is to prevent the natives living near Auckland selling any land at all in the Waikato.

* Mataheka, Karigitoea, Parekakariki.

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A bitter quarrrel. is gradually rising between these two parties, and unless carefully guarded against may end in an appeal to arms. I would recommend that no further attempt be made to obtain possession of the lands in question through the influence of the parties who have sold, but that fresh negotiations be entered into with the Waikato chiefs at Waikato, as anything emanating from Auckland will not be listened to for a moment, and the parties who have now sold and failed to give possession can be excluded from the new arrangement. The Waikato chiefs do not value 80 much the lands which have been partially sold, but giving them up involves a principle which will decide the right of the men of the coast to Waerenga, a valuable tract of country between the Waikato and the Thames. After our public meeting, which was rather noisy, T had several friendly interviews with the opposition, and learnt from them that, if an officer was stationed in the Waikato to negotiate for land, a satisfactory adjustment might be come to, and that if the proposals of aale originated with themselves they would not be so averse. They also informed me that they did not wish to prevent the sales at Whaingaroa and the West coast, but merely those in the central parts of Waikato and along the river banks. I have, &c, John Grant Johnson, Donald McLean, Esq., District Commissioner. Principal Land Commissioner, &c, &c, &c. Extract from Report, dated 14th June, 1853. "Having performed the foregoing part of my instructions, I next proceeded up the Waikato with Haimona Paetae and others to mark the boundaries of the land lately sold by him, and the chief Wetere, known as Mataheka ; on arrival there, we found that a feast had just taken place at Whangamarino, at which a large number of the Waikato natives were present, under their chief Te Wharepu, and fierce disoussions have occurred relative to the dispute among them about Waerenga, a large tract of country extending from the Waikare lake to the Thames. The chiefs had at this meeting unanimously agreed to lay a tapu on this district, extending from the Mangatawhiri on the West to the frith of the Thames, for the purpose of preventing any individual members of the tribes selling any portion of this country, as they think that individual members make unjust claims to lands for the purpose of obtaining them for sale ; they assembled to meet' us to the number of two or three hundred men, and appeared very firm to their purpose, so, much so, that I think any attempt at present to acquire this tract would not be attended with success, : and only tend to foment their quarrels among themselves, which are now assuming a serious aspect."

No. 4. MEMORANDUM BY MR. COMMISSIONER KEMP (ACTING FOR THE CHIEF COMMISSIONER). Land Purchase Department, Auckland, Ist November, 1854. Annexed is Mr. Johnson's Report in reference to an application of a native by the name of Ihaka, for a piece of land at Mangere, forwarded to this office by the Native Secretary (Major Nugent), October, 1854. H. T. Kemp. The land alluded to is Oruarangi, a small patch about seventy acres in extent, to the West of. Mangere farms, and separated by a creek bearing that name from the native reserve at Ihumatao, to which it may be said to be contiguous, and to form a part. Jabez and Wetere claimed it in common with the writer, but it having been sold to Geddes by the Ngatiwhatua, tho real owners, it reverted to the Crown when it took possession of the surplus of the Geddes-Imlay claim. The SurveyorGeneral allowed the natives I have mentioned to occupy it as an act of grace —it being expedientto do so—during the troubles that took place on the location of Mangere in 1851; audi recommended him not to purchase their claims over it. I have heard—but I cannot vouch for the truth of the, report —that private Europeans have given Wetere, &c, a douceur to let it fall again into the hands of Government. The Ngatiwhatua would not like a payment being made on account of this land; but if Mr. Ligar has done anything more about it, it has been done while I have been at the North, and I have no cognisance of the same. I have, &c, John Grant Johnson, Donald McLean, Esq., ~ District Commissioner. * he, ho.

R. 100-54. Okwarah©!. Respecting claims of Ihaka to Oruarangi,

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No. 5. THE HONORABLE THE COLONIAL SECRETARY TO MR. COMMISSIONER KEMP (ACTING FOR THB CHIEF COMMISSIONER.). Colonial Secretary's Office, Auckland, 13th November, 1854. Sir, — In reply to your letter of the 10th instant, stating that since the arrangements entered into by Mr. Commissioner McLean on the Bth instant for the payment of Twelve hundred pounds (£1,200) to Native Tribes in extinguishment of their claims to the Waiuku block, another important claim had arisen which you desired to settle, and for which purpose you required a sum of Three hundred pounds (£300), I have the honor, by direction of the Officer administering the Government, to inform you that the Colonial Treasurer has been authorized to pay you the sum of Three hundred pounds (£300); at the same time His Excellency directs me to request you will be good enough to state whether the native claim for which this latter advance is needed was known to Mr. McLean before he left Auckland, or whether it is for land in addition to that for which the former payment alluded to by you was entered into. I have, &c, Andrew Sinclair, H. T. Kemp, Esq., Colonial Secretary. Land Department.

K. 54-3688. "Waiuktl Authorising a further payment of £300 on ccount of Waiuku block

. No. 6. MR. COMMISSIONER KEMP (ACTING FOR THE CHIEF COMMISSIONER) TO THE HON. THE COLONIAL SECRETARY. Land Purchase Department, Auckland, 14th Nov., 1854. Sir, — I have the honor to report for the information of His Excellency the Officer Administering the Government, that, with a' view to carrying out arrangements which had been entered into by Mr. Commissioner McLean for the extinguishment of a number of native claims to the Waiuku block, the sum of Fifteen hundred pounds (£1500) has been paid to them under the following circumstances. On the day before Mr. McLean's departure for the South, it was understood that the native tribes to whom I now refer were willing to accept a sum of Twelve hundred pounds (£1200) for the extinction of their claims; but, on the succeeding day, fresh demands were made by them, and to a very much larger amount. As an important claim had since arisen made by a native chief named Epiha or Jabez, and the sum of Fifty pounds having been formerly promised to him by the Surveyor-General if ha would surrender that claim, aware also that the Waiuku block was much needed for the Province, and feeling, moreover, convinced, from the disposition evinced during the discussion, that so large a body of the natives interested in the sale of this land could not soon again be brought together, and, if brought together, that the sum which they would now be induced to take would at any future time be rejected, the sum above mentioned, which appeared to be fair and reasonable, and sufficient to meet the different claims, was accepted by them, a deed having been duly executed and signed on the 11th inst., a translation of which shall be forwarded without delay. The reserve* in the Waiuku block have been all perambulated by Mr. White, in the presence of the natives and the surveyor, Mr. Ormsby, who has been engaged for some time in laying off the boundaries of the block, and of the native reserves, which are not, however, quite finished. It would be very desirable, indeed, if His Excellency would be pleased to cause instructions to be sent to Mr. Ormsby to hasten the completion of the surveys of the reserves, in order that the block might, as soon as possible afterwards, be opened up for selection. Mr. White, who has been chiefly employed in carrying out the details preparatory to the payments for the block, would be ready, as he has always been, to assist the surveyor, in the event of any difficulty arising. As this is a point of some importance, to be carried out by the surveyor as early as possible, I would venture to recommend it for His Excellency's consideration and approval. I have, &c, H. T. Kemp, The Hon. the Colonial Secretary Native Secretary. Auckland.

'Waiuku 1 Mv paid the sum of A'uMKi on account of the Waiuku block. . Letter No. 6.

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No. 7. MR. COMMISSIONER KEMP (ACTING FOR THE CHIEF COMMISSIONER) TO THE HON. THE COLONIAL SECRETARY. Land Purchase Office, Auckland, 13th December, 1854. Sir,— I do myself the honor to report for His Excellency's information that a valuable block of Orakei. land, containing about four hundred and seventy acres, situated at Orakei, has been offered by the Vfbiock"of native owners for sale to the Government. The acquisition of this piece of land would be the land at o rakei. means of completing an entire block, portions of which have already been purchased by the Government. The native owners have asked Five thousand pounds (£5000) for it. On Saturday the 9th inst.J I offered them the sum of Eleven hundred pounds (£1100), which they declined. They received some time since the sum of One thousand three hundred and twenty pounds for four hundred and ninety-nine acres adjoining, paid by the Surveyor-General and Mr. Commissioner McLean. It is said that this block would realize to the Government a'very considerable sum of money; but, before proceeding any further in the negotiations, I should wish to be guided by His Excellency's instructions, as to whether (looking at the position of the block) I might be authorized, if a favourable opportunity offered, to make an advance upon the sum already offered, as, upon further consideration, there does not appear to be a danger in this case of prejudicing other purchases, if a larger sum were offered to them. I think, perhaps, that from Fifteen to Eighteen hundred pounds (£l5OO to £1800) would effect the purchase. I have, &c, 11. T. Kemp The Hon. the Colonial Secretary, Native Secretary. Auckland. No. 8. MEMORANDUM BY MR. COMMISSIONER KEMP (ACTING FOR THE CHIEF COMMISSIONER). TIRIKOHUA BLOCK. 4th January, 1855. Enclosed herewith are three letters received this day from the three principal natives who object Tirikohua. to the occupation of the land at Tirikohua by Major Russell and Mr. Newman. Reportiug on Native The purchase was originally made by Mr. Johnson, and, as far as I can learn, in the most claims t0 -r ' rlkohl4a ' complete and satisfactory manner. The objection has arisen in consequence of the non-delivery of a share of tho payment to Ruka; and, in Simon's case, because he would not accept the share allotted to him. Piripi, also, the writer of one of these communications, appears to have been the person deputed by the tribe to negotiate with the Government for the sale of the land, but did not act up to the trust confided to him. In his letter, money is recommended to settle this difference. Mr. Johnson states, as will be seen by a minute of Mr. McLean's on Mr. Newman's letter, 21st October, 1854, that the claim is unjust. A relative of Ruka, the principal opposing man, who brought in the letters confirms the fact that these men have cropped the ground this season; and he has given me to understand that, if a sum of money were offered, the natives would come into town to receive it, and the difficulty be removed. The sum paid by Mr. Johnson for this block was Four hundred and thirty pounds (£430). Ruka's name is not to the deed of conveyance; but the Surveyor-General is of opinion that his claim was taken into consideration and settled at the time the payment was made. For Donald McLean, H. T. Kemp. The Hon. the Colonial Secretary, Auckland. No. 9. THE CHIEF COMMISSIONER TO MR. COMMISSIONER JOHNSON. Land Commissioner's Office, February 3rd, 1857. Sib,— I have the honor to request that you will proceed to define the boundary of the Native Reserve Pckekohh. in the Pukekohe Block. _ Toleßne the boundary" The fact of your having been engaged in negotiating the purchase of the Pukekohe points you of a Native Reseive i„ out as the best qualified of the Officers of this Department to undertake the duty. In making the thß I>u!i ' ekohe Block -

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Pukekohe purchase, a large portion was set apart as a Native Reserve, the exact boundaries of which were not defined at the time, nor has anything been subsequently done to settle this question. Land in that locality is now becoming very valuable; and, from what I can learn, several portions of the Reserve have been alienated to Europeans, a circumstance which must give rise to difficulties and litigations, unless the question is definitely arranged without further delay. It will be, of course, your duty to observe strictly the terms of the contract entered into between the Government and the Natives for the cession of the Pukekohe Block, and to assure the Natives an equal quantity of Waste Land to what you may now be able to induce them to relinquish, in order that the Government may fulfil its engagement with the European purchasers who have selected portions of this Reserve. The Provincial Government are sending a Surveyor to accompany you on this service, and it is essential that the boundaries may now be so clearly defined in the presence of the Natives that no future disputes may arise out of this purchase. I have, he, Donald McLean, J. G. Johnson, Esq., J.P., Chief Commissioner. District Commissioner, Whangarei.

Enclosure 1 to No. 9. AGREEMENT RESPECTING RESERVE IN PUKEKOHE BLOCK. [Copy-] Ko te whakaaetanga tenei o Ihaka, o Mohi, o Hone Te Muhu, o Te Pepene te Tihi, o Te Akitai katoa, mo Pukekohe, kia whakaotia rawatia ta ratou paanga ki taua whenua. Ko ona rohe enei. Ka timata kite Pou o Rangiwhiri, haere tonu i runga i te rama ote Bailey, Ngapuketurua, Pnketarakihi, tomo noa kite ngahere, haere tonu ki Tutaenui, —ka nawe kite hauauru i runga i te rohe o Tutaenui, a haere tonu atu ki runga i te kaha te hauraro o Tirikohua kite rua o nga poka, ka tapahi kite hauauru kite rama c tika mai i te Ahu-a-te-ruarangi i Manukau i te ara roa ki Waikato; ka tukua rawatia ki a Te Kuini o Ingarangi, ki ona uri i muri i a ia, ake, ake. Koia tenei whakaaetanga i tuhituhia ai—ki tenei ra—ki te tekau ma whitu o nga ra o Hune i te tau 1853. Heoi ano nga wahi c kapea mo matou i roto i enei rohe kua oti te korero—ko te wahi kite tino Pukekohe i huaia Te Awauui o Taikehu, koia tenei ka porotakaia i roto i te whakaahua kite taha ki tua o tenei pukapuka. Ko te utu kia matou, c whakaaetia ai enei tikanga—kia Rua rau pauna, c homai ana ki roto i o matou ringaringa, i tenei ra i te 17 o nga ra o Hune, 1853. Ihaka Takaanini, Te Raihi, He mea whakaae kite aroaro o Hone Te Muhu. Patrick J. Hogan, Ahipene Waka Kaihatj, John Grant Johnson, Interpreter.

Enclosure 2 to No. 9. translation of enclosure 1. Pukekohe. This agreement, entered into by Moses, Hone te Muhu, Pepene te Tihi, and all the Akitai Tribe, being the final settlement and giving up of all right and title to Pukekohe, or claim thereto whatsoever; the following being the boundaries agreed to: —Beginning at the post at Rangiwhiri, and going on in the line of Mr. Bailey on Ngapuketurua and Puketarakihi, entering the forest and on to Tutaenui, then going in a westerly direction until it cuts the northern boundary of Tirikohua, to the second hole, then going on to the West, entering the line coming from Ahu a te Ruarangi at the Manukau to the long road to Waikato, —is given up to the Queen of England and her heirs for ever: for this reason this agreement has been entered into on this, the seventeenth day of June, in the year 1853. That portion of Pukekohe called Te Awa nui o Taikehu is reserved for us, and is encircled by a line on the plan annexed. The payment to us for our consenting to these terms (above specified) is Two hundred pounds, now given into our hands, on this the seventeenth day of June, in the year 1853. liiaka Takanini, Te Raihi, Hone te Muhtj. Agreement signed in the presence of Patrick J. Hogan, Ahipene Waka Kaihau, John Grant Johnson, Interpreter. A true translation. , John White, Interpreter.

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No. 10. W. N. SEARANCKE, ESQ., TO THE CHIEF COMMISSIONER. Auckland, Bth June, 1857. Sir, — Having concluded the survey and plan of the different blocks of land included in the South Head of Manukau, I have the honor to remark on them as follows: that it will be advisable on account of the numerous payments made on different portions, the boundaries of which are very complicated, and in order that the remaining sums due on the land be as widely and fairly diffused as possible, to divide this land into four parts or blocks; three on which money has been paid, and one on which no money has been paid. No. 1 block, eight thousand five hundred acres (8,500 acres), includes Te Mako, Te Ngaio, Kaihau, Te Tubionorangi, Kaiotemanu, and the Kawakawa, minor blocks; on all of which money has been advanced, in various sums, to the amount of £430 (Four hundred and thirty pounds). The Rev. Mr. Hamlin holds a Crown Grant for five hundred acres, (500 acres) included in this block. The sum I would recommend as payment for this land is Is. 6d. (one shilling and sixpence) per acre, i.e., £666 135., deducting payment made of £430, leaving the sum of £236 13s. for distribution among the numerous claimants, which I propose to apportion thus:— Te Katipa (Ngatiteata) ... ... £50 0 0] Aihipene (Te Uri-o-te-oro) ... ... 50 0 0 (Leaving a balance of lhaia Te Pepene (Ngatitamaoho) ... ... 50 0 Of £26 13s. Ramera Hunia (Ngatihaua) ... ... 60 0 0] The block is nearly equally divided into timber and fern. Kauri is large and abundant, but difficult to get at, from the roughness of the fern land (on the East side,) which is poor, broken and bleak. On the West coast the land is good quality, with abundance of Puriri timber. No. 2, joining to No. 1, is the Tatangarau block, two thousand seven hundred and sixty acres. On this no payment has yet been made. For this I propose to pay at the rate of One shilling and sixpence (Is. 6d.) per acre, amounting to Two hundred and seven pounds (£207.) This I would recommend to be paid to the Ngatihuiau tribe, of whom the principal owners of this block are, Te Huatau, Penekuki, Hone Mangaia, lhaia, and Ramera. This block is nearly all timber, kauri of the finest description. The valley of the Tatangarau is formed of the richest soil, with detached pieces of timber and bush. No. 3 block of six thousand two hundred and nineteen acres (6,219 acres), includes Kaitara Kokoreke and the Oharau blocks, on which payments have been made in various sums to the amount of (£225) Two hundred and twenty-five pounds, and is detached from No. 2 block by a reserve of about three thousand five hundred acres (3,500 acres), known by the name of the Wharau reserve. The Rev. Mr. Hamlin holds a Crown Grant for five hundred acres (500 acres) in this block. The sum I would recommend as payment for this land is one shilling and eight pence (Is. Bd.) per acre. £ s. d. That is ... ... 476 11 8 Payments made ... 225 0 0 £251 11 8 —This sum is left for distribution among the claimants, who in this block are more numerous than in any other, and more conflicting. £ s. d. Te Katipa, Poronahi, and others ... ... 75 0 0] j . , , . Hunia lhaia and the Ngatihuiau tribe ... ... 100 0 0( rt>i ii oi r Turia and her children ... ... ... 20 0 0 ( ~ ~" rr, . , ok no \ other claimants. Te-un-o-te oro ... ... ... ... 25 0 0) This block may be divided into Fern and stunted Manuka, three thousand five hundred acres (3,500 acres); Kauri and Puriri timber, five hundred acres (500 acres) ; bush, eight hundred acres (800 acres) ; and sandhills covered with a Pohutukawa scrub, seven hundred acres (700 acres). The Fern and Manuka is the greater portion of a poor and sterile soil. The timber land is rich and covered with very fine timber, easy of access by cart from Manukau Harbour. The bush land is also of rich quality. The sand hills are covered with Pohutukawa trees and Toetoe, but no soil fit for cultivation. No. 4 block, Opoia, one thousand and four acres (1004 acres); one payment of (£35) Thirty-five pounds has been made on this block, of which (800 acres) eight hundred acres is poor fern land, and two hundred and four acres (204 acres) of bush, rich soil, but no heavy timber, along narrow strips of land intersected down the middle by a deep swamp; is separated from No. 3 by lands belonging to the Natives. This land I propose to pay for at the rate of one shilling and sixpence per acre. £ s. d. . That is ... ... 75 9 0 Payment made ... 35 0 0 £40 9 0 —of which sum I propose to give to the original seller, Aihipene, £5 9s, and to Te Warihi, the owner of the portion of the land lately added to the original purchase, £35. In addition I beg to

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say that it will be necessary in a great measure to be guided in the settling of the payments due on this land by the different owners of the land. I have, &c, • Donald McLean, Esq., William N. Searancke. Chief Commissioner, Auckland.

No. 11. W. N. SEARANCKE, ESQ., GOVERNMENT SURVEYOR, TO THE CHIEF COMMISSIONER. Auckland, July 6th, 1857. Sir, — In obedience to the instructions contained in your letter of the 27th ultimo, respecting the disputed boundary of the Ramarama block, I have the honor to report that when the Ramarama block was purchased, Mr. Interpreter Meurant was sent, and in company with the Natives resident at Pokeno and Ihumatao traversed the boundary, marking trees at intervals of about a mile. The boundary line as cut by Mr. Ormsby and afterwards extended by Mr. Montgomery, is in accordance with these marks. Previously however to their cutting this line Mr. District Commissioner Johnson was sent by the Surveyor General (1853) to arrange a dispute at the north extremity of this boundary ; the arrangement then made by Mr. District Commissioner Johnson with the Natives appears to be very indefinite, they, the Natives, asserting that the extension of the boundary 3° East, extended only to the range, then carried along the range till it reached the boundary as first arranged, and not by any means influencing that portion of the Block south of the Kumi Kumi. Mr. Johnson, on the other hand, appears to have assumed that the 3° extension to the East for which he paid the Natives Ten pounds (£10), extended the whole length of the boundary from Taurangaihi to Mangatawhiri creek, as he does not mention any names on this boundary as amended, or made any defined marks; and as his boundary (if allowed by the Natives to be extended the whole length) would include their settlement and plantations, and upwards of three thousand acres (3000 acres) of laud, I am compelled to come to the conclusion that he must have misunderstood the Natives, the more so that they show the boundary marks of Mr. District Commissioner Johnson's extension East to its junction with the origin;! boundary at the Kumi Kumi. I therefore proposed that the boundary should be taken and amended as per accompanying sketch, so as to prevent any future disputes on the subject. They acceded to this, demandingthe sum of Three hundred pounds (£300) which was afterwards reduced to Two hundred pounds (£200) ; and this sum I have the honor to recommend should be paid to them. The extent of the land gained is about fourteen hundred acres (1400 acres), including the frontage to the road (Mangatawhiri) for nearly eight miles, explained in accompanying sketch. I have, &c, William N. Searancke, Donald McLean, Esq., Government (Surveyor. Chief Commissioner, Auckland.

Eamarama. Reporting on disputed boundary of Ramarama Block.

No. 12. W. N. SEARANCKE, ESQ., TO THE CHIEF COMMISSIONER. Mangatawhiri, July 25th, 1857Siß,— In compliance with your instructions of the 23rd ultimo, on which I had the honor to report, and instructions since received from His Honor the Colonial Treasurer, together with the sum of Two hundred pounds (£200), I have the honor to report as follows, —That on my former visit, the Pokeno natives, owners of the land on the Ramarama boundary, agreed to accept of Two hundred pounds (£200) as full payment for the land (marked on plan). There were some natives absent whose consent at the time 1 was unable to obtain, they have on my reopening the negotiation thrown difficulties in my way, which I have succeeded in overcoming by payment of the sum of Two hundred pounds (£200) and a further sum promised of Ten pounds (£10) on my return to Auckland. I trust that, though I have exceeded the Sum previously agreed upon, the excess of Ten pounds (£10) will be excused, considering the importance of having a proper settlement of this boundary, by which the frontage to the Mangatawhiri road is secured. 1 have the honor to forward the Deed and sketch of the boundary as arranged by me. I have, &c, William N. Searancke. Donald McLean, Esq., Chief Commissioner s Auckland.

Kamakama. Reporting settlement of disputed boundary. V. Letter No. 11,

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No. 13. THE ASSISTANT NATIVE SECRETARY (ACTING FOR THE CHIEF COMMISSIONER) TO MR, COMMISSIONER JOHNSON. Land Commissioner's Office, Auckland, August Ist, 1857. Sir,— I have the honor, by direction of his Excellency, to transmit copy of a letter addressed to him by the Chief Mohi upon the subject of the Pukekohe reserve. Not finding in this office any report of your proceedings taken upon the Instructions addressed to you on the subject by the Chief Commissioner, and dated February 3rd, 1857, I have been unable to reply to a statement made by the chief Mohi, to the effect that when the Pukekohe reserve was marked off by the surveyor who accompanied you for that purpose in February last, neither he nor any of the other Natives concerned were present, and that they do not accept the boundaries as there cut. His Excellency has therefore directed me to request that you will report fully upon this subject, I have, &c, Thos. H. Smith, For the Chief Commissioner. J. G.Johnson, Esq., District Commissioner, Whangarei.

PUKEKOKE. To report on claims of Ihaka and Mohi to Puke, kohe Block,

Enclosure 1 to No. 13. CHIEF MOHI TO THE GOVERNOR. Hurae, 17 o nga E hoa c Te Kawana, — Tena koe. E mea ana matou ki nga Pakeha c noho ana ki runga ki to matou whenua ki Pukekohe, mau te tikanga kia neke atu nga Pakeha ki to te Kuini wahi. Ko matou c haere ana ki te mahi i taua wahi; ko te toru tenei o nga pukapuka kia koutou. Heoi ano. Na Mohi*. Kia Te Kawana, Kei Akarana,

Enclosure 2 to No. 13. TRANSLATION OF ENCLOSURE 1. July 17tb, 1857. Friend the Goternor, — Salutations to you. What we have to say concerns the Europeans who are residing on Pukekohe; it will be for you to cause those Europeans to move on to the Queen's part. It is our intention to go and work that place. This is the third letter we have sent to you. From Mohi. To His Excellency the Governor.

Enclosure 3 in No. 13. CHIEFS MOHI AND IHAKA TO THE GOVERNOR. Hurae 28, 1857. E hoa b Te Kawana,' — Tena koe. Tenei ano ta matou kupu ki a koe, kia rongo rnai koe. E mea ana matou ki nga Pakeha c noho ana ki runga i to matou whenua i Pukekohe; c mea ana matou mau te kupu ki nga Pakeha kia wbakahokia ki runga ki to te Kuini wahi whenua, no te mea he kainga pumau tenei mo matou, mo a matou tamariki, ta te meako to matou kainga pumau tenei mo a matou tamariki ake, ake, ake. Kepi ano. Na matou katoa ki a koe. Na Mohi, Na Ihaka. Kia Te Kawana, Kei Akarana.

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Enclosure 4 to No 13. TRANSLATION OF ENCLOSURE 3. July 28, 1857. Friend the Governor, — Salutations to you. This is our word to you. Do you listen with respect to those Europeans who are residing on our land at Pukekohe. We think that you should send word to those Europeans to return on to the part belonging to the Queen, because we wish to retain the land in question as a permanent place for our children for ever. This is all. From the whole of us. From Mohi and Ihaka. To His Excellency Governor Browne.

No. 14. MR. COMMISSIONER JOHNSON TO THE ASSISTANT NATIVE SECRETARY (ACTING FOR THE CHIEF COMMISSIONER.) District Commissioner's Office, Whangarie, 12th August, 1857. Sir,-— I have the honor to acknowledge the receipt of your letter of the Ist instant, on the matter of the Native Reserve at Pukekohe, requesting, by His Excellency's direction, that I would report fully on the same. In complying with your request, I would remark that the subject does not appear from your letter to be clearly understood. It is still unsettled, and the survey which has been completed can only be regarded as a preliminary step to its settlement. No terms have, as yet, been made with the Natives concerning the portions of their Reserve which had been sold under Sir George Grey's Regulations previously to the matter having: been referred to this department tor adjustment. The course I adopted, which Mr. McLean also approved, was to survey the Reserve, circumventing the portions sold by the Government, so that when the survey was finished and a plan produced, we might see the actual extent of the Native Land which had been erroneously sold, and what the difficulties were which had to be adjusted with the Natives. I sent word to Moses and Isaac, when I was proceeding to the ground with the surveyor, and requested them to meet me there, but they did not make their appearance. (I think I afterwards heard that they were absent at a feast on a visit to their friends somewhere, and perhaps did not receive my message). The contract surveyor was waiting with his party to commence work, and I myself had no time to spare, my presence then being urgently required in my own district, whither I returned immediately after having pointed out the locality, and explained to the surveyor what was required to be done. I did not hesitate, under the circumstances of the case,, to commence the survey without the presence of the Natives, as I made the agreement with them at the final payment for the block in 1853, and know exactly what was then promised to them. I am also fully aware of the justice of their complaint, but I was not in a position to satisfy them, had they been on the ground, as I would not have directed the surveyor to include land in the Native Reserve which had been previously granted by the Crown to private individuals. You will perceive that, until this survey was completed, and the quantity ol Native Land sold ascertained, it was not in my power to carry out the instructions I received relative to giving the Natives an equal quantity of waste land to what I might be able to induce them to relinquish, in order that the Government may fulfil its engagements with the European purchasers who have selected portions of this Reserve, and not having settled the business finally, I did not make any written report of the same. I have not been in Auckland since this occurred, and had no opportunity of moving further in the matter, which I presumed would have been in my absence attended to by some other officer of the Land Purchase Department. I have, &c, John Grant Johnson, District Land Commissioner. P. S. —Enclosed is a memorandum of the original agreement made with Moses. J. G. J. T. H. Smith, Esq., Assistant Native Secretary, &c, &c, &c. Auckland,

PtJKBKOHE. Reporting on claims of Ihaka and Mohi to Pukekohe Block. V. Letter No. 13.

V. Letter No. 9.

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No. 15. MEMORANDUM BY MR. COMMISSIONER JOHNSON. 12th August, 1857. Memorandum of Boundaries of Pukekohe Reserve, as originally agreed to between C. W. Ligar, Esq., Surveyor-General, and Moses and Isaac, Chiefs of the Akitai, Mr Johnson being Interpreter on the occasion. Commencing on the Pukekohe boundary line where it is joined by the western extremity of the back line of Mr Taylor's selection, along that line as far as the distance from the Papakura River to Cole's former line at the terminus of Hewling's line, thence at right angles across the ranges to the back line of Williams' selection (Kokako, I think, is the name of the place), thence Westward along Williams' back line to the junction of the Pukekohe line aforesaid, which also forms the eastern line of the Waiuku Block, thence along the said line to the point of commencement. John Grant Johnson, District Land Commissioner.

Pukekohe. Relative to boundaries of Pukekohe Reserve. V. Letter No. 14.

No. 16. W. N. SEARANCKE, ESQ., GOVERNMENT SURVEYOR, TO THE CHIEF COMMISSIONER. Auckland, 16th September, 1857. Sir,: — I have the honor to submit for the information of His Excellency the Governor the following report on a piece of land in the Pukekohe Block, claimed by Mohi and Ihaka on behalf of their tribe, as a portion of the Native Reserve set apart at the time of the sale of the block to the Crown, but which has been conveyed by the Crown to Europeans. The Pukekohe Block was purchased by the Surveyor-General in June 1853. A Reserve for the aboriginal owners, including their old settlements, plantations, and burial-places, was agreed to, and a memorandum (copy of which is hereunto annexed) of the boundaries drawn up. , The memorandum of boundaries of the Reserve, J am of opinion, has not been adhered to in the survey made by Mr. E. Fairburn, the officer employed in laying out the sections in this block; a large part of the Reserve, about 850 acres, having been alienated by the Crown to himself and Mr. T. Russell. The error appears to have arisen from the Surveyor being unaccompanied by any of the Natives interested in the Reserve. The Native Chiefs Mohi and Ihaka, after the survey was completed, came to Auckland to see the Surveyor-General, who (Mohi states) acknowledged the justice of their complaint respecting' the portion of the Reserve surveyed, and promised that it should be rectified. This has not been done. As this land has been alienated by the Crown, it will be necessary, in order that its obligations may be fully carried out, at once to cosne to an understanding with the aboriginal owners. This I did not consider myself authorised to conclude. Mohi strongly urged that the land in dispute should be given up to him as a part of the Reserve, as originally agreed to ; that he did not wish to sell it, on account of the numerous burial-places on it. Ultimately he requested that I would defer any further negotiations until Ihaka, who is very ill, would be sufficiently recovered to take part in it, I have, &c, William N. Searancke, Government Surveyor.

Pukekohe. Reporting on Native claims to Pukekohe.

No. 17. MR. COMMISSIONER SEARANCKE TO THE CHIEF COMMISSIONER. Waiuku, sth October, 1857. Sir— ■ ". . I have the honor to submit, for the information of His Excellency the Governor, the following Report on the late meeting of the Ngatiteata tribe at Waiuku to receive the balance of the money due on the lands on the South side of Manukau Harbour. The meeting as called by you at Waiuku, on the Bth ult., was, from the absence of Te Katipa, (detained by the illness of his son, Te Kepa, at Waiuku,) without any result. On my arrival at Waiuku with Te Katipa, on the 23rd ultimo, I found that the Natives had returned to their settlements. I immediately sent round to them, acd, after some delay, succeeded ia reassembling them at Waiuku on Monday, the 28th ultimo.

Manukau. Reporting on meeting to receive payments for land on the South side of Manukau,

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Notwithstanding the many conflicting claims and statements, the Natives assembled evinced throughout a general wish that every one having a claim on the land should receive a portion of the payment, which wish on their part was, so far as 1 wa3 enabled to judge, very fairly carried out. The sum of Two thousand pounds (£2,000) was demanded by them as the final payment; this it was not in my power to consent to; but, in addition to the sum of One thousand pounds (£1,000) which I had received, I consented, subject to the approval of His Excellency the Governor, to make another and final payment of Two hundred pounds (£200) to the Katipa Te Awarahi. I consented to this on the following grounds:— Ist. That the Natives were on the point of again dispersing, when the settlement of this long pending negotiation would have been indefinitely postponed. 2nd. That its situation on the Manuka Harbour, together with its proximity to Auckland, its valuable forests of Kauri timber, must render it a district valuable for European settlement. 3rd. It is a step towards the annexation of a large block of land to the already purchased Waiuku district. I may also be permitted to call attention, as one important feature in this case, to the large number of advances made, extending over a period of nine years, for which I have been thus enabled finally to settle, by obtaining land. On these grounds, I recommend this additional sum, with the full confidence that the completion of this long-pending negotiation will tend to other sales of land in this district by the aboriginal owners. I have, he, William N. Seakancke, District Commissioner and Surveyor. Donald McLean, Esq., Chief Commissioner.

No. 18. MR. COMMISSIONER SEARANCKE TO THE CHIEF COMMISSIONER, Auckland, Bth October, 1857. Sir,— I have the honor to report for the information of His Excellency the Governor, that a block of land, situated in the Manuka harbour, known by the name of Puketapu, has been offered for sale by, the Ngatiteata Natives. This piece of land, containing about three thousand five hundred acres, (_3,500,) situated on the middle of the Manuka block purchased by me at Waiuku on the 2nd instant, was reserved by the owners at the time of the survey for their own use; from its central position, it is highly desirable that this sale should, if possible, be at once effected. The block may be divided into three equal parts, of fine timber land, rich fern land, and rather poor fern and stunted manuka. The sum I proposed to pay for this block was Four hundred pounds (£400). Two sections of one hundred acres (100 acres) in each are to be reserved for lhaia te Manga; and at Whakarongo one section for Aihepene Kaihau, to be conveyed to them by Crown Grants, His Excellency the Governor consenting. I have, &c. ? William N. Searancke, District Commissioner and Surveyor. Donald McLean, Esq., Chief Commissioner, Auckland.

Puketapu. Reporting offer of Puketapu Block.

N©. 19. MEMORANDUM BY MR. COMMISSIONER SEARANCKE. The negociation for the purchase and payment of the land at the South head of Manuka were completed at Waiuku on the 2nd October, letters having been written previously to all the aboriginal owners to assemble there in order that their tespective claims might be openly canvassed, and they were also informed that the payment to be then paid at Waiuku would be final. Pepene and his friends of the Ngatitamaoho tribe had, at the meeting at Ihumatao, and subsequently, to the Chief Land Purchase Commissioner, given up all claim to any portion of the payment of this land to Te Katipa and the Ngatiteata tribe. I arrived at Waiuku on the 23rd September; from that date to the 2nd October, the respective claims were daily and openly discussed, upwards of two hundred and fifty, men, women, and children, being assembled together. I took every opportunity during that time of bringing forward, also of calling upon, those parties who had been privately stating their claims to portions of the payment, to publicly before the meeting make their claims (I allude more particularly to Wiremu Hunia and lhaia te Kopi, and others); thi3 they would not do, confining themselves to privately

Manukau. Completion of negociations for Manukau Blocks. V. Letter No. 17.

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demanding of me to pay some portion of the money to them personally. They not being resident on the land, and their claim being, I considered, very small, their influence also being very trifling, I did not think myself justified in making any portion of the payment to these parties, to the prejudice of their relations resilient on the land, and to whom I paid the money for tho claims of themselves and relations; and this I did at the wish, and by the consent, of the whole of the Natives then and there assembled at Waiuku. W. N. Searancke. 27th October, 1857.

No. 20. MR. COMMISSIONER SEARANCKE TO THE CHIEF COMMISSIONER. Land Commissioner's Office, Auckland, November 17th, 1857. Sir,— I have the honor to submit, for the information of His Excellency the Governor, the following report upon the disputed reserve at Pukekohe. The final purchase of Pukekohe block was made by the late Surveyor-General (C. Ligar, Esq.,) and Mr. District Commissioner Johnson, on the 16th June, 1853. A reserve of land, particularly named as Te Awsnui o Taikehu, is made in the Deed of Sale for the aboriginal owners, neither the extent nor the boundaries being there defined, but after completion of the sale a verbal arrangement respecting the boundaries was made with the Natives, I believe by Mr. Johnson. In the latter part of the same year, 1853, Mr. E. Fairburn was instructed by the Surveyor-General to mark out the block into sections; which duty being performed, he returned to Auckland, and was followed immediately by Ihaka and Mohi, who, at an interview with the Surveyor-General, stated that the piece of land reserved by them for their own use, and known by the name of the Awanui o Taikehu, had been included by Mr. Fairburn. in his survey; they complained also that Mr. Fairburn had not, in accordance with Mr. Ligar's promise, given them notice of his survey of Pukekohe, in order that some of them might have accompanied him to point out the limits of their reserve. In consequence of this protest, the Crown Grants for European selection in this block were for some time withheld, but subsequently issued. The Natives have constantly from that time to the present, both verbally and in writing, protested against the occupation of this land; they have also repeatedly cautioned the settlers themselves, in a firm though friendly manner, against making improvements on land which was especially reserved by themselves at the time of the sale. Having received instructions from you, as Chief Land Purchase Commissioner, to investigate this case, I wrote to Mohi and Ihaka, who arrived in Auckland on the 2nd instant, when, as they still persisted in their claims, and after several days discussion no settlement was arrived at, I agreed that we should proceed on to the ground, when the precise locality of the Awanui o Taikehu, named in the Deed as the reserve, might be pointed out to me. Ihaka and Mohi did not keep their appointment with me at Pukekohe) hut I obtained the assistance of several other Natives of the same tribe, who clearly pointed out the land claimed by them, being a large and very fertile tract of country, dotted with their former settlements and cultivations; the burial places also of several of their Chiefs were pointed out upon the land thus claimed, the precise extent of the land which they demand I found it difficult to define, but have marked it on the accompanying sketch by a yellow line. 'lhe reserve set out for them by Mr. K. Fairburn, but which the Natives have never recognized as the one originally agreed upon between Mr. Johnson and themselves, 1 have marked with a pink line, the area of this is about three thousand one hundred and fifteen acres (3115 acres). Having been now for some time endeavouring to settle this dispute with the Natives, and finding that they are resolved to maintain their claim upon this land, for which Crown Grants have been issued to European settlers, and a large portion of it actually in their occupation, as resold by the original purchaser under the Crown; considering also that any acknowledgment on my part of the right of the Aborigines to any portion of land sold by Government to private individuals, would tend to shake that confidence in the value of a title from the Crown which it is desirable to maintain undisturbed, I have throughout my negociation with Ihaka and Mohi treated the matter lightly, and as a casual error of the Surveyor arising from his ignorance of the localities. In this light the Natives look upon it, but depend upon His Excellency to restore to them the land which was especially reserved at the time of the sale of the Pukekohe blue*, and which is now held and occupied by ruropean settlers. The extent of land claimed by the Natives as included in their reserve, but which has been sod by the Crown to private individuals, is about two thousand and ninety-nine acres (2099 acres), on this there are three residents, Messrs. Carruth, Meldrurn, and Arrowsmith, occupying together 793 acres. Duly considering the extent of the interests thus involved, and the extreme difficulty and delicacy of this question, I have most carefully abstained from committing myself to any initiative

Pukekohe. Report on disputed Re serve at Pukekohe.

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COMMISSIONERS' REPORTS

step towards its adjustment, wishing the Natives rather to propose some means of settling it. As they have not done so, confining their claim to the land itself, I am compelled to refer the case back to yourself as Chief Commissioner, and to inform you that the Natives intend coming in on Thursday next, the 19th instant, in order that this long protracted dispute may at once be settled. The quantity of land contained within the boundaries of this reserve as claimed at present by the Natives, and pointed out to me upon the spot, is about five thousand and fifty-four acres, but Messrs. Baber and White, who were present at the verbal arrangement with Mr. Johnson, expressly state that they are not entitled to more than two miles square, i.e. two thousand five hundred and sixty acres (2560 acres), which, to include the lands known by the name of Te Awanui o Taikehu, and the boundaries as mentioned in Mr. District Commissioner Johnson's Memorandum, would cover not only the lands occupied by Messrs. Arrowsmith, Meldrum, and Carruth, and the section owned by Messrs. Hall and Fairburn, with a small portion of .Vlr. R 's section, but also twelve hundred and sixty acres of the reserve as set out by Mr. Fairburn. I have, &c, William N. Searanckb. Donald McLean, Esq., Chief Commissioner, Auckland.

No. 21. CHIEF MOHI TO HIS EXCELLENCY THE GOVERNOR. Akarana, 4 Tihema, 1857. E hoa k Kawana,— Tena ra ko koe. Tenei ano ta matou kupu ki a koe. Kia whakahokia nga Pakeha c noh» ana ki runga i to matou pihi i Pukekohe i te Awa nui o Taikehu, kia whakanohoia ki runga ki to Te Kuini wahi, ta te mea ko to matou kainga pumau tenei mo a matou tamariki. Kei reira hoki to matou uiupa. E kore tenei wahi c tukua ki aua Pakeha ; engari mo matou, mo a matou tamariki. E hara i a koe tenei he, c hara ia Te Raika, engari no te Pepene. E hara ite mea no nga ritenga Maori tenei. Enuari no te ture oTe Kuini ote Kawanatanga hoki o Niu Tireni, no te mea kua waiho koe hei hoa aroha ki nga tangata katoa, kia tika ai te noho a te Pakeha a te tangata Maori, ake, ake. Na Matou tenei pukapuka, Na Mohi. Na Te Akitai katoa.

Pukekohe. Desiring that the European settlers may be removed from Pukekohe.

No. 22. TRANSLATION OF NO. 21. Auckland, 4th December, 1857Friend the Governor, — Salutations to you. This is our word to you (it is to request you) to send back the Pakehas who are residing upon our piece (of land) at Pukekohe, at the Awa nui o Taikehu, and to locate them upon the Queen's part, as this is our permanent place for our children ; our burial-places are also there. This part will not be given up to those Pakehas, it is for ourselves and our children. This fault is not yours, or Mr Ligar's it is the fault of Mr. E. Fairburn. This is not a matter having reference to Maori customs, it is from the law of the Queen and of the New Zealand Government, for you have been appointed as the loving friend of all the people, to cause the Pakeha and Maori to live properly together for ever. This letter is from us, From Mohi, His Excellency the Governor, And all the Akitai. Auckland.

No. 23. THE BISHOP OF NEW ZEALAND TO HIS EXCELLENCY THE GOVERNOR. Auckland, 4th December, 1857. My Dear Sir, — I enclose a letter from Moses and other Natives of the small tribe of Akitai, livinc at Pukaki on a subject which seems to require serious attention. As I have always advised the New Zealanders, in all parts of the country, to sell their surplus lands to the Government, and to accept grants for sufficient reserves for themselves, you will not suspect me of any desire to cause embarrassment to Her Majesty's Colonial Government in bringing under your immediate notice the foliowing case which I have investigated at the request of my Native friends ; and I believe the following to be a correct statement.

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On the 17th day of lune, 1853, the Akitai tribe surrendered to the Government a tract of land bordering on Manukau Harbour, called Pukekohe. They have in their possession a copy of the deed of surrender, with a plan annexed to the land given up. By the terms of that deed, a particular reserve, at a place called Te awa nui o Taikehu, is excepted from the surrender, and in the plan annexed to the deed this is marked off, and the words " Native Reserve, Te awa nui o Taikehu," are written over the place. No measurements are given, either in the case of the whole block or of the Reserve cut out of it, but the quantity of land intended to be reserved may be estimated by the proportion which it beats to the whole block on the face of the plan. In the year 1854 Mr. Edwin Fairburn was sent down to survey the block, and to lay it out in sections for purchase. On his return, be is stated to have made application for land forming part of the above Native Reserve, to what extent I am not aware, and to have bought it for his own use. Some opposition, I believe, was made to the issue of the Crown Grants, but this seems to have been overruled, and the question is now further complicated by Mr Fairburn's having now re-sold the land to settlers, who have already begun to cultivate it. You will see that the letter of the Native claimants entirely exonerates the Government from any blame, as they believe that Mr. Fairburn must have given wrong information. The following is a translation of their letter :— Auckland, 4th December, 1857. © Friend, O Governor, — Greeting. This is our word to you, that the Pakehas who are settling upon our reserve at Pukekohe, at the Awanui o Taikehu, be removed, and placed upon the Queen's portion, because this is a permanent abode for us and for our children, and our burying-place also is there. This place will not be given up to these Pakehas, but rather it is for us and for our children. Neither you nor Mr Ligar are to blame in this, but Mr. Fairburn. This petition does Hot come out of Maori customs, but out of the law of the Queen and of the Government of New Zealand, because you are constituted as a friend to all men, that both English and Native may settle justly now and hereaftet. Moses, For all the Akitai. I have, &c, G. A. N. Zealand. His Excellency Colonel Gore Browne, &c, 85c, &c.

Enclosure 1 to No. 23. Auckland, December 7th, 1857. Friend the Governor, — Salutations. This is a word to you. We have heard from the Bishop that our land at ?ukekohe is given back to us. Friend, this is right. Friend, this is another word. Let the fences and houses which are upon our land remain there ."or us, for the timber is from our own land. Friend the Governor, will you be quick in sending the Europeans away from off our land, as re are intending to go thither to cultivate our land at Pukekohe. From your loving friends, Ihaka. Mohi. Ihe Governor, Auckland.

No. 24. MR. COMMISSIONER ROGAN TO THE CHIEF COMMISSIONER. Auckland, 19th July, 1858. Sir, — I have the honor to inform you that I proceeded by appointment to Pukaki, on the 28th ultimo, and arranged with the Chief Mohi to go to Pukekohe with Ihaka and a party of his tribe on the following day, for the purpose of ascertaining the boundaries of the land claimed by the Akitai Tribe as the Awa nui 0 Taikehu Reserve, within the Pukekohe purchase. After arriving on the ground and making myself well acquainted with the locality, I referred to the copy of Deed of Purchase, which gives no clue whatever to the boundaries of the Awanui o Taikehu. I then adopted Mr Johnson's description of boundaries of the reserve agreed to between the Surveyor-General and the Natives, as is stated in the Memorandum dated 12th August 1857.

PuKEKOHB. Reporting on the Native Reserve in the Pukekohs Block.

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COMMISSIONERS' REPORTS

The boundary commences at a point on Bailey's old survey line on the western extremity of Taylor's back boundary, and follows a survey line which was cut by Mr. Fairburn, without any of the Native owners being present at the time. 1 subsequently ascertained from Ihaka that there was no objection to the adoption of this line as the Northern boundary of the Reserve. By Mr. Johnson's Memorandum the distance along this line should be equal to that from Cole's Inn to Papakura River, which, in a direct line, is 195 chains; the boundary should then run at right angles from this point to Kokako; such a line would include about 2100 acres sold to Messrs. Williamson, Fairburn, and Russell; it would also cut off a portion of the sections belonging to Messrs. Newman, Mahon, Hawke and Russell. Having ascertained the position of the boundaries of the disputed portion of the Reserve before entering upon the discussion of the question with the Natives on the ground, I became satisfied that about 2,600 acres of land which, by the agreement of the officer negotiating the purchase, should have been included in the Reserve, had been granted by the Crown to European Settlers. On Friday, the 2nd inst., Ihaka and Mohi, with their followers, accompanied me to a hill called Pukewhau, and stated that that was the boundary of the Reserve which they had decided upon at the time of sale, and were determined to adhere to, and that the boundary of the Reserve which was marked on the tracing in my possession was wrong; neither Ihaka nor auy of his tribe were consulted, nor did they witness the surveying of these boundaries, which was part of the arrangement with the Surveyor-General, &c. It was impossible for me to dispute what the Natives said, as the memorandum by Mr. Johnson, who was a party under Mr. Ligar to the purchase, supported the Natives in their statement; and, as it appears to me quite useless to attempt any negotiation with Ihaka for the land occupied by the Pukekohe settlers, I decided on coming to terms, if possible, with that Chief for about five hundred acres (500 acres) of land, which was included in the boundary pointed out by him at Pukewhau, which would disturb Crown Grants amounting to about fourteen hundred acres (1400 acres), in addition to the land already alluded to. I therefore undertook the responsibility of negotiating the purchase of this portion of the Reserve claimed by the Natives, for the following reasons :■ —• Because the cutting of the line from Pukewhau to Kokako would cost the Government at least Sixty pounds (£6O) in surveying alone. Because, if the Native boundary were adopted, it would interfere with the Crown Grants as above stated. And because it is desirable to have straight lines for boundaries, instead of zigzag ones, which would be the case if the boundary pointed out by Ihaka were adopted. After repeatedly requesting Ihaka to remove the boundary back to the straight line, he assented, but asked an exorbitant payment, and afterwards reduced his demand to Three hundred pounds (£300). I immediately offered him Fifty pounds, (£50,) and after a length of time, finding he would not accede to my offer, I proposed to recommend the payment of Fifty pounds additional, when Mohi rose and pulled up the boundary marks, and the survey was proceeded with, and the limits of the Reserve have been determined as shown in the plan herewith enclosed. I have, &c, John Rogan, District Commissioner. Donald McLean, Esq., Chief Commissioner, Auckland. Acres. Area of Pukekohe Reserve surveyed by Mr, Sinclair ...... 5381 Do. shown by Mr. Fairburn 3115 2266 Acres. Crown Grant issued to T. Russell, lot 23, 748 acres 559 Do. do. J. Williamson, lot 17 392 Do. do. E. Fairburn, lot 11 793 Do. do, do. lot 25 362 Land not sold by Government 88 2194 Probable allowance for Roads 72 2266 J. Rogan. Derivative Purchasers. Acres, Messrs. Arrowsmith and MeTier 226 Meldrum 196 Carruth 371 793

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No. 25. MR. COMMISSIONER ROGAN TO THE CHIEF COMMISSIONER. Auckland, 26th July, 1858. Sir — With reference to my letter of 19th inst., I have the honor to enclose a deed of conveyance j of a portion of the Pukekohe Reserve, for which the sum of One hundred pounds (£100) was paid to , Ihaka and Mohi on Saturday last, 24th. A description of boundaries is also enclosed for Proclama- > tion in the New Zealand Gazette, which, however, may not be necessary, as the land has been included in Crown Grants issued to settlers. I have, &c, John Rogan, District Commissioner. Donald McLean, Esq., Chief Commissioner, Auckland.

Pukekohe. Forwarding Deed of Con. veyance of Pukekohe Reserve. — V. Letter, No, 21.

No. 26.. MR. COMMISSIONER ROGAN TO THE CHIEF COMMISSIONER. Auckland, 26th April, 1859. <S IR With reference to Mr. Searancke's memorandum 57-351 regarding the final settlement of Ramaroa and Opoia, situated in the Manakau district, I have the honor to acquaint you, for the information of His Excellency the Governor, that I proceeded to Waiuku on the 2nd inst. for the purpose of paying the last instalment for the above named blocks. Immediately after my arrival, I communicated with Katipa, who objected to the small sum to be paid for the land, and repeated what he and the other Natives stated to yourself at the Land Purchase Office, namely, that the question of price had never been settled between them and Mr. Searancke, and it was most probable the Natives would not accept the sum of One hundred and twenty-five pounds (£125) as the final payment. It was, however arranged that messages should be sent to the claimants in the district, and that sufficient time should be allowed for the Natives to assemble at Waiuku. Accordingly, in about ten days afterwards I met the Natives, who discussed the question of price with me for several days; and, although many of them were disposed to take the money, yet there were several of the leading men, including Katipa, who raised objections owing to the smallness of the amount, and requested me to return the money to the Government. ; _ I then proposed to make an arrangement regarding the price to be paid tor Waitara Block, which has recently been surveyed by Mr. Sinclair, giving them the extent in acres; but some of the claimants to this land being absent, the Natives present desired to postpone the question of price for this block until your return to Auckland. The enclosed tracing will illustrate the different blocks of land above referred to. I have, &c, John Rogan, District Commissioner. Donald McLean, Esq., Chief Commissioner, Auckland.

, Bamaroa. The Natives owners wil npt accept the price fixed for Ramaroa block,

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COROMANDEL DISTRICT.

No. 1. THE CHIEF COMMISSIONER TO MR. PREECI. Chief Commissioner's Office, Auckland, September 7th, 1857. Sir — I have the honor, by direction of His Excellency the Governor, to refer to you the copy of a letter from Eruera iNgahue, relative to a piece of land at Coromandel, called Whakahore ; and to request that you will be good enough to report upon the nature of his claims, together with the estimated extent, position, and eligibility of the land he offers. I have, &c, Donald McLean, Chief Land Purchase Commissioner. J. Preece, Esq., Coromandel.

"Whakohore. To report on Eruera Ngahue's claim to Whakahore.

No. 2. THE CHIEF COMMISSIONER TO MR. PREECE. Chief Land Purchase Commissioner's Office, Auckland, September 15th, 1860. Sir, — A Memorandum has been placed in my hands, by Mr. Heaphy, having reference to certain blocks of land which the Natives expect to receive payment for from the Government; a copy whereof is herewith enclosed, as I deem it highly important that you should be put in possession of any information of that kind which is received at this office, in order that you may be able to report upon the nature of these claims for the information of the Government. I have, &c, Donald McLean, Chief Land Purchase Commissioner. J. Preece, Esq., Coromandel.

General. , Transmitting Memoran. dum by Mr. Heaphy,

Enclosure in No. 2. memorandum by c. HEAPHY, ESQ., provincial surveyor. The Natives of Coromandel look,to the Government for the undermentioned " Papa Tupus," viz.:— a. r. p. Remarks. Surveyed.—Hihi, - -59 0 0 LyingbetweenKeven's&Peppercorn's claim. A new transaction. Surveyed.—Tuhitoto, say -90 0 0 Including a part of Wilson's claim, with Karaitiana's unsold land. Surveyed. —Poroporo, say -25 0 0 On Government half of Whanganui Island. One of Webster's claims. Surveyed. —Tawhiti, say - 5 0 0 On Webster's claim, Whanganui Island. Island of M. Tapere, say -50 0 0 Quantity unknown. One of Webster's claims. Kikowhakarere, about -90 0 0 A new transaction, adjoining Calloway's claim. Surveyed.—Downing's,Makariri -10 0 0 Total 269 0 0 Mr. Preece is of opinion that the Natives are not yet ready to commence negotiations for further sales. Mr. Pi ccc when I applied to him on the subject, stated that in about a month, or some such period, he thought the Natives would be able to go to the Big Mercury Island on the subject of their claims there,

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COMMISSIONERS' REPORTS

I think that when the payment is made to the Coromandel Natives for the Papa tupus set forth on the preceding leaf, it is very likely they will be prepared to offer further lands to the Government. It is very desirable that the land which reverts to the Crown from Webster's purchases at Wai Totara near Waiau and Motu Tapere, as well as that at Kennedy's Bay and Mercury Bay should be definitely taken possession of as soon as possible, by being marked out on the ground. Any additional payments which may have to be made upon these claims will but conduce in effect to the final acquirement by the Government of those lands which the Natives have no occasion to retain for their own use, in the Coromandel district. Charles Heaphy, 16th August, 1857. The Chief Commissioner, Land Purchase Department.

No. 3. MR. PREECE TO THE CHIEF COMMISSIONER. Stapleton, Coromandel, October sth, 1857. ' Sir,— 1. I have the honor to acknowledge the receipt of your letters, severally dated September 7th, 11th, and September 15th, with their enclosures. 2. I am not able to report any particulars about Eruera's land until I have seen him, but in the meantime I would beg leave to suggest that both his and all other land unpurchased between Tikora's Point at the southern head of the Harbour and the Native residence at the Poka be purchased, reserving for the Natives all the land between the Poka and the Tiki. 3. In your letter of September 11th, you state that you had agreed with Pita for all the unpurchased and disputed land from Downing's to Kapanga, and referred him to me for final arrangements. When Pita returned, his party refused to confirm his arrangements, and demanded One hundred pounds (£100). When your letter of September 15th came to hand with Mr. Heaphy's Memorandum, I found that there were other pieces of unpurchased' land besides those agreed for by you, situated on the Island of Whanganui at the north-western side of the Harbour. I therefore lost no time in endeavouring to arrange for the final settlement, of all their claims both on the Island and on the main, from the entrance of the Harbour to the Kaponga Creek, which they are now willing to do for the sum of £ 100. Should those terms be accepted by the Government, I think that we shall soon have more land offered for sale. Should those two purchases be made to which 1 have referred, we shall then be in possession of all the coast of the Harbours except the two Native reserves; the inland portions could be procured with less difficulty. 4. With respect to Karaitiana's land, I am not able to come to any definite arrangement, because Mr. Heaphy has not stated what portion of the ninety acres belongs to Karaitiana, and what portion, of it is in Wilson's claim. Karitiana is quite willing to sell, and as he is going to Auckland it may, perhaps, be arranged whilst he is there. The piece of ninety acres beyond Calloway's claim I will attend to as soon as it is practicable to do so. 5. In reference to Motutapere, I beg to suggest that it be made a Native reserve for the following reasons:—first, because the purchase is not a good one, it never having been completed, only a few articles were given as deposit, tne greater number mentioned were not given, nor was the principal owner ever consulted ; secondly, because the Island itself is not of any importance except for Natives ; thirdly, because it is the only Island that remains in Native possession of that tribe, and is the only place they will have to land when fishing or when at sea, and, therefore, of great importance to them. G. Waitataramoa is, I believe, a good purchase, and was sold by Webster or party to a man named James Deinby who now resides in Freeman's Bay. I was not aware that it had reverted to Government. Webster's purchase at Waiau, mentioned by Mr. Heaphy, was never proved. I was in court when it was dismissed by Commissioner Richmond: the land had not been purchased, only the timber. The only valid purchase up the Waiu is that claimed by W. B. Moores, that as a gold-field is, I believe, of great value. The party that are at work on the land are finding gold to a large extent. I believe that Morris would transfer his claim to Government for a trifling compensation. They would t;ien purchase when offered the surrounding land which would make an available gold field. lam convinced from the increasing quantity of gold found that before long gold will be found in large masses, therefore no expense should be spared at this time in procuring land. 7. 1 am not aware to what purchases of Webster's at Kennedy's Bay and Mercury Bay, Mr. Heaphy refers. There were no purchases made at Kennedy's I3ay but one, made by Kennedy, who was afterwards killed. lam not as yet aware whether that purchase is a good one or not. I will make enquiry, and report on it as soon as I get the necessary information. 8. The only purchase made in Mercury Bay was made by Gordon Browne, who has long since been dead. I believe that it is both an extensive and valid one, I don't know who is the present claimant to it. The only purchase that Webster made in that part was part of the Mercury Island.

General. Acknowledging receipt oi: letter. V. Letters Nos. 1 & 2, Whakahobe. Respecting Eruera's claim to land, Respecting Pita's claims.

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The Natives will be ready to point out the boundaries any time in November, if they should first receive a weeks's notice, they will then be ready to arrange for the complete sale of the island. 1 have, &c, James Preece. To the Chief Commissioner, Land Purchasing Department.

No. 4. MEMORANDUM BY C. HEAPHY, ESQ., PROVINCIAL SURVEYOR. Island of Motu Tapere. This island lies in the gulf of the Thames, outside, and about half a mile to the N. W. of the North Head of Coromandel Harbour. It is steep, and closely covered with scrub, and is not adapted for European settlement. It forms a convenient haven for coasters and canoes, and perhaps might be adapted for a small fishing station. It is not improbable that at some future period a light-station may be required on it. Ido not know of any indication of metals ever having been found upon the Island. Motu Tapere was purchased from the Natives whose names are written in the margin by Mr. William Webster, on the 10th November, 1838, and goods to the value of £41 were alleged to have been given. The claim (305) came before Mr. Commissioner Godfrey on the 17th June, 1844, but owing to the claimant having received the maximum quantity of land which it was legal for him to receive, under other claims, " No grant" was recommended, and the claim withdrawn. The Natives of the tribe to which the sellers belonged now assert that although the island was intended to he sold, the full amount of payment was never made. Ara Kuri is now alive. Pita, the chief of the Patukirikiri tribe, is the grandson of Tawaroa, and the successor of Te Aumarere. The island is estimated to contain (40) forty acres. Charles Heaphy, Surveyor, The Chief Commissioner, Land Purchase Department, Auckland, 14th October, 1857. This land being nominally in the hands of the General Government, at least being entirely at the disposal of the General Government, except that the Native title has not been quite extinguished, I submit that it should be reserved for the tribe who have still a part claim to it, and that a map of it should be prepared, and handed to the Native Chief Pita Taukaka, as trustee for the Patukirikiri tribe. The reasons assigned for reserving this island are so forcibly expressed by Mr. Preece that it appears unnecessary to advance further arguments in support of it. Donald McLean. 14th October, 1857.

. Moth Tapeke. Description of Motu Tapere Island.

Sellers t —Arakuri, Te Aumarerd, Te Tawaioa,

No. 5. THE CHIEF COMMISSIONER TO MR. PREECE. Chief Land Purchase Commissioner's Office, Auckland, October 6th, 1857. Sir, — One of the principal claimants to a portion of the Big Mercury Island, a son of Tararoa's, has called at this office to offer to dispose of the claims of a section of the , Natives living at Mercury Bay to that island, and he expresses a wish that the land should be surveyed without delay. It is important that this should be done, and I have, therefore, to request your attention to it as soon as possible. I enclose a letter from the Natives on this subject for your information, also a copy of a Deed of .Sale from the Natives to Mr. William Webster, and a sketch of the island, exhibiting the portions of the different Natives who have claims to it. The aggregate estimate of the aroa of the island, as indicated on the margin of the said Deed, is, of course, greatly exaggerated. If necessary, a surveyor will be detached to accompany you to Mercury Island, but as the Natives appear desirous to alienate the whole of it, and as they admit that a large portion of it has already been sold, probably the necessity and expense of sending a surveyor might be obviated by your paying a visit to the island, and obtaining final surrender of the entire island, making such an equitable division afterwards of the purchase money as the relative claims of each tribe might entitle them to.

Mbkcubt Island. Respecting offer (if land on Big Mercury Island.

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I am anxious to hear from you, at your earliest convenience, as to the steps you have taken to accomplish this duty. The price can be decided when you have made all preliminary arrangements for obtaining the cession of the island from the Natives; and your report should indicate, as nearly as possible, the amount for which it can be purchased. You will be good enough to forward to this office a requisition for the amount of any contingent expenses you may be subjected to, such as the wages of Native attendants, &c, while engaged in the performance of this service. One of the principal objects to be kept in view, in completing this purchase at a moderate cost, is that of its being likely to lead to other and more important purchases on the main land. I have, &c, Donald McLean, Chief Land Purchase Commissioner. James Preece, Esq., Coromandel.

No. 6. THE CHIEF COMMISSIONER TO MR. COMMISSIONER PREECE. Chief Land Purchase Commissioner's Office, Auckland, October 7th, 1857. Sir,— 1. I have the honor to acknowledge the receipt of your letter of the sth instant, containing some practical information respecting the land question in the Coromandel district. 2. For more easy reference, I have divided your letter into paragraphs—a plan the adoption of which, in public correspondence, facilitates reference. 3. Paragraphs 1 and 2 do not require immediate action ; I shall, therefore, pass them over for the present. 4. Paragraph 3, recommending the purchase of the claims of Pita and others of his tribe to some new land, including all disputed claims from the North Entrance Harbour to Kapanga Creek, I have recommended for His Excellency's approval; and the sum named by you, viz., One hundred pounds (£100), is furnished to you through Pita, by this opportunity, to enable you to complete these purchases, in addition to a further sum of Twenty pounds („£2O) for the lower portion of the land—about forty acres—between the Kauri Rock and Kapanga Creek, part of an old claim, for which the Natives allege a horse was promised. 5. With regard to Karaitiana's land, and concurring with you in the importance of obtaining it, I have paid yesterday a sum of Fifty pounds (£5O) on account of all claims whatever to Tuhitoto Bay, and a further instalment of Fifty pounds, pending final arrangements on account of his claims to Ahuahu, 6. The Island of Motutapere is also reserved in accordance with your recommendation, and a plan of it is now being prepared for Pita. 7. I shall not now advert to paragraphs 6, 7, and 8, further than to thank you for the information conveyed, and to request, now a commencement is made, that you will use every endeavour to carry on the purchase of land in the Coromandel district as vigorously as possible, consistent with a due regard to the interests of the Natives and their various conflicting claims. I have, &c, Donald McLean, James Preece, Esq., Chief Land Purchase Commissioner. Coromandel.

General. Relative to certain claims in his district. " WLetter No. 3.

No. 7. THE CHIEF COMMISSIONER TO MR. PREECE. Chief Land Purchase Commissioner's Office, Auckland, October 16, 1857. Sir,— I have forwarded to you, by the hands of the young chief Pita Taukaka, the sum of £129 for extinguishing the whole of the Native title to the lands from the North entrance of Coromandel Harbour to the Kapanga Creek ; a plan of the whole of the lands ceded is furnished herewith, which you will append to the deed of transfer by the Natives to the Crown. A copy of the form of deed to be used is herewith furnished for your guidance, but you may, of course, alter it to suit circumstances. These documents should be clear, simple, and intelligible, ss>

Coromandel, Forwarding £120 to extinguish Native title to land. V. Letter No. 6.

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as to be binding upon the Natives and to represent in a natural and easy manner the nature of the transaction they are ra'ifying by signing their names. I have, &c, Donald McLean, Chief Land Purchase Commissioner. James Preece, Esq, Coromandel.

No. 8. MR. PREECE TO THE CHIEF COMMISSIONER. Staple ton, Coromandel, October 26th, 1857. Sk,-— 1. I have the honor to acknowledge receipt of your letters and Despatches of following dates r — October 6th, with its enclosures; October 12th, with its enclosures; October 14th, No. 229;' October 14th, No. 230 ; October 14th, No. 231; also three dated October 15th, with stationary,*copy A of deeds, and money for the purchase of land belonging to the Patukirikiri tribe, One hundred and twenty pounds (£120). 2. I am thankful to be able to state that I have completed the purchase of the whole island and ail other claims of the Patukirikiri tribe on the mainland as far as Kapanga Creek, I have paid them the One hundred and twenty pounds (£120) and by this opportunity I forward the deeds drawn out on the sheet of parchment which had the plan on it. To prevent any mistake about the island in future I have inserted its proper Native name in the deed which is "Te Poroporo." Whanganui is neither the name of the island nor yet that of any place on the island, but that of the creek which is the boundary of Keven's land on the side next to the Gold diggings, 3. With a view to prevent any mistake in future about the land now purchased, I will supply the Natives with a copy of the Deed now sent with a plan on the back of the same. 4. In your letter of October 14th, No. 230, you state that Karaitiana had made a request that a small payment should be made to Paora Te Putu for some old claim; I fully agree with you that it would be a dangerous precedent to do so, but as Paora is a large land holder and is the owner of land that it is very desirable should be purchased for the Government because it is the richest gold land in this district, I would therefore beg leave to suggest the propriety of making him a present from the Government, letting him clearly understand that it was in no way to be considered as given for payment for his claim, as all right to that had been paid for long ago. He has hitherto been opposed to sell land to Government, his determination has had its effect in preventing others from offering land for sale; he is, I believe, not very unwilling at the present time to sell. I believe him to be a very upright worthy man. 5. I herewith enclose a copy of a letter which I received from Maihi, a chief of Ngatiwhanaunga, offering some portions of land for sale. One portion is situated near to the present gold diggings at Waiau and is, 1 believe, a most available portion as a gold-field; should that be purchased with the adjacent lands of Kitahi and W. B. Moores, as recommended by me in my letter of October sth, it would at once give to this Province a good and available gold-field. All the principal claimants are desirous of selling, but this is a portion of tho tribe who strenuously oppose the sale of any land; the *ause of which is that the Government had never given them any payment for their part of the •.aland of Motunau. Their claim to compensation I consider to differ materially from that mentioned m the last paragraph. Paora did not put forth any claim for many years after the land had been sold, out this party arrived in Auckland on the evening of the day that the Island was paid for; on the next <lay they put in their claim, and they have constantly from that time continued to make a demand for payment, but nothing has as yet been given to them, although their claim extends over a large portion of the Island. I would therefore beg leave to suggest that something be done in this case, and that a jum be given as a bonus without in any way opening the question of their claim. lam quite sure that they would be satisfied with such an arrangement, and all difficulty would be removed. 6. In your letter of October 6th, you requested me to go to the Mercury Island as soon as possible to arrange the claims of the different parties. Kawiri and his party are perhaps in great haste to settle their claims before other parties put in their claims also. I think that it will be better for all parties to be present at one time, I have therefore communicated with each party that has any claim, and am quite ready to go as soon as each party can accompany me there. 7. You say in your letter of October Nth, No. 231, that you wish me, now purchasing has commenced, to carry it on vigorously, consistent with due regard to the interests of the Natives and their various claims. This lam prepared to do as far as I can. I have clearly pointed out what I consider the great hindrance to the sale of land at present; should these obstacles be removed I am of opinion that plenty of land will gradually be offered for sale ; I am also of opinion that it would be

Genbkal. Acknowledging receipt of various letter*.

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prudent not to make any advance of money to the Natives on land until the claims of the parties applying have been fully established. 8. In your letter of October loth, No. 226, you enclosed a letter from Ahurei requesting an advance of Fifty pounds (£5O) on some lands near to Cape Colville; he has been with me, and I find after making due inquiries both from himself and others that his-right to the land proposed by him to sell is disputed by Natives of another tribe. I think that no advance should be made on that land until the contending parties have come to some mutual agreement. 9. I have the honor to acknowledge receipt of your letter dated October 21st, No. 235, accompanying the maps. They came to hand after I had written the above. I have, &c, James Preece, Donald McLean, Esq., Chief Commissioner, Auckland.

No. 9. MR. PREECE TO THE CHIEF COMMISSIONER. Stapleton, Coromandel, May 6, 1858. Sib,--1. Since my last communication I have made a deposit of One hundred and twenty-six pounds (£126) on the Waiau and Awa Kanae block, which contains between two and three thousand (2000 to 3000) acres. I am now only waiting for an answer to my last letter, and the arrival of Mr. Heaphy, when I shall complete the purchase. I wish Mr. Heaphy to survey a piece of land in front of the above block, so that it may have some sea frontage, because, should the purchase be made without the frontage, there would be a difficulty to get access to the land ; I have, therefore, delayed the purchase until the survey is completed. Coal exists on the above block, and is found in the whole of the ranges. 2. The Matakitaki block, which runs from the boundary of my estate to the top of the highest range, is not finished surveying, but will be completed when Mr. Heaphy comes. I think that it will contain about 2000 acres. I shall make the purchase as soon as I get the map. 3. For the Big Mercury Island I have given to Rawiri a deposit of Forty pounds (£4O). I have not as yet received the map with the acreage of each party's claim ; when I receive that I shall be prepared to complete the purchase of the whole Island. 4. The Wainuiototo block is at present in dispute, and therefore must be delayed until settled amongst the Natives, which I hope will soon be done, I shall then take the earliest opportunity of making the purchase. 5. I have not as yet received the map of the survey of the Kikowhakarere block, therefore I am not able to take any step toward the purchase of that block. 6. I have great hope that I shall be able to purchase another block shortly; but, as much of the land is covered with kauri, the Natives can at present get more by selling the trees and retaining their land, than they can by the sale thereof. They get from 10s. to £1 per tree. There are also many other things which make them put more value on their land than they otherwise would do. The exertions" of Mr. C. Davis to prevent the Natives from parting with their land have hitherto operated against the purchase of land, also the contention amongst the Natives themselves about their respective claims has had the same effect; the price that has been proposed to be given for land has been considered by them as too little. 7. I am of opinion that if the Government would but give a little advance in price there would soon be more land offered for sale. I know that the Natives as a body are convinced that the time is at, hand when each individual Native will do as he pleases with his own laud. The conduct of Maihi and Horopeta in selling the Waiau block in spite of all opposition has operated well. Taniwha told me lately that he was convinced that the Government would soon make a purchase of all the spare land, for that he had found that he and the other chiefs could not prevent other Natives from parting with their own land. 8. The difficulties with which I have hitherto had to contend were of no ordinary character. Had it not been for the influence that I had with the Natives, and the confidence that they place in me, nothing, I believe, would have induced them to have sold any land. I have used every means In my power to accomplish the object. The labor in conducting these negotiations has been more than it would have been in some districts where there was ten times the quantity of land purchased. I shall embrace every opportunity to extend the purchase when there is a chance of doing so, because I am convinced that before the mineral resources of this district can be developed, the Native title to the land must be extinct, or every effort to prove them will fail.

Waiau & Awa Kanae. Has paid a deposit on the Waiau and Awa Kanae block.

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The Natives have neither energy nor perseverance enough to procure minerals, and besides, if they possessed both, their avarice would prevent them from bringing the product into market except they could get a price far above what merchants could give. 6. And it would be equally injurious to Europeans to occupy unpurchased land, the endless evils that would take place would entirely defeat the object of developing the resources of the district, neither do I think that the Natives would allow it, even on a limited scale. 10. Coal has been found at intervals along the whole range, and will, I think, be found both in quality and quantity far beyond the general expectations. If so, it will be a very great acquisition to the Province. I have, &c., James Preece. T c Chief Commissioner, Lind Purchase Department.

No. 10. MR. PREECE TO THE CHIEF COMMISSIONER. Stapleton, Coromandel, July 16, 1858, Sir — I herewith transmit the Deed of part of the Ahuahu block, which I purchased yesterday. Itcontains full half of the Island ; the remaining part of the Island I could not agree for. I offered, them the fixed piice, but they demanded much more. They now have agreed to refer the subject to you for your direction. I shall be ready to pay them when I get your directions. Two deposits have been made some time past —one on liawiri's claim of forty pounds (£4O), and one on Anaru's of Five pounds (£5). Anaru is deputed by the others to wait on you. It would be well, if it could be done, to secure the whole Island ; but the two most important claims are Matenga's and Karaitiana's. Matenga will be here on Monday about his. Karaitiana Ido not know what to do with; his is a very important claim, and should be secured at any price. I think that it would not be well to take any notice of the deposit he had from you. Please to look to the map and see the Harbour, and his claim in connection with it. You may depend that it will soon be needful for the Government to put some one there, as that is the station at which more smuggling is done than any other harbour in the land. Yesterday the Natives were here abort Wainuiototo, all the three parties have now agreed to part the money equally between them, but we could not agree about the price, I offered them Two hundred and forty pounds (£240) which would be Eighty pounds (£80) for each party, but they want Three hundred pounds (£300), and are going to you about it. I believe that they will take what I have offered when they find that no more will be given. Three reasons I think may be named for purchasing,.—First, it contains a very large proportion of kauri, which will at no distant time be of no small value. Secondly, it is commencing the purchase on the other side the Range which, however long it may be delayed, will eventually be made. In the third place, it is a piece of land that has been contended for, for at least two generations; the purchase of it will prevent any further dispute. With respect to the Awakanae block, I have seen Maihi, but as yet I have not been able to come to any conclusion. I find from all parties that the internal boundaries as marked by Mr. Heaphy on the maps are incorrect, half of what is marked as Maraia's belongs to Maihi, all the outer boundaries are perfectly correct, it is only the division between the land of each party; but as Maihi has a claim to meet soon, I have offered him Three hundred and twenty pounds (£320) for his claim, as that contains what is most wanted. I have not as yet had an answer. Horopeta will seil his, and Maraia could be left for the present. All the plans are made on the deed and ready waiting. I fear that not much land will be sold except the purchase money is increased; the Natives have by some means got to know the price that Keven's land has sold for, which will be very injurious here for some time. July 17th.—Since writing the above, I have had the honor to receive your, letters of June 29th, July 6th, and July 13th. The map of the Matakitaki block, the printed deed, and the general map of the Mercury Bay district, mentioned by you as sent, have not as yet come to hand; they must have been left behind. I return one letter which must have come by mistake as it is for some person at M angatautari. I should be glad to know by what party of Natives the islands mentioned by you are offered for sale as that would be a guide to roe in negociating for them. When I go to Whakatane I shall be able to examine all the islands, as I believe that they want to sell sever?! more; it would, I think, be well to purchase all that are worth anything, as I believe that they will before long become of value; when they may not be so easily procured. There is a most valuable piece in this Harbour near W. B. Moore's which is offered; it is the place where the Custom-house will stand, if ever there is one here. I shall purchase it without any regard to its acreage, as those small pieces canmt be purchased by that plan.

Ahuahu. Forwarding Deed of Ahu. ahu block.

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COMMISSIONERS' REPORTS

When the Collector of Customs was here, he thought it the only place fit for the Customs. Should it not be purchased now it would be difficult to get it. I have, &c, James Preece. Donald McLean, Esq., Chief Commissioner, Land Purchase Department, Auckland.

No. 11. MR. PREECE TO THE CHIEF COMMISSIONER. Stapleton, Coromandel, July 27th, 1858. Sir, — I have two letters from Paora te Putu about the land offered by Hopa and others for sale. I knew that there would be other claims put in, and therefore recommend that their deposit should be less than what they wanted. Paora has, I believe, a good claim to part, but much less than he would wish us to think; also a man of the name of Enoka. He, I believe, is the tino take of Ngatikoheru, which was the tribe to whom the land belonged. I have written to Paora, telling him that I will see that his claim shall be attended to, but he wishes to refer the matter to you. You will see from a letter of his, which I enclose, that his expectations are too great. I should rather see the land first, before anything farther is done, which I shall endeavour to do on my way to Whakatane, which I trust will be as soon as I can complete the two purchase* now in hand, and the weather is a little more settled. It would be imprudent to go at present. If I can induce them to let the boundaries go where I want, there will be about 35,000 acres. From the calculation I have made from the map you sent me, there is more than 20,000. I small be able to report on it on my return. Maka will be at Whitianga, and I will call on him. You will see from Paora's letter to me that he mentions the names of several persons as belonging to the land, but they are at Whakapirikau. Paora and Enoka alone are the claimants of that tribe. There will be, lam aware, a few others from different tribes, but as the extent is great, we shall be able to give something to all, and buy out each party's claims. I have purchased the piece I spoke of in my last, near to W. B. Moore's, and will send the Deed by the first safe opportunity. From all that I can hear, there is no opposition from any party to the sale of the land at Mercury Bay; all appear willing to sell; the great contention here is about price. The Natives have been informed that a few acres of Keven's land has been resold for £3,000, and they cannot understand what makes that of more value than the other land near to it. These things may wear off in time. I have, &c, James Preece. D. McLean, Esq., Chief Commissioner, Auckland.

Coromandel. Reporting on claims of Paora Te Putu,

No. 12. MR. PREECE TO THE CHIEF COMMISSIONER. Stapleton, Coromandel, October 22nd, 1858. Sir, - 1. I have the honor to acknowledge the receipt of various letters for me to report on. I ara now in possession of the proper information to do so. 2. The claims both of Te Mariri and Wiremu Paiawa, although both sent separately, I believe to be the same. They do not, from what I can learn, possess any personal claim, but a tribal one. It was arranged by Mr. C. Davis, when the negotiations were going on between the Government and Waka, in connection with Te Mariri, Wiremu Paiawa, and the other Natives of the Barrier, that Waka was to give them some part of the payment, which he has not done: it is on that ground that their demand is made. I consider that they are entitled to some compensation, but of course not to anything like what they demand. 3. With regard to the land offered for sale by Onehunga, I believe that she has some claim to }t, but at present it would not be advisable to purchase it, as it is disputed, and only a small spot, g ituated at a distance from any land that has been purchased..

General, Reporting on various claims to land in his district.

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4. Te Hoki's letter about the Waiau and Awakanae land cannot be received as a claim: the only piece that he has a claim to is Ongohe, which is left out of the purchase. He was present when Mr. Heaphy surveyed the land, and gave up all claim to it. 5. Maraea Tiki has no personal claim to the Waiau block. Maihi is acknowledged by all to be the only person who has any right to sell any part of that block. She must therefore go to him, and make her claim, as it will be impossible for her claims to be considered by any person making the purchase. I have, &c, James Preece. ' The Chief Commissioner, Auckland.

No. 13. THE CHIEF COMMISSIONER TO MR. PREECE. Laud Purchase Office, Auckland, Bth June, 1860. Sir, — The Native Chief Karaitiana has informed me that the sum of (£3O) Thirty pounds has been paid by you to Maihi Te Ohoka for the island of Mahurangi, instead of having been paid to him, as he thinks it ought to have been, and now desires payment for the land. He also states that Forty, pounds (£4O) was paid to certain Natives at Opito, which ought to have been paid to him; and that Maaka, of Whangamaroro, who objected to the sale of the Hahei block, has no claim to that block, and that there is now no objection on the part of the owners to its being sold to the Government. Karaitiana has also requested payment for the Pungapunga block, which was surveyed by Mr. Kempthorne. I have advised him to apply to you for a settlement of these questions, and have to request that you will investigate his grievances, and report the result for the information of the Government. I have, &c., James Preece, Esq., Donald McLean, Coromandel. Chief Commissioner,

Mahurangi. Karaitiana objects to money being paid ta Maihi for Mahurangi Island.

No. 14. MR. PREECE TO THE CHIEF COMMISSIONER. Stapleton, Coromandel, June 23rd, 1860. Sir,— I have the honor to acknowledge the receipt of your letter, dated June Bth, with respect to Karaitiana's statement about the island of Mahurangi. He is wrong as regards the money paid: it was not £30, but £12; and as to his claim, he has none to that island. The only person except Maihi that has any claim to it, is a man named Enoka. I know that I shall have yet to give him a small sum, but nothing either to Karaitiana or his party. In reference to the land purchased by me at Opito, Karaitana came with the Natives to me, and withdrew his claim, and requested me to purchase it from them, which I did for £34 not £40 as stated by him. lam sorry that he cannot confine his statements to truth. Regarding the Hahei block, I have constantly put them off until you came back, as you were present at their meeting at Kapanga. lam of opinion that something will have to be given to each party: perhaps the best way would be to purchase separately each party's claim. With respect to the Pungapunga, I am quite ready to make the purchase as soon as Karaitiana comes to me about it. To the Chief Commissioner, I have &c. Land Purchase Department, James Preece. Auckland.

Mahurangi. Respecting Karaitiana's 1 claim to Mahurangi . Island. v7£etter No. 13.

No. 15. the chief commissioner TO MB. PREECE. Land Purchase Department, Auckland, May 3rd, 1861. Sib,— With reference to your letter of the Ist February last, applying for certain advances omplete the purchase of various blocks of land under negotiation, I have the honor, hy direction

t 0 __ /.To confine his negocia- ' tion to contiguous bl«cks.

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His Excellency the Governor, to inform you that the completion of these purchases has been authorised, and that the sum required for the purpose, as named by you, will be advanced to you from the Treasury on your requisition. I am further directed to request that you will not enter into negotiations for the purchase of other blocks of land, except such as connect lands already purchased, and that in future you will on no account exceed the maximum price of 3s. per acre. I have, &c. Donald McLean, James Preece, Esq., Chief Commissioner. Coromandel.

No. 16. THE CHIEF COMMISSIONER TO MR. PREECE. Land Purchase Department, Auckland, May 6th, 1861. Sir,— I have the honor to acknowledge the receipt of your letter of the 26th January last, reporting on two letters addressed to this office by Riria Poau preferring a claim to the Opitonui block. With reference to that part of your letter recommending that the survey of the block above mentioned, together with those of Mahakirau and Maumaupaki be proceeded with, I have the honor, by direction of His Excellency tae Governor, to inform you that it is considered advisable to defer surveying operations in your district until the ensuing summer; and have to request that the intervening time be employed by you in searching out any additional information that may be procurable upon the titles to the land in question. I have, &c, Donald McLean, Chief Commissioner. James Preece, Esq., Coromandel.

Gsneral. To defer surveying operations until the summer time.

No. 17. MR. PREECE TO THE CHIEF COMMISSIONER. A Report of the state of the Land Purchase Department in the District of Coromandel, July 16th, 1861. The undermentioned blocks have been surveyed, and can be purchased when the money which has been granted for that purpose is forwarded :— 1. Matarangi block, —Eruera's. 2. Ahuahu block.—Matenga's. 3. Te Pungapunga block. —Karatiana and Riria's. 4. Kaituna block.—Wiremu Hopihana's. 5. Waikiakia block.—Hira Te Pure's. 6. Kikowhakarere block —Paora and Karaitiana's, 7. Te Hoho block cannot be purchased until the Mahakirau block is purchased, as the deposit given on it is in excess of the value and is to be deducted from Mahakirau. 8. Maumaupaki block joins that of the Awakanae already purchased on the one side, and Mahakirau on the other, and contains by estimation about 4000 acres, and runs from the surveyed line of the Awakanae to the foot of Castle Rock. This is part of the District mentioned by Dr. Hochstetter as an available and payable Gold-field. About a fortnight since a nugget was found in a creek near this land which contains about two ounces of pure gold, which had been broken off from a solid rock by some kauri logs brought down the creek; it was carried down the creek by the flood, and found after the water bad subsided. No search has as yet been made for the ground deposit, as the white men do not wish to excite the Natives; they had rather see the land quietly purchased by the Government first. 9. IVsahakirau block commences where the Maumaupaki block ends, and continues to Mercury Bay. A creek that runs through this block runs into Mercury river. It contains, by estimation, about 30,000 acres, A large portion of this block is excellent land ; part of it contains a very good Kauri forest, other portions of it are, like the last block, gold deposits. I beg strongly to recommend the immediate purchase of both these blocks ; there is no difficulty in doing so as there is not any dispute about them, the purchase can be made as soon as the survey is completed, as the Natives are very desirous of selling; but should gold be found in large quantities before that is done, there would be a great difficulty in making the purchase at all, as then, I believe, that no sum would induce them to part with it, whereas if we purchase now, we shall have in one block, from Coromandel to Mercury Bay, about 40,000 acres, on which prospecting operations could be going on, and on the other side of Mercury Bay the Government have a block already purchased of about 18,000 acres which is covered with quartz and iron stone, which always indicate a gold deposit; in fact gold has been found on this

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land ; I saw a small but beautiful nugget of gold fouad there. I consider that the 'purchase of these blocks may, in future, prevent great disturbances. 10. Opitonui block joins the two last at Castle Rock and leads out to Whangapoua. It contains by estimation from 2,000 to 4,000 acres, a good part of it is very good land and contains a fine kauri forest; a large creeek runs through the centre of it. Gold is supposed to exist on this as well as on the two last blocks, some very fine samples were got here about four years ago. There is a little dispute about the ownership of this block; a woman of Whangapoua of the name of Riria Porou claims part of it. I have thoroughly investigated this claim, and from the evidence given by all parties I am convinced that she has no selling claim nor right to interfere ; she ought to receive something when the payment is made, which could be reserved for her, or her claim could be referred to some Court which had authority to adjust claims of that kind, 11. The Opotoro block joins the Opito block which has been already purchased. When this is purchased, the Opito Block could be thrown open for selection ; the piece to be purchased may contain from 6 to 8000 acres ; the whole, when open, will be about 3000 acres; it is undisputed, and the purchase has been promised ; I therefore beg leave to recommend the completion of this purchase. 12. Waimoka block is situated near the Opito block, and joins the Matarangi block. A deposit of £10 has been given on this; if the boundaries, as stated, should prove to be correct when surveyed, I should think that it would prove to be about 4, or 6,000 acres. The survey of all the above blocks could be made at the same time, as they are all close together. 13. The Hahei block is situated on the South side of Mercury Bay, and joins land already purchased to the extent of 1,300 acres. I have not as yet been able to complete the negotiations for this block. Each of the parties who contend for this land lay claim to the whole, but from all that I have been able to collect on the subject, I firmly believe that their claims are about equal. The one party have agreed to allow the money to be divided, and as the principal person of the other party who contended for the whole is dead, I think that I shall, in the end, be able to get them to allow me to divide the sum equally amongst them, and thus prevent serious disturbance amongst themselves, as neither will ever allow the other to possess it. 14. The Whangamata block, which has been offered by Rawiri, is, I fear, too much disputed to allow of any further steps being taken about it until the contending parties can make some, mutual arrangement amongst themselves on that claim. 15. Honoroa Block is situated in this Harbour, and contains about 150 acres of very good land ; this is only waiting to be surveyed, and could then be purchased at once. The above is the true state of the Land Question in this district at the present time, and although there has not been much land offered for sale of late, it has not been from any feeling adverse to the sale of land that has prevented the Natives from offering larger blocks, but from an idea that the prices given were not equivalent to the value of the land, which they consider will soon be worth a large sum when its mineral wealth is developed. lam of opinion that if a more liberal scale was adopted, it would have a good effect on the minds of the Natives, and at the same time restore their confidence in the Government. James Preece.

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No. 1. THE CHIEF COMMISSIONER TO MR, COMMISSIONER HAY. Land Purchase Department, Auckland, June 26th, 1855. Sic,— I received a note from you a few days ago, stating that you were unable to come to town at the time appointed by you; as you have not been able to do so, I should be glad if you would undertake to survey some land at Waiheke, which has been sold by Kingi Hori Pokai te Ruinga to the Government, the boundaries of which have not yet been defined. A copy of the Deed of sale for this purchase will be supplied to you from this office. I should be glad if you could accompany a Millwright named Clough, presently at Auckland, to survey the boundaries of a piece of land which the Natives at Taupo, near Orere, wish to dispose of, in order to keep their Mill in working order. The price for the land can be determined by the Natives and myself after the boundaries have been defined and pointed out to you in the presence of the several Native claimants. I have, he, Donald McLean, Chief Commissioner. G. W. D. Hay, Esq.

Waiheke, To undertake the survey of some land at Waiheke,

No. 2. MR. COMMISSIONER HAY TO THE CHIEF COMMISSIONER. Waiheke, 28th February, 1857. Sir, — I have the honour to state for your information that, in accordance with your letter of instructions, I started for the Piako about the Bth December last. On my way I called at the western end of the island to warn the Natives who were concerned in the Piako block, so that they might follow me to Taupo; I found most of them away at Mahurangi. I called also at Hori Pokai's settlement, intending to cut the Omaru boundary if he were ready to point it out, but he had gone away somewhere. I crossed over to the Wairoa to see what could be done about the land Ngatai proposed selling to Parker, both Ngatai] and Parker were out of the way. From the Wairoa I proceeded to Taupo io get the Ngatipaua ready; I found them unwilling to go, as they had no food, their potatoes having been all consumed at the feast given to Waikato ; when I found that their minds were made up, though they tried to make it appear as my suggestion, I agreed to come back for them in the beginning of February. On the 19th December I sailed for the Piako, being anxious to have a look at the block, and to hear how the Ngatirauhea were inclined, because though they are vassals of Takurua's I do not know how far his influence extends with them now-a-days. I heard all they had to say, but refused to give any answer to Takurua and Hauauru, as all the questions were about Webster's claim. On the 22nd December I started for Paparahi, near Matamata, where the Ngatihaua were going to have their Christmas feast. I wished to meet the Chiefs of the different tribes to speak about laying down boundaries between the different tribes in mv district, " especially those that were disputed," before the present generation of old men died off. The Natives all approved of it, and expressed their readiness to do so. After spending a few days at Paparahi, I went on to Patetere, to the Chief of the Ngatiraukawa, Paul King. On my return to Whatitokarua, about the 17th. January, I found the Natives, the Ngatirauhea, very eager to show how they had been plundered of their land, but that now they said they sell some land themselves, every man his own piece. I told them I would give no answer till I heard what Takurua had to say about Webster's land. If he has lost his influence with this serf tribe, they will give me a great deal of trouble. About the 23rd January, I returned from the Piako, intending, if I found the Ngatipaua ready, to go back immediately. I found them cutting their wheat, and Takurua was shark fishing at Mahurangi. Te Otatu is deaf, and Takurua is the only one I can get a straightforward answer from. From Taupo I sailed for the Wairoa, saw Ngatai, and am convinced, although he claims half the land in the gulf, that he has no right, as he pretends, to sell the block he has spoken of; he may have a small claim, but there would be twenty others besides himself if he attempted to sell the block, On the 24th January I was attacked by fever while in the mouth of

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the Wairoa, and on the Ist February, when I was able to sit up, the men got me into the boat and crossed to the Matuku. On the 4th February, I sent for Ruinga to come and point out the boundary. On the 6th February, I went myself; two days after he came, but his eyes were so bad that he could do nothing. On the 9 th, he sent a slave to point out the eastern boundary, this man brought two others with him to cut the line. On the I Oth February, commenced cutting at Opuhi; the present boundary being thrown more to the Northward than that cut by Mr. Elliott, the block will be larger than it would otherwise have been; work going on very slowly, owing to dry timber left by firewood-cutters. 16th, too wet to work. Te Hiwinui, Ruinga's son, applied to me to survey Waikurarika, and Ruinga sent word that when Omaru was finished he would sell Kaikatearoa and Waitoetoe. However, I found the Omaru line so rough and broken, and the bush so thick with vines, that the men could never do anything like a day's work, besides I was too weak to do anything but range the line and check the bearing, so I told them I would survey no more small patches, one little bay at a time. I have offered to buy the eastern end of the island, taking the Awaawaroa as a boundary till it gets lost in the swamp, and then follows the swamp leaving out Rarowhara. When all the land already acquired is marked off on the map, I do not think there will be above three to four thousand acres, and the boundaries are good and will be easily marked off, and the Natives will leave the eastern end altogether. 19th, a relapse of fever obliged me to give up work, so I left Mr. Fenessey in my employ to carry on the work and range the line. 26th, recovered from the fever, but too weak to do anything. I should not have mentioned my illness were it not necessary to account for time that might otherwise appear to have been wasted. I enclose the tracing of Omaru, with bearings and distances of the eastern boundary, so that should a plan be required before my return, it can be compiled from surveys of Elliot and Scott for the frontage, and the surveys of Otakawe and Oropio, Captain Porter's, and Te Matuku, Brown and Campbell's for the western boundary. The Matuku creek was too thick with vines to be traversed, but as it runs nearly due south-west from where the eastern boundary meets it to where Brown and Campbell's line crosses it, there was no need to spend time cutting along its banks. I start for the Piako on the 2nd March. I have, &c, G. W, Drumond Hay, Commissioner and Surveyor, To the Chief Commissioner, Thames District. Native Land Purchase Department, Auckland.

No. 3. MR, COMMISSIONER HAY TO THE CHIEF COMMISSIONER. Taupo, 3rd April, 1857. Sir — I have the honor to state for your information, that, on the 2nd ultimo, I was again laid up with fever; on the 22nd I was able to come across to this settlement. I found then Takurua and Hauauru had gone to fetch Mohi, Hamiora and others from Waiheki, who are concerned in the Piako block. We are only waiting for a slant of wind. I shall start and leave them to follow me as soon as the Ngatiraukura return from Auckland. Hauauru wishes to have the land on the Thames surveyed as soon as the Piako block is finished, and I think that it would be the best course to pursue, as, if the Ngatipaua once come back here, I don't know when they would go back to the Thames. 1 shall, however, await your instructions on this point. I strongly recommend all the land upon which money has been advanced to Natives being surveyed, before I return to Auckland, I refer to land in the Piako and Waiho. I believe the surest and- quickest way of sending me any instructions would be by the Thames traders, through Owen and Graham. I have, &c, G. W. Drumond Hay, Commissioner and Surveyor, The Chief Commissioner, Thames District. Native Land Purchase Department.

Piako. Recommending survey of blocks which have been purchased.

No. 4. THH CHIEF COMMISSIONER TO HIS EXCELLENCY THE GOVERNOR. Native Land Purchase Department, Auckland, June sth, 1857. Sir, — I have the honor to report, for your Excellency's information, the result of my late visit to the Thames and Coromandel llarbour Districts. 1. After leaving Auckland, I proceeded to the Thames, where I had a conference with the tribes respecting the purchase of the Piako district. The Ngatipaoa chiefs followed me

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in their canoes to Pukorokoro, (a small river to the West of the Piako,) where I found Mr. Drummond Hay and a party of Natives, I held a meeting with the whole of the claimants, who agreed to proceed with Mr. Hay to point out the boundaries of their land and settle their conflicting claims and differences respecting such portions as were claimed by other tribes. This being com. pleted, Mr. Hay was instructed (a copy of which is herewith enclosed) to furnish a plan of the district about to be ceded—estimated at about 140,009 acres—and a date was to be fixed on which all the claimants should be assembled at Auckland to effect a final settlement of that long pending question. 2. From Pukorokoro I proceeded up the Thames in the expectation of meeting Taraia, who had left there some days previously ; consequently, I have not been able to see him in reference to the purchase of some land he offered to the Government in the Coromandel district, near Cape Colville. 3. From the Thames I came back to Waiheke for the chief Puhata, who has offered to give up a space of land containing about four or five square miles for the purpose of gold digging, which offer may be availed of by the Government, if necessary, although I conceive it would be more prudent to discourage the search for gold until negotiations connected with the purchase are more matured. There is, at present, a general indisposition on the part of the Natives to alienate their lands at Coromandel Harbour ; and with the exception of the unsold portions at Mercury Island and a few small blocks on the main, there is nothing else open for immediate purchase in that district. These places they offer should be purchased as a means of leading to more extensive sales ; but this must be done with caution, for if the Natives find an eagerness on the part of the Government to acquire their land, the opposition of the Natives to sell will increase in the same proportion as the eagerness of the Government to purchase is manifested. As far as I can ascertain, it is not so much a question of price that will weigh with them in this matter as a national feeling which prevails among many of the New Zealand tribes by which they enter into leagues and confederations against the sale of their country. Moreover, at Coromandel they are apprehensive that the discovery of gold in any quantity would lead to such an influx of disorderly Europeans as might annihilate or exterminate them. Under all the circumstances, I did not deem it prudent to press negociations during my stay, considering it more advisable to acquire information and disabuse the Natives of some of the fears they entertained, and to lead them to a more favourable consideration ot the question. In furthering this object, the Government would be very much aided by securing the services of Mr. Preece, who has been resident in the Coromandel as a Missionary for the last twenty-six years, having lived the greater portion of the time in the Thames district. Mr. Preece is now retired from the Mission service. He is thoroughly acquainted with all the tribes, and knows the extent and general position of their claims. 1 would, therefore, recommend that he should be employed to carry on preliminary negotiations for such lands in the Coromandel district, where he is residing, as the Natives may from time to time be disposed to alienate, and that, in the meantime, until the work accumulates, he shonld receive pay at the rate of f 100 per annum. I have, he, Donald McLean, His Excellency Native Secretary. The Governor.

Enclosure to No. 4. THE CHIEF COMMISSIONER TO MR. DRUMMOND HAY. Schooner " Tere," Taupo, May 13th, 1857. Sir,— I have had a consultation with Takurua, Hoera, Te Poihipi, and other chiefs at Taupo, respecting a settlement of their Piako claims, and have advised thai they should point out to you the external boundaries of their claim, so as to prevent any future questions or encroachments by the Ngatipaoa or other tribes on the Ngatipaoa boundary; when the external- boundaries are clearly marked off, it does not appear to me that it will be necessary to enter upon a subdivision of their own internal tribal claims, as this can be arrived at with suificicnt accuracy for all the purposes of this Department without incurring the loss of lime, delay, and expense of such a subdivision. When you iiave completed this duty, you will furnish a map of the several large blocks you survey, and of such reserves, if any, beyond a swampy place called , which the late chief Hauauru wished to retain for eel fishing. I intended to go on to Piako to see how the work on which you are employed was progressing, but find that it is needless now for me to do so, as you have not yet reached that place. The Government feel anxious that this long pending question should be brought to a speedy and satisfactory termination, as otherwise the lime and money expended upon it will amount to more than the land is worth after its acquisition.

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I shall be in the vicinity of the Thames and Coromandel Harbohr tor some weeks, if you have any reference to make to me respecting the work on which you are engaged. I have, he, Donald McLean, Chief Commissioner. G. W. Drummond Hay, Esq., &c, &c. Thames.

No. 5. MR. COMMISSIONER HAY TO THE CHIEF COMMISSIONER. Auckland, 21st October, 1857. Sir, — I have the honor to state for your information, with regard to the land on the Piako, as follows ;— On the 21st May last the Ngatipaua and myself reached Maukoro. After three or four day*' talk, I commenced work. The Natives, one and all, denied ever having consented to sell the River frontage, which, by the way, is scarcely available till you reach Maukoro, stating also that on several occasions they had made their determination not to part with their eel swamps on the river frontage. I found it would be mere waste of time to press the matter, so I proceeded with the survey. The piece of land called Tikou, for which money was paid to Takupu, was claimed by Te Matete, who told me that he had already objected to this purchase when in Auckland. Commencing at the Northern end of the survey, and following the Eastern boundary Southwards, the first reserve made by the Natives consists ot about forty acres, commencing at Te Paeroa and ending at Rerepa.igongo, including a burial ground. Further on, at Te Ratohua, a reserve was made by Tipa, but subsequently he told me to include it in the survey. At Pouriri Creek, the reserve by Te Matete and others begins, extending to where the Eastern boundary meets the Piako at Te Areiriri, and amounting to three thousand acres (3000 acres), of which one-third, perhaps, is available for Native cultivation. With regard to Websier's purchase, all that I could do amounted to nothing, as I had n» names to go by with regard to boundaries, and a long time has elapsed since the purchase ; moreover, the Ngatirauhea —who, as vassals of the Ngatipaua at the time of the purchase by Webster, did not then dare to say anything—have now, from the decline of the influence of the chiefs, come forward and denied the sale of the frontage from Maukoro to Angapunga, (stated to have been purchased by Webster,) and declare his Eastern boundary to be that laid down in the accompanying plan. I have also shown in this plan what they state to have been his Western or back boundary. In consequence of the facts above stated, and from the frontage to the river having been supposed to be twice its actual length, the purchase made by Mr. Webster turns out to be only about 6,000 acres. I have worked up to the Waikato boundary, from Te Pakohae to Te Pahua. There remains at the Northern end of the block about 2,000 or more acres which if purchased, would work up to the Ngatimaru boundary. This has been offered to 'me by the Natives as well as the small reserve made by the Ngatirongo at Te Paeroa, but as yet I have not seen all those concerned in it. At the Southern extremity there remains from four to five thousand acres (4 to 5,000 acres) of desirable land, which, if purchased, would work up to the Waikato and Ngatihaua boundary and extinguish the Ngatipaua claims on the Piako, with the exception of a small piece South of Te Riu o Hauraki, belonging to Hoera, and which he refused to have included in the survey. The land about the Waikuku and Pouriri Creeks, and from Te Maire to Mangahuna, is excellent- it is also good on the Mangawara ; the fern ranges I found, generally speaking, to be a better description of soil than usual. The fact of old burying grounds being scattered about from Te Pukeiti Westwards to Te Welti Creek has prevented the Natives from selling the four or five thousand (4,000 or 5,000) acres I have already spoken of at present, as any new negotiations, until the bones luve been collected and removed, would bring down too many claimants to suit the' purpose of the actual owners of the land. The land offered by Keha near the Kerepihi, and for which he had received money, I deemed advisable to leave alone, on account of strong opposition on the part of Wharerututu (te Aperahama) and others. In ths Thames, I surveyed the land sold as Hotungaio and Hotukiwi. Two Natives Tukukino and Wiremu, of the Whakatohea, had been deputed by the Ngatipaua to mark'off the boundaries—as, in point of fact those of the Ngatipaua, who claimed the land, knew but very little about it beyond having heard one or two of the names. Hahaupunamu I did not survey, owing to a disputed boundary, and the Natives did not choose to attend to settle the question ; the objection was raised by Te Maupu (J'aeapa). The land offered by Te Harapa, and for which he has received money, I left alone till the weather was more favourable. Koupu is not worth surveying hardly, unless the land offered me at the back be purchased; though only a very small block of some three or four hundred acres

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stiil it is good land; and, in my opinion, desirable that it should be purchased. I arrived in Auckland about the middle of August last, I have, &c, G. W. Drummond Hay, The Chief Commissioner, Commissioner and Surveyor, Native Land Purchase Department. Thames District.

Ko. 6. MR. COMMISSIONER HAY TO THE CHIEF COMMISSIONER. Auckland, November llth, 1857I should wish to call the attention of the Government to the following facts, from which have. arisen the delay and difficulty in settling the Piako question. They have refused the sum offered yesterday (£5O) because they did not consider it sufficient; and also because they maintain that some payment ought to be made by the Government on account of Webster's purchase. With regard to this purchase, they have been most consistent in asserting that though their names were signed together in token of assent, and their evidence before the Commissioner's Court went to prove that the purchase was a bona, fide one, still they were-induced to act thus from the promises and representations of Webster, and that at that time they hardly knew the importance of the steps they were taking. I may observe that the sum promised by Webster was five times the amount paid by him; it is needless to state that the promise was not kept. In parting with the Pinko block it must be borne in mind that in doing so the Ngatipaua Natives almost extinguished their claim in that district and consequently lose their influence for which money even for larger amount than that offered to them would be no remuneration, as on no point.do tht;y feel so strongly as on this. The principal mover amongst those who will not come to terms is Te Wi, son of Te Hoehoe and by right ot descent the feudal chieftain of the residents on the land; be feels that if he sells the land, his vassels will be independent of him, his influence diminished, and himself lowered in rank. I think the Government would do well to look at this purchase as a matter of policy not at so much per acre. 1 would add also that the Natives feel painfully that having in 1854 given £550 in advance on their land, we appear to be driving them into a corner to force our own price upon them for land which they value more highly on account of its being their entire claim in that district. If the Governor would authorize me giving as high as £1000 I would make the best terms I could with them. I have, he, G. \V. Dkummond Hay, Donald McLean, Esq., Commissioner and Surveyor, Chief Commissioner. Thames District.

Piako. Reporting difficulties attending the settlement of Piako claims.

No. 7. MR. COMMISSIONER HAY TO THE CHIEF COMMISSIONER. Auckland, 18th December, 1857. Sir, — I have the honor of forwarding for your information the following report of my surveys and purchases on the Piako and Thames; attached to this report is a copy of my diary from the time I left Auckland until my return. On my arrival at Maukoro on the Piako, I found the residents on the block, (Ngatirauhea, formerly vassals of the Ngatipaoa) prepared to assert their right, not only to sell land on their own account, but to retain all land belonging to them that had been sold to Webster without their consent and without their sharing in the payment. The Natives dispute a good deal amongst themselves, one of the bones of contention being the frontage to the River Piako. In almost all the receipts for instalments on land on the Piako, the Eiver Piako is named as the eastern boundary, but now they one and all denied, and ridiculed the idea of their ever having sold the land right down to the river, especially while the old claim had been so long unsettled (meaning Webster's). I found that my insisting on the fulfilment of their agreement with regard to boundaries would, as far as the River Piako was concerned, be mere waste of time. I accordingly proceeded with the survey. On referring to the plan, it will be seen that there are two small reserves north of the Wnikaka ; these were unavoidable at the time, as opposition often makes a Native more obstinate (I have since purchased the adjoining land and with it the reserves.) At Pouriuri all the land east of the surveyor's line was reserved by the Natives on account of burial places, concerning the removal of which they could not agree, and also in order to retain sufficient for the resident Natives (Ngatirauhea) to occupy. I had one continued discussion with the Natives with regard to Webster's claims, but they were always most consistent in

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ignoring entirely the boundaries as laid down in any documents to which I had access. From all that I have seen, I am inclined to think that the Natives are in the right, at any rate far mote so than the European, in this instance. The land included in Webster's claim that was retained by them south of Pouriuri amounts to about three thousand acres (3000 acres); out of this I have since purchased and paid for finally about twelve hundred acres (1200 acres) ; the river frontage in the block surveyed begins where the surveyor's line meets the river beyond Te Areiriri. The last mentioned purchase brings the frontage nearly two miles further north. Another reserve at the south-west end between llangawera and Te Pukeiti, and extending towards Waikato, was also made on account of burial grounds that the Natives could arrive at no understanding about. This reserve contains about 3000 acres. At the creek called Te Weiti, about 2000 or 3000 acres have been reserved. This part of the district having been the debateable ground between Ngatipaoa and Waikato, the burial grounds are more plentiful than elsewhere ; however the chief objection to sell these consecrated spots, is the number of claimants who would rise up, not because they had any right to the land, but because they were distantly related to some of the bones. I shall however in all probability purchase all the land during the summer, and with the exception of a small reserve at Maukoro for the Ngatirauhea, thoroughly extinguish the Ngatipaoa claim in that part of the country. From Te 'Poke to Te Pahun, on the western boundary, the land is purchased right up to the Waikato boundary. For further information 1 refer you to the plan. All the land north of the boundary of the block in question, has been purchased by me since the survey. This land extends on the west to the Waikato boundary, on the north to the Ngatimaru boundary and on the east to the river Piako, taking in the two small reserves at Waikaka. Ido not find the Natives either anxious to sell, or thoroughly averse to doing so. Ido not know exactly what the feeling is amongst the Ngatihaua, but I look forward to having as much work as I can get through. It will be borne in mind that my district is not one with only one or two large tribes; but that the valley of the Thames, and Piako especially, and the neighbourhood, has been the battle field of some six or seven tribes for ten generations, consequently the claims of different tribes becomes so mixed up and intricate that it requires a great deal more time and careful enquiry than ordinary purchases, and for the same reason the land is subdivided into smaller blocks It is my opinion that where the Government has an opportunity of extinguishing the Native title satisfactorily, where that title is intricate and involves two or more tribes, it should be done however small the block. For further particulars I refer you to my letter and enclosure of the 15th instant. I have, &c, G. W. Drummond Hay, District Commissioner. To the Chief Commissioner, Native Land Purchase Department,

No. 8. MR. COMMISSIONER ROGAN (ACTING FOR THE CHIEF COMMISSIONER) TO MR. COMMISSIONER HAY. Chief Land Purchase Commissioner's Office, Auckland, January 22nd, 1858. Sir, — I have the honor by direction of His Excellency the Governor, to forward to you a copy of a letter received at this office from Te Mapu of Ngatimaru, respecting land purchases at Waiheke. The Native has been informed that Waiheke will not be purchased secretly, but sufficient notice will be given to the different claimants to accompany the surveyor over the boundaries of the land. He has also been informed that he must apply to you, in whose district Waiheke is included. I have, &c, (For the Chief Commissioner,) John Rogan, D. C. G. W. Drummond Hay, Esq., District Commissioner, Thames.

Waiheke. Notice will be given to Natives to accompany the surveyor.

■■■!■■■! 11111 l II ■! I 111 111 l lIWIIIIIMIIIIIIIII l lIIIIIIIMIIIIIBIIWIIIII ■ I 111 WH No. 9. MR. COMMISSIONER ROGAN (ACTING FOR THE CHIEF COMMISSIONER) TO MR. COMMISSIONER HAY. Chief Land Purchase Commissioner's Office, Auckland, February 2nd, 1858. Sib, — I have the honor to enclose herewith copy of a letter from Ngatai, Hoete, and other Natives offering to give up a block of land situated between Whangamata and Katikati, to enable them to

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extricate themselves from debt; and am directed by His Excellency to request that you will give your immediate attention to this offer, and at once proceed to ascertain and report to the Government whether the parties offering the land are its acknowledged owners; and whether it is probable they will be able to negotiate with the Government for its transfer, without serious opposition on the part of other claimants. If it appears to you that this offer can be entertained by the Government, you will be good enough to proceed without delay to look at the land, accompanied by the Natives, and survey or perambulate the boundaries. I am directed also to request that you will state whether it is your opinion, that the Government can safely make any advances on this land. I have, &c, John Rogan, D. O, For the Chief Commissioner. G. W T . Drummond Hay, Esq., District Commissioner and Surveyor, Piako. P.S.—I have further to inform you that the Chief Hira Kake had addressed a letter to His Excellency, objecting to the sale of the lands offered by Ngatai and Hoete; a copy of which, together with a tracing of the land in question, is enclosed. John Rogan, D. C.

No. 10. MR. COMMISSIONER HAY TO THE CHIEF COMMISSIONER. Piako, 21st February, 1858. Sir,, — 1 have the honor to relate for your information that the sale of Kohafuanoa has been stopped by the Ngatimaru; not, I am inclined to believe, on account of Karamana and the others having no right to sell, but from a wish to retain their land. Kohatuanoa is no loss to the Government, as the land is worth very little, but if this small block had been surveyed, I should in all probability have bought, if the Government approved of it, most of the land between the Thames and P'iako. Ido not attach much importance to the determination of Ngatimaru not to sell, as a month hence some slight dispute might make those who are most disposed to retain their lands, most anxious to sell. The harvest and the shark fishing have prevented my commencing the surveys as yet, and for another fortnight the Natives will be busy with their crops. I have had several disputes to settle, and as soon as Ngatipaoa arrives there will be a good deal of talk about the land. I hear that Rakau Pango and others here blocked up part of my boundaries on the Waikato side of the Piako block. From previous knowledge, and from all I have been able to ascertain, they have not the slightest ground for having done so. I shall wait until Te Matete arrives, and will enquire further into it. The Ngatihaua I hear have expressed their disapproval of Rakau Pango's proceedings. Waikato maintains that he is justified in having done so, The alleged reason is that I exceeded the Ngati Paoa's boundary; this is not the case. As soon as I have enquired into the affair with Te Matete, I will report on the subject. I enclose a letter from Ngatai referred to me in October last. I reported on it in January, but the letter was mislaid. Ngatai's claim I consider very doubtful. I shall commence surveying in the Thames. I have, &c, G. W. Drummond Hay, District Commissioner and Surveyor. To the Chief Commissioner, Native Land Purchase Department.

KoHATUANOA. i The sale of the "Koha- [ tuanoa block has been ' stopped.

No. 11. MR. COMMISIONER HAY TO THE CHIEF COMMISSIONER. Opukeko, 27th May, 1853, Sir, — I have the honor to state for your information that I return to the Piako to-morrow to survey the land towards the Ngatihaua boundary; this will not detain me for more than a fortnight or three weeks, I shall then return here. The dispute with Rakau Pango about the boundary on the Mangawara has been derided against him by the Natives themselves. Some land has been offered near the mouth of the river, but of no extent, the Ngatimaru being generally averse to seiiing. If the Government approves of it, I think however I could induce them to sell their land about Mana-

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waruthe finest piece of land on the river, it lays between the Ngatihaua boundary to the South, and land claimed by some of the tribe living here, and the Ngatitatnatera to the North, Taraia, Te Moananui,Paora and Te Hira are the great land owners amongst the Ngatitatnatera, Te Hira I believe to be much opposed to selling land. Amongst the tribe that live here, Wiremu Te Paoro, Te Manihere, Henare, Tukikino and a few others are the principal men to deal with about the land. Unless these last named Natives are allowed to sell their own land, and to have their say in the matter, I think the Government will find a difficulty in obtaining land, although the Ngatitatnatera and Chiefs of other tribes on the Frith say they are serfs, I do not think their authority would go far at the present day. The Natives here complain that Ngatai destroyed, or did not present, their letter to the Government containing the names of all persons owning lands amongst themselves and the Ngatitamatera, and that he substituted one with Taraia's name only, and those of Hori Poka) and other Ngatipaoa Chiefs. The only Chiefs of Ngatipaoa that are recognized here are Hoera and Patene. The bearer Pita Whare Kohai is well acquainted with all the boundaries and claimants amongst the Ngatitamatera and this tribe. I have, &c, G. W. Drummond Hay, District Commissioner. Chief Commissioner, Auckland.

No. 12. MR. COMMISSIONER HAY TO THE CHIEF COMMISSIONER. Koupu, 13th June, 1858. Sir, — I have the honor to acknowledge the receipt of letters dated 9th January, 1858, and 2nd February, 185**, delivered to me yesterday on my return from the Piako. In reply to letter bearing date 9th January, containing copies of letters from Te Hoterene and Wharerurutu to the effect that Kohatuanoa should not be sold, 1 trust the report enclosed in this will be sufficient. In regard to letter dated 2nd February, 1858, enclosing copies of letters from Ngatai and others with sketch of land offered by them Opukeko Te Papa on the river Waiho, and from Mataora to Waihi on the sea coast, I have to observe that, in September or October, 1858, the same block was offered by Ngatai, though the sea coast was not taken in at that time. 'Phis offer was made verbally after I had refused to negociate for a block called Te Mata near Te Putu, Taraia's settlement, I refused to have anythingto do with Te Mata, knowing that Teuriwha tribe and Ngatitamatera were all concerned in it, telling Ngatai at the same time that if he could get the consent of Tarai, Te Auhe and others, I would attend to it, letting him know also I was aware he would have but a small share, when Te Papa was proposed instead. Knowing that he only owned the actual site of the pah of Opukeko, and, to the best of my knowledge not a thousand acres at Te I'apa, I again referred Ngatai to the Ngatitamatera, the tribe living on the land, the Whakatohea and Ngatikoi; I offered to go with him and hear what the Natives would say, but when I called at his settlement on the Wairoa, he was either goinoto Auckland, or out of the way. I would strongly recommend the Government not to advance any money on land offered by Ngatai or Hoete, but 1 suppose from the time that has elapsed (nearly four months) and from Maori reports, that money has been advanced. With the exception of the two trifling bits of land owned by Ngatai, not an acre is owned by any of those Natives named in the copies of letters forwarded to me. I refer, of course, to the river Waiho on the present occasion ; in fact, amongst the whole of the Ngatipaoa tribe, Hoera and Peneamene, who rank first amongst the heirs of v\ iremu Kingi (Te Hura), are the only claimants on this river. Peneamene is claiming conjointly with Paora Te Putu in the block offered by Ngotai and Hoete; there are seven or eight claimants owning ten times as much land, and of equal if not higher rank than himself (Ngatai); besides these a host of minor claims larger than his, though the owners may be called slaves by him. This attempt on the part of Ngatai and Hoete to obtain money under false pretences has done more to stop the sale of land than the united influence of all the Natives who have opposed it in this district. 1 had intended to have negociated for (after obtaining the sancfion of the Government) a block nearly five times the size of that offered by Ngatai and Hoete, and I believe that I should have had comparatively little difficulty, large blocks being cheaper from the Native, attention being drawn to the large atnountoffered, and not to the division of the price by the number of acres. They offer also the advantage of being surveyed for the most part trigonometrically; but the feeling now is so strong, that for the present none of the land supposed by the Natives to have been meddled with by Ngatai and Hoete can be got. I shall be able, I believe, to work on the wist bank of the river. I enclose a letter from Te Whewhera'.auwaru with respect to land in the Thames valley. I have, &c, Donald McLean, Esq., G. C. Drummond Hay, Chief Commissioner. . District Commissioner, iiiii.iWii.iiiw i*i f m vi

Geneeal. Reporting on certain Native claims refened to him. i

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No. 13. MR. COMMISSIONER HAY TO THE CHIEF COMMISSIONER. Koupu, IBth July, 1858. Sin, — I have the honor to state for your information that the Ngatatimatera have come to the determination that they will cede no portion of the land on account of money advanced to Ngatai. Even supposing them to have consented to a survey being made of the block sketched by Ngatai, they would not have recognized the advance made as payment for any portion of the land, but that which really belonged to him; and I am confident that he cannot claim more than a thousand acres, and that there would be several other claims as good as his which would have to be silenced by payment in addition to the advance already made. As for Taraia having taken part with the Government, the Ngatitamatera do m t recognise any right on his part to authorize advances in money being made on a block wbich includes almost all their principal claims. As my latest official information is a letter dated 2nd February, 1858, I, of course, am not acquainted with the nature of the arrangements made with Taraia, who affirms that Ngatai received the whole of the money-advanced. A very slight share of responsibility rests on his own side. I have pointed out to him that, as I conceive, in all probability it was mainly through his consent that Ngatai obtained any advance from the Government; and he ha 3 desired that 1 should forward the enclosed letter (dictated by him to me) tor His Excellency the Governor's information. In case a report that Hopa Totohi has offered land on the Eastern side of the Cape Colville range be correct, I recommend that but a small advance be made. I have, he, G. W. Drummond Hay, To the Chief Commissioner, District Commissioner. Native Land Purchase Department.

General. The Ngatitamatera refus* to cede land on account of money advanced ta Ngatai.

No. 14. MR. COMMISSIONER HAY TO THE CHIEF COMMISSIONER. Koupu, 31st August, 1858. Sir, — I have the honor to acknowledge receipt of letters dated 29th and 30th June; Bth, 9th, and 10th July. In reply to those referring to Riria's claim, I have the honor to state, for the information of the Government, that the land has not been surveyed, nor have I entered into negotiation for it, A small piece of land was offered by Unahi (vVi Koka) near Waikaka, but not app oved of by me, as I considered this and several other small claims had better be purchased in one block, or not at all. It is impossible to complete the purchase of small pieces of land under a thousand acres, unless at the rate of 2s. or 3s per acre, and the Natives would like lo sell separately as they think, otherwise, that they do not get the full benefit of their claims. They may consent at the commencement of the negotiation to 16d. or Is. per acre, but when the sum paid to them does not exceed their very sanguine expectations, disputes arise ; and if one Native complains, his friends readily join in his cry. The greatest drawback and source of contention I have met with has been the money advanced on small blocks, the Natives comparing the size of the Mocks, and accusing me as the cause of their not obtaining higher prices. They also exclaim that they never have anything to shew for their land after it is sold, as • except in the i case of one or two influential men who may retain large sums —the mass of the payment is divided amongst the tribe in trifling sums, which are spent, perhaps, immediately, and in a fevi months they regret having ceded their land. The Ngatimaru and Ngatitamatera are the only tribes that can sell blocks of any size in this district, and with them I have to fight my way from claimant to claimant until a good sized block is procured. I speak, of course, of arrangements previous to the sale by Ngatai, as since then there is very little use attempting to purchase. The Ngatimaru have always been opposed to selling their lands, but their opposition, without being violent, is more determined than ever. There have been visitors from the Waikato amongst them lately, and from what I hear they were sent to try and confirm the Ngatimaru in' their system of retaining their lands. 1 attempted to negociate with them the other day for land on the West bank near the Aroha, but was told to consider their decision as final ; that they would never sell a single acre to Government south of the mouths of Piako and Waihou. I told them, that, though of course, their land was their own, I did not recognise their right to retain land which they do not, nor never will, cultivate, and part of which is debateable land, so that by selling their claims there they would do away with ono, source of dispute. I have been for some time collecting a party who are inclined to sell ; but I do not wish their lands to be offered until the old land claims in this rivei have been settled.

General. The Natives prefer t« sell their lands in small blocks,

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I have delayed several purchases until Mr. Dillon Bell arrived, as they were all connected with tbe old land claims. In negotiating with the Natives, I attempt to point out to them the most advantageous and substantial form that may be given to payments they may receive ; for instance —by suggesting a Flour Mill, and pointing out a site. I have succeeded in obtaining a small block of 4,000 acres or thereabouts ; there has been a dispute about it, but itis not one that will interfere with the sale, and will be settled by Te Kopara immediately he returns to the Piako. I have been doing all I can to get up to the Ngatihaua boundary, as the border land belongs to a hapu who were anxious to sell when the Hangawera block was sold, and who are willing to sell now. The King party are, of course, using every exertion to retain all Native lands, and I am inclined to believe lioriori does all in his power to persuade Natives from selling. If the Government look upon the money advanced to Ngatai as a premium for the cession of such land as may hereafter be obtained, well and good; otherwise his share would not be £50. These advances also contributed towards placing me in a false position with the Natives, they look upon offering land to me as an unnecessary step, only causing delay in the payment of what money may be advanced ; they are also more inclined to believe the statements made by Natives whom I may have had occasion to thwart or oppose in any way. The Government cannot expect me to succeed in purchasing land, especially in a disaffected district, if the Natives see that the power of recommending the proper persons to receive payment is taken out of my hands. A Native presenting himself at the Native Department to ask for an advance is a very different being when he returns to have his land surveyed, or having been disappointed in getting money, to give as mttch trouble as he can. The Natives talk sometimes as if it were a personal favour letting me survey. The Ngatimaru have desired me to state to the Government that as they put in a claim for their land at Waiheke, and received intimation from the Goverment to the effect that care wonld be taken to give them due warning when due payment was to be made for that island, they look, the Government for payment as this claims seem to have been overlooked. This and one or two other points on which they are sore, tend to strengthen their disposition to retain their land. My time is fully taken up by disputes and complaints that I am obliged to listen to as I cannot get away from them. The extract from my diary I foward to-morrow, as the vessel is to, start and I have not time to complete it. I have, he, Donald McLean, Esq., G. W. Drummond Hay, Chief Commissioner. District Commissioner.

No. 15. THE CHIEF COMMISSIONER TO *MR. COMMISSIONER HAY. Native Land Purchase Office, Auckland, 20th September, 1858. Sir, — With reference to your letter of the Sl.st August last, reporting negociations for the acquisition of fresh blocks of land in your district, I have the honour, by direction of His Excellency the Governor, to reque«t that you will complete the survey and purchase of the blocks on which you made advances in Auckland, at the time the Piako block was paid for; which blocks should be, as far as possible, finally settled before entering into negociations for fresh purchases. It is not the wish of the Government to acquire land in small blocks; on the contrary, such purchases should be carefully avoided, excepting in cases when they are likely to lead to the sale of large tracts of country. I am further directed to inform you that His Excellency objects to the purchase of isolated blocks detached from the land already acquired, unless such acquisitions are made with a view of connecting several purchases in a district into one large block, that may be eventually available for European settlement on an extended scale. I have, &c, Donald McLean, Chief Commissioner, W. Drummond Hay, Esq., District Commissioner.

General. To avoid purchasing smalt and disconnected blocks. V. Letter No. 14.

No. 16. MR. COMMISSIONER HAY TO THE CHIEF COMMISSIONER. The land for thirty-five miles south of the mouths of the Waihou and Piako rivers, bounded on the west by the wooded range between the Piako and the Waikato, on the east by the coast line

General. General report as to the state of the Land purchasing operations in his district.

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between Tairua and Katikati (Tauranga) is the only portion of the district at present available for land purchase. The land lying to the south of this tract of country is in the hands of tribes who are thoroughly opposed to the sale of land. The above-mentioned boundaries give an approximate area of (600,000 acres) Six hundred thousand acres as the extent over which purchases may be effected. The total acreage of land over which the Native title has been extinguished, including land under negotiation, and land offered, but for which negotiations have not yet commenced, is one hundred and eight thousand five hundred acres, (acres, 108,500). Old land claims of the district 15,000 acres. Land acquired since 1856 39,500 „ Land under negotiation 14,000 ~ Land offered, negotiations not yet commenced ...... 40,000 „ 108,500 „ One third of the area to be deducted as not available, such as the wooded ranges and part of the swamps, leaves available land 400,000 acres. Out of this quantity, the Native title would be extinguished over 72,300 acres, inclusive of land already purchased, as soon as negotiations are recommenced. 16,000 acres of land were bought and finally paid for during the year ending June, 1860. 9,000 acres were surveyed during the same year; as the rest of the land purchased adjoined land already surveyed, there were data enough to ascertain the area. Ihe average price was Is. lOd, per acre. The land is of fair average quality; and, by purchasing blocks in different parts of the district, the peculiar distribution of the claims of different tribes renders the cession of the intervening land a certainty. 14,000 acres are under negociation ; the sum of £320 has been paid on this land; when the final payments are made, the average cost will be Is, Gd., per acre. Several contiguous blocks have been offered, amounting in all to 40,000 acres. No negotiations have been as yet commenced, but there is reason to believe that this land will be acquired to the rate of Is. per acre. The land within the boundaries already mentioned is owned and occupied by five distinct tribes, who hold the land from their ancestors by right of conquest. There are also numerous remnants of the original possessors of the soil scattered throughout the district, and occupying a subordinate positioa with reference to the other tribes. One tribe alone utterly refuses to part with their land. Their claims are not extensive, but are scattered throughout the district. The objections raised by the other tribes to the sale of the land are merely questions of price ; they not finding the price in some instances an adequate compensation for what they consider the greatest sacrifice they can make, namely the total surrender of their land. This district having been the battle field of numerous tribes for a period of about seven hundred years, every spot of ground is more or less associated in the minds of the Natives with their ancestry. Not a name but recals vividly to the Native mind some part of his own family history, and however trivial it may appear to anyone else, it is in the eyes of a Native almost sacrilege to part with land which is to him a family record. The five distinct tribes occupying the district; their constant feuds, with various success, during a long course of years; their inter-marriages, and the lines of collateral descent resulting therefrom; the debateable land on the boundary lines between the lands of tribes; the decline of the Maori feudal system; the growing jealousy between the tribes holding the laud and the descendants of the original owners of the soil, who have been in the position of vassals, but who now, under the effects of British rule, attempt to resume rights which they forfeited generations ago:—all these different causes tend to create a complication of title which increases every day, and to render all investigations unusually intricate and tedious. The system of giving Crown Grants for Native reserves has not been as yet introduced in this district, the small blocks of land so called having been reserved by the Natives, and are held under Native title. All details will be found in the General Report. George W. Drummond Hay, District Commissioner, Thames and Piako.

Enclosure to No. 16. GENERAL REPORT ON LAND PURCHASING OPERATIONS IN THE THAMES AND PIAKO DISTRICT. The only part of this district at present available for land purchase, is a tract of land extending from the mouths of the Waihou and Piako, 35 miles in a southerly direction, bounded on the west by the wooded range between Waikato and Piako, on the east by the coast line between Tairua and Tauranga. The land to the south of this tract is in the hands of tribes who -are thoroughly opposed to the sale of land. The boundaries already mentioned contain an approximate area of 600,000 acres, which will represent the exteat over which purchases may be effected.

* Bohe tau whainga.

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Of this, the total acreage of land over which the Native title has been extinguished, land still under negotiation, and land offered, but for which negotiations have not yet been commenced, is 108,500 acres. Old land claims of the district 15,000 acres. Land acquired since 1856 ...... 39,500 „ Land under negotiation 14,000 ~ Land offered, negotiations not yet commenced ■ 4-0,000 ~ 108,500 „ One third of the area to be deducted as not available, such as the wooded ranges and part of the swamps, leaves available land 400,000 acres. Out of this quantity, as soon as negotiations are recommenced, the title w-ould be extinguished over available land, inclusive of blocks already purchased, to the extent of 72,300 acres. The tribes who own this land are Ngatipaoa, Ngatitamatera, Ngatiwhanaunga, Ngatimaru, and Ngatikaraua. The negotiations for land purchase have been hitherto confined almost entirely to Ngatipaoa and Ngatitamatera. The last land offered to the Government belongs to Ngatiwhauaunga and Ngatikaraua. Ngatimaru alone utterly refuse to part with their land. Their claims are not extensive, but are scattered throughout the district. With regard to the other tribes, the only objections raised by them are mere questions of price, as they do not find the price in some instances an adequate compensation for what they look upon as the greatest sacrifice they can make, namely, total surrender of their land. The tribes in this district in former years were constantly at feud with each other; this, combined with their subsequent intermarriages, has rendered the title in many instances almost hopelessly intricate. The few scattered remnants of the original owners of the soil, who have till of late years been in the position of serfs, now frequently attempt to reassert their right to the land, in defiance of the chiefs' right of conquest; and as they have to be referred to concerning boundaries, and when the title is obscure, it requires considerable caution to avoid exciting the jealousy of the chiefs, while conciliating the vassals. The numerous small claims into which the land is sub-divided, and which frequently have to be treated for separately; the irregular boundaries, which bring the lands straggling into each other, often entailing the necessity of dealing with two tribes at once, a proceeding always hazardous, and not unfrequently fatal to the success of a negotiation: all tend to increase the difficulties, and render the negotiations unusually tedious. The title to land in this district is becoming more complicated every year; in some cases the Natives are in perfect ignorance of the real state of their title, until it is investigated as connected with land purchasing operations. The Natives stiif evince the same disposition to sell, induced in many instances by the dread of their land passing away after their death into the hands of other Natives who are but slightly, if at all, connected with them. This is the case with the block offered by Ngatawa Pafa.au, where there are no direct heirs, and where the owners are dying off rapidly. With reference to any difficulties that exist in the district with regard to any particular block, that of longest standing is a claim made by Ngatipango to some land included in the western boundary of the Piako block at Kawau-tohe-roa and Tirohauga. The claim was not made until long after all negotiations were concluded, and though the relatives who made the claim were close at hand, and repeatedly sent for during the time that the boundaries were being deteimined, they neither made the slightest protest, nor did they comply in any way with the invitations sent to them to be present. The claim most certainly was not a valid one; the strongest point in it was vague title by descent in the female line. The alteration it would have made in the boundary was immaterial, but it was opposed firmly, as it was evidently one of the first attempts of the Anti-land -seilicg League to interfere inland purchase. The Ngatipango have not entirely given up their point ; the question was left to be settled between themselves and Ngatipaoa who sold the land. In carrying- out instructions to consolidate the purchases on the Piako, the great difficulty consists in the Native reserve known as Te Tikou, where the bones of several tribes are buried. The objections on the part of the Natives to the sale of this reserve have ben removed, but the District Commissioner having been detached to Taranaki in August, 1860, and no operations having been carried on since ia the district, the negotiation was never completed. The determination expressed by the Natives to confine all sales of land to the west bank of the Piako has been cancelled ; the land at the fork of the Waitoa and Piako having been ceded, and a 'block purchased on the east bank of the Piako, which connects the Piako with the Waihou land. It will be found of the utmost advantage ir. a district constituted as this is, to push purchases wherever it is practicable, so as to cross the country from river to river, or from the river to the coast line. It wiil be seen eventually that by this means the acquisition of the land between Piako and Waihou, Waitoa and Waihou, Waihou and the sea coast, will be greatly facilitated. The land on the upper Waitoa, which is for the most part excellent land, and to the sale of which all the Natives concerned objected at one time most strongly, has been opened up, and when land purchasing operations are recommenced, the land between the Waitoa and Waihou will be ceded. Thf difficulties connected with land purchase on the Waitoa were caused by Paora Te Hutu's opposition, arising partly from a wish not to sell land in that part of the country, and partly from jealousy that he had not taken the initiative. Paora Te Putu having died, and his successor not being in the hands of those who had great influence over him, will render the negotiations for land far simpler.

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Taraia also threw many difficulties in the way, at the same time that he pretended to advocate land purchase, but as all his opposition was grounded on Paora Te Putu's objections, he will now side with Te Moana Nui entirely. The District Commissioner having been ordered away suddenly in August, 1860, the Natives connected with the sale of a block of land on the east bank of the Waitoa took advantage of his absence to refuse to sign the Deed on the score that the payment was not sufficient. The objection was raised by a section of the tribe who owned a very small portion of the block. Arrangements have since been made with the principal claimants amongst them, to cede the whole of their land on the Waitoa, This will remove the objection referred to, as the Natives who refuse the price of a hundred acres at one shilling, or two shillings, per acre will make no difficulty about selling a thousand acres at the same rate. Where there are a great number of claimants, the payment, except in the cases of a few fortunate individuals, who by the death of nearly all their relations have become the proprietors of the land of nearly a whole hava; excepting in cases such as these, the payment is subdivided into such small sums, that the Maori deriving very slight tangible benefit, rarely any of lasting effect, and not being able to look forward to the future advantages to be derived from having the wild lands occupied, is sure to become more or less dissatisfied with the sale of land. It is not unfrequently the case that the Natives with the smallest claim will upset a negotiation, they are always the most troublesome. Again, however small the extent of a Native's claim, before the land is alienated he is always accustomed to view the whole tract as his, as far as occupying spots here and there for plantations, pig-runs, and fisheries; not that he claims a right over the slightest portion that does not belong to him by inheritance, but he is well aware that unless from some cause or other, he is a marked man, be will always obtain permission from the different proprietors amongst his own tribe. The lands owned by the different hapus or sections are quite distinct in the title, and frequently there are distinct subdivisions again in one hapu or section. Of course through marriage individuals may become possessed of collateral claims in several hapus. If a hapu, or section of a tribe, wish to cede their land, they will rarely meet with any decided opposition from the tribe, unless the land of such hapu be situated in the very heart of land not yet ceded to the Government, or as part of the system pursued by the Land-league to put a stop to sale of land. Any portion of a hapu wishing to sell their land are never inteifered with, where their land adjoins a block already ceded. In no instance in the district has anything approaching to what is termed tribal rights been attempted, except as immediately connected with the opposition of the Land-league, and then on one occasion only; in this case also, the strongest plea used by the opposition was that it was a very small block to be ceded in the midst of lands not yet offered even to the Government, netting aside the apparent indifference of the Native to his land being occupied temporarily, or any other property that cannot be removed without his knowledge being used by others, they of course having first obtained permission to do so, there is perhaps no race in the world more alive to, or more tenacious in asserting, his proprietary rights, and more ready to resent the interference of the tribe, unless it be to support him, than the Maori. The land on the upper Waihou will, from its constantly having been occupied by Whakatohea and Ngatikoi, he found more difficult to treat for than other parts of the district. The two above mentioned tribe?, descendants of the original owners of most of the land on both banks of the Waihou were dispossessed by the Ngatitamatera and Ngatimaru, and kit for many years in occupation as vassals, paying the tribute usual amongst Natives in such cases Their attempts of late years to ignore their relative position with regard to the conquering tribes have led. and will continue to lead, to disputes that require great caution, as well as a thorough local knowledge of the Natives, their genealogy, and the boundaries of the land, in order to adjust them when caused by negociations for land purchases.* The disputes about a beltofland between the west bank of the Waihou and Te Awaiti arise from this cause ; in some few instances, the boundaries in the forest are lost; the men who could have given information on the subject having died. Te Hira Kake's dispute about 'le Rangiora, and his subsequent refusal to sell land, arose through Ngatipaoa having included a considerable extent of Ngatitamatera land, in the block ceded by them for money paid in about 1854. A section of the same tribe known as Te Urikaraka, amongst whom Ngatai. Wiremu Hoete, and Te Ruinga, took a leading part, having obtained an advance of £000 for a tract of land in which Ngatai alone had any claim, and thnt an inconsiderable one, were the means of putting a stop to all land purchasing operations in the Waihou for a time. With the exception of three chief's, the tribe of Ngatipaoa have no interest whatever in any land on the Waihou. After a year or more had elapsed, the Wfiihou land was again opened for land purchase by employing Tanumeha Te Moananui's influence; and there is no doubt that with proper care in conducting the negociations, the Government could acquire as much land in this district as might be desirable. There will be some opposition on the part of Hoterene Taipari and others to the sale of the block offered by Ngatawa Paliau and Te Kapihana, on the east bank of the Waihou. Ngatawa is supported, and his undoubted title to the land recognised, by Ngatiwhanaunga of Wbarekawa and Wniau, who, as well as Ngatikaraua, propose ceding a large tract contiguous to the block offered by Ngatawa. Te Hotel ene's objections are that some land of his adjoins that offeted

* Note. —This feeling is caused mainly, of course, from the old Maori custom of Chief and slave dying out under the effects of British rule; but it also was strengthened by the land being sold previous to land purchases having been made; and for some time after they had commence,!, the Maori never realized the parting with his land forever. YV from him for a time by a stronger tribe, he always looked ferward to some future day when he might be reinstated, and there is no doubt that this is one of the causes of the disputes arising out of old land claims.

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by Ngatawa, and adds the usual cry of the Land-league that the land shall not be sold. Te Hoterene has attached himself for the Lst three years to the Maori party, and is a strong partizau of the Land-league, endeavouring thereby to regain his waning influence as a Chief. Te Kapihana Ngatawa Pahau, and their parly have no direct heirs, the hapu is dying out rapidly, arm the Natives concerned in the opposition hope to establish some claim to the land, when the present owners are extinct. Amongst the Natives who stand up for the Land-league, and insist upon its being carried out in this district, there are two classes; the large land owners, who have not, and will not for the piesent at any rate, cede one acre; and ihe tribes termed Manene by the Natives. These are tribes or sections of tribes, who, either owning land in some part of the country where they do not choose to reside, or having no distinct title to any land whatever, obtain permission from other tribes to occupy their land; and having done so for some few generations, are naturally anxious to put a stop to land purchase, lest the tribe or whose lands they are residing on should be induced to resume occupation of the land on which the Manene had obtained permission to stop. The Manene were not exactly looked upon as vassals, but when the tribe owning the soil was a powerful one, the position of the Manene was, in point of fict, very little better than that of a vassal. In all cases, however, the one expected and received from the other some sort of feudal service. Instances of the Manene acquiring any title to the land on which he had been residing are extremely rare; and it would only be after many inter-marriages, and a long course of years, that the stranger's claim would be entertained at all; inheritance to land was the only thing he could not share in with the tribe he had been received into, unless, having distinguished himself in battle, he was adopted by one of the chiefs owning the land. At all times, however, his burial ground would be sacred, but his right to these spots only lasted while the bones laid there; the hahunga once performed, the pure eaten, his right vanished. Where the tribe owning the soil diminished in numbers, and incorporated the strangers amongst them for mutual safety under the general name of the whole tribe, the case was modified, but the rule was adhered to in all its principal points; the first fruits of the land allotted to the new section of the tribe were lookedfor, andreceived bytheothers, and it was only when the Maori feudal system began to die out that the complication of title commenced, which is fast tending to render all investigation almost hopeless. The Chiefs find their influence a thing ihat has past, unless exerted for mischief; the Manene, and the conquered tribes, ignore the position they have held with regard to the hereditary owners of the soil and the conquering tribes; the one assuming a right they never possessed; the others, quietly reassuming the position they forfeited some three or four hundred year ago, ask why their rights are not recognized. With these conflicting influences, and the inlormation concerning titles and boundaries, all oral of course, being lust from time to time through deaths, it is evident that no time should be lost in ascertaining the titles and fixing the boundaries, before the complication increases. A very shoit time suffices to create most important changes with regard to the title to the land. A Native, the sole survivor of a hapu, is anxious to sell ; he has no heirs, his connexions are all equally distantly related to him ; if he dies before his offer is taken into consideration, or before negociations are commenced, the one claimant to be treated with becomes multipled into ten or twenty, all equally interested in the land and each claiming the whole of it. If tfie land had been sold before his death, these numerous claimants would have received a very small portion of the payment, if any, from him; nor would they have thought of urging their claiais; they would receive the payment as an acknowledgement of common descent from some distant ancestor, and not as a right. The only other dispute out of which claims may arise hereafter, is that which took place concerning two or three small block on the Piako, near the mouth of that river. One of the blocks is known as Kohatuanoa. This land was offered by Ketia and Ngatipehi, and a sum of money paid to them as an advance on the land, in 1854. It appears that this money was shared by Keha and his own party, Ngakapa Mahirewera, of Ngatiwhanaunga and Hori Pokai Te Ruinga, since dead, who received the lion's share. When the title was investigated in 1856-.->7, the sale was opposed by Te Aperahama Wharerurutu aud Ngatimaru. Keha was unable to make out any better title than that he inherited from his ancestor Waitaha, who was dispossessed by Ngatimaru and driven away, and that he had lived on the land in question for many years. After Ngatimaru had driven Waitaha away, a section of the tribe were allowed to remain in occupation, paying tribute. Intermarriages took place between them, and their conquerors; the chiefs taking the vassals' women as wives. From one of these intermarriages Wharerurutu is descended ; and Keha, — disowning his own former position as a vassal, — maintained that Wharerurutu could not, on that account, inherit; descent in the female line not being considered a good title.* Keha's plea would have held good had it not been for the position his ancestors were placed in as vassals to Ngatimaru ; in fact, he himself was in the same position, and it is only some thirty years since he withdrew with his party to a small piece of land that they own at Pukorokoro, and attached himself to Hori Pokai's party. Wharerurutu and Keha were told that the matter would not be proceeded with for the time being. Subsequently, Ngakapa—thin king that, as he had received a part, of the money, the opposition of Ngatimaru was a slight to himself —insisted on ceding land for what he had received ; he offered to do so, either at the Native settlement, atTeKerepehi on the Piako, or at Kaweranga. Nivvha Kitahi, and Ngatiwhanaunga were prepared to support him unless Ngatimaru withdrew their opposition io the sale of Kohatuanoa. Feeling convinced that Wharerurutu's opposition was well founded, and that Keha's title was not at all clear, and not wishing to entail any disturbance between Ngatiwhanaunga

* Na te wahine i hapai ke atu tana maro.

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and Ngatimaru, it was recommended that Ngakapa should, under the circumstances, be allowed to repay the money received by him to the Government. This advance made to Keha was eventually of service, as the investigations to which it gave rise were the means of elucidating information of importance with reference to title and boundary of other blocks. Hori Pokai never gave any land for the money he received, Keha having most likely paid him the money as one whose influence would assist him. The money that fell to the share of Keha and his party, it was proposed should be considered as payment for their land at Pukorokoro, but they own no other land than that they reside on. Keha is dead, and Paraone, Karamaina, and Te Moanaroa, still Tassert that they have ceded Kohatuanoa with a good title. The assurances given to the Natives of the district, when negotiations were commenced in 1856, were as follows : — That no land would be purchased without ample notice being given, so as to afford every one who wished an opportunity of asserting his claim, and of protesting against the sale if there were good grounds for doing so; that on no account whatever would villages or homesteads be included in any purchase, without the consent of the occupants, and then only if provision could be made elsewhere ;* that no offer would be entertained if it appeared that the Natives offering the land had not reserved a sufficient quantity for their own purposes. This last assurance was made to meet the possible objection in the case of a hapu wishing to sell their land that they would sell all they had, and fall back on the land of the other hapus for purposes of cultivation. At the same time, the Natives were told distinctly that if any Natives, however few, could prove a sound title to land which they wished to sell, the offer would be entertained ; and that if opposed by the tribe on no better grounds than that the land should not be sold, such opposition would carry no weight with it; also, in the case of the whole tribe being concerned in the offer, some few individuals alone demurring, their title would be thoroughly investigated, and their rights respected, however much the tribe might insist otherwise. They were also told that while the rights of the chiefs holding land, as the conquerors, would be always carried out where there was no injustice in doing so, the interests of the Natives in an inferior position would be strictly looked after. There is no doubt that the gradual opening up of the district is to be attributed to the strict observance in all cases of the foregoing promises. In a district constituted as this is, where there is a strong opposition on the part of some Natives to the cession of any land whatever, without referring in detail to the different grounds for such opposition, it is desirable and necessary to encourage and support all those who wish to cede land with a good title, and to form them into a party that will have sufficient weight and influence to carry their point without entailing serious disputes. If this were not done, the opposition would often intimidate a small body of Natives who were exercising a right they undoubtedly possessed. This refers particularly to the case of hapus or sections of tribes having dwindled away, and being tyrannized over by the rest of the tribe, when desirous of selling their land. This plan has been carried out as far as possible in the district, and has contributed greatly, and will continue to do so, to the acquisition of land in thisdistrict. As yet the Native disturbance has not affected the land purchasing operations in this district, as far as the Natives are concerned; and there is no occasion to surmise as to what would be the result of further hostilities. The land bought and finally paid for in the year ending June, 1860, amounted to 16,000 acres. The land surveyed during- the same year amounted to 9,000 acres. The rest of the land purchased adjoining land already surveyed, there were data enough for obtaining the area; the average price was Is lOd. per acre. The land itself is of fair average value, and a most important point has been gained by purchasing in different parts of the district; the cession by the Natives of the greater part of the land between such purchases being a certainty. The land under negociation contains 14,000 acres. The sum of £320 has been advanced on this land ; when the final payments are made, the land will have an average cost of Is. fid per acre. 40,000 acres have been offered in several contiguous blocks. No negociations have as yet been commenced, but there is reason to believe that this land will be acquired at the rate of Is. per acre. From the nature of the district; the manner in which the tribes are scattered throughout it; the complication consequent on five distinct tribes having fought against each other with various success all through the district; their inter-marriages, the lines of collateral descent resulting therefrom; the intricate nature of the title, even in a single section of a tribe-; the conflicting influences of the conquerors and conquered, chiefs and vassals:—all these require, in order to ensure success in the negociation of land purchases, that the District Commissioner should devote himself entirely to the necessary investigation of title and boundary. This will always entail, as it already has done, frequent visits to the different settlements before the Natives can be assembled, and every exertion is often needed to ensure the presence of a chief, or chiefs, who may act an important part in the cession, yet have but meagre expectation personally as to the payment. Two or more large meetings are requisite under the most favourable circumstances to conclude a negotiation for land.f The Natives have idle time at certain seasons of the year; and these favourable opportunities

* E kore au c rero atu kite whare o te tangata, ki toaa ngiha, ki tona mara hoki. f The jealous disposition, which is the leading feature in the Maori mind, is here the most difficult point to contend with.

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must be taken advantage of to assemble the large meetings, otherwise an incurable grievance would be established by making the sale of land entail neglect of their agricultural pursuits. During the months that the Natives are occupied in putting in their crops, the settlements can be visited, and all information collected from the different hapus, and the land belonging to hapus treated for separately, as is often requisite. From this will be seen that the District Commissioner cannot at the same time negotiate purchase of land, and survey boundaries, without sacrificing the one duty to the other. In general, the different blocks purchased so ensure the cession of the adjacent land that a survey is hardly requisite until a large tract be acquired, the boundaries being always so defined and roughly marked off as to be readily recognised when it is desirable to make a regular survey. Geo. W. Drummond Hay, District Commissioner, Thames and Piako, Auckland, July 4th 1861.

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WHAINGAROA DISTRICT,

No. 1. THE CHIEF COMMISSIONER TO MR. COMMISSIONER ROGAN. Land Commissioner's Office, Mokau, 29th March, 1854. Sir,— As it is of impottance that negociations for the purchase of land from the Natives of this . Province should be carried on with as little delay as possible, I have the honor to request that in carrying on the survey of the external boundaries and reserves of such tracts of land as the Ngatimaniapoto chiefs may offer for sale, you will at the same time endeavour to facilitate negotiations with those chiefs for the acquisition of the tract of country (in continuation of the purchase of 16,000 acres concluded yesterday) extending inland towards the Waipa. It is also desirable that you should obtain from the Natives the block of land comprising 2,500 acres, on the North bank of the Mokau, —provided they will dispose of the whole of it, excepting the reserve at the Kauri, the boundaries of which should be clearly defined, for £200. To effect this purchase, I leave a sum of £200 with you, and a further sum of £100 as an instalment on account of any fresh blocks that the chief Takerei may offer; but you are not to conclude any arrangements finally with the Natives until you have reported the particulars of such arrangements to me at Auckland. Should, however, the chief Wetini decline selling the land on the North bank of the Mokau, and an eligible block be offered to you by Takerei at the rate of 3d to fid. per acre, you may then, after advising me of the particulars, expend the whole of the sum of £300 for such block. In carrying on these surveys and negotiations, you will be allowed, until further instructions are received by you from Auckland, pay at the rate of 10s. 6d. per diem from the time you joined this Department at New Plymouth; but of course you can only consider your present employment as of a temporary nature. I have, &c, Donald McLean, John Rogan, Esq., Surveyor, Land Commissioner. Mokau.

Gbnbbal. Instructions to Mr. Rogan.

No. 2 THE CHIEF COMMISSIONER TO MR. COMMISSIONER COOPER. Mokau, 29th March, 1854. Sir,— I have the honor to acquaint you that the land offered for sale by Takerei has been purchased for a sum of Five hundred pounds, and another payment of Thirty pounds to be made to the Ngatirarua tribe residing at Nelson. These payments include the whole amount that the Natives are to receive for this purchase;—the boundaries of which commence South at Purapura, thence along the sea coast in a Northerly direction to Herikomako, and inland to the Manganui river till it crosses the Awakino; and thence along a boundary line that strikes the line tunning inland from Purapura. Any applications by Natives at New Plymouth, either for payment or reserves within the above purchase, you should not in any way recognise. The best course, therefore, will be for you to refer them to Takerei or myself, stating, as your opinion, that nothing further can be paid, as the whole of the amount has been given to Natives here, who object to any other payment being made, particularly to the New Plymouth Natives. I am aware that several applications will be made to you in reference to this land, therefore I take the earliest ooportunity of communicating with you on the subject. A copy of the Deed of Sale is being prepared by Mr. Rogan, which I hope may be finished, that it may be sent to you by this day's mail.carrier. I have, &c, Donald McLean, George S. Cooper, Esq., J.P., Land Commissioner. . New Plymouth.

Awakino. luforming him of tin purchase 06 « block of land ftom Takerei.

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COMMISSIONERS' REPORTS

No. 3. THE CHIEF COMMISSIONER TO THE HONORABLE THE COLONIAL SECRETARY. Land Commissioner's Office, Kawhia, Province of Auckland, Ist April, 1854. Sir, —■ I have the honor to report to you, for the information of His Excellency the Officer r administering the Government, that I concluded the purchase of a tract of land on the 28th ultimo, Jat Awakino, near Mokau, for which the Native claimants have been paid a'sum of Five hundred pounds. lam in hopes that the purchase of this land from an influential branch of the Waikato tribe will tend to the acquisition of a large extent of country extending inland from Awakino towaids the Waipa district. In order to facilitate the acquisition of this land, I have instructed Mr. Rogan, who surveyed the external boundaries and reserves in this purchase, to carry out the survey, and, to a certain extent, the negotiations for such further tracts as the Natives may offer for sale in that neighbourhood; and from Mr. Rogan's knowledge of the Native character and language, besides being an active surveyor, I feel certain that he will render material assistance in effecting this object; but, of course, his employment, can only be regarded as of a temporary nature until I am further instructed by His Excellency the Officer administering the Government. .1 herewith enclose a copy of the instructions to Mr. Rogan. The Deed of Sale and translation are herewith transmitted. In addition to the sum of Five hundred pounds, which was the lowest sum for which the land could be procured, a further payment of Thirty pounds has to be made to the Ngatirarua tribe,.at Nelson, who also have claims to the lands purchased. Hoping that the arrangements made in reference to this purchase will meet with his Excellency's approval, I have, &c, Donald McLean, The Honorable the Colonial Secretary, Land Commissioner. Auckl md.

Awakino. Has bought a. block of land at Awakino near Mokau. Forwarding deed and translation. V. Letters Nos. 1, 2,

No. 4. THE CHIEF COMMISSIONER TO MR. COMMISSIONER ROGAN. Land Commissioner's Office, Auckland, Bth May, 1854. !§IR, I have the honor to acknowledge the receipt of your letter of the 2nd May, enclosing tke - Deed of Sale for the block of land at the entrance of the Mokau river. The whole of your proceedings in conducting this negotiation have been most judicious, and I .have every reliance in your ability to carry out the arrangements with the outstanding claimants satisfactorily. You may, therefore, consider yourself authorised to expend any portion of the money at your disposal for settling with Te Hapimana, or any of the other claimants that have not participated in the payment of One hundred pounds you have recently made. I have, &c, Donald McLean,. To John Rogan, Esq., Land Commissioner. Government Surveyor, Mokau.

MoRAO. Acknowledging receipt of deed of land at the entrance of the Mokau river. Authority to expend money. i ]

No. 5. TUB CHIEF COMMISSIONER TO THE HONORABLE THE COLONIAL SECRETARY. Land Purchase Office, 22nd May, 1854. ' Sir,— I have the honor to report to you, for the information of His Excellency the Officer administering the Government, that I have instructed Mr. Rogari, who has been lately on duty in this Department at Taranaki, to come up without delay to carry on the purchase of land in the Waikato country. In Mr. Rogan's absence from Taranaki there will be no officer of the General Government stationed at that important district, either to negociate the purchase of land or to finally settle the

General. Has instructed Mr. Rogan to carry on negotiations for the purchase of land in the Waikato district.

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question of reserves and boundaries in the block already acquired, or, what is even more important, to keep the Government advised of the state of the Natives during the excitement that prevails there. I would, therefore, submit, for His Excellency's consideration, that it would be desirable that Mr. Henry Halse, who has a competent knowledge of the Natives and the district, should be appointed a District Commissioner in the Land Purchase Department, in conformity with your letter of authority, of the 15th of February last. I have, &c, Donald McLean, The Honorable the Colonial Secretary, Land Commissioner. Auckland.

No. 6. THE CHIEF COMMISSIONER TO MR. COMMISSIONER ROGAN. Land Commissioner's Office, Auckland, 29th May, 1854. Sir,— The delay that has taken place in surveying the lands for the Natives in the Hua block induces me to request that you will have the goodness, if you can possibly leave your present occupation at Mokau without injury to the negotiations in which you are engaged, to proceed to Taranaki ;and confer with the Crown Commissioner and Mr. Cooper as to the most expeditious mode of getting the Native selections in the block surveyed, so that the land may be thrown open to the settlers. I trust that this duty will be performed by you with as little delay as possible, and l that you will not allow yourself to engage in any other duty until the Native surveys in the Hua block are completed. I have, &c, Donald McLean, John Rogan, Esq., Surveyor, Land Commissioner. Mokau.

To proceed to Taranaki and confer with the Commissioner of Crown Lands and Mr. Cooper as to the most expeditious mode of settling the Native reserves in the Hua block.

No. 7. THE CHIEF COMMISSIONER TO MR. COMMISSIONER ROGAN. Land Commissioner's Office, Auckland, 31st July, 1854. Sir,— I have the honor to inform you that His Excellency the Officer administering the Government has been pleased to approve of your being appointed to conduct the purchase of land from the Natives, and to carry on the necessary surveys connected therewith, at a salary of Three hundred pounds per annum, from the date on which the surveys on which you are at present engaged are completed. I have, &c, Donald McLean, John Rogan, Esq., Land Commissioner. Taranaki.

Appointed District Land Purchase Commissioner. .

No. 8. THE CHIEF COMMISSIONER TO MR. COMMISSIONER ROGAN. Waipa, July 13th, 1855. Sir,— Several advances have been made to the Natives of Waikato, Whaingaroa, and Aotea, on account of tracts of land which they have agreed to dispose of to the Government. Copies of the receipts, twenty-seven (27") in number, have been already furnished to you at Auckland, together with sketches made by the claimants of the lands they agree to cede. It is of urgent importance, now that the Whaingaroa district is being settled by Europeans, that the extent, position, description, and quality of these blocks should be ascertained, in order that final arrangements should be made with the Natives respecting them. From your own experience in adjusting such questions with the Natives, I consider it unnecessary to fetter you with any particular instructions, as I conceive you will be better able to decide on the tpot, when you have communicated with the Native claimants, how the purchases should be conducted in that district ; and I have only to remark that you cannot be wrong in acquiring land at prices varying from sixpence (6d.) to one shilling and sixpence (Is. Gd.) per acre in a part of the country that promises to become such a valuable appendage to the Crown territory.

Whainoabqa. To ascertain position and extent of various blocks on which advances have been made.

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COMMISSIONERS' REPORTS

In negociating the purchase of land from the Natives, the district which may for the present be assigned to you for carrying on your operations extends from the Waikato to the Mokau, extending inland to the sources of those rivers ; but should you hereafter find that this will be too extensive a range for your operations, the district can be limited within a narrower compass. I have every reliance on your zeal and assiduity in carrying out arrangements for the acquisition of land in this Province ; and I have reason to expect, from the difficult duties you have already satisfactorily performed in this Department, that your future career, now that you have a district assigned to yourself, will be equally satisfactory to the Government as your past proceedings. It is, of course, necessary that every economy should be used in the employment of labour, consistent with the due and speedy execution of the surveys of external boundaries and reserves in the several purchases which you may have to make. Ample reserves should be made for the Natives, and every encouragement should be held out to them to repurchase individual allotments of land from the Crown, in accordance with the pre-emptive right guaranteed to them by the Auckland Provincial Land Regulations. I have, &c, Donald McLean, J. Rogan, Esq., Principal Commissioner. &c, &c.

No. 9. MR. COMMISSIONER ROGAN TO THE CHIEF COMMISSIONER. Whaingaroa, 9th August, 1855. Sir, — I have the honor to inform you that the survey of Karioi, the land offered to the Government by the chief Hoani Papita and the Native owners in this district, is completed, and I have ascertained its area to be about twelve thousand acres (12,000), exclusive of a Native reserve containing about 600 acres. The Natives decided on retaining the whole of the water frontage, from the entrance of the Harbour inland to the proposed township, and following Mr. Ligar's boundary for about two miles, which comprises nearly the whole of the available land in this block. The land Southward of the Native reserve is rendered unavailable, owing to a great number of ridges and ravines running from the top of the mountain to the sea, and the land on the opposite side of the mountain, towards the inland boundary, is formed in a similar manner. After due consideration, I offered tha Natives a sum of Four hundred and seventy-five pounds (£475); One hundred pounds (£100) having been paid by you to the Native Kereopa by way of instalment on land within the present survey, known as the Hutiwai. They have unanimously declined this offer, and requested me to refer tho question for your consideration. I, therefore, respectfully request you will favour me with a reply to this letter, in order that I may inform the Natives of your decision as to whether a sum in addition to that already offered will be given them. I have, &c, Donald McLean, Esq., John Rogan, Principal Commissioner, District Commissioner. A.uckland.

Karioi. Reporting completion of the surrey of Karioi block.

No. 10. THE CHIEF COMMISSIONER TO MR. COMMISSIONER ROGAN. Land Purchase Department, Auckland, August 17th, 1855. £jf, ■ I have the pleasure to acknowledge the receipt of your letter of the 9th instant, reporting that you have completed the survey of Karioi, and find its area to be about 12,000 acres, for which you have offered the Natives a sum of Four hundred and seventy-five pounds (£475), in addition to a sum of One hundred pounds (£100) previously paid on account of a portion of that land at Hutiwai. I consider the offer you have made is very judicious, and you may acquaint the Natives that they must consider it as conclusive. I have, &c, Donald McLean. John Rogan, Esq., District Commissioner.

Karioi. Apnrovingof price offered for Karioi block. V. Letter No. 9.

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No. 11. MR. COMMISSIONER ROGAN TO THE CHIEF COMMISSIONER. Whaingaroa, 23rd August, 1855. Sir, — I have the honor to inform you that a survey of a portion of land, amounting to about 6,000 acres, which was offered for sale by the chief Wiremu Nera and some of the Aotea Natives, has been executed, and I have offered a sum of (£300) Three hundred pounds in payment for the land, which the Natives have unanimously declined. They wish me to state that the lowest sum they are disposed to take for this land is Seven hundred pounds (£700), As I have no authority for paying such amount for land, the greater part of which is of an inferior description, I have agreed with the Natives to refer the question for,your consideration. I have, &c, John Rogan, District Commissioner. Donald McLean, Esq., Principal Commissioner, Auckland.

RrjAPTJKE. Has completed survey of Ruapuke; The Natives will not accept £300 for it.

No. 12. MR. COMMISSIONER ROGAN TO THE CHIEF COMMISSIONER. Whaingaroa, 24th August, 1855. Sir, — With reference to your letter of the 3rd instant, informing me that a Native named Te Tana of the Ngatimahanga tribe, requests that payment for portions of land, namely Te Waimaori, Aotea, Ruapuke, Rahinui, and Te Hutiwai, should be made in Auckland, J, have the honor to state in reply that a portion of the land alluded to is included in a survey o£A,OOO acres recently made, and the resident Natives request that no payment may be made to absentees, as these claims will be satisfied out of a sum of Seven hundred pounds (£700), should you consent to the payment of the same. I have, &c., John Rogan, District Commissioner. Donald McLean, Esq., Principal Commissioner, Auckland.

RcAPUKE. Natives will not agree to payments being made in Auckland to absentees, V. Letter No. 11.

!■ i ■mil iin'i <■ ii iii iiiiii« iiliM ■mini in»lnr«» —■ T■ 11 ■ nin iHi dm«■'immn tin*flmiinmmwi No. 13. . THE CHIEF COMMISSIONER TO MR. COMMISSIONER ROGAN. Land Purchase Department, Auckland, September 12th, 1855. Sir,— I have the honor to acknowledge the receipt of your letter of the 24th ultimo, in reference to Te Tana's claim, and to the payment demanded by tbe Natives for the block on which that claim is included. In reference to the first point, as to a payment being made to Te Tana at Auckland, I am averse to such a course, if it can be avoided, as I consider it preferable that the Natives should, in all instances, be paid publicly in the district where the land is situated, and this course should not be deviated from, except in particular cases, when there would be justice in adopting a different course. In every case the Natives of the district should sanction the making of the payment elsewhere. With reference to the second point, the price demanded by the Natives, I must trust very much to your own discretion, having due regaid to the public interests, as to whether you should exceed the amount to which you were limited by the instructions issued to you at Waipa. I should be glad to have your own opinion for the information of the Governor more fully on this subject before proceeding further in the matter. I have, he, Donald McLean, Principal Commissioner. J. Rogan, Esq., District Commissioner.

Ruapuke. To report more fully as to the price fixed for this block.

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COMMISSIONERS' REPORTS

No. 14. MR. COMMISSIONER ROGAN TO THE CHIEF COMMISSIONER. Whaingaroa, Bth October, 1855. Sir, — I have the honor to acknowledge the receipt of your letter of the 12th ultimo, in reference to the Tana's claim, and the demand made by the Natives for the block of land near Aotea, and to state in reply, for the information of His Excellency the Governor, that the Natives have recently agreed to accept the sum of Three hundred pounds (£300), previously offered for the land reported in my letter of the 23rd August last. I have, therefore, to request; instructions as to whether I should pay the above mentioned sum to the Native claimants from the money in my possession belonging to the New Zealand Government. I have, &c, John Rogan, District Commissioner. Donald McLean, Esq., Principal Commissioner, Auckland.

Ruapuke. Natives have consented to accspt the £300 previously offered. V, Letter No, 13.

No. 15. MR. COMMISSIONER ROGAN TO THE CHIEF COMMISSIONER. Whaingaroa, Bth October, 1855. Sib,— I have the honor to acquaint you, for the information of His Excellency the Governor, that a sketch survey of a portion of land situated within the Native reserve called the Mata in this district has been made, which contains about four hundred and fifty acres (450). Payments of Thirty-five pounds (£35), and Seventy-two pounds (£72), have been made to the Native claimants for this purchase on the 6th and 31st May, 1854. The land is of good quality, having a Native track leading through it from the harbour, capable of forming a road by deviating slightly inland. There are a few acres of fern land which are in the occupation of a settler, having been purchased by him from the Government, and the remaining part is forest. I am requested by Te Waka, the principal claimant, to make application to you for a sum in addition to that already paid. At the same time I informed him there was no probability of your acceding to his application. , I have, he, John Rogan, District Commissioner. Donald McLean, Esq., Principal Commissioner, Auckland.

Te Mata Reserve. Has made a sketch survey of Te Mata reserve,

No. 16. MR. COMMISSIONER ROGAN TO THE CHIEF COMMISSIONER. Whaingaroa, 13th October, 1855. Sir,— I have the honor to submit to you, for the information of His Excellency the Governor, the following report on the Hauraki purchase. Hauraki is situated in the Whaingaroa harbour, and affords anchorage for vessels of moderate size off several points of the land as far inland as the entrance to Waitetuna river. It has altogether about six miles of water frontage, the greater part of which, however, is approachable only by boat at high water. It contains nine hundred acres (900) more or less, including one Native reserve about sixteen acres. The features of the land are a number of low undulating ridges of hills, running from the centre towards the water's edge, with occasional flat valleys intervening; the whole of which is covered with fern, manuka scrub, and light bush, and the soil appears to be of superior quality. The chief Potatau has received the sum of Fifty pounds (£5O) on 25th July, 1854, as a first payment for the same. The principal claimants residing in the district are two parties who dispute each other's right to 200 acres. With a view to settle the difference between these people, I proposed that they should meet and discuss the question in the presence of the resident Missionary, to which they agreed ; but

Hauraki. Reporting on the Hauraki purchase.

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the Ngatimahanga claimants only attended, who demanded Fifty pounds (£5O) for their portion of the payment; —I offered-them Ten pounds (£10), which was refused. The Ngatitamainu claimants, relatives of the Wherowhero, who are, in my opinion, the real owners of the land in dispute, expressed to me their intention of visiting Auckland soon, for the purpose of arranging with you for their claims. The enclosed sketch plan will explain more distinctly the boundaries of the land referred to. I have, he, John Rogan, District Commissioner. Donald McLean, Esq., Principal Commissioner, Auckland.

No. 17. MR. COMMISSIONER ROGAN TO THE CHIEF COMMISSIONER. Whaingaroa, October, 1855. Sir, — I have the honor to inform you that the Native owners of the Karioi block of land, containing about twelve thousand (12,000) acres, reported in my letter of the 9th August last, have agreed to accept the sum of Four hundred and seventy-five pounds (£475) in satisfaction for their claims to the same ; and I am requested by them to make application to you for the sum required for that purpose, I have, &c., John Rogan, District Commissioner. Donald McLean, Esq., Principal Commissioner, Auckland.

Karioi. The Native owners of Karioi block will accept £4/5 for the same,

No. 18. THE CHIEF COMMISSIONER TO MR. COMMISSIONER ROGAN. Principal Commissioner's Office, New Plymouth, 22nd October, 1855. Sir, — In order to complete arrangements entered into with the Natives of your district for the acquisition of land, I have the honor to request that you will report to me at Auckland, for the information of His Excellency the Governor, that the purchase of certain blocks, describing them, can be concluded on the payment or advance to you of the sums required for each block, such, for instance, as that of Chapman's, for which the owners agreed to take Three hundred pounds—the Karioi, &c. In the meantime, I will write to Auckland, requesting a sum of Twelve hundred pounds to be prepared and issued to you from time to time as you may require it, to conclude such purchases as are approved by the Government; and you may apply any sum now at your disposal, after deducting labourer's wages on survey, &c, to the completion of such as are more immediately required for settlement. I have, &c, Donald McLean, Chief Commissioner. John Rogan, Esq., District Commissioner, Whaingaroa.

General. To furnish a report of sums that may be required by him for land purchases.

No. 19. MR. COMMISSIONER ROGAN TO THE CHIEF COMMISSIONER. Whaingaroa, 6th November, 1855. Sir, — I have the honor to enclose a Deed of Sale of the Karioi block, executed by the Native . owners on the sth instant. ] <

Karioi. Forwarding Deed of sale of Karioi block.

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COMMISSIONERS' REPORTS

The Natives accepted Four hundred pounds (£400) in cash and a promissory note for Seventyfive pounds (£75), to be redeemed when funds are placed at my disposal for that purpose. I have, he, John Rogan, District Commissioner. Donald McLean, Esq., Principal Commissioner, Auckland.

No. 20. MR. COMMISSIONER ROGAN TO THE CHIEF COMMISSIONER. Whaingaroa, 15th November, 1855. Sir, — I have the honor to submit to you, for the information of His Excellency the Governor, the following report on land in the district, the exterior boundaries of which have been traversed. Tawatahi block, situated on the North side of Whaingaroa Harbour, having water frontage to each side of Tawatahi Creek for more than two miles, which is navigable by boat at high water. It is more than six miles in length, and averages more than a mile in breadth. It contains about fonr thousand acres (4,000), and there are about fifteen hundred acres (1,500) of fern land near the Harbour, very fertile, although of an undulating character. The remaining part of the block is forest and unavailable for practical purposes, owing to the hilly nature of the land. An instalment of One hundred pounds has been paid by you io the Native Renata, on the 4th August, 1854. I have made no proposal to the Natives for the final settlement of this block, as it is the wish of the chief Takerei, and some of his followers, to arrange with you on your return from Auckland. Oioroa block, situated on the North side of Aotea Harbour, containing about 1,300 acres, the whole of which, except about two hundred acres of fern land, consists of sand hills. An instalment of One hundred pounds (£100) has been paid to Te Kewene and Te Abo for this and other land. The Natives wished me to consider this land equivalent to the amount paid ; but I declined concluding any arrangement with them until you were made acquainted with the character of the land. I have, &c„ John Rogan, District Commissioner. Donald McLean, Esq., Principal Commissioner, Auckland.

Tawataiii, Oioroa. Reporting, on the Tawataiii and Oioroa blocks.

No. 21. MR. COMMISSIONER ROGAN TO THE CHIEF COMMISSIONER. Whaingaroa, 16th November, 1855. Sir, — I have the honor to acknowledge the receipt of your letter of the 22nd ult., and to enclose herewith a list of the different blocks of land surveyed in this district, with the amount of instalments paid on each, and the probable sum required to complete those purchases. The negotiation for the Karioi and Ruapuke blocks is completed, and the Natives residing in the interior, whose claims are in a measure distinct from the resident owners, are waiting a reply from you. to know whether their claims will be entertained at Auckland before treating with me. There are several small blocks of land, commanding good positions, near Whaingaroa and Aotea, which have been offered to the Government, but no payments have been made on them, and the survey is not yet executed. It appears to me desirable that this land should be purchased without delay, as the settlers are increasing in number, and giving a high value to land easy of access. I am of opinion that the negotiation for this land will be unsuccessful, unless a higher rate per acre be authorised than that limited by your letter of the 14th" July last. I have, &c, Joan Rogan, District Commissioner. D. McLean, Esq., Chief Commissioner.

General Report. Forwarding a Return of lands surveyed in his district, V. Letter No. 18.

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Enclosure to No. 21. Land surveyed in the District of Whaingaroa on which instalments have been paid.

No. 22. MR. COMMISSIONER JOHNSON (ACTING FOR THE CHIEF COMMISSIONER) TO MR. COMMISSIONER ROGAN. Land Purchase Department, Auckland, 7th December, 1855. Sir,— With reference to your letter of the Bth October last, intimating that the Natives had agreed Aotpa to accept the sum of Three hundred pounds (£300) for the Aotea Block, reported in your letter of the The Bum of £ 3m far 23rd August last, I have the honor to inform you that the amount in question has been authorised to Aotea has been authobe paid, and is now in the hands of the Colonial Treasurer, awaiting transmission to you. In your letter rlzedi of the Bth October, you request to be allowed to pay the sum out of monies in your possession belong* ing to the Government, but on the receipt of your communication of the 6th November, I took it for granted that the funds you alluded to have been expended in the purchase at the Karioi Block, and I have therefore obtained the funds required for the land at Aotea. I have, &c, John G. Johnson, District Commissioner. John Rogan, Esq., District Commissioner.

No. 23. MR. commissioner rogan to the chief commissioner. Whaingaroa, 4th February, 1856. kJAiv j ' " "R.TLA PTIKP I have the honor to inclose herewith a deed of sale for land situated near Aotea, which was Forwarding deed of sale" executed by the Ngatinaho and Ngatimahanga Natives, and for which the sum of Two hundred and for a block of land near ninety pounds (£290) was paid on the 2nd instant. An instalment of Ten pounds (£10) having been Aotea - paid by you to the Native Hemi Matene on the 14th April, 1854. With reference to Te Tana's claim mentioned in your letter of the 3rd August last, the Natives have set apart Ten pounds (£10) in satisfaction thereof to be deposited with the Native Hakopa of the Ngatimahanga tribe, who is Te Tana's representative, which amount will be forwarded to Auckland for his acceptance. . I have, &c, John Rogan, District Commissioner. Donald McLean, Esq., Chief Commissioner, Auckland.

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Name of Block. Area. Amount of Instalments paid. Amount required to complete the purchase. Karioi Ruapuke , Hauraki Tawatabi Part of Mata Reserve Do. Do Acres. 12,000 6,000 900 4,000 450 180 1,300 £ 500 10 50 100 £ 1 75 290 150 300 107 100 25 Oioroa , The Wharauroa ; inland boundary not yet perambulated Several Blocks not yet surveyed about 8,000 about 8,000 200 300 800 40,830 1,940*

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No. 24. MR. comsiissioner rogan to the chief commissioner. Whaingaroa, 7th April, 1856, Sir, — I have the honor to acknowledge the receipt of your letter of the 26th ultimo, referring to a claim made by the Chief Ruihana to land at Karioi, and that he wishes to dispose of places called Te Kopua, Waikare, Poihakene on to Wharetakahia; and to state in reply that the above-mentioned places are excluded from the Karioi purchase, and are in the occupation of the resident Natives. With regard to that Chiefs' claim to Motukokako and Tauterei, te Tainui party promise to set apart a sum of money for him and his tribe at the time of final arrangement. I have, &c, Donald McLean, Esq., John Rogan, Chief Commissioner District Commissioner. Auckland.

Karioi. Certain lands claimed by Ruihana are excluded from the Karioi purchase.

No. 25. MR. COMMISIONER ROGAN TO THE CHIEF COMMISSIONER. Kawhia, Bth August, 1857. Sir, — I have the honor to enclose herewith a Deed of Sale of Rauroa, situated in the Mokau district, inland of the Taumatamaui purchase, for which the sum of Four hundred pounds was paid to the chief Takerei and the Awakino Natives on the 30th ult. In the Return to the House of Representatives, the amount of purchase money for this block was stated at Five hundred pounds (£500); but after the survey was completed, it was ascertained to contain only about nine thousand acres (9,000) which is three thousand acres (3,000) short of the original estimate. The annexed list will shew the manner in which the money was subdivided amongst the claimants. I have, &c, Donald McLean, Esq., John Rogan. Chief Commissioner, Auckland.

Rauroa, Mokau District, Forwarding deed of sale of a block of land called To Rauroa.

No. 26. MR. COMMISSIONER ROGAN TO THE CHIEF COMMISSIONER. Auckland, 15th September, 1857. Sir, — I have the honor to enclose herewith Deeds of Sale and Conveyance of several blocks of land situated near Kawhia and Whaingaroa, as marked in the margin,* which have been executed by the Native owners during my recent journey from New Plymouth to Auckland. I have, &c., Donald McLean, Esq., John Ro&an, Chief Commissioner, District Commissioner. Auckland.

General. Forwarding Deeds of sale of certain lands near Kawhia and Whaingaroa.

No. 27. MR. COMMISSIONER ROGAN TO THE CHIEF COMMISSIONER. Auckland, 28th December, 1157. Sir,— I have the honor to forward herewith a Deed of Sale and Conveyance of land situated at Whaingaroa, called Te Wharauroa, joining Mr. Ligar's purchase, and containing about eight thousand acres, nearly the whole of which is very hilly, and covered with dense forest.

Wharauroa. Forwarding deed of sale ef Te Wharauroa block.

* Kawhia.—Harihari, 10th August. 1857, £200; 4th July, 1854, £200. Whaingakoa.—Part of the Mata, 20th August, 1857, £20; Whakatau, 24th August, 1857, £20; previously, £20; Part of the Mata, 4th September, 1857, £5; previously, £107.

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Instalments were paid by yourself in this block, which amount in all to Two hundred and forty pounds (£240); and the final payment of One hundred and seventy pounds (£170) was made to Hakopa and Hone Wetere, on account of the Ngatitewehi tribe on the 2nd instant. I have, &c., Donald McLean, Esq., John Rogan, Chief Commissioner, District Commissioner. Auckland.

No. 28. MR. COMMISSIONER ROGAN TO THE CHIEF COMMISSIONER. Auckland, 18th June, 1858. Sir, — Referring to a correspondence between the Land Purchase Officer and the Ngatimahanga Natives (58,435), wherein an arrangement has been entered into with Te Waka for the purchase of the remaining portion of the Mata reserve for the sum of One hundred pounds (£100), I have the honor to state, for the information of His Excellency the Governor, that I proceeded by appointment to Waiuku on the 13th instant, and paid over the above named amount to Te Waka, when the Deed of Cession was executed, which is enclosed herewith, together with a description of boundaries; and I am not aware of any objection to the proclamation of this land in the usual manner, as the Native title has been extinguished. I have, &c, Donald McLean, Esq., John Rogan, Chief Land Purchase Commissioner, District Commissioner. Auckland.

Te Mata, N.S. Has concluded the purchase of Te Mata, Native reserve.

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TABAffAKI DISTRICT,

No. 1. EXTRACTS FROM FIRST DESPATCHES OF COLONEL WAKEFIELD TO THE NEW ZEALAND COMPANY, AFTER HIS ARRIVAL IN NEW ZEALAND. Port Nicholson, Tuesday, October 1, 1839. —Warepori's sudden regard for me has also opened the way to acquiring a large district of fine flat land at Taranaki and Moturoa on the Western Coast, in the neighbourhood of Mount Egmont, Should Ibe able to obtain possession of this tract, which is extensive and perfectly level, through the means I have obtained here, I shall be less anxious about purchases in the North. The district in question is between Kawhia and Mount Egmont, abreast of the Sugar Loaf Islands, and runs for 30 miles inland. The Chiefs here, who were all born on these plains, look back with great regret to the time when they were obliged to abandon them, and are very desirous that they should be again opened to them by means of European settlers. They have selected E W'hare, the son of Te Puni, and Tuarau, the grandson of the principal Chief of the whole Ngatiawa tribes, to accompany me to Taranaki, where it is hoped they will be able to open a negotiation with the present possessors of the land, to whom they are both related. * * * * Cloudy Ray, October 4.-—-All my arrangements being completed on shore, we weighed anchor this morning ; and taking with me E Whare and Tuarau, we sailed for Cloudy Bay, in the mouth of which harbour we anchored this evening. * * * * Sunday, 27th October, 1839, Kapiti.—The weather, for the first time during ten days, allowed a boat to cross over to the main. I went to Waikanae, taking with me E Patu, the son of Toroa. the two principal chiefs of that place and of Queen Charlotte's Sound. On landing, we were greeted by tire acclamations of the numbers assemblsd at the place in expectation of a second attack from the Ng-atiraukawas. As soon as it was known that I had come to talk about the land, a rush was made for the usual place of meeting on public occasions ; and in a few minutes a large arena was entirely covered with people, seated in their peculiar posture in perfect silence, anxious to hear the speeches of tha elders. A place was made for me on the side of a canoe; and during the discussion all eyes were fixed on me, as if to read in my countenance the effect of the eloquence of the orators. E Patu introduced me as a good man, who liked the Natives, and who would bring a great many white people to live amongst his tribe, and an English missionary to teach them, A low murmur of approbation ran through the assembly at the conclusion of his speech, Some of the elder chiefs then addressed us, and coincided in granting me all their lands upon condition of receiving arms and ammunition to enable them to defend themselves and people from their enemies. They declined blankets, clothing and tobacco; nothing was wanted but implements of war. * * * * After visiting their village, which is the largest we have seen, and tolerably fortified, and seen their wounded, I persuaded three of the chiefs to accompany me on board to see Rauparaha,. with a view of putting an end to their quarrel with the Ngatiraukawas. Oil approaching the ship they evinced the greatest fear, declaring that Rauparaha would take their heads, Soon after being on board I sent for Rauparaha and his fighting general Rangiaiata, who had arrived from Mana, When these came on deck, and saw the three Ngatiawa chiefs sitting down with their faces half hidden in their mats, they betrayed great surprise, and made their customary warlike grimaces. Then, from, I conclude, remembering that the ship was no place to shew any hostile demonstration, they advanced to them, and rubbed noses with them in succession, * * * * Monday, 28th October.—The three chiefs of the Ngatiawas, whom I had brought from Waikanai, declined proceeding with me to Queen Charlotte's Sound, where I wished them to combine with the heads of the tribe resident there in conveying their rights to me. They pleaded, with justice, the danger to their families during their absence, from their neighbouring enemies, but deputed one of their sons to accompany me, who is empowered to act for them. In the meantime, they have promised me that they will part with no land until my return, If time had permitted, I could have concluded the bargain for their lands, although I should have had some difficulty in satisfying them in respect to arras, with which I am ill provided. * * * * Thursday, 31st October, East Bay, Queen Charlotte's Sound.—The weather having changed, and our repairs effected, we crossed the e-trait this morning, and anchored in thi3 bay, instead of Ship Cove, for the convenience of being nearer to the grove at the head of the Sound, whither it was necessary to send to procure a spar for a fore-yard, I was also desirous to be near the principal settlement in the l!<ound, in order to conclude my treaty with the. Ngatiawas, for the sale of their rights in the neighbourhood of the Strait. As soon as we entered the bay, many Natives came off who had heard of the object of our visit, I landed in Grass Cove, where Captain Furneaux's boat's .crew was murdered, and walked over the island of Arapaoa to Okakuri, from whence I got a canoe to Teawaiti. On coming in sight of Okakuri, the chief who accompanied us requested us to fire off

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COMMISSIONERS' REPORTS.

our guns, the report from which brought in answer a continued discharge of muskets, until we reached the village. Here we found assembled about 200 men in a state of great excitement, and preparing to start in their canoes for Waikanae, to carry on the war against the Ngatiraukawas ; my companion and myself, with the Waikanae chief, had to go through the ceremony of shaking hands with everyone in the settlement, ranged round the place of public meeting. After this operation, a tangi commenced in honour of the chief's arrival, and to the memory of their friends who fell in the late fight. So soon as we could escape, we left the village, where E Whiti remained to talk about the land ; at Teawaiti we found the same warlike preparations, and heard of a general muster of the tribes desirous to attack their enemies, and of the determination of one of the chiefs to land with 60 picked men on Rauparaha's island, for the purpose of carrying off that old chief, who had killed his father some years ago. Friday, Ist November.—l visited Okakuri again this morning, in company with Mr. Barrett, and prevailed on the Chiefs to postpone their hostile voyage until the negotiations for the sale of their land should be completed ; they promised to meet me in East Bay, and to bring with them all the principal owners of the Ngatiawas ; after which I returned to the ship in a whale-boat, pulled by a native crew. * * * * Saturday, 2nd November. —The Natives here, some of the ancient possessors of Taranaki, are very desirous that I should become the purchaser of that district, in order that they may return to their native place without fear of the Waikato tribes. They will yield all their claims on the district to the Company, but stipulate for the same reservation of land for Mr. Barrett and the children of the late Mr. Love as for the .Native Chiefs ; these two Englishmen having lived for so many years amongst tho Taranaki people during the wars, and having had children born of Native wives on the spot, have been long considered as belonging to the tribe. * * * Friday. Bth November.—Soon after daylight the Natives began to come on board, and by twelve o'clock more than 200 had assembled on the deck, including the chiefs in the Sound. A good deal of speaking took place, and the principal man, E Hawe, enumerated the places which the residents heie possess or claim. With so many to satisfy, I found myself called upon to give them a second tierce of tobacco, which produced a sensation of satisfaction ; after which, the chiefs and elders sent some of the crowd on shore, and the business of allotment and distribution began. * When the allotments to the different tribes had proceeded some time, a violent dispute arose among one tribe, the Puketapu, which threatened to put an end to the purchase ; and it was not till I had persuaded the chief of it to send away some of his people, under a threat of putting all the things below, and going to sea, that anything like peace was restored. More than 100 men still remained on deck; and as the goods might now be considered delivered to them, although I allowed the distribution of them to be made on board, I took advantage of the momentary calm to secure the signatures of the chiefs to the number of 30. * *, * * Kapiti, 11th November.—Being under a promise' to take back the chief E Whiti, and the missionary who had been a witness to the late sale, to Waikanae, we sailed for this place yesterday ; but, owing to a strong north-west wind, only reached it to-day. We found all the Natives in great commotion on account of the preparations making for war en the main. The Ngatiawas muster 800 fighting men, and can be reinforced to the number of 600 more if occasion requires. *

No. 2. EXTRACTS FROM DEED OP SALE BY NGATIAWA CHIEFS TO COLONEL WAKEFIELD FOR THE NEW ZEALAND COMPANY BtH NOVEMBER, 1839. Know all men by these presents that we, the undersigned chiefs of the Ngatiawa tribes, residing in Queen Charlotte's Sound, and other places on both sides of Cook's Straits, in New Zealand, have this day sold and parted with all our rights, claims, titles, and interests in all the lands, islands, tenements, woods, bays, harbours, rivers, streams and creeks, within certain boundaries, as shall be truly described in this deed or instrument, unto William Wakefield, Esquire, in trust for the governors, directors and shareholders of the New Zealand Land Company of London, their heirs, administrators, and assigns, for ever ; * * And in order to prevent any dispute or misunderstanding, and to guarantee more strongly unto the said William Wakefield, his executors and administrators, in trust for the said governors, directors and shareholders of the New Zealand Land Company of London, their heirs, administrators and assigns for ever, true and undisputed possession of the aforesaid lands, temements, islands, he, we, the undersigned chiefs, for ourselves, our families, tribes, and successors for ever, do hereby agree and bind ourselves, individually and collectively, to the description following, which constitutes the boundaries of the said lands, islands, tenements, &c , now sold by us, the undersigned chiefs, to the said William Wakefield, in trust for the said governors,, directors and shareholders of the New Zealand Land Company of London, this Bth day of November, in the year of our Lord 1839, is to say,—The whole of the lands, islands, tenements, he, which are now in our possession, or to which we now lay any claim, or in which we now have any rights or interests, on the southern as well as on the northern shore of Cook's Straits, in New Zealanl ;. comprising all those lands, islands, tenements, &c, situate on the southern shore of Cook's Straits, * * and also comprising all those lands, islands, tenements, &c, situate on the northern.

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shore of the said Cook's .Straits, which are bounded on the north-east by a direct line drawn from the southern head of the river or harbour of Mokau, situate on the west coast, in latitude of about 38 degrees south, to Cape Tikukakore, situate on the east coast, in the latitude of about 41 degrees south, and on the east, south, and west by the sea, excepting always the island of Kapiti, or Entry Island, and the small islands adjacent thereto, and the island of Mana or Table Island, all situate on the said northern shore of Cook's Straits ; but including Tehukakore, Warehama, Rangiwaiama, Wainarap, Turakirai, Wanga Nui Atera or Port Nicholsou, Rimerap, Oterangao, Omeri, Tuamero, Oariu, Titahi, Porirua, Ohoeka, Te Rewa Rewa, Waikanai, Waimea, Otaki, Owaha, Manawatu, Rangitiki, Wangaehu, Turakina, Wanganui, Waiiotara, Wheuuakura, Patea, Tangahohi, Ngatiruanui, Pahakahatiro, Taranaki, Moturoa, and the several other Sugar Loaf Islands, and the river or harbour of Mokau. And we, the undersigned chiefs, do hereby acknowledge, for ourselves, our families, tribes, and successors for ever, to have this day received full and just payment for the lands, islands, tenements, &c„ within the aforesaid boundaries, * * * In witness whereof the said chiefs of the first part, and the said William Wakefield of the second part, have hereunto put their hands and seals, this Bth day of November, in the year of our Lord 1839. Ngatiawas: _„ ~ :, F Wh"tP ) Manurau - - his x mark. r v if ay tj o ,i; f his x mark - X Mare - - his x mark, for himself and b Redi I il „ „ ~ , p u„„„> hi* v mark E Eafe - - - his x mark, li Hawe - - nis x marie, . Te Rangi Auredi - his x mark. Puketapu : Poaringa - - his x mark. Nga Pakawa - - his x mark. Aneta - - - his x mark. Patukekeno, j his x E Tiro - - - his x mark, for himself and Toeroa j ' Poata - - - his x mark. E Witikau - - his x mark. Waitino - - his x mark. Kaupene - - his'x mark. g Huie - - - his x mark. Raupunca - - his x mark. Karakea - his x mark. E Moko - - his x mark. Ttitara - - - his x mark. E One - - - his x mark. Takanga - - his x mark. Wairunu - - his x mark. p a hokf - - - his x mark. E Mutu - - his x mark. * . Korori - - - his x mark. laniwa : - m _ E Peke - - - his x mark. Nga Motu : Waitara - - his x mark. Ngati Matui: E Piro - - - his x mark. Nga Rewa - - his x mark. Witnesses : W. Wakefield. !<. Barret, Richard Lowry, George Doddrey, Himiona.

No. 3. EXTRACT FROM DEED OF SALE BY NATIVES RESIDENT AT TARANAKI TO THE NEW ZEALAND COMPANY, DATED 15TH FEBRURAY, 1840. Know all men by these presents, that we, the undersigned chiefs of the district of Nga Motu. near Mount Egmont, in New Zealand, have this day sold and parted with all our rights, titles, claims, and interests in all the lands, islands, tenements, woods, bays, harbours, riveri, streams and creeks, within certain boundaries, as shall be truly described in this deed or instrument, unto John Dorset, Esquire, his executors and administrators, in trust fcr the Governor, Directors and Shareholders of the New Zealand Land Company in London, their heirs, administrators and assigns for ever ; *_»■-'* * And in order to preveut any dispute or misunderstanding, and to guarantee more fully unto the said Governors, Directors and Shareholders of the New Zealand Land Company of London, their heirs, administrators and assigns for ever, true undisputed possession of the said lands, islands, tenements, woods, bays, harbours, rivers, streams and creeks, we, the said chiefs, for ourselves, families, tribes and successors for ever, do hereby agree and bind ourselves to the description following, which co»stitutes the boundaries of the aforesaid lands, islands, tenements, woods, bays, harbours, rivers, streams and creeks now sold by us, the undersigned chiefs, to the said John Dorset, this 15th day of February, in the year of our Lord, 1840, that is to say', from the mouth of the Wakatino river along the sea-shore by Te Kauwao, Omau, Tongapourutu, Te Oro, Parinui, Puka, Arawa, Parairoa, Otumatua, Wakariwa Orapopa, the

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Mimi river, Arapawa, the Urenui river, Te Pianga, Onaiu, Wauau Te Tanawa, Turangi, the Waitera river, Waiorua, Waiongana, Te Rewatapu, Te Puketapu, the Pohui river, Waita, Mangate, Mataketake, the Puka Lagoon, the Waiwakaio river, Pukaweka, the Enui river, the Uatoki river, Rawaroa, Te Arawata, Pukatuti, Waitapu, Otaki, Mataipu, Arakari, the Ongiongi Lagoon, Te Tutu, the islands of Kimi Kotahi Moturoa and Motumahanga, commonly called the Sugar Loaf Islands, Te Kutu Paparoa Paritutu, commonly called Sugar Loaf Point, Wahine, Taranaki, Mataora, Motuotomatea Arakawi, Ahanui, Porapora, Waioratoki, Waireku, Omata, Te Wairedi, Opo, Otete, Tapuwairuru, Kakiorangi, Omuna, TJakura, Wakau, Wairau, Waimoku, Otupota te Wairedi, Oau, Oraukiwa to Aurongo; the said sea-shore at low-water mark forms the northwestern boundary of the said lands, islands, tenements, woods, bays, harbours, rivers, streams and creeks. From the Auronga on the sea-shore a line striking inland by Patua, Heringa, Pawaka Te kiri Powakai, and from the said Powakai to the summit of Taranaki, commonly called Mount Egmont, forms the southern boundary of the said lands, islands, tenements, woods, bays, harbours, rivers, streams and creeks. From the said summit of Taranaki, a line striking by Taunatutawa, Purakahua, Wakahinangi. Ratapiho, Pukarimu, Mangotuku. Wakaikatoa, Makahu, Wanguihu, Moangiha, Te Kopua, Te Waitetanga, Wangamomona, Makuri, Te Po, to the river Wanganui, and from the said river by Te Tangi-tangi, Mangohewa, Paringa, Pukekura, across the Onairo river, by Te Tuahu, Raipikari, Wakamahuki, Tupari, Pukewakamaru, across the Udenui river, by Puketarata, across the Mimi river, by Rangiurapaki, Waitaoura, Te Pokuru, across the Papatiki, by Turangarua, Romanu, Pukakao, Te Awera, across the Wakaramu and Wai Pikao rivers, by Paraninui, Timinuka and Wanga to Rowai, on the said Wakatino river, and down the said river and its mouth forms the eastern and northern boundary of the said lands, islands, tenements, woods, bays, harbours, rivers, streams and creeks. And we the aforesaid chiefs, do hereby acknowledge for ourselves, our families, tribes and successors for ever, to have this day received a full and sufficient payment for aforesaid lands, islands, tenements, woods, bays, harbours, rivers, streams and creeks. * * * * In witness whereof, the said Chiefs, of the first part, and the said John Dorset, of the second part, have hereunto put their hands and seals, this loth day of February in the year of our Lord 1840. Awatea - - - his x mark. Te Eru - - - his x mark. Aurua « his x mark, Ranguira - - his x mark. Edward or Puki ki maori his x mark. Torenui - - - his x mark. E Haki - - - his x mark. Ewaho - - - his x mark. EKu - - his x mark. Te Unoko - - his x mark. Kororo - - his x mark. Kaupono - - his x mark. E Muri - his x mark. Te .Eria - - - his x mark. EPo - - - his x mark. Hearoa - - - his x mark. EPo Pukatapu - - his x mark. Ute tua. Tangutu - - his x mark. Te waiko - - his x mark. Wakairi - - his x mark. Mary Hide - - her x mark. E Pahi - his x mark. Miriama Raucanway - her x mark. Te Ngini - - his x mark. Parekauri - - her x mark. Roroatua - - his x mark. Waiara - her x mark. Te Uia - his x mark. Waiape - her x mark. Korongo - - his x mark. Rokia « - - her x mark. Te Remu - - his x mark. Teßangi Wakawanui - her x mark. Rangituki - - his x mark. Caroline Puki ki maori - her x mark. Rangikowiwi or Taitua - his x mark. Catherine Ngatakorua - her x mark. Tukoreu or Rahaharu - his x mark. Mary Iringu - - her x mark. Te Pukao - - his x mark. lihura - - her x mark. Te Mauta his x mark. Erane - her x mark. Pairua - his x mark. Charlotte Pikia - - ncr x mark. Ongairi - his x mark. Ekao - - - her x mark. Ngaurueru - - his x mark. Komaru - her x mark. Na te ma ne Wakapu - his x mark. Ngawai - her x mark. Rangipuahehe - - his x mark. Paiti ... her x mark. E Tuti - - - his x mark. Parekuwao - - her x mark. Patupai - - her x mark. Atarawao or Ekora - her x mark. Etari - her x mark. Ekora ... her x mark. Ewane - her x mark. Epua ... her x mark. Epare ... her x mark. Teruiti - - - his x mark. Eowera - - his x mark. Matthew - - his x mark. Opa •■ his x mark. lhaia - - his x mark.

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Pohonao - - her x mark. Eri » her x mark. E Wangamata - - her x mark. Taowaki - - her x mark. E Ngongo - - her x mark. EAo - - - her x mark. Kohake - - - her x mark. Poewa - - - her x mark. John Dorset, Acting Agent, New Zealand Land Company. Witnesses : Richard Barrett, George Dodeney, Ernst Dieffenbach, M.D. Examined with the original, this 4th day of June, 1845, and is a true copy thereof, by us. William Spain, Commissioner of Land Claims. Robert Tho. C. Yates, Commissioner's Secretary.

No. 4. extract from despatch from governor hobson to the secretary of state, 13th november, 1841. At Taranaki the powerful tribe of the Waikato threatens to dislodge the settlers, as they did not buy the land from them, who claim it in right of conquest. * * * * The Natives of Wanganui have followed a similar course with those of Porirua. I have reason, however, to hope that a payment of money will induce these people to forego any further opposition: and the principal chief of the Waikato tribe, Te Wherowhero, has already consented to accept compensation to the value of £250 for the claims of his tribe on the lands of Taranaki.

No. 5. EXTRACT FROM DESPATCH FROM GOVERNOR HOBSON TO THE SECRETARY OF STATE, 15TH DECEMBER, 1841. I certainly admit that a people, who are in the highest degree jealous of their territorial rights and amongst whom those rights are very imperfectly defined, are not unlikely to resort to force sooner or later, rather than suffer the occupation of lands, which may have been fairly bought from one tribe, but are claimed with great apparent justice by another. I take, for instance, the Waikato tribe, under the chief Te Wherowhero, who are extremely powerful. They conquered and drove away the Ngatiawas from Taranaki in 1834, leaving only a small remnant, who found refuge on the mountains of Cape Egmont; and having pretty well laid waste the country, and carried off a large number of slaves, they retired to their own district on the banks of the river Waikato. It appears that in 1839 Colonel Wakefield visited the country and bought a considerable portion of it from the few Ngatiawas who had resumed their habitations on the retreat of Te Wherowhero, Now Te Wherowhero claims the country as his by right of conquest, and insists on it that the remnant of the Ngatiawas are slaves ; that they only live at Taranaki by sufferance, and that they had no right whatsoever to sell the land without his consent. In illustration of his argument, he placed a heavy ruler on some light papers, saying, " Now so long as I choose to keep this weight here, the papers remain quiet, but if I remove it, the wind immediately blows them away ; so it is with the people of Taranaki;" alluding to his power to drive them off. Te Wherowhero certainly has a claim to the land, but not a primary one, as the received rule is, that those who occupy the land must first be satisfied. But he is the most powerful chief in New Zealand, and I fear will not be governed by abstract rights, but will rather take the law into his own hands.

No. 6. DEED OF SALE FROM TE WHEROWHERO TO HER MAJESTY, DATED 31ST JANUARY, 1842. Know all men by this book : We, chiefs of Waikato, do let go and sell these lands of ours to George Clarke, the Protector of Natives for H.M, Victoria, Queen of England, her heirs and sue-

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cessors, whether male or female, the land and all things that are on or under this land, we sell to George Clarke the Protector of Natives, for an estate for the Queen, her heirs and successors, whether male or female, for ever. The beginning of the Northern boundary is at Tongopourutu, the Western boundary is along the sea shore between Tongapourutu and Waitotara, and on the South beginning from Waitotara and going inland to Piraunui. We receive these payments on behalf of the tribes of Waikato for their interest in the said land One hundred and fifty pounds money, two horses, two saddles, and two bridles, one hundred red blankets. Witness our names and signs, written in Auckland, on this thirty-first day of January, in the year of our Lord, one thousand eight hundred and forty-two. Te Kati, Witnesses— Te Wherowhero. J. Coates, George Clarke, Sub-Protector. True Translation, Thomas S. Forsaith.

■mi ii urn 1111 iiiiMwiii^»wnMiiiiii-'" , - l - l ' |l --TißTfiMTinftriiiaMrrrNo. 7. COPY OF A DESPATCH FROM COMMISSIONER SPAIN TO GOVERNOR FITZROY, DATED 12TH JUNE, 1844. New Plymouth, 12th June, 1844. Sir, — I avail myself of the opportunity afforded by the Auckland overland mail, which leaves this place on Saturday next, of informing your Excellency of the result of my proceedings in investigating the New Zealand Company's claim to land in this district, and I have the honor to enclose a copy of the minutes of my court, which will put you in possession of my decision, which is to recommend a Crown Grant to the Company of a block of (€0,000) sixty thousand acres of land, commencing on the north side of the Sugar Loaf Islands, and extending to a place called Taniwa including Native reserves, and with certain exceptions, which you will find particularly explained in my judgment. This will include all the land that the said Company have already sold, or offered for sale, in this district. 1 shall prepare my official report when I have finished my inquiries into all the Company's claims, which will, I think, be the most couvenient course, as affording your Excellency the opportunity of having the whole subject of their purchases before you at the same time ; but well knowing your great anxiety to have these all-important land questions brought to a speedy settlement I lose not a moment in puttiug you in possession of the fact, that this case has been completed, so as to enable me to make my final report upon it. Great misapprehension has existed as to the purchase of this place, as it was generally believed to be the Tarinaki district, which was formerly occupied by branches of the Ngatiawa tribe, who, being driven away by the Waikatos, about nine or ten years ago, went to reside at Waikanae, Port Nicholson, and other places to the south, where the majority of them have remained ever since. But it now turns out that the Taranaki district commences on the south side of the Sugar Loaves, and extends towards Waimate, where the great majority of those Natives formerly resided, and were called the Taranaki tribes, and that it is outside the block of land which I have awarded to the Company. The agents of the Company claimed a very large tract of land in this district under three purchase deeds, the first from the Ngatiawa, in Queen Charlotte's Sound; the second, from the resident Natives of this place, Ngamotu; and the third, from the Taranaki tribe. Colonel Wakefield offered no Maori evidence in support of the Taranaki deed, but informed me that it was not the intention of the Company to claim any block of land under it. This narrowed my inquiry to the block of (60,000) sixty thousand acres, under the deed from the resident Natives of this place, also branches of the Ngatiawa tribe. I have, in my first report to the late acting Governor (which I had the honor to lay before your Excellency on your arrival in this Colony), most particularly referred to the way in which these alleged purchases of the Company, which I had investigated, had been conducted, namely, by getting the signatures of some leading chiefs, and inserting in the deeds boundaries comprising millions of acres, upon the surface of which thousands of Natives were living, without having consulted those resident Natives who were the actual cultivators of the soil. I then stated, that although a tribe have marched through a country, conquering all the Natives occupying the ground over which they passed, yet if they failed to retain the lands so conquered in their possession, and allowed the former owners still to occupy it, or to return immediately afterwards, and cultivate it without interruption for a period of years, in that case the consent of the conquerors to a sale to the Europeans, without that of such resident Natives, could not be admitted by me as a valid purchase. And 1 know of no rule laid down as binding upon or generally adopted by the nations of Europe, in colonizing a new country, peopled by aboriginal inhabitants, which would justify the taking of land from the actual occupiers and cultivators of the soil, without their consent. On the contrary, I had the honor to quote, in my last despatch, the very opposite doctrine, as laid down by De Vattel.

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I had also occasion to express, in my report, a very strong opinion that these purchases had been conducted with great carelessness, and that the consent of a certain number only of Natives had been obtained; that the great object of the parties seemed to be to insert in their deeds the names of places, so as to comprise degrees of latitude and longitude, instead of ascertaining who were the resident Natives upon this immense territory, and endeavouring to obtain their consent to its sale; and I also remarked upon the imperfect way in which the transactions had been explained to the Natives. This purchase is, I am happy to say, free from these objections. Colonel Wakefield had previously effected a partial purchase of Port Nicholson, and had got another deed executed by the Ngatiawa, resident in Queen Charlotte's Sound, purporting to convey this district. Puni, one of the principal chiefs of Port Nicholson, who joined in and has ever since admitted the sale of that place to Colonel Wakefield, and who had formerly resided at this place, recommended Colonel Wakefield to purchase it. Here, then, it appears that the Port Nicholson Natives who had formerly resided here, and the Ngatiawa, in Queen Charlotte's Sound, had ample notice of the intended purchase. Subsequently, Richard Barret, who had been many years in New Zealand, having a Native wife and family, speaking their language, and understanding their customs, was landed here, and remained ©n shore, living with the resident Natives for a period of between two and three months, negotiating for the purchase, and explaining to them the boundaries of the land he was desirous of acquiring for Colonel Wakefield ; and the bargain was not concluded until the Natives had seen the goods offered in payment brought by the "Guide" brig. They then consented to accept the payment, had the trade landed, and forty men, besides women and children (including, I believe, the greater part of the residents), signed the deed, and took away the goods. During Barret's residence here, before he effected his object, there was ample time for any of the Ngatiawa of Port Nicholson and the other places to have opposed the sale ; but none appeared to dispute the right of the resident Natives. About ten years ago, a battle was fought between the Waikato and the Ngatiawa residing in this district, at a place called Pukerangiora, when the former completely conquered the latter, taking a great many prisoners with them to Waikato, whom they made slaves. The majority of those that escaped, fearing a further attack from the Waikato, migrated to Waikanae, Port Nicholson, and other places to the south, took possession and cultivated the land there, and in the case of Port Nicholson, I have already admitted their title, by reason of their occupation of the soil for a period of nine or ten years, as against Rauparaha and others, who pretended to claim that district by right of conquest. The Natives of whom Barret made the purchase in question, appear to have been permitted by the Waikato to occupy this district between the Sugar Loaves and Taniwa, without interruption, from the time of the taking of Pukerangiora, until the purchase ; but they appear to have lived opposite the Sugar Loaves for the purpose of being ready to escape in the case of a further attack; and it seems to me, that fear of the Waikato, coupled with a desire to have Europeans to reside amongst them to protect them from their enemies, was one of the principal causes that induced them to consent to the sale of the district. It appears to me that the Ngatiawa, who left this district after the fight, sought for and obtained another location, where they lived and cultivated the soil, and from fear of their enemies did not return, cannot now show any equitable claim to the land they thus abandoned ; and having admitted their title at Port Nicholson, by reason of their occupation and cultivation of the land there, from the time of their arrival there from this place up to the time of my decision, I could not, with the slightest regard for consistency in my awards, for one moment entertain any claim of theirs to this district. Had they returned before the sale, and, with the consent of their countrymen, again cultivated the soil, I should have held that they were necessary parties to the sale. It appears, however, that some of this tribe, after the arrival of the Europeans, and the formation of the settlement, and when they thought themselves in consequence safe from their enemies, did return here and commenced cultivating land within the limits of the block previously alienated to the New Zealand Company. But I cannot, for the reasons before stated, admit their title ; and, if I did, I should be also obliged to admit that of all the others who might at any time think proper to return and claim payment. From my first arrival at Wellington, the chiefs Moluroa, Wairarapa, and others, who disputed the sale of that place to the Company, constantly told me that they should remain there until they got payment, and then come here and claim payment also for this place. I invariably discouraged them from taking a step which appeared to me so unfair and unjust, and I was much pleased to find that not one of them appeared here to assert any claim, although they had full notice of the intention of my visit to this place, and some of their people and Wairarapa's son travelled with me the whole journey. If, however, the claims of those who had returned since the purchase had been once admitted, no doubt all the others would immediately have claimed payment, and my inquiry would have been almost interminable. I have not seen any block of land claimed by the Company which can be spared from the aborigines with so little interference with, or injury to their interests, as the one in question. By the enclosed return from the resident agent of the New Zealand Company, your Excellency will observe, that the Natives have only 120 acres in cultivation (and many of these commenced upon long after the sale, in the whole block of 60,000 ; yet I have, in order to avoid as far as -possible the

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cause of any misunderstanding between the two races, carefully reserved all these cultivations, their pahs and burial-grounds, in addition to the acres, to which they are entitled as Native reserves; bo that ample provision has been made for them in the reservation of land, more than sufficient for their wants. The original block claimed by the Company was two miles more in length, and two more in breadth, than the one shown in the accompanying plan, which I have obtained for your Excellency tor reference, as occasion may require, and was thus reduced after my arrival here, leaving another immense block of the very best and most available land immediately adjoining that of the Company, for the Natives. I hive had two plans of the block made, and signed by myself, Mr. Clarke, and Colonel Wakefield, taking one to attach to my report, and leaving the other with the resident agent, so as to avoid the possibility of misunderstanding about boundaries hereafter. This map will shew you where the Native reserves in the suburban sections have been chosen, but none have been made for them in the rural sections (al f hough 159 out of 500 sections have been already selected by the Company's purchasers), owing to the absence of any authorised agent to select for the Natives. As this might very probably inflict an injustice upon the Natives in depriving them of their one choice in ten, I have written to the resident agent upon the subject, of which letter I enclose a copy. I should recommend the trustees of Native reserves to appoint an agent here, to make these selections as soon as possible, as it must tend to convince the Natives that their condition is really improved by the sale. Your Excellency will see by the minutes of my proceedings that, after Colonel Wakefield had closed his case, I gave Mr. Clarke every opportunity of bringing forward whatever evidence he thought necessary on the part of the Natives, and adjourned the (Joart to the day he mentioned, to give him time to be prepared. He, however, called only one witness, who, having at first prevaricated, at length admitted that he had been taken prisoner by the Waikato, and was only released from slavery in consequence of the introduction of Christianity amongst that tribe, which taught them to abandon the practice, and that he had returned to this place since the sale to Barret. Mr. Clarke then declined calling any more witnesses; and I adjourned my court until Saturday, to give me time to consider the evidence, and determine upon my award. I had no claim brought forward on the part of the Waikato ; but this may be accounted for by the contents of a letter from the late Governor, Captain fiobson, to Captain King, the original of which is in my possession, and an extract from which I now enclose ; nor was there any evidence offered to shew that the tribe had ever cultivated any land within the Company's block. Previous to entering upon the case, and several times after its commencement, I inquired of Mr. Clarke whether he considered it would be expedient to ofL-r any further payment to the claimants ; but he informed me that this could not be done with safety, and that he had not the slightest chance ot getting the Natives to accept a compensation ; that if they received any further payment, the Waikato would immediately come down upon them and take it away, which would in all probability lead to a fight between them. I also heard from several sources, that the Waikato, looking on these Natives as slaves, were continually threatening to come here and take them back into a state of slavery. If, it had appeared expedient, I might, as a matter of policy only, but certainly not acoording to the evidence as a matter of right, have recommended that some payment should have been made to the Natives, as an act of grace on the part of the Company, calculated to assist in procuring a good understanding between the two races ; but under the circumstances, and with consequences pointed out to me as almost certain to follow, I felt it would have bean unwise, and justly censurable, to have pursued such a course. If the offer of any money had been made, even by way of gratuity, I am satisfied th>t with,the evident spirit manifested by all the aborigines I had seen since my arrival, it would have been refused, and construed into an admission that they had not sold any part of the land, besides making them still more determined to withhold the land from the Europeans. If, on the contrary, it had been accepted by those present, we should have had immediately hundreds of other claimants from among ther members of the same tribes, whom I havd before described as now residing at Port Nicholson, Waikanae, and the other places; together with the strong probability of an attack from the Waikato. Under these circumstances, it appeared to me to be a case where my duty pointed out the necessity of deciding whether there had been a purchase or not; and, as I found considerable anxiety manifesced alike by the European and Maori population to learn the result of my investigation, and feeling that any further delay would not prove injurious to both races, but was calculated to keep alive and prolong feelings of animosity between tnem, I delivered my judgment in the presence of a considerable number of Natives, as well as Europeans; but wherein I have most carefully explained, that the same is subject to confirmation by your Excellency, and cannot be carried into effect without your approval. I was the more anxious to do this, from a feeling that the decision being against the Maories, it was much better that, at the time it was first made known to them, some officer of the Government should be on the spot to explain fully to both races the reservations of the pabs, cultivations, and burying-grounds, as well as one-tenth of the block, for the benefit of the aborigines ; and it also afforded me the opportunity of offering a few words of wholesome advice to b.ith Europeans and Natives. It further occurred to me, that it would be more expedient that any disappointment experienced by the Natives at the first decision against them should be visited upon me as the officer appointed for this special duty, rather than expose your Excellency to the chance of sharing

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k ; which would in all probability have been the case, had my decision been first made known to them, after it had heen submitted to your Excellency for approval. It is remarkable, that out of the millions of acres claimed by the New Zealand Company, this is the first case where I have been able to award even so small a block as (60,000) sixty thousand acres ; and even here something else remains to be done to perfect the transaction. It appears that, pending the negotiation, the Natives pressed Barret for some double-barreled guns, but finding that there were none on board the vessel, they at length accepted the payment offered without them and signed the deed ; Barret, however, still promised them at some future period he would procure them a case of double-barreled guns. Now, for the reasons before alleged, if I had given them (25) twenty-five guns (the number contained in a case), it would have exposed them to the risk of the Waikato coming down and taking them away, and probably using them against their lives ; while, if I had given them the value in money, the same difficulty and confusion would have arisen in the distribution of so small a sum besides opening a door, as I have before explained, to claimants beyond number. Under these circumstances, I called upon the principal agent of the Company to place at my disposal such a sum of money as I might value the guns at, to be disposed of as your Excellency may decide for the benefit of the natives; with which request he immediately complied, as will appear by his letter, a copy of which is herewith enclosed. The natives of this place are scattered over a large tract of country, whence great difficulty arises, in cases of sickness amongst them, in administering medical relief; again, medical men complain that, in many instances, the medicines they prescribe have not the usual fair chance of success, for want of the patients being kept properly warm and sheltered from the weather, when under their influence. I have the honor to recommend that the Two hundred pounds (£200) (the sum at which I have valued the guns) should be laid out in building a Maori hospital upon the native town reserve (half an acre), and I have reason to believe that sum would be sufficient to build a male and female ward, a receiving-room with a bath, and a kitchen, which might also be used as the residence of the Maori nurse appointed to take care of the hospital. This would afford the opportunity to the white population who are disposed to assist the natives in times of sickness, to direct their charitable efforts to a concentrated point where an arranged plan would be more likely to be generally useful than single acts of assistance rendered in individual cases. It would also be much more convenient to the medical men, and enable them to devote more time to these patients; and, lastly, it would in my opinion effect a great moral improvement in the condition of the natives, by teaching them some of our civilized habits, and how much cleanliness contributes to restore them to health ; as well as convincing them that the reserves are really intended for their benefit; and that one of the objects, at least, of many of the Europeans coming to reside amongst them, is substantially to improve their condition. I have mentioned my plan to the different ministers of religion here, to the police magistrate and the resident agent, and they all approve of my suggestion. I have taken every pains to impress upon the principal, as well as the resident, agent of the New Zealand Company, the absolute necessity of not giving out to the Europeans at present, any spots of land within the block the natives object to part with, but to put them upon those places which are not disputed, and that no force must be used in taking possession of land, nor will any act of violence or aggression towards them be for one moment permitted, and they have both promised to attend to my suggestions. I have, &c, William Spain. His Excellency the Governor.

No. 8. JUDGMENT OF MR. COMMISSIONER SPAIN, DELIVERED AT TARANAKI ON THE BTH JUNE, 1844. This day (June Bth) the Commissioner pronounced judgment in the case of the claim on the part of the New Zealand Company to land in the Taranaki district. Case No. 374 D. Case No. 374 E. At 10 a.m. a considerable number of natives, as well as many Europeans, settlers, assembled. The Commissioner inquired of Mr. Protector Clarke if he considered there were a sufficient number of natives assembled. Mr. Clarke replied in the affirmative ; and the Commissioner having offered him the opportunity of making any explanatory remarks to the natives, proceeded to read hi* judgment as follows :■— "In pursuance of what I announced on the adjournment of my Court on Thursday, I shall now proceed to state the substance of what my Report will be upon the claim of the New Zealand Company to the block of land in this neighbourhood, containing about 60,000 acres, as shown upon she plan now on my table, with the exceptions and reservations that I shall hereafter describe. " Having heard all the witnesses called by Colonel Wakefield in support of the claim, as well as the evidence that Mr. Protector Clarke has deemed it necessary to adduce on the part of the aborigines, the strict course of my duty as Commissioner would be now to close my proceedings, without stating any opinion upon the case, and to make my report to his Excellency, the Governor.

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" But I feel that if I were to do so on this occasion, I should omit an opportunity of benefiting both races in this settlement; and, considering the time that has already elapsed since the first arrival of the Europeans here, and the difficulties that have arisen from the uncertainty as to the title of the New Zealand Company to the land in this district, I, as the officer appointed by Her Majesty to investigate and determine titles and claims to land in New Zealand, should be evincing a want of zeal and anxiety to perform my duty in the spirit in which I conceive the execution of my commission was entrusted to me, if I left the settlement without informing both races the result of my recent investigation. " I have given the evidence adduced before me my most anxious and careful consideration, and, with the most scrupulous determination to perform my very difficult duty with impartiality, justice, and firmness, I have arrived at the conclusion that the New Zealand Company, by its agents, did make a fair purchase of the block of land, containing about 60,000 acres, delineated upon the plan before me, with the exceptions hereafter to be mentioned, of the resident natives of this district, who had been for some years in quiet possession of it. " It appears to me that these resident natives, at the time of the purchase, were under fear of their opponents, the Waikato, and that they readily embraced tke opportunity of selling their land, for the purpose of getting Europeans to reside amongst them to protect them from their enemies ; and, from the manner in which the purchase was effected, I am convinced that they entered into the transaction with a perfect knowledge of what they were about. " Richard Barrett, who had been many years in the country, having a native wife and family, and understanding their language and customs, was left amongst them between two and three months, explaining the whole transaction to them, and giving them ample time for deliberation. The result of which was that they accepted the offered payment, and signed the deed. "It affords me great satisfaction to be able to say, that Barrett's testimony in this and other cases where I have had occasion to examine him, corroborated as it has substantially been by native testimony, has led me to the conclusion that he has told the plain honest truth as to what took place in all the transactions between him and the natives when employed by the New Zealand Company; and he has not hesitated to do this when his testimony has gone, in other cases, as much against his employers as it has done, in the present instance, in their favour. " I shall report in favour of a Crown grant being made to the Company of a block of land delineated on the plan before me, between the Sugar Loaves and the Taniwa, containing sixty thousand (60,000) acres, excepting the pahs, cultivations, and burying-grounds of the natives (as arranged between His Excellency the Governor and the principal agent of the New Zealand Company), the reserves for the natives, equal to one-tenth of the 60,000 acres, the Wesleyan reserve, and the reserve for Mr. Barrett, his wife, and family, both which are also marked upon the plan ; and further excepting any portion of land within the blocks to which private individuals have already, or may hereafter prove before the Commissioners, a title prior to the purchase by the New Zealand Company. " I will now address a few words of advice to my friends the natives. You effected one of the principal objects of your sale ; you have been at peace with your former enemies ever since the Europeans arrived amongst you ; you have enjoyed the advantages of the introduction of civilization ; you have been able to sell your produce, and to obtain in exchange many articles of clothing and food hitherto scarcely known to you. The introduction of English money and labour amongst you has not only increased the value of the lands still reserved for you, but has taught you the way to cultivate those lands, to produce better food than you had been accustomed to grow, and thus to engage your attention in industry, instead of making and carrying on war against your neighbouring tribes; and during this healthful state of peace and quiet, you have also had leisure to be taught the way to worship our Almighty God, and to lead a life here to ensure your happiness hereafter. " These blessings that I have described will be very much increased now that this land question is settled. There is ample land left for you and your children besides what I have awarded to the Europeans, and you will find your condition daily improved. " The Governor will afford you all every protection and assistance in his power, consistent with justice and equity ; but, when he does this, he expects and insists that you will be fair and just to the Europeans. You must not, therefore, interfere with them, or obstruct them in the cultivation of their land; for if you do, after this, you will be liable to be punished. " And I will now say to my own countrymen, that you must be equally guarded in not interfering with the Native pahs, cultivations, burying-grounds, and reserves, and, above all, you must on all occasions treat them with kindness and the utmost forbearance, recollecting that we have come to their country by our own choice, and that it is our first duty to improve them to every extent in our power, and that they are justly entitled to our utmost patience in teaching them the duties of civilized life, which we have learned from our youth upwards. " Having thus travelled out of the strict line of my duty in informing you of what my report will be, conceiving that it would conduce to the good of the settlement, I need scarcely add that, until my report is confirmed by the Governor, no Crown Grant can issue; and that, therefore, nothing that I have said to-day can for one moment justify any force in taking possession of land, or in any other act towards the aborigines than could have been legally justified before my arrival in this place. "It affords me the utmost satisfaction to leave this settlemeut with the land claims settled, so. far as my power as Commissioner extends." The Court then broke up.

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No. 9. EXTRACT FROM CHIEF PROTECTOR CLARKE'S GENERAL REPORT TO GOVERNMENT, DATED 31 ST JULY, 1844. The New Plymouth or Taranaki district has been a good deal agitated in consequence of the disputed title of the New Zealand Company. In several instances settlers have been located upon spots cultivated by the Natives, upon the plea that the Company had purchased these places ; to avenge these insults, the Natives have commenced clearing and cutting down timber upon other sections claimed by Europeans, with which in all probability they would not have interfered had they not been so greatly exasperated by the unjust occupation of their original cultivations. Both parties have been a good deal annoyed, and I am afraid that a strong feeling of dislike is growing up between the two races. It would tend much to preserve the peace and harmony of the settlement, if a judicious officer acquainted with their language, and able to explain these circumstances to the Natives, which otherwise are apt to grow up into serious disagreements, were permanently resident there. I have been in constant communication with some of the principal men, and have promised to send them a protector ; which promise I hope soon to redeem, Mr. McLean, a gentleman in my office, being under preparation to fill that important place. Most of the Natives at present residing at Taranaki are emancipated slaves, who, when the doctrines of Christianity began to influence the conduct of their captors, were allowed to return to their homes and re-assume their possessions ; owing to this circumstance, many of their countrymen have looked upon them as contemptible, and treated them disrespectfully. The interested among our own countrymen, also, taking a similar view of their position, have represented them as having no claim to the soil. The effect of all this has been, as might be expected, a most determined stand on the part of these despised people against the assumptions of their detractors ; and it has even led them in some instances, as a means of wiping out the stain upon their honor, to defy their conquerors, who, but for the growing influence of Christian principles, would probably have taken advantage of this, and, by re-capturing them, have thereby secured so many advantages as the possession of the Taranaki district held out for themselves ; but an accurate and faithful report upon the state of this district can only be rendered after an intimate knowledge of their condition is acquired by residence amongst its inhabitants.

No. 10. extract from sub-protector clarke's report to the chief protector, dated 29tii june, 1844. On the 31st of May, Mr. Spain held his court at Taranaki, and closed the investigation of the claims to that district, the result of which was a verdict in favour of the Company's having effected a valid purchase ; considerable excitement prevailed in consequence amongst the Natives, but by impressing upon their minds the danger and certain ruin they would bring upon themselves if they resorted to violent measures as a means of obtaining redress for their real or supposed grievances, and by pointing out that the proper course for them to pursue was to communicate a statement of the facts in writing to the Government, I persuaded them to desist from any general attempts to molest the settlers. In order to enable you fully to comprehend the nature of the obstacles to the amicable settlement of this branch of the question, I feel it necessary to refer to circumstances which occurred nearly 14 yeais ago, when Te Rauparaha persuaded a large force of the Ngatiawa and other tribes to assist him in his wars with the original inhabitants of the northern and southern shores of Cook's Straits. The Waikato Natives, taking advantage of their absence, suddenly invaded the Taranaki district, and took Pukerangiora, a large pah on the Waitara River, capturing or destroying nearly 2,000 of the inhabitants ; they then attacked Ngamotu, near the present settlement of New Plymouth, but without success, and were compelled te return to their own country. They afterwards cultivated a small portion of land formerly occupied by the Ngatimutunga, to the north of the Waitara river, but if the accounts of the Natives now resident at New Plymouth are to be credited, they never cultivated any other part of the district. I believe a small party of them attempted to occupy land on the Waitara, but met with so much opposition from the original claimants, that they were compelled to retire. On these circumstances the Waikato Natives formed their claims, but I believe they never took possession of, or exercised acts of ownership upon, the land generally. They never repeated their attack, though they frequently threatened to do so ; and the Natives of Taranaki, finding themselves too weak to oppose effectually the expected invasion, when their principal warriors were absent wit!-. Te Rauparaha in the Middle Island, migrated with their women and children to Kapiti, and the opposite side of Cook's Straits, and rejoined their relatives. The purchase of the New Zealand Company was transacted in the month of February, 1840, when, I believe, there were not more than 60 Natives (part of the Puketapufand Ngamotu tribes), residing in the district North of the Sugar-loaves. Most of these affixed their signatures to the Deed of Conve-ance. How far they may have understood its contents, or the boundaries of the land professed to be'conveyed, I cannot say, their statement being so contradictory ; but I fully believe that these boundaries, and the block chosen by the Company, comprise lands that were never occupied

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by or belonged to them. They themselves clearly admit that they had no general claim over the district, and that they could only rightly dispose of their own individual possessions. After the introduction of Christianity into the district of Waikato, many of the Natives who had been taken prisoners at Taranaki, and reduced to slavery, were released by their masters, and permitted to return to their own country. These freed men first arrived there some months after the date of the purchase, and took possession of the spots they had formerly occupied and cultivated. Ever since which, parties of the tribes in Cook's Straits have been and still are daily returning, and resuming possession of the lands they respectively occupied before their migration to the southward. On the other hand, that portion of the Waikato tribes who are not more immediately under the influence of Te Whero Whero, and particularly the Natives at Mokau and the adjacent country, have expressed their determination to renew the contest with the Taranaki tribes, if they persist in a general re-occupation of the district, or accept of any payment from the Europeans. Soon after Mr. Spain had concluded his proceedings at New Plymouth, I was called upon to. settle several disputes between the two races respecting land, particularly one between Mr. Cooke and a family of the Puketapu tribe (part of whom signed the Deed of Conveyance to the New Zealand Company), about the occupation of the section at Te Hua. These Natives commenced to clear the timber off part of the section, near Mr. Cooke's residence, for the purpose of planting. I remonstrated with them on the subject, and pointed out two Native reserves at a short distance, which were much more adapted to their purpose ; but ihey positively refused to make use of them, on the plea that they belonged to another family, and that, therefore, they had no right to occupy them. At the same time they stated, that it was with reluctance they interfered with Mr. Cooke, and that they were ready to remove it if I would point them out another spot upon which they could cultivate with equal advantage, within the limits of their own claim ; but as 1 was unable to do this without prejudicing the interests of other proprietors of sections (the whole of the land claimed by them having been selected by purchasers under the Company ), I advised them, in general terms, not to quarrel or interfere with the Europeans, and particularly to abstain from anything like threats of violence. I am of opinion that very much of the annoyance and inconvenience to which both the settlers and aborigines have been exposed is to be attributed to the imperfect manner in which the system and nature of the Native Reserves were described at the time of the purchases of the Company, in the several districts to which they lay claim ; and many of the difficulties with which we have had to contend in our attempts to settle the disputed questions by compensation, are to be traced to the disastrous proceedings at Wairau last year. A deep-rooted prejudice and suspicion of each other* motives has been engendered thereby in the minds of both races, and a setiled determination on the part of the Natives to resist what they may consider acts of aggression or injustice by the settlers, especially in reference to the question of laud. Feeling that much of the future prospects of the Colony depends upon the view which th« Government may he pleased to take of the state of the land question, I have endeavoured faithfully ta lay before you the circumstances of each case as advanced by the Natives, with their sentiments thereon ; and, as their official protector, I feel that I should not discharge my own duty without, conclusion, respectfully, but urgently calling the attention of the Government to the evidence, as taken before Mr. Spain, and the immediate necessity of a final settlement of the grounds of dispute between the two races.

No. 11. EXTRACT FROM DESPATCH FROM GOVERNOR FITZROY TO THE SECRETARY OF STATE, DATED 19tII DECEMBER, 1844. At Taranaki 1 was obliged to remain some time, to bring about an amicable arrangement betvyeen the English and Natives ; but my efforts were happily successful in that main point, however unsatisfactory they may at first appear to the New Zealand Company. This Taranaki question is much too long and complicated, and the-documents are too numerous to admit of my saying more here than that peace and goodwill prevail at that settlement. Your Lordship will not, I hope, think me remiss in not having all such documents sooner prepared for transmissson ; but urgently pressing daily duties, and the accumulation of arrears of public business, owing to my indispensable absences at other settlements, have prevented their completion. Tha enclosed memorandum on the subject is all that I can yet forward.

No. 12. MEMORANDUM BY GOVERNOR FITZiROY ON THE TARANAIfI LAND QUESTION, DATRI) 2ND DECEMBER, 1844. Taranaki, New Plymouth Settlement, 2nd December, 1844. In February, 1840, Mr. John Dorset snd a few Natives of the Ngamotu and Puketapu branches, of the Ngatiawa tribe, executed a deed purporting to convey certain lands to the New Zealand.

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Company. The principal parties to this transaction were Messrs. John Dorset, Jerningham Wakefield, Richard Barret, and about 40 Native men and boys. The Deed above-mentioned refers to chiefs and their signatures only, whereas not one-third of those that signed were chiefs even of the lowest degree, and not one was a chief of any note. They were a small party of refugees from the conquering Waikato tribe, who had recently overrun the Taranaki district. From these men the boundaries of lands owned or claimed by the whole Ngatiawa tribe, were obtained by description, and were set down in the aforesaid deed, but the Natives who gave them were ignorant of the purpose for which they were sought. At this time all the families of the Ngatiawa tribe, one of the largest in New Zealand, were scattered along the coast between Otaki, Porirua, and Petoni, or on the northern shores of the Middle Island, or were in captivity among the Waikato, who had lately invaded and desolated the Taranaki and Waitara country; and these beautiful dietricls, excelling in soil, climate, abundance of wood and water, level country, and the best flax (tihore), were tempororily depopulated. But although they were thus almost without inhabitants at the time of the Company's supposed purchase of the whole country near Taranaki and the Waitara, they were neither wholly deserted nor permanently abandoned, as the presence of a small remnant of the Ngatiawa tribe at Naamotu proves. These districts were not occupied or settled in any way by the Waikato, who merely overran them, and then immediately retired to their own country, without cultivating the soil or constructing dwellings. Nevertheless, as the Waikato claimed to be the conquerors of the Waitara and Taranaki country, and were not only nearer at hand, but much more formidable than the dispersed Ngatiawa, it was thought advisable to make a considerable payment to the principal chief of that powerful tribe, in consideration of his claim on behalf of the Wnikato generally. At the time of the desolating invasion above mentioned, by far the greater number of the Ngatiawa, with their principal men, were absent on a hostile excursion in the south. Those who suffered by death or captivity were an inferior minority. Early in 1842 the influence of Christian teaching induced the Waikato to release their so-called slaves from captivity, and allow them to return to their own land. Some availed themselves of this freedom ; others stayed among the W aikato, by their own choice. Those who returned to the land of their fathers found that some of it was occupied by strangers, who said they had bought it, and that it was no longer the land of the Maori. Parts of this land so claimed were all, or the greater portion of, the only places on which these returned Ngatiawa could locate themselves, without intrusion on ground claimed by others, and they disputed the right of the stranger by various annoying methods short of actual hostility; they cut down bis trees ; they refused to let him extend his cultivation ; they stopped up his roads ; and threatened him with personal violence. Altercations of course ensued ; disputes increased, and became more serious as more Natives returned, not only from Waikato, but from the southern region, which they found less inviting than the land of their birth. At last, the Company's claim to any land at Taranaki became matter of question, if not denial ; and in June 1844, Mr. Commissioner Spain undertook a formal investigation of the subject at New Plymouth. Mr. Spain's opinion was against the claim of the Ngatiawa. He considered that their country had been conquered by the Waikato, to whom adequate payment had been made, and that the right to sell lay in them and the few persons in actual possession 1 at the time of purchase. He considered that those who had been taken prisoners and carried into captivity had forfeited all right and title to their land; and that the other Ngatiawa had parted with their claim by having abandoned or lost their country. (See Mr. Clarke's note enclosed.) The purchase made by the New Zealand Company was deemed valid, and no further payment ta any natives was thought necessary. These opinions Mr. Commissioner Spain made known to the assembled natives as his award, statins, however, that it must be ratified by the Governor to make it final. The disappointment and anger of the Natives were so plainly shown, that considerable alarm prevailed ihroughout the settlement; and after Mr. Spain's departure, which took place in a few days, an express was sent off to the Governor, at Auckland, asking for military assistance in the most pressing terms, as the only security for life itself. The Governor immediately despatched a confidential person with special instructions overland to Taranaki, and himself embarked on board Her Majesty's ship " Hazard," and hastened thither. The Bishop also repaired to the scene of difficulty with the utmost celerity, travelling from Auckland by Kawhia to Taranaki in eight days ; while Mr. Whitely, the Wesleyan missionary at Kawhia (sixteen years lesident in that part of the country), preceded them. Mr. Spain's award was make known in the middle of June, and on the 3rd of August a large meeting of English and Natives were assembled at New Plymouth to hear the final decision. The Governor informed the assembly that he did not take the same view of the question as Mr. Commissioner Spain, and that he should not confirm the award of that gentleman, however carefully and conscientiously it had been weighed and delivered. On points of law, especially the law of New Zealand, considered with reference to national laws in general, authorities might differ without prejudice to the opinion of either, but it was for him, the Governor, to decide. He would immediately cause further investigation to be made, as to the various claimants to particular portions of land. He would then endeavour to make special arraugements with those claimants, and he would allow, in all their integrity, the claims of those of the Natiawa tribe who were not parties to the sale in 1840. As time would be required for these additional inquiries, he would now return to Auckland and the Bay of islands, where his presence was imperatively wanted, and would again visit Taranaki in about

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two months, to endeavour to adjust this land question satisfactorily. Meanwhile he recommended and urged upon all parties the exercise of forbearance and conciliatory conduct (in which the Governor's advice was effectively supported by the Bishop, as well as by Mr. Whitely), assuring them all that the British Government would never countenance injustice or misconduct in any place, or in any person. With the proceedings at this meeting all parties appeared to be satisfied ; and the minds of the Natives were disabused of the impression that they might be dispossessed of their own lands. They readily promised to wait quietly till the Governor's return, their Protector, Mr. McLean, having been instructed how to proceed. The Governor, with the Bishop, embarked ou board the " Hazard" on the sth of August, and sailed for Auckland. On the Bth of November the Governor again landed at New Plymouth, from Her Majesty's ship "Hazard." Mr. Whiteley, Mr. McLean and Mr. Forsaith had prepared the way for an arrangement, which appeared to them, as well as to the Governor, the only one likely to be effected in a satisfactory manner ; and immediate steps were taken to assemble the Natives, and obtain their consent. Various impediments and delays occurred ; but by the 25th of the month, all the Natives interested in the land on which the town is situated, and in its immediate vicinity, had consented to receive £350 in goods, money and animals, as a full compensation and completion of payment for a block of land at and around the town, containing about 3,500 acres. This block not only affords space for the present wants of the settlers, but has sufficient surplus land to enable outlying settlers to exchange their sections, at a distance from the settlement, for others equivalent in value, within the boundaries above mentioned. By thus concentrating the settlement, and narrowing the boundaries of the land at present occupied by settlers, the difficulties, if not disasters, apprehended to the settlers, in consequence of the long-meditated return of the Ngatiawa, trill be avoided. The few absentee claimants to any portions of the town block, can be paid off as they arrive, in proportion to their actual claims (the extent of which are now fully known to the Protector) by comparing the various statements of their relations, on the spot, and their number is limited. To enable th« Company's agent to do justice to those who have purchased land outside of these new boundaries, and to enable him to procure more land for sale when required, the Crown's right of pre-emption will be waived, in favour of the Company only, within the large block (60,000 acres) already surveyed at their expense. As the Natives are, generally speaking, willing and anxious to sell the greater part of their lands, however tenacious of their right and choice, the Company's agent will not find it difficult to purchase portion after portion, for reasonable prices, provided that he does not injure his own market by buying too much or too hastily. Undoubtedly, it is the duty of the Company to make these purchases, in order to put their settlers in possession, and that the settlers themselves should be saved from fuither expenditure. As the claims of those who had bought land near New Plymouth will be as good years hence as they are now, and as by far the greater part of the distant choices, not yet cultivated, are owned by Ngatiawa not yet returned, but intending to settle on or near them, it is extremely desirable that the agent should defer treating for those sections until their real owners or the majority of them are on the spot. By a reasonable delay, he will obtain not only much better terms from the Natives, but a secure and definite transfer from the right patties: Out of about 1,050 acre sections, surveyed and said to have been purchased by the Company, not 200 have yet been sold; therefore the matter is within compass. An expenditure of about £3,000 spread over three or four years, may settle the whole question amicably. Assuredly it is better to employ such a sum in establishing a respectable settlement in one of the finest districts of New Zealand, where many thousands of pounds have been already laid out in buildings, cnltivations, roads, and bridges, &c, than to waste it upon the neighbourhood of Wanganui, Manawatu, or Porirua, for which Col. Wakefield carried £3,000 along the coast, with Mr. Commissioner Spain, to be employed in completing the alleged purchase of those secluded but well-peopled districts, which the Natives steadily refused to abandon. As that sum will not be required for those places, it might be well employed at Taranaki. Robert Fitzßoy, Governor. Auckland, 2nd December, 1844.

No. 13. EXTRACTS FROM FINAL REPORT OF COMMISSIONHR SPAIN. Office of the Commissioner for investigating and determining Titles and Claims to Land in New Zealand, Auckland, 31st March, 1845. Sir,—I have the honor to lay before your Excellency the result of my investigation into the New Zealand Company's claims to land comprised in cases No. 374 d and 374 c, and founded upon two Deeds, attested copies of which are herewith enclosed, dated respectively as per margin.

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I have to call your Excellency's attention to the copy of Minutes of my Court, also enclosed, tiolden at New Plymouth which will put your Excellency in possession of my determination upon the ease, which was delivered in open Court, in the presence of a large assemblage of Europeans r.nd Aborigines (translated to the latter by Mr. Foisaith, my interpreter), and which decided that the New Zealand Company was entitled to a Crown Grant of a block of 60,(JO0 acres of land, commencing on the North side of the Sugar Loaf Islands, and extending in a Northerly direction to a place called Taniwa, includiug native reserves, with certain exceptions particularised in my judgment. This will comprise all the land that the Company has already sold, or offered for sale in that district. My Despatch from New Plymouth, under date the 12th of June, 1844, (No. 44-5), will have made your Excellency fully acquainted with the facts, circumstances, and reasons, which induced me Io decide in favour of the Company. Much, therefore, of the subject matter contained in this my final Report upon the case has already been brought under your Excellency's consideration. As, however, your Excellency was pleased to teverse my decision, 1 think it absolutely necessary, now that I am abcut, after the most mature deliberation, to confirm my former judgment, in this my final Report, to recapitulate every fact, circumstance and reason, that I think bears upon the case, and is calculated to show the correctness of my first decision ; so that this Repoit may be complete in itself without reference to any other document. •■-••• About eleven years ago, a battle was fought between the Waikato and the Ngatiawa residing in this district, at a placed called Pukerangiora, when the former completely conquered the latter, taking a gieat many prisoners wiih tbem to Waikato, whom they made slaves. The majority of those whc escaped, fearing a further attack from the Waikato, migrated to Waikanae, Port Nicholson, and other places to the South, took possession of and cultivated the land there ; and in the case of Port Nicholson I have already admitted their title by reason of their occupation, and cultivation of the soil for a period of nine or ten years, as against Te Rauparaha and otheis, who pretended to claim that district by right of conquest. The resident natives of whom Barrett made the purchase in question, appear to have been permitted by the Waikato to occupy this district between the Bugar Loaves and Taniwa without interruption, from the time of the taking of Pukerangiora until the purchase : most of them, however, appear to have lived opposite the Sugar Loaves, for the purpose ot being ready to escape in case of further attack, and it seems to me that fear of the Waikato, coupled with a desire to have Europeans to reside amongst them, to protect them from their enenies, was one of the principal moving causes that induced them to consent to the sale of the district. It appears to me that those Ngatiawa who, having left this district after the fight, sought for and obtained another location, where they lived and cultivated the soil, and from fear of their enemiesdid not return ; cannot now show any equitable claim, according to native customs, or otherwise, to the land they thus abandoned. Had they returned before the sale, and with the consent of the resident natives, again cultivated the soil without interruption, I should have held that they were necessary parties to the sale. During my residence in this country, in the execution of my commission for a period of between three and four years, I have taken every opportunity of ascertaining by every means in my power all native customs respecting the tenure of laud ; and, in my decisions, I have endeavoured in every instance to respect them, where certain; and, where doubtful, or not clearly ascertained, I have allowed justice, equity, a common-sense view, and the good conscience of each case, to supply their place. Bearing all these points in mind, I am of opinion that the adoption of a contrary doctrine to that which I have just laid down would lead to very serious consequences, not only as regards titles to land between the aborigines themselves, but also as between them and the Europeans. It appears that some of the Ngatiawa tribe, after the arrival of the Europeans, and the formation of the settlement, when they thought themselves in consequence safe from their enemies, did return to Taranaki and commenced the cultivation of land within the limits of the block previously alienated to the New Zealand Company; but I cannot, for the reasons stated above, admit their title, a recognition of which would oblige me to-admit that of all others similarly situated, who might at any time think proper to return and claim payment. From my first arrival at Wellington, the chiefs Moturoa, Wairarapa and others, members of the Ngatiawa tribe, who disputed the sale of that place to the Company, constantly told me that they should remain there until they obtained payment, and then go to Taranaki, which they had Jtft ten years before, and claim payment for that place also. I invariably discouraged them from taking a step which appeared to me so unfair and unj ut; and I was much pleased to find that not one of them appeared at my Court to assert any claim ; although they had full notice of my intended visit to Taranaki io investigate the claim there ; and some of theit people, and Wairarapa's son, tiavelled with me the whole journey. If, however, the claim of those who had returned since the purchase had been once admitted, no doubt all the others would have immediately claimed payment, and my enquiry would have been almost interminable. * * * * On the following Saturday I deliveied my judgment, to which I would call your Excellency's particu'ar attention, as showing that every possible care was taken therein to avoid unnecessary txcitement amongst the Natives, and that every human effort was made on my part, consistently with the circumstances of the case, to preserve a good understanding between the two races. It appears from the evidence that—pending the negotiation for the purchase—the natives pressed Barrett for some double-barrelled guns,; but finding there were none on board the vessel, they at

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length accepted the offered payment without them, and executed the deed. Barrett still, however, promised that, at some future period, he would procure them a case of double-barrelled guns, I considered it unsafe at the time to give them the guns, or their value, in consequence of their position with the Waikato, which is fully explained in a subsequent part of this report. Under these circumsnances, I called upon the principal Agent of the Company to place at my disposal such a sum of money as [ might value the guns at, to be disposed of as your Excellency might decide for the benefit of the natives ; with which lequest he immediately complied, as will appear by his letter on the subject, a copy of which is herewith enclosed, I valued the case of guns at 200Z, and in my Despatch (under date the 12th June, 1844) before referred to, I had the honor to recommend to your Excellency the manner in which, in my opinion, that sum might be disposed of most advantageously for the benefit of the natives. I have not seen any land claimed by the Company that, can be spared from the Aborigines, so little interfering with, or likely to injure, their interests as the block in question. By the enclosed return from the resident A rent of the New Zealand Company, your Excellency will observe that the natives had then only 121 acres in cultivation in the whole block of 60,000 acres, many of which were commenced long after the sale, yet in order to avoid, as far as possible, the cause of any misunderstanding between the two races, I have cirefully reserved all these cultivations, their pas, and burying-grounds, in addition to the 60,000 acres to which they are entitled as native reserves. Ample provision has thus been made for the natives in the reservation of land, more than sufficient for their wants. The block originally claimed by the New Zealand Company was two miles more in length, and two miles more in breadth, than that shown in the plan forming Enclosure No. 9 of this Report; and was thus reduced by the principal Agent of the New Zealand Company after our arrival at' New Plymouth,—leaving another immense block of the very best and most available land immediately adjoining that of the Company, for the natives. This map will show your Excellency where the native reserves in the suburban sections have been chosen ; none, however, have been made for them in the rural sections, although 159 out of the 500 sections have been already selected by the Company's purchasers ; owing to the absence of any authorised agent to select for the natives. As this probably inflict an injustice on the natives by depriving them of their one choice in ten, I addressed the resident Agent oo the subject, in a letter, of which I enclose a copy. The condition I have therein insisted upon with regard to the future selection of unchosen native reserves, will form a part of my present award. The Principal Agent having communicated to me that he was ready in any case where I might consider it expedient to make a further pay ment to the natives, although not strictly legally or equitably due to them, I enquired of Mr. Clarke before entering upon the case, and several times after its commencement, whether he considered it would be expedient to offer any further payment to the claimants : but he invariably stated to me that this could not be done with safety ; that he had not the slightest chance of inducing the natives to accept a composition, and that if they received any further payment, the Waikato would come down upon them and take it away ; which would in all probability lead to a fight between them. I also heard from several authentic sources, that the Waikato looking upon these people as slaves, were continually threatening to come to Taranaki, and take them back into a state of slavery. Had it appeared expedient, I might have recommended, as a matter of policy only, but certainly not accordiug to the evidence, as a matter of right, that some payment should be made to the natives, as an act of grace on the part of the Company, calculated to assist in procuring a good understanding between the two races; but under the circumstances, and with the probable consequences so apparent, I feel it would have been unwise, inexpedient, and justly censurable, to have pursued such a course. If such an offer had been made, even by way of gratuity, I am satisfied, from the evident spirit manifested by all the aborigines I had seen since my arrival, that it would have been refused, and construed into an admission on my part that they had not sold their land, —besides rendering them still more determined to withhold the land from the Europeans. If, on the contrary, any such payment had been accepted by those who were then present, hundreds of other claimants would have soon sprung up from among tha members of the same tribe, whom I have before described as now residing at Port Nicholson, Waikanae, and the other places ; while there would have been a strong probability of an attack from the Waikato. Under these circumstances, it appeared to me to be a case where my duty pointed out the necessity of deciding whether there had been a purchase or- not ; aud finding considerable anxiety, manifested alike by the European and native population, to learn the result of my investigation ; and feeling that any further delay would not only prove injurious to both races, but was also calculated to keep alive and prolong feelings of animosity between them, I gave my judgment on the case ; but wherein I have most carefully explained that the same was subject to confirmation by your Excellency, and could not be carried into effect without your approval. I felt that my decision being against the Maories, it was much better that when it was first made known to them, there should be some officer of Government on the spot, to explain fully to both races the reservations of the pas, cultivations, and buryinggrounds, as well as one-tenth of the block for the benefit of the aborigines ; and it also afforded me an opportunity of offering a few words of advice to both Europeans and natives. It further occurred to me that it would be more expedient that any disappointment experienced by the natives at the first decision against them, should be visited upon me as the officer appointed for this special duty, rather than expose your Excellency to the chance of sharing it; which would in all probability have been the case had my decision been first made known to them after it had been

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submitted to, and approved by, your Excellency. It will thus appear that while exercising a power which I then believed (and I still retain the same opinion) was vested in me by virtue of the commission 1 have the honcr to hold from Her Majesty,—" To investigate and determine titles and claims to land in New Zealand,"—l gave the fullest public notice at the time, that a Crown grant would not issue until your Excellency had approved my decision ; and that I adopted on that occasion language which I thought best calculated to convey the respect and deference due from every officer holding Her Majesty's commission to the head of the Colonial Government. I "think I have also shewn that the circumstances and existing state of feelings between the two races at Taranaki in every way justified the step I took, as a matter of expediency. Had I, however, for one moment entertained any doubt as to the powers vested in me, or of the way in which your Excellency wished me to exercise them, a reference to your Excellency's speeches delivered at Waikanae and Port Nicholson, in the presence of large numbers of Europeans and natives, would have immediately decided the course that I ought to follow. In the report of your Excellency's speech at Waikanae, published in the Wellington Spectator of the 2nd March, 1844, as an official narrative (I hold the manuscript corrected by your Excellency, with your authority for its publication), I find the following passage, on your introducing me to the assembled natives :—" You may place implicit confidence in the fairness and impartiality with which Mr. Spain will investigate asserted claims to land, and decide upon the nature of alleged purchases. He will also have authority to inquire into cases where it may be necessary to make arrangements for a further payment as compensation where it is fairly due." In the report of your Excellency's speech to the natives of Te Aro, at Wellington, published m the same paper, on the 6th March (with the like authority, and with the same correction), I find the following passage :— " Mr. Spain, having the Queen's confidence, came out here to settle these difficulties which have troubled us so long. Mr. Spain has also my approval for the extreme impartiality and faithfulness with which he has gone into all those difficulties ; and he has my confidence in the impartiality of his future proceedings." Again in another part of the same speech is the following passage :— " The Commissioner, I repeat it, for there are some now in the room who were not here when I mentioned it before, is the officer appointed by the Queen, to inquire into and decide finally upon all these questions. Some one must decide finally, and all who know him, know and believe, as I do, that he will do his best to decide faithfully and impartially for all. No man can do more." I have thus not only your Excellency's authority, declaring that I did possess the power of deciding finally, but the utmost publicity given by your Excellency to both races, of my real position : thus rendering it doubly imperative upon me to pronounce my decisions publicly upon the close of CJICI- CcISP. It was with considerable surprise that, when at Nelson in August last, I received the first intimation of your Excellency's disallowance of my decision at Taranaki, from the Principal Agent to the Company, who showed me a letter which, from its tenor and superscription, he had no doubt was dictated by your Excellency but bearing no signature—in which your Excellency informed Colonel Wakefield that " it was not your intention to comply with my recommendation regarding the New Zealand Company's purchase of land at Taranaki, and that you should cause a further investigation to be made as soon as possible;"—also stating that "a large number of natives would be set aside by me (namely, those who were absent, or in captivity at the time their lands were said to have been sold), whose claims you felt bound to recognise and maintain." By the same post I had the honor to receive a letter from your Excellency, requesting "me to meet you at Taranaki on the Ist October then following, and to have with me the evidence taken at my Court in June last;" but wholly silent as to the fact of your Excellency having reversed my decision. . . . When your Excellency was pleased to disallow my judgment at Taranaki, I was in possession ot all the depositions of both Natives and Europeans, that had been taken in the case, from its commencement on the 16th June, 1842, to its close on the 7th June, 1844, During that period I had been engaged in investigating the other cases of the New Zealand Company ; had examined many witnesses of both laces and obtained various information upon native customs,'and the claims of the tribes in and about the Company's settlements,—many of which bore expressly upon the Taranaki question. Nevertheless, without having had the opportunity of seeing a line of the evidence, without consulting me upon the reasons for my decisions, or even intimating to me your intention, your Excellency was pleased to reverse my judgment—notwithstanding your Excellency's public declaration, of but a few months before, that I was the officer appointed by the Queen, to enquire into and decide finally upon all these questions. . __'.'_. Your Excellency has not been pleased to inform me what testimony or information obtained at Taranaki or elsewhere, induced your Excellency so suddenly to impugn and disallow my judgment. But I cannot forbear remarking that any such testimony or information must have been collected in the absence of three persons whose presence was most necessary on such an occasion,—namely, Mr. Protector Clarke, who for three years had been engaged in my Court as the official advocate of the natives,—the Principal Agent of the New Zealand Company, who during the same period had been occupied in supporting the claims of that body to land in this country,—and myself, the Commissioner to determine those claims who had presided at their investigation. Their presence, requisite at all times when any inquiry was to be made into any of these claims, was more than ever essential at any reconsideration of a case where your Excellency was about to reverse the decision, arrived at after a long and careful investigation by a duly constituted tribunal.

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Had Mr. Clarke, (whose zeal in advocating the interest of the aborigines cannot be questioned fo? a moment) entertained the idea that the returned slaves had any just or equitable claim to the land he surely ought to have brought forward such claim, and urged its recognition ; but his speech to tho natives on the close of the evidence, wherein he had expressed himself in strong terms, to the effect that I had afforded him every opportunity of bringing forward evidence on the part of the natives, affords abundant proof that Mr. Clarke held no such doctrine. * * * The only other point that it appears to me necessary to comment upon, is what appears in your Excellency's letter to Colonel Wakefield, as the ground upon which your"Excellency refused to confirm my decision, viz.,—That a large number of natives would be set aside by me, (namely, those who were absent or in captivity at the time their lands were said to be sold ;) whose claims your Excellency was bound to recognise and maintain. Now the evidence clearly establishes that when Richard Barrett purchased of the resident natives the block of land that I have awarded, as before so fully detailed and commented upon, none of these absentees or slaves were residing upon the land in question. The absentees who were driven away by the Waikato at the battle of Pukerangiora, which took place ten or eleven years ago, had utterly deserted the place to which they durst not return for fear of their conquerors," but had adopted other locations for their homes ; while the slaves who had been taken prisoners of war at the same battle were many of them living in a state of slavery with their conquerors at Waikato, at the time when the district was alienated by the resident natives. " The report (says Mr. Clarke's witness) reached us at Waikato that Ngamotu had been paid for by Richard Barrett.'' Neither the absentees or slaves returned again to the district until after the sale by the resident natives to Barrett, and by the Waikato to Governor Hobson. The question then which your Excellency has raised, turns upon whether slaves taken in war and natives driven away, and prevented by fear of their conquerors from returning, forfeit their claims to land owned by them previously to such conquest. And I most unhesitatingly affirm that all the information that I have been able to collect as to native customs, throughout the length and breadth of this land, has led me to believe and declare the forfeiture of such right by aborigines so situated. In fact I have always understood that this was a native customs fully established and recognized ; and 1 never recollect to have heard it questioned until your Excellency was pleased in the present instance to put forward a contrary doctrine. Since that time I have made every further enquiry in my power amongst competent and disinterested persons, whose testimony has fully confirmed my original opinion. I enclose a copy of a letter upon this subject received from the Rev. Mr. Ironside, a Wesleyan Missionary, who has been many_ years residing in New Zealand, and is well acquainted with "the. Taranaki Natives, and whose opinion is entitled to weight. I am fully of opinion that the admission of the right of slaves who had been absent for a long period of years, to return at any time, and claim their right to land that had belonged to them previously to their being taken prisoners of war, and which before their return, and when they were in slavery, had been sold by the conquerors and resident natives to third pariies, would establish a most dangerous doctrine, calculated to throw doubts upon almost [every European title to land in this country, not even excepting some of the purchases made by the Crown ; would constantly expose every title to be questioned by any returned slave who might assert a former right to the land, let the period be ever so remote ; and would prove a source of endless litigation and disagreement between the two races, a result which must soon stop the progress of civilization amongst the Natives, so essential to their amelioration. Let it be remembered that in my award to the Company I have excepted all the pas, cultivations and burying-grounds of the Natives ; and that they have also 6000 acres of Native reserves ; so that in fact their condition is in every way benefited, and they are not deprived of any land whatever that their wants require, while the Company only acquire waste land. It will always be a source to me of deep regret that I have had the misfortune to differ with your Excellency upon this very important case. Considering, however, the high trust reposed in me when I was charged by my Sovereign with such an important commission in this distant land, admitting at the same time the difficulties and perplexities which have met me at every step in its with the most sincere desire to perform my duty honestly and justly, aud with a due regard to the oath I have taken so to do, I can come to no other conclusion than that the Company is fairly and justly entitled to the whole block of sixty thousand acres of land ; and, therefore, I, William Spain, Her Majesty's Commissioner for investigating and determining titles and claims to land in New Zealand, do hereby determine and award, that upon payment by the New Zealand Company of Two hundred pounds sterling, to His Excellency the Governor of New Zealand, to be'applied for the benefit of the resident Natives of the District of New Plymouth, in any way His Excellency may think best calculated to promote their interests, the Directors" of the New Zealand Company, of London, and their successors, are entitled to a Crown Grant of a block of sixty thousand (60,000) acres of land, situate, lying, and being in the district or settlement of New Plymouth, or Taranaki, in the Northern Division of New Zealand : Which said block of land commences on the north side'of the Sugar Loaf Islands, and extends in a northerly direction to a place called Taniwa, and which said block of land is more particularly delineated and set forth upon the accompanying plan, No. 9. Saving and always excepting, as follows :—All the pas, burying-places, and grounds actually in cultivation by the Natives, situate within any part of the before-described block of land hereby awarded to_ the New Zealand Company, as aforesaid, the limits of the pas to be the grounds fenced in around their Native houses, including the ground in cultivation or occupation around the adjoining houses, without the fence, and cultivations as those tracts of country which are now used by the

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Natives for vegetable productions, or which have been so used by the aboriginal Natives of New Zealand since the establishment of the Colony. And also excepting all the Native reserves, equal to one-tenth of the sixty thousand acres hereby awarded to the said Company, part of which said Native reserves have already been chosen, and are marked yellow upon the said district hereinbefore referred to, and the remainder of such reserves are to be chosen according to the rate of one choice in ten, as fully explained to the resident Agent of the New Zealand Company in my letter to him under date the 18th of June, 1845, forming enclosure No. 7 of this report : And also excepting all that piece of land containing one hundred acres reserved by the Natives at the time of sale to the New Zealand Company, for the Wesleyan Mission Station, which said piece of land is delineated and set forth upon the said plan of the district, and also upon the plan herewith enclosed, No. 10 : And also excepting all that piece of land containing eighty acres, and all that piece of land containing one hundred acres, being sections 23 and 37, which have been reserved for Richard Barrett, his wife, and children, which said two pieces of land are delineated and set forth upon the said plan of the district, and also upon the plan herewith enclosed, No 11 : And also excepting any portions of land within any part of the block of land hereinbefore described, and hereby awarded to the said Company, to which private claimants have already or may hereafter prove before the Commissioner of Land Claims a title prior to the purchase by the New Zealand Company.

No. I|. DESPATCH FROM THE SECRETARY OF STATE TO GOVERNOR SIR GEORGE GREY, DATED 2ND JULY, 1846. Downing Street, 2nd July, 1846. Sir, — I have received Governor Fitaßoy's despatch, marked Separate, of the 29th of October last, enclosing a copy of a letter addressed to the Colonial Secretary by the principal agent of the New Zealand Company. Captain Fitzßoy states that letter to have been forwarded by him as it might be required for reference in connection with the arrangements made at New Plymouth. From that letter it appears that Colonel Wakefield, adverting to the arrangement entered into by the Company with the Government in the year 1840, for the purchase of land at New Plymouth, and to the award of Mr. Commissioner Spain, which had been overruled by Captain Fitzroy, had refused to accept on the part of the Company the Title Deeds to 3500 acres of land at that settlement. I cannot but express my great surprise and regret at not having been placed by Captain Fitzßoy in possession of a full report of the course which he pursued in this case, and of his reason* for that course. I, however, indulge the hope that you may have found yourself in a condition to give effect to the award of Mr. Spain in the case of the Company's claims at New Plymouth ; and, in any case, I rely on your endeavours to gain that end, so far as you may have found it practicable, unless, indeed, which I can hardly think probable, you may have seen reason to believe that the reversal of the Commissioner's judgment was a wise and just measure. I have, &c., W. E. Gladstone. Governor Grey ? &c., &c.

No. 15. DESPATCH FROM GOVERNOR SIR GEORGE GREY TO THE SECRETARY OF STATE, DATED NEW PLYMOUTH, 2ND MARCH, 1847. New Plymouth, New Zealand, March 2nd, 1847. My Lord, — In the course of yesterday and this day, I have had interviews with several bodies of Natives upon the subject of the claims of European subjects of Her Majesty to various tracts of land in the district, and I regret to state that the majority of these interviews have been of the most unsatisfactory nature. It will be in your Lordship's recollection that Mr. Commissioner Spain, who was specially appointed in England for the purpose of investigating claims to land in New Zealand, after minute inquiries made upon the spot, decided that a tract of 60 000 acres of land bad been purchased at Taranaki, in a bona fide manner, for the use of British subjects, f-übsequently to this decision of the Commissioner, my predecessor thought proper to set aside the award that had been made, because (as I understood his decision) the claims of certain absentee Native proprietors had not been extinguished at the time the original payment was made. My predecessor entered, upon this account, as I believe, into a new arrangement, by which a block of about only 3,500 acres was immediately secured to the Europeans. But Ido not understand, nor can I think, that he intended that the original purchase should be set aside, in as far as

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those Natives were concerned who had originally sold their land in a bona fide manner, and received payment for it. To my surprise, however, yesterday some of the Natives, who were the parties to the original sale, and who had been amply paid for the land they had disposed of, informed me that they intended to stand by my predecessor's arrangement, and to repudiate the first transaction, and that they would neither permit the Europeans to occupy the land they had sold them, nor would they even do so upon receiving another payment; but they insisted upon the Europeans confining themselves to the block of 3,500 acres. In ttie same manner the majority of the Natives whom I have seen to-day (none of whom were parties to the original sales, but were principally the inhabitants of Waikanae and the country in its vicinity) stated, in the first instance, that they could not, upon any terms, permit the Europeans to move beyond the block of 3,500 acres. And, upon my pointing out that they were actual occupants of large tracts of land along Cook's Straits, that they did not use any land in the neighbourhood of Taranaki, and that they could not remain here upon account of their enemies, if it were not for the presence of the Europeans, they stated that some of them intended to come and live here themselves, and that they had plenty of Europeans here. I then pointed out to them that the great majority of them had not, until recently, advanced any claim to this land although they were quite aware that the Europeans intended to purchase it (which they had even recommended them to do), as also that the Europeans had eventually bought it and occupied it; after which they had opened up the country by roads, built houses, cultivated lands, &c, and spent large sums in the improvement of the district; and that, when this had all been done, the Natives put forward their claims, and turned the Europeans off. They merely replied that it was their land, and they would do as they thought proper with it. One of their leading men then asked me some questions respecting a section of 50 acres, occupied by a Mr. Flight, which lies without the block of 3,500 acres, and asked me where 1 intended Mr. Flight should settle? I answered that he was already settled. He then asked me when I intended to compel Mr. Flight to retire within the 3,500 actes ? I answered, Not at all ; but that if any Native had a claim upon Mr. Flight's section of land, he should be compensated ; but that, as the claim had not been advanced until Mr. Flight had occupied the ground, and expended a considerable sum in clearing and cultivating it, I could not permit him to be disturbed. He replied, Very well ; but that all the Native claimants must be satisfied, and have a good payment, as these hitherto had been very insufficient, and that the payment I made in this instance would be considered as a sign of my good intentions for the future. I then asked Shim how many persons might expect to be paid for this small portion of land ? He replied, that they had arranged that 200 men should be paid. In fact, it is quite clear that, relying upon their great numerical superiority, and anxious to maintain this, they had determined to allow no more Europeans to £come amongst them. At the same time I found the settlers in a state of great distress ; many of them who had brought large capital with them from England, have now expended the whole of their money, waiting in the vain expectation that they would at last be permitted to occupy their land ; and living from year to year upon that capital which was intended to render their land productive, and which, having been now all wasted, will render their land comparatively valueless when it is obtained for them. The numerous complaints made by the settlers, and the bearing and conduct of the Natives themselves, convinced me that the Natives of a portion of this district regard the Europeans as, in every respect, in their power, and as persons who must submit to their caprice. I thought it proper, therefore, at once to assume a high tone to them, and to acquaint them that I intended ultimately to carry out the arrangement, the terms of which I would acquaint thetn with. Before detailing the terms of this arrangement to your Lordship, I think it as well briefly to recapitulate the facts of the case, which led me to form the decision I did. This country was (as is shown from the remains of pahs and cultivations still visible) very densely populated about fifteen or twenty years since by the Ngatiawa tribe. They were attacked by the neighbouring Waikato tribe. A large number of them were destroyed, a large number of them led away captive, and the remaining portion of them abandoned their homes aud retreated to the country bordering on each side of Cook's Straits, which had previously, as far as the shores of the Northern Island are concerned, been nearly depopulated by a war party led down there by Waka Nene, and other Ngapuhi chiefs. Only a small portion of the Ngatiawa tribe, consisting of about forty men, returned to the homes of their fathers at Taranaki. Affairs were in this state when the European settlers came to Port Nicholson ; that place and the surrounding country was sold to them by the Ngatiawa tribe, who recommended the Europeans to go to Taranaki, and purchase land from the Natives resident there : they did so. European settlers then went to Taranaki ; the country was opened up by roads ; farms were formed ; and the Europeans at last formed a tolerable safeguard against the Waikato tribes. At this time, portions of the Ngstiawa tribe, who had been released from slavery, as well as those inhabiting Port Nicholson and Cook's Straits, feeling reassured by the presence of the Europeans, and regarding them as a protection against their former enemies, began to return to Taranaki, and soon finding themselves numerically superior to the Europeans, (who recently also had suffered some reverses at Wairau and elsewhere, so that their power was supposed to be on the decline,) they began to claim the whole district, and to turn the Europeans off their farms. Mr. Commissioner Spain, who was appointed to investigate these questions, came about this time to Taranaki, and, after inquiry, decided that a district of sixty thousand acres had been fairly purchased from the resident Natives. My predecessor, however, in the latter end of 1844, set aside the award of the Commissioner, and further stated, that he would recognise, in their fullest integrity, the claims of

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the absent members of the Ngatiawa tribe. He, at the same time, re-purchased a small portion (about 3,500 acres) of the district awarded by Mr. Spain, and notified that the remaining portion of the tract of land claimed, was in like manner to be re-purchased. He also required several European settlers to abandon their farms, and to move within the block, paying them a trifling compensation for the loss and injury to which they were subjected. Since that time, various individuals of the Ngatiawa tribe, (which is a very numerous tribe) anxious to share in the expected payment, have been locating themselves temporarily at Taranaki; and every separate family of the tribe has been sending up some persons to look after their interests. These individuals have been quarrelling amongst themselves, regarding their respective claims ; and in order that there might be much to pay for, have prevented the Europeans occupying any additional land, although many hundred thousand acres of the richest soil are lying perfectly neglected and useless, whilst many European families have been left in comparative want. Indeed, the inability of the Natives to adjust their respective claims now makes them unwilling to allow the land to be sold at all, and they constantly assert that those Natives who wish to sell land have no right to dispose of it. ITpon taking a review of the whole of these circumstances, together with our isolated and weak position in this portion of New Zealand, the only arrangement I thought could be advantageously made was, to acquaint the Natives that I should order, in the first place, that the most ample reserves for their present and future wants should be marked off for the resident Natives, as well as for those who were likely to return to Taranaki ; but that the remaining portion of the country in that district should be resumed for the Crown, and for the use of the Europeans ; that, in the fulfilment of the promises made by my predecessor, the value of the resumed land, in its wild and defenceless state, should be assessed by a Commissioner, and that a Court should then be appointed to inquire into the Native titles to the whole, or portions of the district so resumed ; and that those Natives who established valid claims to any parts of it, should receive the corresponding portions of the payment to which they would become entitled. But very few of the Natives seemed disposed to assent to this arrangement ; but they distinctly understood that it was my intention to enforce it. I trust that it may meet with your Lordship's, approval, as the best which could, under circumstances of such difficulty, be made, and as one which, whilst it ensures the interests of Her Majesty's European subjects, inflicts no injury on Her Majesty's subjects of the Native race ; although I fear that these latter, now that their cupidity ha 3 been so strongly excited, may, if they think they are strong enough, endeavour to resist it by force of arms. I have, &c, G. Grey. Tne Right Hon. Earl Grey, &c, &c, &c. p.S,—I have the satisfaction of being able to state to your Lordship, that, since writing the foregoing despatch, I have ascertained that the whole of the Ngatiawa tribe, with the exception of one family of it, named Puketapu, have assented to the arrangement detailed in this despatch, and that several European settlers have already been put in possession of their lands. I have now every hope that the Puketapu family will shortly follow the example of the rest of the tribe. I think that a consideration of their own interests will lead them to take this step ; but should they adopt any hostile proceedings against the settlers, their influence is so trifling, that they cannot cause any great amount of mischief, although certainly they may occasion great expense and trouble to the Government. I will in the meantime, take care that every precaution for the protection of the settlers is adopted. G. G.

No. 16. DESPATCH FROM GOVERNOR SIR GEORGE GREY TO SECRETARY OF STATE, DATED STH APRIL, 1847. Government House, Auckland, April sth, 1847. My Lord,— Adverting to Mr. Gladstone's despatch, No. 37, of 2nd July, 1846, directing me to do my utmost to procure for the New Zealand Company the block of land at Taranaki to which in the terms of Mr. Commissioner Spain's award they were entitled, but which award had been set aside by my predecessor, and referring at the same time to my despatch, No. 26, of the 2nd ultimo, on the subject of the land question at Taranaki, I have now the honor to enclose a copy of the memorandum of instructions which I gave to Mr. McLean, the officer whom I appointed to carry out the arrangement which I intended to adopt for the adjustment of the disputes relative to land at New Plymouth. I trust that the course 1 have pursued in this case may be satisfactory to your Lordship. The matter was beset with difficulties, and was complicated in an extraordinary degree. Your Lordship will perceive that in this, as in the other similar cases, the portion of the purchasemonev to be refunded by the New Zealand Company will hereafter have to be decided by Her Majesty's Government ; but this case will be embarrassed by one peculiarity—in all other purchases which I have made for the Company, the Commissioner appointed by Her Majesty's Government to inquire into the Company's titles to land decided that they had not purchased the districts they claimed ; but in the ease of Taranaki, he decided that the Company were entitled.to a Crown Grant for 60,000 acres

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of land in that district with certain exceptions. I have, in all cases, enforced Mr. Commissioner Spain's decisions when they were adverse to the Neiv Zealand Company, and it therefore remains to be considered whether they are entitled to the benefit of this decision of Mr. Spain in their favour. If this question should be decided in favour of the Company, then it will have to be determined whether the Government should, or should not, pay the sum which must be expended in repurchasing the tract of land awarded to the New Zealand Company at Taranaki, as this repurchase has been rendered necessary by the fact of my predecessor having set aside Mr. Commissioner Spain's award, Practically, this question may not be one of very great importance, for I have never in any part of the world seen such extensive tracts of fertile and unoccupied land as at Taranaki. I have, therefore, but little doubt that so large a tract of country will ultimately be purchased by the Government in that District for a comparatively small sum, and that the lands required by the New Zealand Company will bear but a very small proportion to the whole district acquired by Government. I have, &c, G. Grey. The Right Hon. Earl Grey, &c., &c, &c.

No. 17. instructions from governor sir george grey to commissioner m'lean, dated sth march, 1847. March 5, 1847. 1. Mr, Commissioner Spain reported, that the New Zealand Company were entitled to a Crown Grant of a block of 60,000 acres, lying within certain defined limits. 2. The Governor (Captain Fitzroy), did not take the same view of the question as Mr. Spain, and would not confirm that gentleman's award ; on the contrary, in November, 1844, he sanctioned a totally new purchase of a small block of land, of 3,500 acres, by the Agent of the New Zealand Company, and he made certain promises to the Natives, which have induced many of them to return to lands which, they state, they understood Captain Fitzroy to guarantee to them in permanent possession ; on these lands they have now extensive pahs and cultivations included in the block awarded by Mr. Spain. 3. Thus, on the one hand, the New Zealand Company claim the rights (il any) which they may have acquired under Mr. Spain's award ; while, on the other hand, the Natives claim the disallowance of that award by the Governor, the rights which the late Governor promised to maintain to them in all their integrity, and the fact of their present occupation of the land under the sanction of the Governor. 4. It is proposed to evade, in as far as practicable, the various difficulties which have arisen under these conflicting circumstances, by, in the first place, reserving to the several tribes who claim land in this district tracts which will amply suffice for their present and future wants ; and 2ndly, resuming the remaining portion of the district for the European population, and when the extent of the land so resumed has been ascertained, to determine what price shall be paid to the Natives for it; this amount not to be paid at once, but in annual instalments, extending over a period of three or four years; at the end of which time it may be calculated that the lands reserved for the Natives will have become so valuable as to yield them some income, in addition to the produce raised from those portions of them which they cultivate. 5. Every effort should be made to acquire for the European population those tracts of land which were awarded to the New Zealand Company by Mr. Spain ; and where blocks are reserved for the Natives within these limits, porcions of land of equal extent (greater, if possible,) must be purchased without the limits for the New Zealand Company. 6. If possible, the total amount of land resumed for the Europeans should be from 60,000 to 70,000 acres ; a grant of this tract of land will then be offered by the Government to the Company. 7. The price paid for any portion of land should not, under any circumstances, exceed Is. 6d. per acre, and the average price should be below this amount. The greatest economy on this subject is necessary. 8. No time should be lost in completing these arrangements. 9. Two surveyors and parties, upon the most economical scale, must be engaged for this purpose. The police should, in as far as practicable, be employed on it. 10. This arrangement should be carried out, in the first instance, with those parties who have given their assent to it, including the Natives who have offered a tract of land for sale to the south of the Sugar Loaves. 11. Where land without the block awarded by Mr. Spain is now acquired, and required for immediate use by the Company's settlers, sections must be surveyed io-- them. 12. Those Natives who refuse to assent to this arrangement must distinctly understand that the Government do not admit that they are the true owners of the land they have recently thought proper to occupy. 13. Mr. McLean is intrusted with the conduct of these arrangements, but in all matters of importance he must consult with Captain King, and acquaint him with the steps which he proposes to take. .

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14. In reserving the blocks intended for the Natives, the surveyed lines of the Company should, in as far as practicable, be observed ; but, whenever there is a necessity for a departure from this course, the lines must be run as Mr. McLean thinks proper. G. Grey. March 5, 1857.

No. 18. EXTRACT FROM LETTER OF THE SUPERINTENDENT OF THE SOUTHERN DIVISION TO GOVERNOR SIR GEORGE GREY, DATED 26TH JULY, 1847. Wellington, July 26, 1847. When I was up the coast last week, I was met at Waikanae by a large concourse of the Ngatiawa tribe, including " William King," and many of the most influential Chiefs, to whom I made known your Excellency's views relative to their meditated move to Taranaki, and was much gratified to find that no disposition existed, on their part, to act in opposition to them ; their demeanour was quiet, respectful, and exhibited no symptom of annoyance with, or resistance to, the Government. " William King" stated, that although they were still bent upon going to that district, yet they repudiated the idea of doing so by stealth, or before consulting with the Governor, and learning the time he would permit of their removal ; adding, that the Ngatiawa tribe had always been friendly to the Europeans, and it was their desire to continue on the same amicable terms they have hitherto been. I, however, much incline to the opinion, that the mig-ation, if it ever takes place, will be very partial, probably merely " William King," and his followers, as I found many indifferent, and some altogether averse, to leaving Waikanae. At Queen Charlotte's Sound, also, it appears the principal Chief, " Robert," has not yet given bis consent, and, in this neighbourhood, the Ngatiawas are cultivating as usual, and now show no symptom of moving. " William King," on behalf of those at Waikanae, urged strongly the purchase by Government of the district, and when I mentioned that I did not think your Excellency contemplated making further purchases of land at present, they evinced the utmost anxiety (engendered no doubt by the scarcely concealed intention of the Ngatitoa tribe to take possession of the land when they leave it) that a promise should be given, if the Government did not wish to obtain the district when the time was decided upon for their departure, that they should be the parties negotiated -with, and to whom the purchase money should be paid, whenever it was considered expedient to srequire the land. M. Richmond.

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No. 19. COMMISSIONER M'LEAN'S LIST OF THE WAIKANAE EMIGRATION IN APRIL, 1848.

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Total. Intending to Settle at Name of Tribe. Name of Canoe. Principal men in Canoe. a <D a c is a 3 o $ a o Is i s r'i Forth of Waitara Ngatitama Ngatitama Takahurihuri - Nangaroa Rangikatatu - 5 5 Kurihanga - 5 2 5 5 5 2 2 2 NgatimutungaPuketapu Ngatirahiri Puketapu Tokekure Poterangi Marutangata - Vessel Kairuru E. Ru - .53 Kohika - - 5 6 Kotekamotakirau - 6 2 Te Ponga - - 20 21 TeNirihana- - 9 5 5 5 6 20 9 3 6 2 21 5 2 6 2 1 5 2 C 2 1 5 10 7 Ngatirahiri 16 45 18 - Mohia Karuruketerangi Kiriorakau Kakauiwa Kaikaka Boat Kaitonu - Ko Ongiongi - 7 8 Tntawa - - 9 7 Areno - - 9. 8 Governor Grey - 4 3 Nicodemus - - 6 3 Tekahinga - - C 5 7 9 9 4 6 C 8 7 8 3 3 5 2 1 5 1 3 2 2 1 5 1 3 2 Whakarangi 13 7 4 41 34 14 TeKaokao - - 13 7 13 7 4 .t Waitara Total North l of Waitara - - 109 66 86, Manukorihl - and Taranaki Manukorihi Taupaki Piritahataha Maroro » Wikitoria Marohopa Oropi Tipapa Taiarora Taumamata Kaupahanui Konenuku Ko E An Konotckateka - Apupji Makctu Pukawa Hen Hcu Hupipaipa Rauparaha Aratotara Boat Boat Louisa BoatPrinceAlbt. Tamakaikau On Horses TeHeke - - 4 4 Maika - - 5 2 Tararua - - 6 5 Euoka - - 5 4 Tamati - - 5 8 Te Bangui - - 6 7 Koane - - 3 3 E. Kaumu - - 5 1 E. Pero - - 6 5 William King .38 Maruiratimutu - 6 4 Puko Pomate - 4 1 W. Robert Taupi?!ga 4 1 Panua - - 2 2 Takaratahi - - 3 3 Kewai Tumihaka - 4 3 Hapimana - - 3 2 Wirihana - - 3 2 lhaia te Waripa - 3 3 Heke - - 5 10 Te Teira - - 2 2 Kawiri - - 3 4 Albert - - 3 5 Bamera - - 2 1 on 1 4 5 6 5 5 6 3 5 6 3 6 4 4 2 3 4 3 3 3 5 2 3 3 2 20 4 2 5 4 8 7 3 1 5 8 4 1 1 2 3 3 2 2 3 10 2 4 5 1 1 1 2 3 4 1 6 5 "4 3 4 1 3 1 1 2 3 4 3 3 2 2 1 2 3 4 1 6 5 4 3 4 1 ■ - 3 1 1 2 3 4 3 3 2 2 20 1 Total at W faitara; - - 115 91 58 Between Waitara and New Plymouth. Puketapu Wakaane Okatarewa Pawakawa Martin Luther - 9 4 Patikita - 6 3 Henry - - 6 4 9 6 6 4 3 4 4 1 4 4 1 4 Total between Wait tara and New Plymouth 21 11 9 South of New Plymouth. Taranaki Ngatiruanui - Kekenui Ruapaiioa Maratuahu Te Nnru Harawangi Horopapera - 5 3 0. Hua - - 5 6 Haia - - 4 4 Petua - 4 3 Herewene - 3 4 5 5 4 4 3 3 6 4 3 4 3 2 4 3 2 4 2 3 2 21 20 10 Te Eaho Tu 1'uruatainuiRongotekateka - Paura - - 2 2 Reweti - -33 Orumene - 2 2 2 3 2 2 3 1 2 3 1 7 7 6 1 Total Soutl h of New Plymouth - 28 27 16 Total Natives ren noving to Taranaki - 273 195 119 Sl'Mmast : — North of A At Waitai Between A South of 1 Waitara - ra - PVaitara and Now Plymouth - Sew Plymouth 109 115 21 28 66 91 11 27 36 58 9 16 Total 273 195 119

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General Total. Men - 273 Women ... 195 Children - - - 119 Total - - 587 Donald M'Lean.

No. 20. DONALD MCLEAH, ESQ., TO THE HONORABLE THE COLONIAL SECRETARY, NEW ULSTER. Taranaki, New Plymouth, September 20th, 1848. Sir,— I have the honor to acquaint you, for the information of His Excellency the Governor-in-Chief with Native proceedings, and other matters connected with this District. ! Within the last last few days, Mr. Flight, who is settled at Mangoraka, has been warned in amost peremptory and determined manner by Parata Te Huia, Iharaira, and Tamati Waka, to leave his section, on which he has made several improvements, having been established there since his arrival in the Colony, about six years ago. It appears that these improvements have been for some time coveted by the Natives, although the principal reasons openly acknowledged by them for these proceedings are, — First, That Mr. Flight has had the use of their land for six years, without their receiving any payment. Second, That he allowed his cattle and pigs to run at large over their crops without giving them any remuneration. Third, That he had lately taken a considerable increase of stock to his place, intending to depasture them over their land. Mr. Flight, in reasoning with the Natives, told them he had remained there in accordance with their own desire, when the other settlers were removed into the purchased lands ; that it was therefore a hard case they should now be insisting on his removal, without even granting him time to remain till his rising crops are off the ground. I have inquired into these circumstances, and find that some injury has been sustained by the Natives from Mr. Flight's stock, for which they decline receiving any compensation, fearing, no doubt, their doing so might compromise their right to insist on the removal of his stock. Subsequently, the Natives were induced to allow Mr. Flight to remain till his crops were off the ground, provided he sends his pigs and other cattle elsewhere. This Mr. Flight has agreed to do, and to leave the section when his crops are ready for removal, I am, however, apprehensive that even with this understanding Mr. Flight may be subjected to various annoyances while he remains there ; the Natives have already made demonstrations of an offensive nature, by collecting timber for the erection of a pa near his house, and appropriating the uncropped land on his section to their own use. The removal of Mr. Cooke has also been threatened, but the Natives generally in his neighbourhood are not actuated by this unfavourable disposition which appears to be confined to a Native named Iharaira, whose dissatisfaction arises from not receiving a share of the payment recently made by Mr. Bell, the Company's Agent, for that land. Iharaira was on a visit to Auckland when the purchase was made ; his claim is not extensive, and I do not consider that he will succeed m gaining many supporters in annoying Mr. Cooke. The chief difficulty I apprehend Mr. Cooke may have with the Natives, is likely to arise from his keeping, in addition to his own cattle, those of other persons on the Native lands in his vicinity. To this the Natives have objected, and they request that Mr. Cooke should confine himself to the keeping of his own cattle. Anticipating the many difficulties that must result from running cattle on lands not acquired from the Natives, particularly where they have numerous cultivations, I have deemed it advisable to intimate both to Mr. Cooke and Mr. Flight my apprehension that grazing a numerous herd of cattle in the Puketapu country would be the means of involving them in continual difficulties with the Natives, and of operating materially against the Government and Company in effecting future purchases of land in that quarter. Of course, these gentlemen are aware that giving any remuneration to Natives for the right of pasturage is at variance with the Land Purchase Ordinance, Session 7, No. 19. Mr. Halge, Resident Agent of the New Zealand Company, has endeavoured to further the negotiations entered into by the late Agent, Mr. Bell, with the Puketapu Natives, for a small block of land, but as yet his efforts have not so far succeeded as to enable him to place the matter for final investigation and completion in the hands of the Government. I discern at present but little prospect of acquiring land from the Puketapus, on which settlers could live with any degree of security. Notwithstanding, however, the unfavourable disposition exhibited by this portion of the Natives, I may be permitted to observe that with a considerably augmented Police Force, to be principally composed of Natives selected from different parts of the country, many of our difficulties in acquiring land, as well as in maintaining the peace of the District would gradually disappear, (especially if it were contemporaneous with an increase of emigration from Europe).

Certain Natives have peremtorily warned Mr. Flight to remove from ' the section occupied by ; him.

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COMMISSIONERS' REPORTS.

In paying the second instalment for a block of land at Taranaki, I encountered some difficulty with fresh claimants who have returned from different parts of the country, but more especially with a Native named Paratene Te Kopara, from the Bay of Islands. This difficulty, however, has been removed. The Ngamotu tribe advanced a claim for a share of the second instalment due on the 30th ult. to the Taranaki Natives for the Omata block of twelve thousand acres. I requested the Ngamotu Natives to state their claims when the land was first purchased. This they declined, although they attended the meeting of the Taranaki tribe when the first payment was made. The Ngamotu people were informed that I could not enter into the merits of claims not openly adduced when the land was purchased, and therefore their best course would be to arrange the matter with the Taranaki tribe. After a long and tedious discussion between the tribes, I decided on handing the whole of the instalment to the Taranaki people. The Ngamotu Natives (including several of their absentee relatives, recently returned to this District,) are in this instance provided for by having one hundred acres of land surveyed for them, out of a reserve of four hundred acres made in the Omata purchase, which arrangement is likely to set this difficulty at rest. lam glad to observe that the settlers with the exception of a Mr. St. George, have experienced no difficulty in taking possession of their sections, and the interruption to Mr. St. George was occasioned by some Native cultivations on the land he has chosen, and is not likely to be repeated. The lands that have been acquired under His Excellency's instructions of 1847 are proving of the utmost advantage to the settlement. Upwards of three thousand acres, satisfying claims against the New Zealand Company to the extent of nearly four thousand pounds, have been selected in the Grey and Omata blocks. The settlers find the land in these purchases, especially as they retreat into the forest, to be much superior to their anticipations. In fact, there seems to be small range of choice for the agriculturist in this beautiful and fertile District, the land being almost uniformly of an excellent character. William King and party are at the Ngamu, about forty miles south of New Plymouth ; when they are likely to arrive at Waitara it is impossible to say. I have, he, Donald McLean. The Honorable the Colonial Secretary, Auckland.

No. 21. DONALD MCLEAN, ESQ., TO THE HONORABLE THE COLONIAL SECRETARY, NEW MUNSTER. Taranaki, October 24th, 1848. Sir,— I have the honor to acquaint you, for the information of His Excellency the Lieutenant Governor, that by yesterday's overland mail from Auckland I was instructed, by direction of His Excellency the Governor-in-Chief, to remain at New Plymouth iv consequence of some difficulties that have arisen with Messrs. Flight and Devenish respecting the occupation by them of a section of land at Mangoraka, which is claimed by the Natives, unless those difficulties were terminated, notwithstanding the orders which were sent to me from Wellington ; and in the event of my having to remain at New Plymouth, I am further directed to immediately report the circumstances to the authorities at Auckland and Wellington. I therefore take the earliest opportunity of communicating that some difficulties still exist with the Natives and Mr. Flight, which, I trust, will soon be removed, I should also observe that up to the present date I have not received any instructions from Wellington as intimated in the letter above referred to. I have, &c., Donald McLean. The Honorable Colonial Secretary, &c, &c, Wellington.

Hag been instructed by the Goveruor-in-Chief to remain at Taranaki,

No. 22. DONALD MCLEAN, ESQ., TO THE HONORABLE THE COLONIAL SECRETARY, NEW ULSTER. Taranaki, New Plymouth, October 24th, 1848: Sir,— I have the honor to acquaint you, for the information of His Excellency the Governor-in-I Chief, that I intend proceeding to-morrow to Warea, twenty-five miles south of this settlement, to meet William King's party, who are at present encamped there. I perceive that the Natives who are annoying Mr. Flight, and others of distinct tribes, who manifest a similar disposition, are deriving

Intends to visit Wiremu Kingi at Warea relative to annoyances experienced ] b y Mr, Flight, .

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considerable confidence from the anticipation that they will be countenanced in their proceedings by William King ; they also, no doubt, presume on their greatly increasing preponderance in strength and numbers to the English population. I have, however, reason to hope that these Natives will be disappointed in their expectations. I ascertained as recently as Friday last from Matthew, a brother of William King, and from other Natives who have come up the coast, that the sentiments expressed by that Chief and the majority of his tribe are of a peaceful nature, and that they are looking forward with anxiety and satisfaction to the expected visit of His Excellency the Governor-in-Chief to this settlement. I have, &c, Donald McLean. The Honorable the Colonial Secretary, Auckland.

No. 23. DONALD MCLEAN, ESQ., TO THE HONORABLE THE COLONIAL SECRETARY, NEW ULSTER, Taranaki, New Plymouth, October 24th, 1848. Sir,— ... . ] I have the honor to acquaint you, for the information of His Excellency the Governor-in- ( Chief, that Katatore, a Native of the Puketapu tribe, who has lately returned from a visit to t Wellington, where he has had several interviews with His Excellency, appears very much altered 5 and improved in his conduct, and expresses a desire that Mr. Flight and his family should remain at Mangoraka on the land which Parata, Tamati Waka, and Iharaira still seem determined he should abandon after his crops are removed. I have encouraged, as much as possible, the friendly disposition of this Native, and hoped that he would have moderated the opposition of the above-named Natives to Mr. Flight's remaining on his land. He has certainly used his best efforts to do so, which have not yet proved successful, although among several of the Natives he has created more favourable feeling towards Mr. Flight. From the isolated position of Mr. Flight's place, I was anxious to ascertain what security Katatore could extend to him to prevent the aggressions of the turbulent members of the Puketapu tribe if he remained there. Katatore's reply was, that however much he desired to protect Mr. Flight, he could not do so at all times ; but be remarked, in the usual way the Natives have of expressing themselves on such subjects, that Mr. Flight must protect himself and keep his land ; that it was kapai or good, that Mr. Flight should be killed infighting for his land, as the Governor would surely have a large utu or payment for his life, or whatever injury he might sustain. Iharaira and another Native hearing that Katatore was making proposals that Mr. Flight should remain, and also that, he desired to receive payment for the section, protested strongly against Mr. Flight remaining there after his crops were fit for removal, and stated that Katatore had no claim whatever to the land. I went to Mr. Flight last week and explained to him the position in which I conceived he was placed with regard to the Natives, which would be thus, —that any premature negotiations for the purchase of his section would exasperate the Natives opposed to the sale of it, and who appeared to be the largest claimants, however anxious others might be to sell it; that revengeful feelings would in all probability arise which might unfortunately be turned against him and his family and render even his temporary occupation of the land more precarious than it now is. While at Mr. Flight's, Katatore and several of his party came there to know if I would purchase the section. I told him that before undertaking to do so the claimants must all be agreed about selling, and even then a representation of the case should be made to His Excellency before adopting any definite measures. In conversation with Katatore, he remarked that the Huia and Iharaira had made use of expressions that were ominous of very bad intentions, and that their revengeful passions, roused by the assault on Witana Rangiera, as reported in my letters dated the 7th and 14th of August, had not yet subsided. On that occasion Iharaira endeavoured to excite the Natives to destroy Mr. Flight and his family. I should not have deemed it necessary to allude to such a remote occurrence as that assault, were it not that it bears on subsequent events which I consider it my duty to bring fully under His Excellency's notice. I have, &c, Donald McLean. The Honorable the Colonial Secretary, Auckland. P.S.—I have communicated both verbally and by letter the particulars connected with Mr. Flight's case to the Resident Magistrate, who has signified his approval of my proceedings with respect to Katatore's proposal. Donald McLean.

Reporting the good conduct of Katatore relative to the threats of annoyance to Mr, Flight,

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COMMISSIONERS' REPORTS

No. 24. DONALD MCLEAN, ESQ., TO THE RESIDENT MAGISTRATE, NEW PLYMOUTH. Taranaki, November 27th, 1848. Sir, — I have the honor to report to you that, at the meeting of the Puketapu tribe at which you were present, on the 24th instant, I obtained the signatures of the Natives whose names are inserted in the margin to the Deed of Conveyance for Mr. CooKe's section of land at the Hua. One of the claimants named Mohi, who was a party to the sale, is absent at Wellington. I shall bear in mind the necessity of having his signature when an opportunity occurs. A Native named Iharaira lays claim to a portion of Mr. Cooke's land, and has, in several instances, threatened to resume his occupation of the part he claims, which, I believe, is of very small extent, nevertheless as an outstanding claim it may occasion annoyance, especially if this Native, who is a troublesome character, can influence dissatisfied absentees, of which we have so many continually returning to the district, to assist him in asserting his right. I would be inclined to recommend his receiving a payment were it not that I fear it would be introducing a most dangerous precedent to give another payment for so small a piece of land for which the Natives have already received such liberal compensation, independent of the advantages they so frequently derive by employment from Mr. Cooke. If possible, I will induce the Natives, as they have received cattle as payment, to share some of the increase with the dissatisfied claimant or claimants who may hereafter present themselves. I beg to enclose for your information a translation of the Deed executed by you on the part of the Government which I have drawn up for Mr. Cooke's section ; on the original a plan of the boundaries of the land, as generally admitted to have been purchased, are represented. I have, &c, Donald McLean. Captain H. King, R.N., Magistrate.

HtlA. Reporting purchase of Mr. Cook's section at Te Hua from the Puketapu Tribe. Hare Parumere, Matui Huia, Hakopa Tikurangi Tai- ] kuha, j Hamiona Te Rangi, Te Ringaringa Rohopo-" hame E Kota 1 Hamioara Te Rau , Aperahama Tohuora Rumera Ngahere, I E Hemi Te Runga, I

No. 25. DONALD MCLEAN, ESQ., TO THE RESIDENT MAGISTRATE, NEW PLYMOUTH. Taranaki, 28th November, 1848. Sir, — In pursuance of your instructions, I have the honor to lay before you a report on the purchase of land commenced by Mr. Bell, the late resident Agent of the New Zealand Company, in the Puketapu district. Without delaying time to take a retrospective view of the circumstances which led to the acquisition of land at Puketapu, and the preliminary steps taken by the Government to facilitate this object, I shall at once proceed to state a few of the most essential facts connected with the purchase. Mr. Bell, under instructions from His Excellency the Governor-in-Chief, and aided by Rawiri, the Native policeman and son of Paora one of the principal chiefs of Pukeiapu, succeeded in surveying a block of land in that District, comprising (as shewn on the plan furnished to you by Mr. Bell) one thousand five hundred acres. On the said plan there is a memorandum of an agreement numerously signed by the Natives consenting to dispose of this land to the Government, but nothing is therein stated respecting the amount of compensation they were to receive for their land, of the value of which they entertained most extravagant ideas, which they apparently expected to realize. Out of the mass of contradictory evidence adduced on the subject of compensation at the meeting on the 24th instant, at which you were present, I cannot infer that the Natives agreed oil any specific sum. It is, however, stated that Mr. Bell proposed that they should receive Two hundred pounds in one instalment. This sum was construed by the Natives according to their mode of calculation into Four hundred pounds, to be paid in two instalments of £200 each. Other statements (throwing aside the extravagant and exaggerated ones made by Tamati Waka, whose evidence is not entitled to much consideration) are to the effect that they should receive three annual instalments of I/iOO each. It seems that different propositions were made to them, from which misunderstandings have arisen, rendering the essential part of the transaction very complicated. When I arrived at this settlement from Whanganui, in July last, the Natives, as you are aware, were under considerable excitement respecting the case of assault on Witana Rangiora, particularly the Puketapu tribe, all of whom, with the exception of Rawiri and his followers, stated their determination to entirely repudiate their engagements with Mr. Bell. I then had the honor to inform you verbally that I should use my endeavours to bring about an understanding to further this purchase, but that it would be injudicious to take any decided steps until William King and his party from the South who were on their way, arrived, as there were several Natives in his train who claimed portions of land in the block in question, and who, on their arrival here, might disturb any arrangements prematurely undertaken. Mr. Halse, the Company's Agent, endeavoured to further the negotiations of his predecessor, and

Bell Block. Reporting on the purchase of land commenced by Mr. Dillon Bell,

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assembled the Natives at his place for that purpose. Various exorbitant demands were then made by them for their land, and the meeting ended without any successful issue. These repeated attempts at negotiation produced great irritation and dissatisfaction among the tribes, and threatened to keep the friendly Natives in a perpetual state of agitation with those opposed to the sale of their land, thereby materially interfering with the peace of the District. With the view, therefore, of restoring tranquillity, and preventing the friendly Natives from alter ing their favorable disposition, desirous also of encouraging them in the further sale of their land, I am induced to recommend that the sum of £200 said to be promised to them by Mr. Bell, may be paid at once, if we can bring a majority of the claimants to any reasonable understanding respecting the transfer of their land ; as it is quite obvious that the present unsettled state of the question will prevent other Natives from offering their land for sale, and may operate against future negotiations. I have arrived at this conclusion after maturely considering the following obstacles which present themselves;— viz., that some discontented Natives and claimants to portions of land represented as paitially acquired by Mr. Bell, object to acquiesce in the sale. Therefore no Europeans could live with security on the land while these claimants are dissatisfied. Neither can it be transferred to the Company, as a final and satisfactory purchase, until these difficulties are arranged. On a general review of the whole case, I think you will agree with me that the land should be held in the hands of Government if paid for, until we have more time to deal with outstanding claimants who may not enter into the present arrangement, and by this means we shall be securing to a considerable extent the peace of the District by bringing the matter to some termination, besides promoting what appears imperatively necessary, that of opening up the field with the Natives who have recently arrived in the District for fresh negotiations. I have, &c, Donald McLean. Capt. H. King, R.N., Resident Magistrate, &c., &c., New Plymouth.

No. 26. DONALD MCLEAN, ESQ., TO THE HONORABLE THE COLONIAL SECRETARY, NEW ULSTER. Taranaki, New Plymouth, 11th September, 1849. Sir, — I have the honor to report to you, for the information of His Excellency the Governor-, in-chief, that the last instalment of One hundred pounds for the Omata district, of twelve thousand: acres, was paid to the Taranaki tribe on the 4th instant. < The Resident Magistrate, the New Zealand Company's resident Agent, and Messrs Wickstead and Cooke, Justices of the Peace, favoured me with their presence at Omata, to witness the payment and signatures of the Chiefs to the deed, and other documents connected with this transaction. Some days previous to the payment of this sum to the Natives, I sent for Tamati Wiremu Te Ngahuru, the principal Chief at Omata. to come to the Resident Magistrate's office, to hold a consultation with Captain King and myself, respecting the claims of absentee Natives to this purchase. Tamati Wiremu informed us that there were only four Natives absent, who could establish a legitimate claim to any portion of the land within the block sold by himself and his tribe, and that these four, giving their names, which I have duly entered, agreed that the whole of the last instalment should be paid to him and the resident Natives of the Taranaki tribe; in coroboration of his statement, he afterwards produced a letter from one of the absentee claimants, a copy of which, with its translation, is herewith enclosed. From the tenor of this letter, and the representations of other Natives besides Tamati Wiremu, Captain King and myself considered it unnecessary to reserve any portion of the last instalment for absentee claimants, although the deed of sale provides that the Governor, by his agent, may direct the absentees to be paid out of the total or stipulated amount of purchase money. Since the Omata district was acquired under His Kxcellency's instructions of March 1847, a large body of settlers have gone to reside there, and I am glad to find that they speak in favourable terms of the friendly conduct of the Taranaki tribe, from whom the land was purchased. The only interruption or annoyance experienced in that flourishing district has been occasioned by a few of .the Ngamotu tribe, including an absentee Chief and his" followers, recently returned to this district, who prevented one or two settlers from cultivating portions of their sections. I have seen some of the Ngamotu Natives yesterday on this subject, and intend holding a further meeting with them on Tuesday next, when I shall report through Captain King whatever arrangements I may be enabled to make for removing this difficulty. Herewith I beg to forward a copy and translation of a letter received within the last few days from the Chiefs at Nelson, respecting their claims in this district; some of the lands named by them lay south of the Sugar Loaves and Omata, and are as yet unpurchased..

Omata. The last instalment of £100, for 12,000 acres at* Omata has been paid,

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COMMISSIONERS' REPORTS

I have delayed replying to this letter until I have suggested to you, for His Excellency's consideration, whether it may not be advisable for me, when a favourable opportunity offers, to have His Excellency's permission to visit the Ngatiawa claimants at Nelson, and other bays in Cook's Straits, to ascertain the extent and position of their claims, so as to enable me to arrive at a probable estimate of the amount that may be required to entirely extinguish their rights to such lands as may be hereafter purchased from the resident Natives of this district. I have, &c, Donald McLean. The Honorable the Colonial Secretary, &c, &c, &c, Auckland.

No. 27. DONALD MCLEAN, ESQ., TO THE RESIDENT MAGISTRATE, NEW PLYMOUTH. New Plymouth, 13th Oct., 1849. Sib,— I have the honor to apply to you for a sum of Ten pounds for an absentee Chief named • Rawiri who has lately returned to this district, and who, with his followers, lays claim to several 'portions of land in the Omata purchase of twelve thousand (12,000) acres. Before bringing this subject before your notice, I have made various enquiries as to the extent and merits of Rawiri's claim ; and, from all I can learn on the subject, he seems fairly entitled to the amount of compensation above specified, although his rights have, from motives of jealousy, been entirely overlooked by the Taranaki tribe when they received the last instalment of One hundred pounds (£100) for this purchase. When we last discussed this subject verbally, you suggested that I should represent the case to Mr. Halse, the New Zealand Company agent, who fully acquiesced in the propriety of making this payment. I shall prepare a receipt for the signature of Rawiri and his followers, who I have requested to come before you on Monday next to the Police Office, when I hope it may be convenient for you to discharge their claim, I have, &c, Donald McLean. Captain H. King, R.N., Sub-Treasurer, New Plymouth.

Omata. An absentee Chief, Rawiri, inquests payment for his claims to Omata Block. V. Letter No, 26. ,

No. 28. DONALD MCLEAN, ESQ., TO THE RESIDENT AGENT OF THE NEW ZEALAND COMPANY, NEW PLYMOUTH. New Plymouth, 18th October, 1849. Sir,— In a conversation I had with you last week, I brought under your notice the claims of an absentee chief, lately returned to this distiict, named Rawiri Pekerangi, to certain portions of land in the Omata purchase of twelve thousand acres, for which claims, should you entertain them favourably on the part of the New Zealand Company, Captain King and myself propose to pay Rawiri and his followers a sum of Ten (£10) pounds. I informed Captain King that you fully acquiesced in the propriety of extinguishing this claim, as leaving it unsettled might hereafter occasion some annoyance to the settlers. I have now the honor to acquaint you that the above sum was paid to Rawiri on Tuesday last, when he signed a Deed surrendering all his claims not only to the lands owned by him within the Taranaki block, but also to all his rights of whatever extent or description within the several purchases made from the Natives at this settlement. I have, &c, Donald McLean. W. Haise, Esq., J.P., Resident Agent, New Zealand Company, New Plymouth.

Omata. rtelative to claims of Rawiri Pekerangi to portions of the Omata Block. V. Letter No. 27.

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No. 29. DONALD MCLEAN, ESQ., TO THE RESIDENT MAGISTRATE, NEW PLYMOUTH. New Plymouth, 19th October, 1849. Sir,— In compliance with your instructions, that the original Deeds for lands purchased from the Natives in this district should be forwarded by the next mail to Auckland, I herewith do myself the honour to hand them over to you for transmission. If you deem it advisable, I shall order a small wooden or tin case,* in which they may be placed for greater security and safety. For reference at the Settlement, copies and translations of the several deeds are duly entered in a book, which I am keeping expressly for that purpose. I should have sent the deeds as you suggested, direct to the Colonial Secretary, but, on after consideration it occurred to me, that documents of such importance had better be examined and passed through your own hands as the resident representative of Government. The deeds sent are — No. 1, November 1844, Conveyance of the Fitzroy block. No. 2, 11 th May, 1847, Conveyance of a block of land between the Timaru and Katikara rivers, at Tataraimaka. No. 3, 30th August, 1847, Deed of Conveyance by the Taranaki tribe for the Omata block of 12,000 acres. No. 4, 10th October, 1847, Deed of the resident Ngamotu Natives, conveying their claims to the " Grey" block of 9770 acres. No. 5, 12th April, 1848, Deed by absentee Natives of the Ngamotu tribe, residing at Wellington and Cook's Straits, relinquishing their claims to the " Fitzroy" and " Grey" blocks of land, respectively. No. 6, 24th November, 1848, Deed of Conveyance by the Puketapu Natives for lands situate near the Hua, in the occupation of John George Cooke, Esq. No. 7> 29th November, 1848, Deed by the Puketapu Natives, conveying about 15C0 acres of land. I shall feel much obliged by your acknowledging the receipt of the foregoing documents. I have, &c, Donald McLean. Captain H. King, R.N., Resident Magistrate, New Plymouth.

Handing over Deeds of Lands purchased in the Taranaki District.

No. 30. DONALD MCLEAN, ESQ., TO THE HONOURABLE THE COLONIAL SECRETARY, NEW ULSTER. Taranaki, New Plymouth, 23rd October, 1849. Sir, — I have the honor to report to you, for the information of His Excellency the Governor in Chief, that the last instalment of One hundred and twenty pounds (£120) for the Ngamotu block of nine thousand seven hundred and seventy acres, was handed over to the Natives on the 11 th instant, at a meeting held with them at the Resident Magistrate's office. This being the last payment due to the Natives of this district, for land purchased under His' Excellency's instructions of 1847, I have handed over to Captain King, for transmission to your office, the original deeds, seven in number, executed by the Natives since that period. I have, &c, Donald McLean. The Honorable the Colonial Secretary, Auckland.

Ngamotu ok Gebt Block. Has paid the Natires the final instalment of (£120) for the Ngamotu Block.

No. 31. DONALD MCLEAN, ESQ., TO THE HONORABLE THE COLONIAL SECRETARY, NEW ULSTER. Taranaki, New Plymouth, 23rd October, 1849. Sir, — I have the honor to acknowledge the receipt of your letter, No. 29, of the 3rd instant, desiring me to state, for the information of His Excellency the Governor, whether the Natives have : any objection to the purchase which has been made by the New Zealand Company of the block of Jand at New Plymouth,

The Puketapu tribe ep. pose the location of settlers upon a Block re* ceatly purchased.

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COMMISSIONERS' REPORTS

As far as I can learn, I am of opinion that the section of the Puketapu tribe, who are under Parata te Huia's influence, would prevent the peaceable occupation by European settlers of the block in question. On the other hand, a large majority of the claimants, including Pora and his followers, are most anxious to see the land sold by them possessed by Europeans, although they do not conceal their apprehension that it might be difficult to protect them against the aggression of Parata te Huia, whose feelings of animosity respecting this purchase it may require some time to extinguish. The resident agent of the New Zealand Company expresses a wish to place this block at the disposal of settlers for selection, but I have apprized him that I could not recommend the Government to sanction, for the reasons above stated, its being transferred to the Company for this purpose, as I consider it would be most imprudent to submit unprotected settlers to further provocation and annoyance from the Puketapu tribe, until some general arrangements can be effected for a more amicable acquisition of land in that direction, or at least until an understanding is effected with Parata te Huia, and others similarly disposed with him, respecting the block in question. I have, &c, Donald McLean. The Honorable the Colonial Secretary, Auckland.

No. 32. DONALD MCLEAN, ESQ., TO THE HONOURABLE THE COLONIAL SECRETARY, NEW ULSTER. Taranaki, New Plymouth, 31st October, 1849. . Sir, — F I have the honor to report to you, for the information of His Excellency the Governor, ; that I have found it necessary to recommend to Captain King and the resident agent of the New Zealand Company, that a sum of Ten pounds should be paid to an absentee Native Chief, lately returned from Queen Charlotte's Sound, named Rawiri Pekerangi, who, with several followers, claimed portions of land within the Omata purchase of twelve thousand acres (12,000 acres). The claims of this Chief were for some time disallowed by the Taranaki tribe, who represented themselves as the exclusive owners of the Omata district. I found, however, after careful investigation, Bawiri's claim so well established that I considered him entitled to the above amount of compensation, which extinguishes, as per deed of sale executed by him, all his rights of whatever extent or description within the several purchases made by the Government at New Plymouth. I herewith enclose copies of a correspondence between the resident agent of the Company and myself on the subject. For similar claims by an absentee named Rawiri Motutere, who owned portions of land in the Ngamotu purchases, I beg to enclose requisitions for articles supplied to him as a gratuity in consideration for the said claims, amounting to Two pounds and thirteen shillings. I shall feel obliged by your obtaining His Excellency's approval for the above expenditure. I have, &c, Donald McLean. The Honorable the Colonial Secretary, Auckland.

Omata. Reporting on claims of Rawiri -Pekerangi to the Omata Block. V, Letter No. 27.

No. 33. DONALD MCLEAN ESQ., TO THE RESIDENT MAGISTRATE, NEW PLYMOUTH. Taranaki, November 23rd, 1849. Sir,— I have the honour to acknowledge the receipt of your letter of yesterday's date, enclosing a copy of a letter from Mr. Richard Brown, complaining that Major Lloyd, who intends purchasing some sections of which Mr. Brown is Agent, was molested by Peter and other Natives residing at Waireka. On the 19th instant, I gave notice to the Waireka Natives to relinquish all their cultivations on the above sections, which they agreed to do, offering on the 22nd instant to dispose of their old fencing on the abandoned cultivations to Major Lloyd. Major Lloyd declined the offer, and, from what I can learn from that gentleman, he referred them to Mr. Brown, while he himself proceeded with his work on the section. Peter threatened if he was not paid for the fencing he would set fire to it, removing a firestick from Major Lloyd's fire as if to carry his threat into execution. He did not, however, interfere with the fencing, but set fire to a few straggling sticks which accidently burnt a small quantity of dry fern. I rebuked Peter, who is usually a quiet Native, for such conduct towards a stranger, who could not

Respecting annoyance to Major Llojd by Pita,, nd other Natives. I

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nnderstand the nature of his demands {or utu for fencing on land fairly purchased, and he expressed his sorrow for what had taken place, stating that he and the rest of the Waireka Natives would forthwith abandon all their cultivations and fencing on Major Lloyd's section. I have, &c, Donald McLean. Capt. King, R.N., Resident Magistrate, New Plymouth.

No. 34. DONALD MCLEAN, ESQ., TO THE HONORABLE THE COLONIAL SECRETARY, NEW ULSTER. Taranaki, December Ist, 1849. SIE, — I have the honor to acknowledge the receipt of your letter of the 19th ultimo, desiring me to state if the Natives have objections to any of the purchase of land made at Taranaki by the New Zealand Company, and if so, to state the particulars. I am not aware of any valid objection by the Natives to the following purchases effected by the Government for the New Zealand Company in this district. First, the Fitzroy block of three thousand five hundred acres, purchased in 1844. Second, the Tataraimaka cattle station of three thousand five hundred acres purchased in May, 1847, under His Excellency Governor Grey's instructions of sth March, 1847, which purchase has lately been further enlarged by the acquisition of five hundred acres as communicated in my report of the 20th ultimo. Third, the Omata block of about twelve thousand acres purchased from the Taranaki tribe as per deed of sale signed by them at New Plymouth in September, 1847. To some small portions of the Omata purchase claims have been adduced by the Ngamotu Natives and by an absentee Chief, Rawiri Pekerangi, whose claims have been satisfied by a payment of Ten pound's as reported in my letter of the olst October, excepting those portions which are partially cultivated. E Waka and the rest of the Ngamotu Natives have relinquished their claims to this block, which they have been tenacious in holding, more from a difference with the Taranaki tribe, who would not in any way recognize their rights, than from any opposition to the European settlers. Fourth, the Grey block estimated at nine' thousand seven hundred and seventy acres, purchased from the Ngamotu Natives as per deed of sale executed by them at New Plymouth on the 11th October, 1847. The rights of the absentee Natives at Wellington as well as of those residing here to the above purchase have been entirely extinguished. E Puni and the rest of the absentee Nganiotu Chief's having signed a deed acknowledging the payment for the Grey and Fitiroy blocks at Wellington on the 12th April, 1848. _ The only purchase for which I could not as yet recommend the issue of a Crown Grant to the New Zealand Company is a block of fifteen hundred acres situated in the Puketapu district, the occupation of which is opposed by Parata te Huia and others. In the absence, therefore, of adequate means to protect out-settlers in that neighbourhood, independent of present objections, I conceive that the premature occupation of the Puketapu block might seriously operate against the acquisition of mor e land in that disturbed and easily excited district. I will prepare a plan of the seveial blocks alluded to in this letter, which shall be forwarded without delay to Auckland. I fear, however, it will not be prepared to send by this mail, as lam obliged to attend a meeting of Taranaki Chiefs respecting the sale of land which is to be held on Monday next at Wharea, about 25 miles south of this settlement. I have, &c, Donald McLean. The Honorable the Colonial Secretary,

Reporting as to the feelings of the Taranaki Natives on the purchases made by the New Zealand Company. 3500 acres. 3500 acres. 500 acres. 12,000 acres, £10. 9770 acres.

Auckland. No. 35. DONALD MCLEAN, ESQ., TO THE RESIDENT MAGISTRATE, NEW PLYMOUTH. New Plymouth, 20th December, 1849. Sir,— In pursuance of the request expressed in a letter of which you favored me with a copy, from the Honorable the Colonial Secretary, of the 9th ultimo (No. 44), I have the honor to furnish translations of the seven deeds, which, excepting that of the Fitzroy block, were drawn up by me, for land purchased in the Taranaki district ; together with a translation of the receipts for the several instalments paid to the Natives as endorsed on the said deeds. At the same time, I beg to hand you a deed, with its translation, by Rawiri Pekerangi and his followers from Queen Charlotte's Sound, for Ten pounds paid to them for their claims to the Omata

Furnishing translations of seven Deeds of lands pur* chased at Taranaki,

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COMMISSIONERS' REPORTS.

block, and other purchases made by the local Government from the Natives of ihis district ; also one original deed and translation acknowledging the receipt of Sixty pounds for five hundred acres adjoining the Tataraimaka cattle station. I have, &c, Donald McLean. Capt. King, R.N., Resident Magistrate, New Plymouth.

No. 36. DONALD MCLEAN, ESQ., TO HIS EXCELLENCY SIR G. GREY, X.C.8., GOVERNOR-IN-CHIEF. Taranaki, 25th January, 1850. Snt, — I have the honor to report to your Excellency that Paora Kukutai, the principal Chief of Taranaki, residing at Wharea, twenty-five miles south of this settlement, has offered to dispose of a tract of land to the Government. At Paora's request, conveyed in a letter of which'a translation is herewith furnished, I attended a large meeting of 'Taranaki Natives assembled at Wharea to discuss the merits and extent of their respective claims, when, after several lengthy discussions, they agreed to dispose of all their rights and claims to the whole of the land between Mr. Outfield's cattle station arid the Omata purchase, including the Iringanui, or lower range of the Taranaki mountains. The meeting at Wharea being ended, Paora and his followers accompanied me up the coast, calling at the different settlements of the Ngamahanga, a branch of the Taranaki tribe, and conjoint claimants with Paora of the land in question. This tribe, with the exception of Kawana Kerei, an old respectable Chief of their party, opposed the sale, exhibiting their opposition rather violently at Hauranga, where there was a general meeting of the several claimants. The objections urged by the Hauranga Natives to the sale of the land added to their jealousy of Paora's being the first mover in the transaction, were, first, that he did not reside on it, and secondly, that his having abandoned the place for some years was equivalent to an extinction of his claim, or at least deprived him of the right of being the first to offer it for sale. Paora accompanied me to New Plymouth, and on his arrival here, all the Ngatiawa Chiefs assembled to meet him, and unanimously seconded his intention of disposing of the land, which, as the principal Chief, they all considered he had an undoubted right to sell. An attempt was then made to survey Paora's claim, which was frustrated by the Ngamahanga, who presume upon the weakness and present inability of the Europeans to maintain possession of land where the slightest disputes or misunderstanding exists among Native claimants. At the different meetings with Paora and Kawana during the several weeks they remained with me, I found that they fairly estsblished an equitable right to the laud they wished to sell, and to ensure their assistance and co-operation not only in acquiring that particular District, but also in acquiring some portions of the beautiful and extensive tracts over which Paora's influence extends, I agreed, subject to your Excellency's information and approval, to give Paora an advance on account of the land, with an understanding that he should receive the balance when he can grant undisputed and peaceable possession of the land to the settlers. A most important feature in this purchase when finally concluded will be the acquisition of the Taranaki ranges, which the Natives have always regarded with superstitious awe and veneration, considering that while they retained those, they could successfully resist the sale and occupation of their district by Europeans. It also shows more than any other circumstance that has recently occurred here, the growing disposition of the Natives to abandon their superstitious and warlike habits, by placing their most secure retreats and sacred repositories for their dead at the disposal of the Government. I have, &-c, Donald McLean. His Excellency Sir George Grey, X.C.8., Governorrin-Chief, New Zealand.

Paora Kukotai of Warea has offered to dispone of a Slock of land..

No. 37. THE HONORABLE THE COLONIAL SECRETARY TO G. S. COOPER, ESQ. Colonial Secretary's Office, Auckland, 6th February, 1854. Sir, — Adverting to my letter of the 9th ultimo, No. 3, respecting your continuing to conduct the 1 purchases of lands from the Natives, I have the honor to inform you that His Excellency the Officer administering the Government has been pleased to appoint you a Sub-Commissioner for this purpose

Appointing him to be a Sub-Commissioner for the purchase of land from the Natiyes.

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with the same rate of pay and allowance you received as Inspector of Police, commencing from the date you ceased to draw salary in the latter capacity, and payable out of the land fund of the Province of New Plymouth. I have, &c, Andrew Sinclair, Colonial Secretary. G. S. Cooper, Esq., Sub-Commissioner for the purchase of Native Lands, New Plymouth.

No. 38. THE CHIEF COMMISSIONER TO THE HONOKARLE THE COLONIAL SECRETARY. Taranaki, February 7th, 1854. Sir, — I have the honor to report to you, for the information of the Officer administering the Government, that I arrived at this Settlement on the 3lst ultimo, having called at Nelson to arrange with Major Richmond and the Natives about the adjustment of some land claims in that Province. lam now engaged with Mr. Cooper in effecting arrangements for the purchase of land in this Province, having already settled with the" majority of the absentee members of the Ngatiawa tribe at Wellington, Waikanae, Nelson, and Queen Charlotte's Sound for their claims to a considerable block of land North of the Wawakaiho, for which I found it necessary to make them a payment of £800; £400 of which sum was advanced to me under imprest by Mr. Carkeek, the Agent of the General Government at Wellington, and the remaining £400 I obtained through my Agents from the Union Bank there, under an engagement to repay that amount to the Bank at Auckland. I trust His Excellency will justify my having incurred this unusual responsibility, as the very urgent circumstances of this settlement required a prompt adjustment of absentee claims to prevent a large body of troublesome Natives from coming up from the South to establish themselves permanently in this Province, which would effectually check any further purchases of land and create considerable discontent and alarm on the part of the European inhabitants. During my stay here I shall use every effort to aid Mr. Cooper and the local authorities in acquiring land, and shall afterwards proceed with as little delay as possible to Auckland. I have, he., Donald McLean, Land Commissioner. The Honorable The Colonial Secretary, Auckland.

Has paid £800 for a Block of land North of the Waiwhakaiho River.

No. 39. THE CHIEF COMMISSIONER TO THE HONORABLE THE COLONIAL SECRETARY. Land Commissioner's Office, Taranaki, 20th February, 1854, I have the honor to report to you, for the information of His Excellency the Officer administering the Government, that the negotiations at present in progress with the Natives for the acquisition \ of land at this Settlement are of such a complicated nature, involving conflicting interests of different, tribes who are at variance with each other respecting their claims, that I apprehend it will yet take c some time either to effect a satisfactory purchase, or enable Mr. Cooper to go on with fresh negotiations. Another cause of delay arises from the fact that the Natives are busily engaged with the wheat harvest, and any interruption of their labours would not only be a serious loss to themselves, but would also affect the Europeans who employ many of them to secure their crops. In the meantime, however, the surveys of Reserves in the Waiwakaiho block are carried on, and I am in hopes that most of these difficulties which have delayed the occupation by settlers of that purchase, and which I am engaged with Mr. Cooper in arranging, will soon be adjusted. The land in question in this Province has been greatly complicated by a league which has been entered into by the Ngatiawa, Taranaki, and Ngatiruanui tribes, by which they have solemnly bound themselves and each other to put a stop to all sales of land to the North of the Bell Block, or South of Tataraimaka; and so much political importance do they attach to this, that, in order to give greater solemnity to the covenant, and by way of rendering it as binding as possible on the parties a copy of the Scriptures was buried in the earth with many ceremonies, thereby, as it were, calling the Deity to witness the inviolability of their compact. # It is therefore, a matter of the utmost importance to the interests of the Province that every exertion should be used without delay, not only to obtain possession of the lands at present unaffected by this league, but also to endeavour by every possible means to induce the Natives to break through, or if possible/entirely put an pod to, the ill-advised compact they have made.

The negotiations for land at Taranaki are in a complicated state, and will require much time and care to effect a settlement.

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To facilitate the acquisition of land to the South of the Settlement, I have deemed it advisable'to secure the services of Mr. Wellington Carrington, a surveyor, to assist in effecting arrangements for this purpose, in Order that his professional services, and any influence he may possess over the Natives with whom he is connected by marriage, may, under the urgent necessity for acquiring land, be made temporarily available for this object. I feel most anxious to proceed to Auckland, and shall not delay an hour longer at this place than I can avoid; but I fear that my leaving abruptly at present would prove injurious to future negotiations, on the result of which the prosperity of the Province depends. I beg to enclose for His Excellency's information copies of letters that have been received by me from His Honor the Superintendent and the Resident Magistrate on this subject. His Excellency will no doubt be informed by His Honor the Superintendent of this Province that an Ordinance has been passed in the Provincial Council to authorize the raising of a Loan of £5000, in the event of such a sum being required for the purchase of land from the Native*. I have, he, Donald McLean, Lund Commissioner. The Honorable The Colonial Secretary, Auckland.

No. 40. THE CHIEF COMMISSIONER TO THE HONORABLE THE COLONIAL SECRETARY. Land Commissioner's Office, Taranaki, 7th March, 1854. Sir,— I have the honor to report to you, for the information of His Excellency the officer administering the Government, that, after numerous meetings with the majority of the Native tribes of this Province, .an arrangement has been effected for the purchase of a block of land contiguous to the Settlement, and estimated to comprise from twelve to fourteen thousand acres of fine open agricultural country. The growing opposition of tho Natives to the sale of any of their land ; their knowledge of its increased value, and of the extreme urgency of the Europeans to obtain it; their apprehension of never being allowed to repurchase any part of what they once alienate; the fear that they should thereby lose their distinctive national character and standing, and be reduced to a state of slavery and indigence;—has encouraged a combined and systematic opposition by those tribes to the cession of thair territory. From the decided minority of Natives in favor of a sale, it has become a most difficult matter to acquire any land in this Province, and consequently it has been found necessary, after due consideration with His Honor the Superintendent and the officers of the General Government at this place, to accede to their lowest demand of Three thousand pounds, which was paid, subject, however, to conditions which I shall presently notice. The most interesting feature in this transaction, and the only one which I considered justified my assenting to such a large payment, was that the Natives agreed, instead of having extensive reserves, which would monopolize the best of the land, to repurchase out of the block they have sold One thousand pounds worth of land, with a pre-emptive right of selection at ten shillings per acre. I have every reason to expect that this arrangement will be most important in its results, by giving the Natives a security of tenure they never previously enjoyed, by removing all apprehension as to their inability to repurchase land from the Government, by leading them to take an interest (from being qualified to take part) in the political institutions of the Colony, by introducing a feature in their mode of living which must improve their circumstances, while it dispenses with the necessity that existed under their former precarious tenure and customs of living in confederate bands in large pas, ready at a moment's notice to collect and arm themselves either for defence or depredation. Nor are these the only advantages to be gained from the introduction of this system : another most important one is, that it will lead without much difficulty to the purchase of the whole of the Native lands in this Province, and to the adoption by the Natives of exchanging their extensive tracts of country at present lying waste and unproductive for a modeiate consideration, which will be chiefly expended by them in repurchasing land from the Crown. The Natives have entered into the spirit of this arrangement with greater readiness than might be at first expected, and instead of having reserves of several thousand acres, they have been satisfied with three hundred around their pas ; they have also deposited the Thousand pounds with Mr. Cooper for the repurchase of the addittional laud they may require,—and the arrangements for the survey of those lands and the settlement of the Natives on them are now in progress, so that the land may be thrown open for European selection with as little delay as possible. I am glad to add that the several meetings with the Natives at which the claims of district tribes to the Taranaki mountain were discussed, have terminated, notwithstanding considerable excitement, without any disturbance, and this notice is due to the Natives, since upwards of twelve hundred ef them, representing conflicting interests, were collected in the tow-n. I have, &c, The Honorable the Colonial Secretary, Donald McLean, Auckland. Land Commissioner.

HIJA. Has succeeded in settling negociations for a block of land near the Town of New Plymouth,

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No. 41. THE HONORABLE THE COLONIAL SECRETARY TO MR. COMMISSIONER COOPER. Colonial Secretary's Office, 24th March, 1854. Sir,— I have the honor to inform you that a Report dated the 7th inst. has been received from Mr. Commissioner McLean specifying the arrangements which he had made for the purchase of a block of land contiguous to the settlement of Taranaki, and estimated to comprise from 12,000 to 14,000 acres, of fine open agricultural country. His Excellency the Officer administering the Government has, I beg further to state, been pleased to approve of the arrangements entered into by Mr. McLean, which appear to be extremely satisfactory, especially that by means of which the Natives will be allowed to exercise a pre-emptive right over 2000 acres of the block sold, at ten shillings (10s.) per acre. I have, &c, Andrew Sinclair, Colonial Secretary. G. S. Cooper, Esq., Sub-Commissioner for the purchase of Native Lands.

Hua. : Approving of arrange, ments for the purchase of a block of 12,300 t» 14,000 acres. V. Letter No, 40.

No. 42. THE HONORABLE THE COLONIAL SECRETARY TO THE CHIEF COMMISSIONER. Colonial Secretary's Office, 24th March, 1854. Sir, — I have been directed by His Excellency the Officer administering the Government to acknowledge the receipt of your letter of the 7th instant respecting the arrangements you have made for thej purchase of a block of land contiguous to the settlement of Taranaki, and estimated to comprise fromi 12,000 to 14,000 acres of fine open agricultural country. The price which you state has been agreed upon after consultation by yourself with the Superintendent of the Province of New Plymouth and with the Officers of the General Government, amounts to Three thousand pounds (£8,000), and was to be given to the Natives subject to the very important condition, that, instead of having extensive reserves, they should be allowed to repurchase out of the block sold, One thousand pounds worth of land with a pre-emptive right at ten shillings per acre. You further state that the Natives have been satisfied with merely a reserve of 300 acres around their pas, and have already deposited with Mr. Cooper the sum of One thousand pounds (£1000) for the repurchase of the additional land which they may require. His Excellency has read your report with much interest and satisfaction, and considers the new feature introducetl by you in the negociations of Native land, to be one of great importance, and, with proper precautions, likely to lead to results highly conducive to the interests of both races. I have accordingly to convey to you His Excellency's approval of the arrangements which you have entered into for the purchase in question. I have, &c, Andrew Sinclair, Colonial Secretary. D. McLean, Esq., Land Commissioner.

Htja. Approving of arrangements for the purchase ,of the Hua Block. V. Letter No. 40.

No. 43. THE CHIEF COMMISSIONER TO MR. COMMISSIONER COOPER. Land Commissioner's Office, Auckland, 24th May, 1854, Sir, — I have the honor to acknowledge the receipt of your letter of the 20th instant enclosing conies of correspondence with the Native Chiefs Tamati and lhaia in reference to the sale of their claims to land at the Waitara. Your reply to the correspondence of those Chiefs is quite satisfactory, and I concur in the views therein expressed, that it is of the utmost importance that you should complete the arrangements with the Hua Natives before entering into definite arrangements for the purchase of the Waitara, as I apprehend that the final arrangement of the negotiations now in progress will greatly simplify and

Waitara. i Relative to offer by Tamati and lhaia of land at Waitara,

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facilitate future purchases ; at the same time you should not be deterred from effecting a good purchase in your district, when a favorable opportunity for doing so presents itself. I have &c., Donald McLean, Land Commissioner. G. S. Cooper, Esq., J.P., Sub-Commissioner, New Plymouth.

No. 44. THE CHIEF COMMISSIONER TO MR. COMMISSIONER COOPER. Land Commissioner's Office, Auckland, 27th May, 1854. .Sir, — I have the honor to enclose for your information the copy of a letter addressed to Mr. Rogau, whom I have requested to proceed with the survey of the Native selections in the Hua Block with as little delay as possible. I need not point out to you that you should confer with the Crown Commissioner respecting the continued employment of Mr. Carrington on the survey of the Hua Block, and that no exertion should be spared to have this land thrown open for selection. The European surveys in other parts of the settlement are of secondary importance; and as I find that the delay in throwing this land into the market is causing considerable discontent at Taranaki, let me urge upon you the necessity of getting this duty performed with the least possible delay. I have, &c, Donald McLean, Land Commissioner. G. S. Cooper, Esq., J.P., Sub-Commissioner, New Plymouth.

Ho A. j Mr. Rogan has been directed to survey Native - sections in the Hua ] Block.

No. 45. MEMORANDUM FOR THE RESIDENT MAGISTRATE. The late lamentable affray amongst the Puketapu Natives took its rise from a quarrel between \ Rawiri Waiaua and Topia (one of Katatore's party) about the right to cultivate a piece of land near ! the Bell block. Rawiri had sown it with wheat, and Topia destroyed the seed, ploughed up the land, and planted it with potatoes. Upon this, Rawiri determined to sell the land contained within the block paid for by Mr. McLean in Wellington, in January, 1854, and excluded from the Hua purchase at Katatore's request and by Rawiri's advice. The boundary of the land to the eastward is formed by producing the eastern boundary of the Bell block in a straight line, till it reaches the boundary between Ngatiawa and Ngatiruanui at the base of Mount Egmont; the western boundary being the Mangaraki River followed up to its source from the spot where it is cut by the line. A piece of 300 acres inland of the Bell block is also included in this. I accepted Rawiri's offer conditionally on his undertaking to cut the eastern boundary line as far inland as the Waiongana river. This, he assured me, he had no hesitatson in undertaking, in spite of Katatore's opposition, as he said his own rank, and his close connexion with Katatore and the majority of his people, would be a sufficient guarantee against any extreme uneasiness on their part. It was accordingly arranged, after two days' discussion, that the line should be commenced on Thursday, the 3rd instant, on which day I was to meet them on the ground, accompanied by a Surveyor. On that day, at 7 a.m., a party of twenty-six, under the direction of Rawiri, Paora, Taituha, Ihaka and Te Betiu, went out without fire-arms to commence their work, and were met by Katatore's party, armed with guns and other weapons, at the spot called Tarurutangi, where the unhappy collision took place which has deprired the Puketapu tribe of the whole of the above-named Chiefs except Te Retiu, and left the Settlement to deplore the loss of the most useful of the Native Assessors, and the best and the staunchest friends of the Europeans within the limits of this Province. A detail of the occurrences of the 3rd instant, as also nominal lists of both parties engaged in the affray, showing the casualties on eaclf side, are furnished by the enclosed documents. G. S. Cooper, Sub Land Commissioner, Taranaki, August 7, 1854.

G. S, Cooper, Esq,, reporting the affray among the Puketapu,

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[/^,] —L»st of men composing the Party to cut the Boundary Line, August 3rd, 1854 : — Taituha Te Ranikawiwiui, killed. Ihaka Te Kauri, ditto. Paora Houpunga, ditto. Hamahona Tauwhiro, ditto, Paora Te Hopi, mortally wounded. Rawiri Waiaua, ditto. Piriki Wekanui, dangerously wounded. Pehumana, severely wounded. Hamiora Peke, ditto. Te Manihera Marangai, ditto. Raw'ri Koheta, slightly wounded. Hemi Poaka, ditto. Te Waipango, ditto. Hohaia, ditto. Ringatahi, ditto. Ramera Topianga, ditto. Timotiu. Taituha Ngata. Te Retiu. Karena. lhaia Potikotia. Raihania Te Rangi. Ne Arawaka. Puno. Te Hareana. PerereUa Pitore (half-caste lad).

[j ( ] —List of Men composing the Party under Te Whaitere, to oppose the cutting of the Boundary Line : — Te Whaitere Katatore. Hairuha. Rawiri Kariri. Pamangara. Penehamine. Te Pohihipi. Pirika. Wiremu Tamihana, slightly wounded. Maka. Hamahona Tupiki. Topia, slightly wounded. Heperi. Taimana, slightly wounded. Te Hapimana Toheroa. Karaka. Honi Pumipi. Te Tahana (of Ngatitawake). Mitai. Tamati Tohua. Te Teira. Neha Rangimatara. Te Araroa. Purakau. Rangiheuea. Iraia. Paramena Rarunga. Tamati Tamaiti. Horomona Turanga.

No. 46. report from district commissioner oooper, dated Bth august, 1854. Land Purchase Office, Taranaki, August Bth, 1854. Sir, — It is my painful duty to report to you the occurrence of a fatal affray amongst the Natives of the Puketapu tribe, which took place on the 3rd instant, resulting in the death of Rawiri Waiaua and four other Chiefs, with other casualties, as per enclosed list.

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2. The circumstances which led to this melancholy event are as follows : —ln consequence of the destruction by Topia, one of Katatore's people, of a field of wheat which had recently been sown by Rawiri on his own laud, which he had cultivated for several years, the latter determined to offer for sale the block of land contained between the eastern boundary of the block conveyed by the Wellington deed of January last, and the Hua boundary as paid for here in March, and which was excepted from the Hua purchase in consequence of Katatore's opposition, and by the advice of Rawiri himself. In making the offer, Rawiri was supported by his brother Paora, by Ihaka Kauri, Matiu Te Huia, Paora Houpunga, Taituhi senior, Taituhi Ngata, Tamati Waka Te Haeana, and several other Chief's. I accepted their offer, conditionally on the boundary line being cut, which Rawiri unhesitatingly undertook to do, relying upon his rank and relationship with the opposing party as sufficient guarantee against extreme measures on their part. After two days' consultation, it was determined that the survey should commence on Thursday, the 3rd instant, when I was to meet them on the ground, accompanied by a surveyor, 3. From information subsequently received, it appears that Rawiri's party, numbering twenty-six men, went out unarmed on the morning in question at 7 am. ; and on reaching a spot called Tarurutangi, found Katatore's party, to the number of twenty-eight armed men, awaiting their arrival, when the collision took place which led to such unhappy results. The enclosed documents supply all the details. 4. Arrangements were made as quickly as possible to render such assistance to the wounded as circumstances would admit of. Five men were conveyed to the hospital., Paora's case being quite hopeless, nothing could be done for him, as he could not bear removal. Rawiri, unfortunately, could not be removed that day, the Natives being in too great a state of excitement to be of any service, and the majority of the settlers of the Bell Block bein<j afraid to render any assistance, in his last extremity, even to him to whom they owe their possessioi s; lest, by doing so, they should incur the displeasure of the opposite party. All, therefore, that could be done for him, was to have a tent constructed over him, and to render him such surgical aid as time and circumstances would permit. b. The news of the encounter quickly spread among the Natives, and, by noon, an armed party of about seventy had collected from the Hua and Tairutu. These men first visited the Kaipakopako, and fired a volley into the Pa, after which they adjourned to the scene of the encounter, where they interred their dead, and encamped for the night. 6. The next morning, (Friday), Paora expired at 7 a.m., and after his interment, Rawiri was conveyed in a litter to the hospital, where everything was done that medical skill could suggest for his relief, but without avail, and he expired at 1 33 am, on the 6th instant, having suffered considerably throughout. The rest of the wounded men are, lam happy to say, doing well. 7. The Rev. Mr. Turton visited the Kaipakopako Pa on the sth instant, and the result of his conference with Katatoie is detailed in the enclosed memorandum. 8. In consequence of the positive statement of Katatore that he would fire upon any party who should attempt to bury Rawiri's body with the others, Mr. Turton and I endeavoured to persuade the Hua and Tairutu Natives to bury him either with his father, Horotatua, or in the town. We, however, found them determined to carry out his last wdshes, by interring him by the side of his relatives. Accordingly, on the 7th instant, the body was taken from the hospital by a large party of Natives, and carried to the Hua, where the funeral service was read by Mr. Turton, and the party then moved on to the cross roads in the Bell block, near Te Uira, where they were met by the Tairutu people, under Tamati Waka, who had also been joined by a party under Karipa, who had that day withdraws, from Katatore's Pa. Thence the Natives proceeded in a body of about 120 to Tarurutangi, where, without molestation, they interred the body of their Chief along with the other victims of the affray, firing a volley over the grave as a signal that they had carried their determination into effect. Mr. Turton, who had proceeded in advance to the Kaipakopako, subsequently informed me that Katatore had given up the idea of opposing the interment of Rawiri; being, in fact, completely daunted by the strength of the other party, and his fears for the result of affairs to himself personally. 9. It is impossible at present to say to what these occurrences may eventually lead, but whatever may be the ultimate result, I am happy to say that, hitherto, the Europeans are entirely free from any participation in them : so strictly has the policy of non-interference been hitherto carried out, that although the Hua Natives are known to be very indifferently armed, and almost destitute of ammunition, their application for assistance was steadily refused by the Magistrates. The whole of the Ngamotu Natives (with the exception of Hone Ropia Te Kekeu and his adherents, who have joined with Puketapu), have determined to maintain a strict neutrality, unless their own safety, or that of the settlers, should be menaced. 10. With regard to the Puketapu Natives, they are at present in a state of great excitement, and will, I have no doubt, take the first opportunity that may offer of wreaking their vengeance on Katatore's party. In this they appear to look for support from theii relatives in Cook's Straits. They have placed a fapu on the Northern road, excepting as regards Europeans or Her Majesty's mails—their arrangements being that Tamati Waka shall stop all access to the town by the beach, while the Hua Natives are to block up the passage by the Devon road. 11. The Waiongana aud Waitara Natives are at present holding aloof, and, from all I can learn, intend to continue so, unless the quarrel be taken by the Government, when they will regard the affair as a general land question. In this event, Katatore will be looked upon as the leader of the opposition, and be joined by all the tribes who are averse to the sale of land to the Europeans, 12. On referring to the memorandum which forms enclosure No. 7 to this despatch, it will be seen that Katatore requested Mr. Turton to convey to me an offer to sell to the Government the piece, containing about 800 acres, lying between the inland boundary of the Bell block and the Mangoraka river. Of this offer I have as yet taken no notice, nor shall Ido so until I am favoured with your

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instructions upon the point, as it appears to me intended merely as a peace-offering, in the hope that its acceptance by the Government might be looked upon as an atonement for the blood he has shed. I have, &c, G. S. Cooper, My. Commissioner McLean, District Commissioner. &c, he, See Auckland.

No. 47. THE CHIEF COMMISSIONER TO THE HONORABLE THE COLONIAL SECRETARY. Taranaki, 19th August, 1854. My Dear Sir, — I arrived here on Sunday last, having been twice off Taranaki since we left Manukau, and obliged, from heavy weather, to put into Kawhia. I should have come overland from Kawhia, but I found I could not get the Waikato Chiefs (some of them unable to travel) to accompany me; and their presence here being most important, if I were to leave them to come by sea, the most of them would decline coming. Te Waru and Paroa, with some others, joined me at Kawhia ; and, together with the Rev. J. Whiteley, we set sail for this place. Having to put back again, those Chiefs left me at Kawhia, and the Rev. Mr. Whiteley, with some influential Chiefs on the Coast are coming overland. The delay has been productive of some good, the Natives having agreed to postpone hostilities until my arrival here ; and the first burst of excitement having subsided, together with the apprehension of the intervention of the Waikatos, has induced some Chiefs to take part with the friendly Natives that were previously neutral ; and some of those who agreed to join Katatore and his band, seem doubtful as to which side they will take ; but I still find that he has a very strong party, and both sides are making decided preparations for a fresh contest. I find that it requires more than ordinary prudence to act in the present emergency, as the followers of Rawiri Waiaua look for aid to the Government for the loss they have sustained ; and the other party are collecting all the disaffected and reckless characters that they can enlist in their cause. Yesterday there was a large meeting of several tribes from Waitara and other places, preparatory to their dividing under their respective leaders. I deem it prudent to delay meeting either party for several days, when I propose to assemble the principal Chiefs to discuss the subject with them; in the mean time Mr. Turton keeps me fully advised of every proceeding, and the Chiefs correspond with me, and you may assure His Excellency that I shall use every endeavour, if I cannot arrest further bloodshed among the Natives themselves, to keep the Europeans and tile Government free of any implication in whatever may take place. I remain, &c., Donald McLean. The Honorable the Colonial Secretary.

No. 48. THE CHIEF COMMISSIONER TO THE HONORABLE THE COLONIAL SECRETARY. Laud Commissioner's Office, Auckland, August 21st, 1854, Siß,— I have the honor to acknowledge the receipt of your letter of the 19th instant, instructing me to proceed at the earliest possible period to Taranaki for the purpose of instituting a special and minute inquiry into the late unfortunate affray between the Natives in that Province. In obedience to those instructions I have arranged to leave for Taranaki on Thursday first; and, on my arrival there, I shall use every endeavour in conjunction with His Honor the Superintendent, (who accompanies me) and the Resident Magistrate, to allay the excitement at present existing in that District. From all the reports that have reached me from New Plymouth, I apprehend that an adjustment of such a serious and fatal collision will be attended with very considerable difficulties, and it appears to me that it would be essential to have an authority to take such steps, and incur such expenses, as the present emergency urgently demands. For instance—the Natives who have lost their Chief and five of their tribe, while asserting their claim to a disputed tract of land, will certainly expect some reparation, either by taking the lives of the murderers, or by obtaining from them a final surrender of the land respecting which the difference that led to the affray arose, I must state that it would be quite repugnant to my feelings to accept of any land, on the part of the Government, as an atonement for such a grave and serious offence as that committed by Katatore and his party on an unarmed and defenceless party of Natives in asserting their claims to a portion of land they wished to cede to the Government ; neither should I feel inclined to encourage or suggest such a mode of adjustment, unless it originates with the friendly Natives themselves ; but sooner than allow them to seek revenge in their usual mode, which might lead to the destruction of the Taranaki

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Settlement, it might probably be adopted as a last resort. Should the aggressive party, therefore, offer to cede a tract of country to the friendly Natives, and that they on their part agree to accept it, and afterwards transfer it to the Crown, there should be a sum of money at my disposal to offer them, of not less than Three thousand pounds, which sum, or anypart thereof, need not of course be expended, unless circumstances render it absolutely necessary as a means of preserving the peace of the country. I cannot conceal from the Government the very critical position of the Taranaki Settlement at the present juncture, From the fact that there are a great number of emancipated Natives residing there, who are now removed from the control of the Chiefs by whom they were conquered, and who, feeling that they have lost caste as a tribe, are struggling to regain their former ascendancy and position, and uniting in a general confederation against the alienation of their territory, respecting which there are continual disputes among themselves, —it is impossible to foresee where those disputes, after such a serious affray as that which has taken place, are to end. If, therefore, the cession by the offenders of a certain district of land is agreed to as a means of staying a war, (the horrible results of which I fear to contemplate among a class of Natives like those at Taranaki,) it would be advisable that money should be immediately available for such an occurrence, were it only to be the means of arresting the destruction of the Settlement, and in order that the Government should not participate in any advantage resulting from the death of its faithful allies. The greater portion of the land ceded, excepting as much as would repay the outlay, might be hereafter re-conveyed to the surviving friends and relatives of those who met with such a melancholy and cruel fate. In every aspect in which the present state ef the Taranaki case can be received, it is surrounded with peculiar difficulty and danger to the European inhabitants. For instance, if the friendly Natives are not supported, or do not receive some reparation for their loss, they may not only withdraw their allegiance, but may become our opponents if they cannot otherwise find satisfaction. The hostile Natives, on the other hand, threaten to destroy the whole remnant of the friendly Natives, and then there would be no interposing barrier between them and the English, who are utterly defenceless ; nor do I conceive that the intervention of troops, except as a strictly defensive garrison, would obviate th« difficulty. It is clear, therefore, that every effort should be used to conciliate and strengthen our friendly relations with those tribes who support us, and I trust that His Excellency will be pleased, under all the circumstances, to favour me with an authority for incurring such expenditure, and making such general arrangements for the preservation and peace of the Taranaki district, as the peculiar circumstances of the case may urge upon myself, His Honor the Superintendent, and the local authorities of that place to adopt, and such an authority becomes the more necessary, lest any delay in making arrangements might be too late to obtain the object which it is earnestly desired may be accomplished. I have, &c, Donald McLean, Land Commissioner. The Honorable the Colonial Secretary.

No. 49. THE CHIEF COMMISSIONER TO THE HONORABLE THE COLONIAL SECRETARY. Land Commissioner's Office, Auckland, 27th October, 1854. Sir,— I have the honor to report to you, for the information of His Excellency the officer administering the Government, that in compliance with your instructions of the 19th August, I proceeded to Taranaki to enquire into and report on the late fatal collision among the Natives at that Settlement. I was accompanied from here by His Honor the Superintendent of Taranaki, who had been on a visit to Auckland, by Wiremu Nero of Whaingaroa, a most influential Waikato Chief, Riwai fe Ahu, a teacher at Mr. Kissling's institution, and other influential Natives, whose presence I felt confident would be attended with good results in the disturbed and excited state of the Natives at New Plymouth. The weather having proved unfavourable, we were obliged when off JNew Plymouth to run back to Kawhia, from which place the Superintendent travelled overland. At Kawhia I was joined by the Rev. J. Whiteley, Kingi Hori Te Waru, and other Chiefs, and after a second attempt to reach New Plymouth, we were again obliged to put back to Kawhia, where Te Waru left for Waipa, in consequence of the death of one of his family. Mr. Whiteley went overland, and I continued with the rest of the Chiefs (some of whom were unable to travel) in the vessel, and we landed at New Plymouth on the 17th of September. On my arrival at New Plymouth, I found the inhabitants, especially the Natives, were in a great state of suspense and anxiety awaiting His Excellency's decision in reference to the late unfortunate massacre, the particulars of which I have already had the honor of submitting to His Excellency in Mr. Cooper's report and enclosures of the Bth August last. My first interview with the unfortunate sufferers who had lost their much esteemed leader and Chief, Rawiri Waiaua, and six of his nearest relatives, was of a most melancholy nature ; the spears and warlike emblems of the departed Chief were placed near me, while his tribe, covered with mourning wreaths surrounded me in the most affecting manner, to lament the irreparable loss they had sustained. To myself the meeting was of a very painful nature, as I felt not only the absence of a personal friend of many years standing,

Gbmhral. Reporting on the affray i» which Rawiri Waiaua was killed.

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whose improvement in the arts of civilization were a great source of pleasure to me, but I also felt that the Government had lost its most faithful and devoted ally at Taranaki, and that the unprotected European inhabitants, in whose defence he would have sacrificed his life, were now deprived of their mild yet manly, noble and disinterested protector, whose influence and energy were always conspicuous in restoring tranquility among the Natives during periods of excitement and danger to the Settlement. Urgent appeals were made by the survivors of Rawiri's tribe to obtain assistance from the Government to apprehend and bring to justice Katatore and the Natives associated with him in taking the lives of his unarmed relatives in such a cold-blooded and vindictive manner ; they adduced among various other reasons for making such a demand, that Rawiri had been throughout a firm and faithful supporter of the English, who would at once have taken their part under a similar misfortune, that he was an Assessor or one of the Queen's men, that it would be a severe blow to English law and justice, which the Natives were only now beginning to respect,if the offenders were not punished; and that the danger to Europeans themselves in the event of a future collision in which they, as the friends of the English, might be defeated, would be very serious. I expressed to the Natives, the deep sympathy that was felt by His Excellency and the Europeans generally for the deplorable circumstances by which they were deprived of their excellent Chief and the English of their faithful allies, and that I should fully report the whole particulars of their misfortune to the Governor; but at the same time that I could not conceal from them that the aid they demanded of arms, ammunition, and troops might entail a general war, in the prosecution of which they might, from having solicited the intervention of Government, become, by the opposition of tribes at present neutral, greater sufferers than if the quarrel was confined as at present to the parties more immediately concerned. At the several meetings held with the Natives I was ably assisted by the Rev. J. Whiteley of Kawhia, who possess great influence with the tribes of the west coast, amongst whom he has zealously ministered for the last fiften years, and to whom many of the Taranaki Natives feel indebted for their emancipation from their powerful conquerors the Waikato. The Rev. Mr. Turton was also, as he has been ever since this occurrence took place, most indefatigable in endeavouring to bring the quarrel to such a termination as would keep the Europeans free of danger in any further collision that might arise. The presence of Wiremu Nero and the other Waikato Chiefs was most opportune, as they gave the Natives generally to understand that so long as the quarrel was confined to themselves they would not interfere, but that, should the Europeans be unhappily by any means molested, they were willing and prepared to come to their defence. This assurance, emanating from the leading men of the powerful Waikatos, had a wonderful effect in subduing the partially disguised, but not less certain, opposition of some of the more troublesome Taranaki tribes towards the English. It would be highly appreciated if His Excellency would take Wiremu Nero's conduct on this occasion into his favorable consideration by appointing him an Assessor, and granting him some annuity for acting in that capacity, as his influence in the Waikato is not less than Te Wherowhero's, and he is even much more successful than that Chief in adjusting Native quarrels, while he evinces the most friendly feeling towards the Europeans of which he has given, and continues to give, the most convincing proofs by the cession of his land to the Government, and by the efforts he uses to induce other tribes, over whom he has influence, to follow his example. In correspondence and communications, through Riwai Te Ahu and others, when I could not see them myself, with the several Chiefs north of New Plymouth, who were interdicted from coming to town in consequence of a tapu on the road to cut off the communication of Katatore and his party, I was glad to receive daily assurances of neutrality in the present quarrel and of general friendship towards the English, solong as a similar course was observed, but notwithstanding all these assurances, I detected that amongst a considerable party of reckless characters in each tribe the murderers would be strongly supported in the event of a collision which may yet unhappily take place, although warlike preparations, except those of a defensive nature, such as the construction of pas and entrenchments, have been suspended until the planting season is over. I have, &c, Donald McLean, Land Commissioner. The Honorable the Colonial Secretary, he, &c, &c

No. 50. THE CHIEF COMMISSIONER TO MR. COMMISSIONER COOPER. Land Purchase Office, Auckland, 15th May, 1855. SlB) ... I have the honor to enclose for your information the copy of a report of a Select Committee of the Provincial Council at New Plymouth on the purchase of the Waiwhakaiho Block, and I have to request that you will, at the earliest convenience, inform me of the reasons for making the several reserves alluded to in this enclosure. With reference to the selection of five hundred acres for Te Ropiha, I am not aware that he was

Waiwhakaiho, Respecting Reserves for Natives in the Waiwhakaiho Block,

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promised to have a pre-emptive right of selection for any extent of land. My belief is that he was told he might purchase on the same terms as the Europeans, and that his right is confounded with that of his brother Wairarapa, who was allowed to have a block of land of five hundred acres (500 acres) at five shillings per acre ; but even in this instance a pre-emptive right of selection was not, in my opinion, sanctioned. I have placed notes of interrogation opposite a schedule of those reserves, on which I have to request the most explicit information as the reasons for their having been promised. I have, &c, Donald McLean, Land Commissioner. George S. Cooper, Esq., New Plymouth. P.S.—The tracing is an original document belonging to the Governor's office, and should be returned here with your report. It is observed in the Schedule of reserves, that Tupoki, Hone Ropiha Wi Te Ahoaho, and others, have reserves or rights of purchase granted to them in more than one instance in this block. Admitting that they ought to have reserves in the first instance, I see no reason for granting them additional ones, more particularly if those original ones imply that they are t© have a pre-emptive right of selection. I remember Wi Paora, Taupoki, and Hone Ropiha having asked for reserves when I was at New Plymouth, but I did not understand that they expected preemptive rights of selection ; of course Heneri Te Puni's claim is different from the others, as he opposed the sale from the beginning. Donald McLean, Land Commissioner. May 17th, 1854. WWWWWMBM^M——— WW i ■■■■mm in

No. 51. THE CHIEF COMMISSIONER TO THE HONORABLE THE COLONIAL SECRETARY. Land Purchase Department, Auckland, 19th June, 1855. Sir,— I have the honor to submit to you for the information of His Excellency the officeradministering the Government the copy of a Report from Mr. Rogan in reference to the subdivision and survey by him of 101 allotments of land for the Natives in the Hua District, Taranaki. I should observe that Mr. Rogan has performed this duty in a most satisfactory manner, notwithstanding the difficulties he had to contend with in obtaining Native labour and assistance, owing to the unfortunate disturbances at New Plymouth. His Excellency will be gratified to learn that those selections have been made in accordance with a pre-emptive right secured to the Natives in the Deed of Sale of the Hua purchase ; and the arrangement has been so far favorably concluded that I have every reason to expect it will be attended with the best results to both Europeans and Natives in that Province. The fact of so many Natives holding individual property with a title from the Crown is sure not only to promote their own amelioration and improvement, but to ensure a more friendly allegiance to the authority from whom they derive a title which is attended with so many advantages as compared with their former mode of tenure. I have no doubt that when the Natives have further experience of the benefits resulting from the English mode of holding landed property that they will more fully appreciate its great advantages, and that it will tend very much to simplify the difficulties that have hitherto existed between themselves and the Europeans in reference to the land question. J would take this opportunity of submitting that the Crown Commissioner at New Plymouth should be instructed to have Crown Grants prepared without delay for the several Natives whose names appear in the schedule attached to Mr. Rogan's report herewith enclosed. I have, &c, Donald McLean, Principal Commissioner. The Honorable the Colonial Secretary, Auckland.

IfaA. Relative to survey by Mr. Rogan of Native •ections in the Hua Block.

Enclosure to No. 51. MR. commissioner rogan to the chief commissioner. Auckland, 14th June, 1855. Sir, — I have the honor to enclose herewith, a statement of the subdivision of Land surveyed and selected in the Hua district. The Native selections already made amount to 1676 acres which have

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been divided into 101 allotments, and there yet remains 124 acres to be divided between three claimants, which will complete the Native selections in the above district, Previous to my departure from New Plymouth, the whole of the papers and documents connected with the survey were deposited with Messrs. Halse and Carrington, together with a tracing shewing the quantity in each allotment, with the names of the different proprietors written thereon, from which the Crown Grants may be made. A line of road to some of the allotments inland of Horopuriri towards the Mangoraka river has yet to be marked on the ground, which will complete the survey of the Native selections. The length of time occupied in prosecuting the above surve3' has been caused by the great difficulty in obtaining labourers for cutting the lines requisite for the subdivision of the land, owing principally to the excitement caused by the late conflict between the Natives in New Plymouth. I should also state that, in accordance with your instructions, during the intervals in which I could not proceed with the Native survey, I have been employed in the Crown Lands Office projecting original Crown Giants for the Town of New Plymouth. I have, &c, John Rogan. Donald McLean, Esq., Principal Commissioner.

No. 52. Land Commissioner's Office, Auckland, Ist November, 1855. Sin,— In the present unprotected state of the European inhabitants of Taranaki, and taking into consideration the unfortunate manner in which our faithful ally and native assessor, Rawiri Waiaua, and six of his followers were killed, without any just provocation, by relatives and members of his own tribe, I beg to submit that the time has arrived when some steps should be taken, for the better security and defence of the inhabitants of that Province, as Natives who would be guilty of destroying their own friends in such a cruel manner, could not be relied on for much forbearance towards the Europeans under any excitement or conflict that might arise hereafter among themselves. It seems very desirable, therefore, that, not only as an act of humanity and justice towards the themselves, but as a protection to innocent Europeans, who may, notwithstanding the vigilance of the authorities, become inadvertently in those quarrels, some precautionary measures should be adopted to restrain the natives from again committing such acts of violence as recently took place in the immediate vicinity of the English settlement. The limited resources of the New Plymouth Province, its distance and isolated position, the numerous Native tribes that surround it, the constant accessions they are receiving to their numbers from different parts of these islands, the consequent difficulty of acquiring land in sufficient quantities te introduce European settlers in greater numbers to equalize the races, the warlike character of the natives as compared with the peaceable industrious class of English agricultural settlers stationed there, the difficulty of placing troops there under any sudden emergency that might arise requiring their presence, the uselessness of having a smaller number of military than would over-awe and control the more turbulent tribes, are all subjects that have been so fully brought under the notice of the Government at different times, that it appears unnecessary for me to dwell at any length upon them ; but I feel it is my duty, as the officer deputed to enquire' into and report on the late disturbance, to bring to His Excellency's notice what I have already indicated verbally to His Honor the Superintendent, the local authorities, and some of the settlers at that place, viz.,—that there are certain resources within the Province which, if judiciously applied, with the aid of, and under the sanction and co-operation of, the General Government, might be adopted without creating much suspicion or alarm among the natives, and be the means of restraining them from any future dangerous collisions, calculated not only to endanger the safety of the inhabitants, but to retard the peaceable and progressive improvements of a most interesting and otherwise very flourishing district. The precautionary steps which I would take the liberty of suggesting are, First, —The construction of a good Block-house and Stockade. Secondly,—The militia, which must number nearly SCO men, to be periodically called out and trained, as provided for by the " Militia Ordinance." Thirdly,—The augmentation of the police force, to be composed chiefly of intelligent active Natives, selected from different tribes in the country, so that every reliance could be placed on their acting with impartiality ; and, I think it may be safely assumed from the courage and fidelity with which the Natives enrolled in such a force have acted during war times in the colony, that they might in any future emergency be safely relied upon, and they could be, when not required for their police duties, advantageously employed in opening up and constructing roads through the Province, or attending to such other public improvements as are much wanted. To the efficiency of such a force the utmost importance might be attached. Fourthly, —Two pieces of artillery and a good supply of small arms and ammunition are much required, as there are none but old condemned ones at Taranaki ; and it might be advisable to have, besides those for the use of the militia, some arms to spare for such of the friendly Natives as are destitute of them, with an understanding that such arms would only be given out in the event of being actually required for service, and to be afterwards given into the custody of the officer who may have charge of them.

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It may be apprehended that the Natives might consider such preparations as indicating some hostile intention on the part of the Europeans, but the fact of their being informed that England is at war with a foreign power, and that their own conduct towards each other justifies the Europeans in being ou their guard, would divest them of every suspicion of this nature; indeed many of them would willingly aid and co-operate in carrying out measures which they could not fail to perceive would be the means of preserving peace among themselves by giving them increased security of life and property, besides having the effect of enhancing their respect for British law and authority. It is not without some diffidence that I have taken upon myself to submit the foregoing measures for his Excellency's consideration, feeling, as I do, the extreme delicacy and difficulty of adopting effectual means for the security of a district situated as New Plymouth is, but I believe, when taken in connection with the steps now in progress for adjusting the lane 1 question at that place, and facilitating the acquisition of property by the chiefs in the English Settlement, that the suggestions alluded to are the least expensive that could be adopted for ensuring any permanent degree of general peace and tranquillity in that Province. I have, &c, Donald McLean, Land Commissioner. The Honorable The Colonial Secretary. ■■■■■wmiimiiiiiMMiii mm inn in iiiiiMiiiiiiiniiisi»miinai—iimi«M—■

No. 53. REPORT FROM THE NATIVE SECRETARY, DATED 27TH JANUARY, 1855. Auckland, January 27th, 1855. Sir, — I have the honor to report, for the information of His Excellency the Officer administering the Government, that in accordance with the instructions communicated on the 27th ult., 1 proceeded to Taranaki on that day per steamer " Nelson." 2. On my arrival at Taranaki on the afternoon of the 28th ult., I found everything quiet, but there was evidently an unsettled feeling amongst the Native population from the fact of their goiuoabout their occupations with arms in their hands and from their commencing to put their pas in fighting order. 3. From enquiry, I found that the first affray in which Rawiri, the Native Assessor, one of the most respected Natives of the Puketapu tribe, and six others were shot by Katatore, partly arose from Rawiri attempting to cut the boundary of a piece of land which he had offered for sale to \lr. G. Cooper, the Land Commissioner of the Taranaki district. It appears that Katatore had long ago stated his intention of retaining this land, and had threatened to oppose any one who should offer to sell it ; Rawiri, however, on account of some quarrel with Katatore, proposed selling the land, and was desired by Mr. Cooper to cut the boundary. Rawiri proceeded accordingly with twenty-two others, on the morning of the 3rd August last, and had succeeded in cutting some part of the boundary line, when Katatore and party rushed down from his pa, and after warning Rawiri twice without effect to desist, fired and killed him and six others, four were severely wounded and four slightly wounded. 4. With regard to the second affray, it originated in the following cause. I hear a Native Assessor had reason to suspect that his wife had been guilty of adultery with a young man named Rimene, belonging to the Ngatiruanui tribe, residing between Cape Egmont and Wanganui; and on receiving further proof by the confession of Rimene, he had directed him to be shot by a young mau named Hori, who immediately proceeded to where Rimene was sitting, and deliberately killed him by a shot in the breast. Information of this act having been sent to the Ngatiranui, they assembled on the 20th December to the number of 380 armed men, and made an assault on Ihaia's pa, at Mamaku, on the Waitara river, about eleven miles from the town of New Plymouth. lhaia made an able defence, but being hard pressed, some of the Puketapu tribe made a diversion in his favour, and succeeded in covering his retreat to apa named Mahoetahi, some miles nearer to the settlement. On this occasion Ihaia's party had six killed and five wounded, the Ngatiranui five killed and ten wounded. On the 22nd the Ngatiruanui appeared disposed to renew the fight, but finally came to the determination of returning to their homes. A fresh matter, however, arose, which for some time threatened to embroil the Puketapu and other Natives of the district with the Ngatiruanui. It was , the expressed determination of the latter to return homewards coastwise, through the settlement of Taranaki; this intention was, however, eventually abandoned, and on the 2ath the whole party set off on their march homeward by the mountain road through the bush at the back of Mount Egmont, carefully avoiding any encroachment on the boundaries of the Settlement. Indeed, so cautious were they of interfering with the settlers, that a considerable amount of property in goods and money belonging to an inhabitant of the town of New Plymouth, which happened to be in a house close to the pas of lhaia, was carefully and scrupulously removed by the Ngatiruanui, before going into action. 5. From all I can hear, this last affair may be considered as settled, as the loss has been pretty nearly balanced, and lhaia and his party have gone back to their pa at Mamaku ; but with regard to the first, I fear that further bloodshed may be expected, and as unfortunately it has arisen about a land question, Katatore will have ail the sympathy of those who are opposed to the sale of land. The relations and friends of the deceased Chief, Rawiri, who are principally resident within the settlement and who are called the friendly Natives, as being in favour of sale of land, are determined to have revenge for the death of their people.

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6. The interference of the Government is vehemently called for by Rawiri's friends, who are the weaker party, and who are loud in their demands for arms and ammunition and also for troops. On the contrary, the opposite party are as anxious that the Government should not interfere in the matter at all, 7. I do not think that any danger is to be apprehended to the Colonists and the Settlement from these Native disturbances, so long as the Government and Colonists abstain from interference. The Natives of Rawiri's party would no doubt try to involve tho Government in the quarrel, but I think the other party would be careful not to interfere with the Settlement, as by so doing they would throw a preponderance into the hands of their opponents, if the Government were compelled to interfere; independently of which, Natives are very aver?e to giving the first cause of quarrel. 8. The active and armed interference of the Government in these Native quarrels would, I fear, be fatal to the prosperity of the Settlement for some time to come, as the outsettlers would be compelled to concentrate themselves in town for the protection of their wives and families, and their properties in the mean time would go to ruin. * * * I have, &c, C. L. Nugent, Native Secretary.

No. 54. report from assistant native secretary halse to the native secretary, dated JANUARY 11, 1858. New Plymouth, Jan. 11, 1858. Sir,I have to report to you that Katatore was killed last Saturday under very atrocious circumstances. On his return from town towards sundown with three natives, named in the margin, all on horseback, he was waylaid by Tamati Tiraurau and a party of five natives (4 Ngatirahiris and 1 belonging to Mahoetahi) on one of the main roads of the Bell District, and shot. His relative Rawiri Karira fell at the first volley, and was literary hacked to pieces. Tamihana pushed on, but Katatore dismounted, and whilst leading his horse away up the cross road towards the Huira, was overtaken and pierced with several bullets, beaten about the head with the discharged guns (three of which were broken over him), and finally mangled with tomahawks. * * * The plans laid for Katatore's death were Ihaia's, as he has admitted to Mr. Parris ; but they were so well kept by the Natives concerned that nothing was known of them until they were effected. Even Katatore, who received a warning on the road, from Mr. Hollis, who had observed armed natives remaining in one spot, had no thought of being attacked, lhaia was observed watching him about town during the day under an assumed desire for a reconciliation, and he followed him out of town. I am of opinion that the attack must have been meditated for some time, as on the first occasion of his moving out unarmed he has been killed. It may be attributed partly to revenge for Rawiri Waiaua's death, and jealousy that Katatore, after all their efforts to punish him for it, should be in a position to offer land for sale, when Ihaia's offer was rejected. I am quite unable to venture an opinion on the probable consequence of this unfortunate business. I fear it will lead to serious Native troubles. Wiremu Kingi, of Waitara, occupied the Tivaa. pa yesterday, and will aid the Kaipakopako Natives. The latter intend to attack the Ikamoana at once, rather than remain prisoners in their own pa. Hone Ropiha, the Assessor, met Katatore in town on Saturday, and was quite ignorant of Ihaia's plans. In conclusion, I deem it my duty to observe that Tamati Tiraurau, who resides in a well-fur-nished wooden house in town, remarkable for his intelligence and extensive mercantile transactions with the settlers, was especially prominent for his ferocity in this attack. He dragged Rawiri off hishorse when mortally wounded by the first volley, and seizing him by the hair of his head, with the most fiendish gesticulations, as witnessed by two of the Bell Block settlers, first hacked his body, and then his head and face to pieces. I have, &c, The Native Secretary, Henry Halse. &c, &c, &c.

No. 55. MR. commissioner rogan to the chief COMMISIONIi,R. Mokau, 27th July, 1857. Sir,— After my arrival in New Plymouth on the 9th instant, a message was sent to lhaia Kiri Kumara to the effect that I had been instructed to see him and his people for the purpose of enquiring into the particulars connected with the recent offer of the Ikamoana to the Government. On Monday the 13th, Tamati Tiraurau came to town with a request from his brother lhaia that I should not come to Te Ikamoana until Mahau (one of the principal claimants) who was then absent on a visit to hi

Ikamoana. Reporting on Te Ikamoana.

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friends at Ngatimaru, should return, in order that full publicity should be given to the meeting, and that I should be the better able to form an opinion on the question, to which I agreed. On Monday the 20th I proceeded, in company with the Assistant Native Secretary, to Te Ikamoana, where lhaia and about 200 Natives were assembled. The meeting was opened by reading a letter which was addressed to lhaia by yourself, and his reply thereto, after which he rose and said that he had little to say to me regarding Te Ikamoana, as his views and intentions were clearly set forth in the letters which had been written to the Government; that his determination to dispose of all the lands to which he laid claim in the district was fixed, and called attention to the fact of his having offered his land to Sir George Grey as far back as the year 1848. He stated that he was invited by the Puketapu Natives to join them against Katatore and the Ngatiruanui tribes, to which he and his people assented, when the Ikamoana was ceded to him, he accordingly look possession of the land by erecting a fortification, afterwards he fought and lost some of his people, and the best proof he maintained his position wa«, that his pa was standing and his flag flying, with his men ready for any emergency, which he would prove to me presently. 1 stated that I was merely sent to see what lhaia and his people had to say in reference to Te Ikamoana question, but I was not permitted to enter into any arrangements for the negotiation of land in New Plymouth, neither was I prepared to say that Ihaia's offer would or would not be accepted by the Government; that it was a principle laid down by His Excellency the Governor, that no land should bo purchased, the title to which was not clear, and that peaceable possession could not be given, which was the case in this instance, as there were many of the real owners absent from the meeting. To this lhaia replied that that principle was erroneous, because no land in New Zealand had been ever purchased without some difficulty more or less; he here instanced the different blocks of land which had been purchased from time to time in New Plymouth with, the difficulties attending each negotiation. He stated further that he should wait quietly until I reached Auckland and give sufficient time to the Government to say whether they would purchase his land or not, and in the evcr.t of a refusal he would immediately summons hostilities against Katatore, as he appeared to be the cause of his offer not being at once accepted. Tamati Tiraurau, Ruka and several others followed lhaia, each expressing his determination to sell the land which was the cause of so much bloodshed. The ceremony of subdividing a large quantity of food which was prepared by lhaia was commenced, which occupied a considerable time, when 1 was invited to go outside the pa on the Devon Road, when lhaia and his party, about 120 men, armed with double barrel guns and spears, performed a number of warlike evolutions, and concluded with several war dances, which was to indicate their unanimity to the sale of Te Ikamoana to the Government. After which they seated themselves on the ground, and the principal Natives stood up one by one, and made the usual formal offer of Te Ikamoana to the Government, when the meeting ended. I took an opportunity of suggesting to lhaia, that as he held undisturbed possession of the land, and as the whole district was now quiet, it was better not to offer the land for sale, lest it should cause a repetition of that which occurred before; but he would not listen to any thing except the sale of the land, the payment for which he will accept, large or small. On Thursday the 24 th I called at Te Ikamoana by Mahau's request, where a considerable number of Natives were assembled, when that Chief for the the first time made known his intention publicly to sell his land to the Government, by requesting that I should at once pay him and lhaia an instalment on account of the Ikamoana. He would then offer the Waiongana, and as far towards the Waitara as his claims extended; that he was the first claimant to the land. The most effectual means of making permanent peace was, that the Government should purchase the land, when they could settle down each on his individual portion; that the present was a temporary peace and could not last; he was opposed to the sale of land for many years, as every one knew, and his reason for offering his lands for sale, was that peace should in the end be restored. I said that there were many difficulties in the way of purchasing his land at present, the opposition of others was great, and that I was afraid lives would be lost if any steps were taken to purchase the lands, &c. He admitted what I said was true, at the same time what he said was also true, and that his land should be purchased. lhaia also spoke at great length, when I left and proceeded on my way to Mokau. After having consulted several of the Chiefs in the neighbourhood of New Plymouth, whose opinions are conflicting on this intricate question, and given the matter my best attention, I have now the honor to submit that it would be injudicious on the part of the Government, in my opinion, to purchase the Ikamoana from lhaia and Mahau at present; as there are a number of the real claimants who hold themselves aloof from the above named Chiefs, but who will most likely join them in the course of some time should any encouragement be given to them by the Government. At the same time I believe any immediate attempt to traverse the boundaries of the land now offered, which is not more than about 2000 acres, would produce a similar result to that which followed the offer made by Eawiri and his party, and would cause another war to ensue between the Natives of the New Plymouth district. Everything should be done to conciliate lhaia and Mahau for a time until this question developes itself more fully, as it appears to me that a desire on the part of msuy of the Natives in the neighbourhood of Plymouth to dispose of their land is becoming prevalent, and should a section of the Waitara Natives offer a portion of the South bank of that river for sale, Ihaia's offer might then be accepted, which would probably result in the sale of extensive blocks of land in the Taranaki Province. I have, &c, John Rogan, Donald McLean, Esq., District Commissioner. Chief Commissioner, Auckland.

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No. 56. MR. COMMISSIONER PARRIS TO THE CHIEF COMMISSIONER. Land Purchase Office, New Plymouth, August 10th, 1857. Sir, — I have the honor to inform you that a party of Natives headed by Mahau came to town on: Saturday last to offer for sale the land at Te Ikamoana and Waiongana. The majority of those who ■ came were from Mahoetahi, some of the principal claimants to that District, viz., Mahau, Aperahama, Haraira, Raneka, Komete, Te Koro, Wi Tana, Tepene (Karipa's brother) and others. The speakers were very particular in calling my attention to the fact of their having been hitherto opposed to selling land, but now are anxious to sell. I promised them to report their offer to the Governor without delay. They consented to wait the Governor's reply. lhaia Kirikumara and some of his people accompanied them. The Ninia people did not come ; although they have finally declared in favour of selling, they have promised me not to make any demonstration until the Governor is willing to buy; but I fear I shall have some difficulty in keeping them to their promise, for they are again at enmity with Katatore. Mahau had also promised me to follow the same course ; but on asking the reason of his departure therefrom, he replied that " lhaia would not let him rest." The plan I have been endeavouring to carry out was to associate Mahau and his people with the principal claimants at the Waitara, who are now assisting me for the acquirement of that District, and who hitherto have been opposed to the sale of the same. Those people united with Mahau and Ihaia's will make a very important majority in numbers, and a greater majority as claimants. One important claimant to the Waitara District is living at Arapawa, who, my confidentials tell me, will join them. I beg therefore, most respectfully, to suggest the necessity of my being authorised to guarantee the expense of getting him over, in the event of the negociations progressing favorably, and his presence being required. As Mr. Rogan has so recently left, I shall not enter fully into the question of Te Ikamona, as he can report from personal investigation up to the time of his departure ; but, since then, a great number of Puketapu claimants have become favorable, which gives the question a very different feature. Still I fear it is surrounded with difficulties ; in fact it is an obstacle to other negociations, inasmuch as many who are favorable to the sale of laud, and whose co-operation is essentially necessary in negociating, are opposed to Ihaia's selling the Te Ikamoana. On the other hand, lam exceedingly afraid of Ihaia's becoming opposed to selling, if something cannot be done for him in this question. I hope to be furnished with definite instructions on this subject without delay, for Ihaia's people are become very troublesome, and are very sanguine about a favorable reply, from Mr. Rogan's report. I have, &c, •p. Robekt Parris, onald McLean, Esq., District Commissioner. .Chief Commissioner.

Mahau and others otter land at Te Ikamoana and Waiongana for sale,

No. 57. INSTRUCTIONS TO DISTRICT LAND PURCHASE COMMISSIONER RELATIVE TO PURCHASE OF LAND FROM THE NATIVES AT TARANAKI. Chief Land Commissioner's Office, Auckland, August 26th, 1857. Sir, — I have the honor, by direction of His Excellency the Governor, to convey to you the following Instructions for your guidance, in conducting the purchase of Land from the Natives in the Taranaki Province. 1. In order to facilitate your negotiations, it will be necessary for you to study with great care the history and genealogy of the Taranaki tribes, from their early location at Ngapuketurua, on the banks of the Waiongona River, up to the date of their dispersion and conquest by the Waikato ; also to make yourself acquainted with the subsequent migrations, inter-marriages with foreign tribes, and other changes affecting title, that have occurred amongst the Ngatitama, Ngatimutunga, Ngatiawa, Ngamohi, Taranaki, Ngatiruanui, Ngarauru tribes, from that period up to the present date. 2. Having well fortified yourself with this general knowledge, which will greatly facilitate your future operations, you should devote your attention to a careful and minute investigation of the rival claims of the several sub-divisions of those tiibes in such localities as they are most anxious to cede to the Government, bearing in mind that the object of your investigations should not be confined to acquiring a knowledge only of the Natives actually residing on the land, but should be extended to those also who are inter-married among neighbouring tribes, as well as to those who are living in distant districts of the Colony. 3. In pursuing ycur enquiries amongst the resident Natives, you should not appear to attach much weight to the claims of absentees, as it may be assumed that they have acquired a vested interest in lands elsewhere, and should not now be considered as having an equal claim with their relatives who remain in actual possession of the soil.

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4. At the same time I am desired to state that it is His Excellency's wish to have a separate investigation of the claims of absentees instituted at the places where they reside ; when they will be settled with, in proportion to the relative merits of their claims, on a basis which will fully preserve the distinction which should be made between resident and non-resident proprietors. 5. To acquire a knowledge of the state of Native Title in your district is a preliminary of such urgent importance, that I cannot too earnestly request your attention to it; and I believe you will generally find the Natives willing to communicate all that is requisite on this head, if you will only lead them to the subject by referring to their past history—their feuds, wars, bravery, defeats, conquests —or any other subject of personal or tribal interest that may encourage them to converse freely and without reserve on the Land question. 6. A record of all claims submitted by the Natives should be noted by you in a book kept expressly for that purpose, more especially in those cases where conflicting interests have to be dealt with ; and great care should be taken not to give too much prominence to that class of claimants who are frequently the first to offer their lands for sale, from the fact of their title being in many instances very defective. The actual owner, in contra-distinction to the class to which I have just referred, seldom makes a noisy or boasting demonstration of what his claims really are ; it may therefore be inferred from his silent and uncompromising demeanour, that his rights are not to be trifled with, and that without his acquiescence, it will be impossible to make a valid purchase. This class of claimants it will be your duty to search out, as they will be the least likely, from feeling secure in the justice of their cause, to press themselves upon your notice. 7. Having thus adverted in general terms to the preliminary duties devolving upon you, I have now to direct your attention to the more practical part of your operations, including those of a financial nature. 8. I have applied for, and obtained, the sanction of the Government to have the sum of Three thousand pounds (£3,000) placed at your disposal whenever an opportunity offers for transmitting it to the Sub-Treasurer at New Plymouth, to be drawn from him on your requisition, as you may need it for land purchases, and to be accounted for by you to that Officer from time to time as the disbursements take place. 9. Duplicates of such Accounts must also be duly forwarded to this Office, with certified vouchers, showing how the expenditure was incurred, and the extent of land obtained by you to represent such expenditure. 10. It may be requisite for you to retain the original Deeds at Taranaki, and to have them registered in that Province ; but in all such cases duly certified copies, with translations, must be transmitted with the duplicate accounts for registry in this Office. 11. It is of importance that the Government should be kept constantly advised of the actual and probable liabilities that may be from time to time incurred for the acquisition of land in Taranaki, in order that provision may be made for any sudden demands under particular emergencies,—such as an unexpected and unanimous offer by the Natives to sell land, for which a large sum may be called for. You will therefore furnish monthly accounts of your disbursements, together with an approximate estimate of what may be needed for this service in each ensuing month. 12. From the great difficulty of obtaining- land at New Plymouth, and the numerous claimants that have to be satisfied before any valid purchase is concluded ; it will, no doubt, be found necessary to pay a higher price for Waste Lands in your district than in any other part of New Zealand. The exact terms on which land can be acquired it is difficult to state. I need not, however, add that it ie an object of great solicitude on the part of the General Government to have purchases made on terms the most advantageous for the public interests. You may consider yourself authorised to pay at rates varying from one shilling to three shillings per acre, according to quality and position, for land of fair average value ; and even that limit may, in some special and extraordinary cases, be exceeded, if you give timely notice of the necessity for so doing. 13. Much must, however, be left to your own judgment and discretion in making the best and most economical terms with the Natives : and I may add, that it is not the desire of the Government to fetter you with any instructions that will impede your operations in carrying out such an important and peculiarly difficult duty as the purchase of land in the Province of Taranaki. 14. If you find it necessary to make purchases, subject to the condition of large reserves for the Natives, I should prefer that you should follow the system adopted in the Hua purchase ; that, namely, of allowing the Natives (subject to certain limitations) a pre-emptive right over such portions as they may desire to re-purchase ; such land to be thenceforward held by them under individual Crown Grants —instead of having large reserves held in common. 15. I enclose herewith, for your guidance in such cases, copies of correspondence in reference to the Hua Block ; together with Mr. Commissioner Rogan's report upon the selections and repayments for the several sections repurchased out of that Block. 16. In making reserves for such of the Natives as are indisposed to be interspersed with the Europeans, you will endeavour, as far as possible, to induce them to select situations that are well defined by rivers or other natural boundaries ; as a means of preventing the endless cases of cattletrespass and other disputes that must be of frequent occurrence in the Taranaki district. At the same time every possible facility should be afforded to the young and more intelligent Natives to acquire land by re-purchase from the Crown ; in order that their present system of communism may be gradually dissolved ; and that they may be led to appreciate the great advantage of holding their land under a tenure more defined and more secure for themselves and their posterity than they can possibly enjoy under their present intricate and complicated mode of holding property. 17. I enclose a copy of the Draft Form of Native Deed to be used by you, subject to such variations as you may find necessary.

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18. From your long residence at New Plymouth, and knowledge of the Natives, there is every reason to hope that your negotiatious will shortly be attended with success ; —and I trust that every due precaution will be used by you to effect purchases in such a manner as to prevent disturbances amongst the Natives. To this point His Excellency the Governor directs particular attention. 19. It is most essential that the utmost harmony and unity of action should prevail between the several Officers of the Native Department ; as nothing will prove so destructive to the influence that should be preserved over the Natives as disagreement between the Officers of the same service ; and nothing of which a keen and discerning race like the Maories will be so apt to take advantage. Whatever differences, therefore, of opinion may be entertained by Officers in reference to Native subjects, I feel that it is hardly necessary for me to do more than incidentally remark that such differences should never be allowed to interfere with the friendly relations that ought always to subsist between gentlemen in the same Department of the Public Service, and which will, I trust, remain unimpaired as between yourself and the Assistant Native Secretary at New Plymouth. 20. Wishing you every success in your negotiations, and generally in fulfilling the delicate and difficult duties which now devolve upon you. I have, &c, Donald McLean, Chief Commissioner. Robt. Parris, Esq., J.P., District Commissioner, Taranaki.

No. 58. MR. COMMISSIONER PARRIS TO THE CHIEF COMMISSIONER. Land Purchase Office, New Plymouth, August 27th, 1857Sir,— By the last mail, I had the honor of forwarding to you a report of a meeting of the Mahoetahi Natives, for the purpose of offering the land at Te ikamoana and Waiongana for sale.' On enquiry since relative to the Waiongana question, I find the meeting was premature, for they had not sufficiently considered the question to have understood each other thereupon ; consequently some misunderstanding has arisen, which they are now endeavouring to clear up. I received a message from them on Saturday, requesting me to go and see them on the question. Mahau tells me Katatore is a claimant in that district, and, I think, they are more cautious ou that account, fearing the purchase would not be made without his consent; but, from all I can gather, he has but a very small claim on Te Ikamoana. I believe the solution of the difficulty, upon a satisfactory basis, can only be effected by getting them to make such concessions as will result in the sale of the land -. but, upon this point, it is very possible to be precipitate. lam now alluding more particularly to Te Ikamoana, upon which question, I have found it necessary to exercise the greatest caution, and have thereby already removed a considerable portion of the opposition thereto, and also the opposition to land selling generally. In proof of which, I have now the honor to report Katatore's surrender of his opposition to the sale of land, and the entire disruption of the League established for that purpose in this Province. I herewith enclose two letters from Katatore and his people, offering a block of land, as described in their letters, the boundaries of which, so far as I have at present been enabled to define them (with the assistance of Tahana and the Assessors), I have marked on the tracing herewith sent for your information. The block of land is supposed to contain, at a rough guess, forty thousand acres (40,000 acres), more or less, of the finest timber land in the Province, —the purchase of which I have good reason to hope will result in the acquirement of (in a reasonable time, if negociated for carefully) a larger block or blocks of the finest districts in the Province. The piincipal claimants to this block, with Katatore's people, are Tahana, Raniera, and Matiu of Te Hua, who are willing to join them in the sale of the same. Considering this offer, and the circumstances connected therewith, of such vital importance, I deem it expeuient to communicate the same with the least possible delay ; and beg most respectfully to submit for your consideration the urgent necessity of having on the spot the necessary funds and authority to purchase, as soon as any negociations may be satisfactorily concluded—which may occur suddenly, aid any delay then would be dangerous; for those who have been so long pressing this matter are getting tired, and threaten, if something is not now settled, they will never more offer land. This offer of Katatore's is not generally known as yet amongst the Natives ; when it is, I expect a little excitement amongst them, but Ido not expect much opposition. William King of the Waitara was present when the land was offered to me, and, after my departure, suggested the letter signed by three individuals, which was sent to me the following day. Katatore told me that there would be no reserves in this block, —that the whole of the land would be sold. On my suggesting to him the sum of £2,000, instead of £3,000, he replied that I need not reduce, for the Governor would do that fast enough. In the interim, I purpose

' Reporting further as to the offer of land at Te . Ikamoana & Waiongana

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using my utmost endeavours to reconcile Katatore to the sale of Te Ikamoana, either by joining it with the before-mentioned block, or selling it as a separate block. I have, &c Robert Parris, Donald McLean, Esq., District Commissioner. Chief Commissioner, Auckland.

No. 59. THE CHIEF COMMISSIONER TO MR. COMMISSIONER PARRIS. Chief Land Commissioner's Office, Auckland, August 31st, 1857SIX, — • I have the honor, by direction of His Excellency the Governor, to acknowledge the leceipt of your letter of the 27th inst., and to convey to you His Excellency thanks for your communication. In reply, I have the honor to inform you that you will consider yourself authorised to conclude the purchase of the block referred to —stated to contain the amount of forty thousand acres, as offered by Katatore for the sum of Two thousand pounds, or even if necessary to go to the extent of Three thousand pounds—provided that the resident Natives are willing to reserve a portion of such increased payment to satisfy the claims of absentees. His Excellency is very desirous that great care may be taken to extinguish all claims upon the block. I have, &c, Donald McLean, R. Parris, Esq., Chief Commissioner. District Commissioner. Postscript.—The external boundaries of the block should, if possible, be surveyed before making the payment, in order that its extent, position, and quality should be ascertained. Donald McLean.

Authorised to purchase * block of land (40,000 acres) offered by Katatore.

No. 60. THE CHIEF COMMISSIONER TO MR. COMMISSIONER PARRIS. Chief Land Commissioner's Office, Auckland, August 31st, 1857. Sir,— I have the honor, by direction of His Excellency the Governor, to acknowledge the receipt of your letter of the 10th inst., reporting the arrangements you propose of associating Mahau, lhaia, and other Natives in one party, with view of obtaining their more unanimous assent to the cession of claims. lam desired to observe that this proposed arrangement appears most judicious. I have further to inform you lhat you aie authorized to incur the necessary expense for getting the Native from Arapaoa whose presence you deem so essential to a settlement of certain claims at Taranaki. His Excellency desires me to add that you are to give the subject of Ihaia's claims the most favourable consideration that the circumstances of the case will admit of, — taking care, however, that no purchase is concluded by you that is likely to affect the peace or tranquillity of the Taranaki settlement. I have, &c, Donald McLean, Robert Parris, Esq., Chief Commissioner. District Commissioner, Taranaki.

Respecting certain arrangements for an association of other Natives with Mahau and lhaia, relative to the cession of their claimßjat Taranaki.

No. 61. MR. COMMISSIONER PARRIS TO THE CHIEF COMMISSIONER. Land Purchase Office, New Plymouth, September 9th, 1857. Sir, — I have the honor to transmit for your information the following report of the reception of Katatore's offer of the block of land by the Natives generally.

Reporting the feeling of the Natives generally regarding the offer of land by Katatore.

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Since my last communication, I have found it necessary not to press the subject upon either patty, for, as I then stated, I expected a little excitement so soon as it was known, which the other party were not prepared for. As you may suppose, I had many very hard discussions with Katatore, before I got his consent. His letter to the Governor I got under peculiar circumstances, which I will briefly relate. Finding the Ngatiruanui's were writing to him, entreating him to hold the land, and he having previously piomised me a block of land, I deemed it expedient to get something definite from him without delay. At this particular juncture, I learned that William King was going to visit the Kaipakopako (tangihanga). Hearing the result of his counsel, I went to Katatore the following morning. On my arrival. I found William King had arrived. I succeeded in getting Katatore away to another house, and got him to consent to write to the Governor. While this was being done, William King missed us, and succeeded in finding us in the act of writing the letter. He said, " You appear to be doing soir.e business, perhaps I had better leave you," and was about to leave the house when Katatore said, "E Wi, hokimai, he kupu taku ki a koe;" upon which William King turned round face to face with Katatore, who again said, " He kupn taku ki a koe ; kaua koe c pouri, kei te hoatu c ahau ki a ia (pointing to me) te whenua." After a considerable pause, William King said, "E pai ana, kei a koe te tikanga." I requested Katatore to keep it private until I heard from the Government, which he consented to do; but, finding the Ngatiiuanuis continued to press the subject upon him, by promising him their support so long as he was a non-seller, I considered the sooner it was made public the better, believing it would be the means of breaking up the league. I accordingly went to him on the subject, when he asked me my reason for changing my opinion. I explained myself by stating tl)3t I thought there would be some excitement when it was known, and that it might as well take place before we heard from the Government as after, for it would only prolong the settlement for the block, if left until we heard from the Government. This opinion he agreed with, and accordingly consented to go the next morning to Hamiora and Taha>>a, which he did, and 1 went to Te Ikamoana and Ninia, and found they were all delighted, but, as I before stated, were not prepared for the event: I mean that they knew not each other's thoughts thereupon. No leadii g questions can possibly he settled without public demonstrations, which are the true characteristics of Natives; and accordingly a large meeting of Natives was convened at Te Ikamoana, on Wednesday the 2nd inst., to discuss the subject. I was reques'ed to attend, which, of course, I did, and found the feeling generally in favour of Kat»tore's offer, with a desire on the part of some to include the Ikamoana with it. They requested me to see Katatore on the subject, and also to tell him that they intended to visit Taruruiangi (the place where Rawiri and his followers fell) the next day, and that he was not to suppose their movements were hostile, but remain quiet in his pa. I went to him, but could not get his consent to join lhaia in the sale of Te Ikamoana; but he promised me that he would sell Te Ikamoana as soon as the other block was settled for. I returned to Te Ikamoana to inform them that he would not consent, upon which they manifested considerable displeasure, and said he may sell his block, and they would sell Te Ikamoana, and that they should traverse a line from the Wnitaha to the Mangoraka inland, and from thence follow the course of the river seaward, which they did. I went to the Kaipakopako the next morning, and prevailed on them to remain in their pa ; since then, all has been quiet, and I have decided to take no further action upon the question, until I hear from you, hoping to get your opinion from Mr. Commissioner Rogan's report upon Te Ikamoana question. I need not tell you Katatore is clever in argument, and difficult to refute, especially upon his subject. He states that he has no desire to be at enmity with the Ngat'.ruanuis, and wished me to go and see them when the block of land is settled for. He thinks I should be enabled to reconcile them to his change, and intimated that they will soon follow him. I have sent an invitation to Hanataua's son to pay me a visit; but T have since heard that he is engaged by the Rev. R. Taylor of Whanganui on a peace mission to that place. There is a repoit that the Ngitiruanuis are coming for Piripi's bones, to remove them to that place. This Katatore rather dreads, and explains himself to me thus:—"That, if he joined lhaia in the sale of Te Ikamoana, he should be turning upon the Ngatiruanuis and joining their enemies, which would be an act of ingratitude; but, if the sale of Te Ikamoana was effected by the Puketapus alone, the real owners, they can have no cause of offence. This question has become more difficult on account of European interference. * * * I have, &c, Robert Parris, D. McLean, Esq., J.P., District Commissioner. Chief Commissioner, Auckland.

No. 62. MR. COMMISSIONER PARRIS TO THE CHIEF COMMISSIONER. Land Purchase Office, New Plymouth, September, 21st, 1857. Sir, — I have the honor to acknowledge the receipt of your letter of the 3rd inst., together' with the diaft form of Native Deed. i

The Ninia natives r.fuse to surrender the land offered by Katatore,

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I have uot yet proceeded to cut the line of the block of land offered by Katatore, because the question is now under dispute with the Ikamoana and Ninia people. lhaia and Tamati came to me on Monday last to inform me that they approved of Katatore's offer, and that the Ninia people had left the question with them to settle, with representations that nothing remained to be done, but to cut the line, and pay for the land. Not being disposed to take an ex parte statement for a final decision, I therefore, the following morning, v»ent to the Ninia, the result of which was. I found, that the people were not at all disposad to surrender their authority over their land to lhaia, and was told by them that they disapproved of the interference of the Ikamoana people with what they considered to be their lights. The Ninia people are evidently in the lion's net. and know not how to extricate themselves which is the cause of a considerable amount of equivocation on their part, at which lhaia is considerably enraged, and made proposals to me to join Katatore in opposition to the Ninia people. I told him the Government would not sanction or support any combinations for hostile puaposes, bnt preferred quiet deliberations for the settlement of all such questious. Katatore still refuses to join lhaia in the sale of (he Ikamoana ; I have frequently tried him npon the question,—but he is bitterly opposed, and always says " Let them go back their own land and offer that." Permit me to assure you, Sir, that I shall continue to act with the greatest caution in this tiresome question, and shall neither proceed to cut the line nor to pay the money nntit the claimants are satisfied with the sale of the block, and have openly declared their assent. In order to relieve the question of its continued embarrassment, I have proposed through Mr. Assistan Native Secretary Halse, to the Ikamoana people (for its more than 1 dare do myself, fearing an opposition from other quarters) to give them the sum of Two hnndred pounds (£-i00) to clear out from Te Ikamoana. As yet, they have not consented, stating as their reason for not having done so their great annoyance at the conduct of the Ninia people towards them, I trust such an arrangement will meet your approval, for I have every reason to hope that good results will follow. I have, &c, Robert Parris, The Chief Commissioner, District Commissioner. Auckland.

No. 63. MR. COMMISSIONER PARRIS TO THE CHIEF COMMISSIONER. Land Purchase Office, New Plymouth, October sth, 1857. Sir, — I have the honor to communicate for your information that all the Puketapu natives are coming to town to-day, for the purpoce of publicly consenting to the sale of the block of land offered by Katatore. They purposed to have come in on Saturday, but, the weather having proved unpropitious, they only came so far as Te Hua, where they remained until this morning. There was a large meeting at Te Ninia, on Wednesday last, when the subject was well discussed, and ended in an unanimous consent to the sale of the block. I endeavoured to prevail on them not to come to town, for such demonstrations are attended with expense ; but they would not be put off, stating they had always been accustomed to carry the land to the purchaser. I expect to be engaged for the next three weeks (weather permitting) cutting the eastern boundary, as I purpose to be with them myself while it is being done. The sum to be paid for the block will be decided so soon as I have ascertained the probable amount of acreage. * *- * * * I have, &c, Robert Parris, Donald McLean. Esq, J.P., District Commissioner. Chief Commissioner.

The Puketapu natives consent to sale of land offered by Katatore.

No. 64. ME. COMMISSIONER PARRIS TO THE CHIEF COMMISSIONER. Land Purchase Office, New Plymouth, October 23rd, 1857. Sir,— • I have the honor to inform you that I have succeeded in cutting the boundary line of the block of land as far as the Waiongana river, which we find to be six miles and twenty-three chains from Tarurutangi. A little opposition has arisen to the sale of the land beyond the river. On commencing to cut the line, Arapata of Huirangi and a few of his people (for most of ihetn

Has cut the boundary line of block of land offered by Katatore.

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are favourable) went out with the intention of meeting us at the river, to oppose our cutting the line any further. On hearing of their movements, I sent them a message, informing them that I would see them before I went beyond the river,—upon which they returned, and Arapata sent me the following message:—" That he did not approve of any other person feeding his pig; although his food was plentiful, he preferred giving the whole himself—thereby intimating his intention for me to have it, but that he wished to assert his authority : which it is necessary to indulge them in to a certain extent. lhaia assures me that Mahau is the instigator of Arapata's opposition, although he accompanied us the whole of the way to the river. He has been guillty of a great deal of duplicity, which has given great offence to lhaia, and which he has always resented, and wished me to carry the line through to the Ngatiruanui boundary,—but this I shall decline doing, for the following reasons, viz.:—On the day of the meeting in town, a man named Kowete, a large claimant in this block, Kairoa, Huirangi, Waiongana, and Waitara, said that he would not stop at Te Whakangerengere, but would take the line to a place called Waipuku. A woman living at Te Kawau, daughter of Hori Pakeke, Chief of Ngatiruanui, on hearing this, was much disquieted, and caused some excitement for a short time by declaring that Waipuku belonged to the Ngatiruanui. On enquiry, I find Te Whakangerngere is the boundary, but that Kowete is a claimant in conjunction with the Ngatiruanui to Waipuku I have therefore sent the Ngrttiruanuis a promise that I will not go beyond Te Whakangerengere. As the line is not to be diverted, but to be a straight line, I consider the wording of the Deed will be sufficient: "from the Waiongana to the boundary of the two tribes," —which place I purpose going to with a surveyor, in order to find out the beariug of the mountain therefrom, and to ascertain the probable amount of acreage. Although the Natives are willing to cut the line up to the boundary, I feel I should not be justified in allowing them to do so, as it may produce a collision, —for, in all probability, the Ngaiiruanuis would be on the look-out, suspicious of our going beyond, and, if we met, there might be some unpleasantness, attended with disastrous results—lhaia being amongst our party, and becoming very much excited as soon as any opposition from the Ngatiruanui is mentioned. Hoping soon to be enabled to report the conclusion of the negociations for this block, I have, &c, Robert Parris, The Chief Commissioner, District Commissioner. Auckland.

No. 65. THE CHIEF COMMISSIONER TO MR. COMMISSIONER PARRIS. Chief Land Commissioner's Office, Auckland, November 4th, 1857. With reference to your letter of the 23rd ult., stating that you have succeeded in cutting the boundary line of the land offered by Katatore, as far as the Waiongana river, I have the honor, by direction of His Excellency the Governor, to inform you that your report is satisfactory, and that •you have acted with much prudence and judgment in not pushing the cutting of boundary lines either in Arapata's country or that of the Ngatiruanui, until they agree to the sale. In order to prevent future disputes, the boundary should be kept rather within the Ngatiawa than extended beyond it for the present. I have, &c, Donald McLean, Chief Land Purchase Commissioner. R. Parris, Esq., J.P., New Plymouth.

Regarding the cutting of boundary line of land offered by Katatore,

No. 66. MR. COMMISSIONER PARRIS TO THE CHIEF COMMISSIONER. Land Purchase Office, New Plymouth, November 6th, 1857. I have the honor herewith to transmit for your information copy of a letter received from the Ngatiruanui Natives and my answer to the same ; and also copy of a letter from Tamati/Te Ito I (the great mover of the kai tapu ceremon)), to Katatore, whereby you will perceive that a strong '■ under-current is working to keep Katatore in the opposition to the sale of land ; but at present I cannot discover any probability of their success. Mr. Assistant Native Secretary Halse and myself have good reason to believe that Tamati Wiremu Te Ngahuru, Native Assessor, is implicated in this letter ; but supposing that we had proof positive, it is necessary not to resent it by reproof,

Enclosing copies of Native Letters regarding the sale of laud,

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but to be cautious of reposing too much confidence in such an individual; for I have every reason to hope, if I can only keep Katatore favourable, it will have the effect of overcoming the opposition of such individuals, even in their own district. Since my last, the Puketapu and Ikamoana people have been pressing me to get the Whakangerengere block settled for ; but having had a continuation of bad weather, I have not been able to go with a surveyor to the inland boundary; and, moreover, the delay is likely to work beneficially upon Arapata's opposition, which I am obliged to countenance evasively, for the Puketapus will not admit of their right. Mahau has now declared in favour, and is exerting himself to bring about Arapata. He has taken my letter from the Ngatiruanuis to show to Arapata. This letter has given great satisfaction to the whole of the Natives except Katatore, who considers it inexplicit with reference to the Whakangerengere, not having described it as the division boundary of the two tribes. However, my reply will elicit an explanation from them. Pardon me for suggesting the desirability of a letter now and then from His Excellency and myself to Katatore. It would have an excellent effect upon him, and be of great assistance to me in contradicting the influence of the opposition. I have, &c., Robert Pap.ris, Donald McLean,' Esq., District Commissioner. Chief Commissioner. Auckland.

Enclosure 1 to No. 66. THE NGATIRUANUI CHIEFS TO MR. COMMISSIONER PARRIS. Keteonetea Pa, Oketopa 24, 1857. E HOA, Parete, — Tena ko koe te Kai-whakamarama i nga mea marama, te kai whakamarama i nga mea pouri; kua kite matou ite maramatanga o tau kupu, Kua mea koe, ekore koe c tahae i te Whakangerengere. Whakarongo mai, c Parete, he kupu tawhito enei; no Kumeamai, no Taiporohenui, ka karangatia ko te Whakangerengere, ko Tahunaatutawa, ko te Hononga, ko Kurukuru ; he wahi tapu enei, c Parete—he mania. Ko nga kaitiaki i enei whenua he tataramoa, he ongaonga, he kotote ; ko nga kai tiaki o te wahi tapu he ngarara, he weta, he pungawerewere, he taniwha, he mokonui. E hoa, E Parete, kia marama to whakaaro ; kaua koe c whakaae kite hau kau, kite wairua kau, kite nama ; kite mea ka whakaae koe ki enei mea, kite hau kau, kite wairua kau, kite nama, ka piri te taiakiaki, te tunga, ki ou niho. I penei hoki ta matou kupu ki aTe Kupa. Heoti tenei. Kia rongo mai koe. Kaore tenei whare i hanga mo te aha ranei, mo te aha ranei; otira i hanga o matou nei whare mo te whenua. Heoi ano to matou kupu ki a koe. Na Hori Kiwi, Aperahama, Wi Te Awi, Tamati Hone, Pawenata, W r iremu Patene, Timotiu, Ke we tona, Aperahama, Te Waaka, Rawiri, Wiremu Kingi Horomona, TeKeiHanataua., Te Wunu, Pita Taramakau, Te fLrawira, Rameka, Wiremu Nera, Matiu. Otira ra matou, na te iwi katoa, tenei tikanga.

Translation of Enclosure No. 1. Keteonetea. October 24th, 1857. > Friend, Mr. Parris, — Salutations to you, the person who makes plain things clear, aud dark things straight! We have seen the light of your word. You have said that you will not steal Te Whakangerengere. Hearken, O Parris : these were old words of Kumeamai and Taiporohenui. The following places, Te Whakangerenge, Tahunaatutawa,Te Horonga, and Te Kurukuru, are sacred places; 0, Mr,

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Parris, (they are) a plain. The guardians of these places are reptiles, wetas, spiders, sea gods, and lizards. O friend, Mr. Parris, let the thought be clear ; do not listen to the wind only, or to a shadow (spirit) ; otherwise, sounding surf will strike your teeth. Our words to Mr. Cooper were the same. This is all. Do you hearken. These houses were not constructed vuthout a purpose; our houses were built for the land. This is all we have to say to you. From Hori Kiwi, &c, But the regulation is from the whole of us.

Enclosure 2 to No. 66. MR. COMMISSIONER PARRIS TO THE NGATIRUANUI CHIEFS. Waitoki, Oketopa 30, 1857. Ehoa ma, E nga Rangatira o Ngatiruanui, me te iwi katoa,— Tena koutou ! Kua tae mai ta koutou pukapuka ki au ; ka tahi ka hari taku ngakau. Ka mea ahau, koia kau te tikanga rangatira; me tuhituhi pukapuka tatou, tetahi ki tetahi mo te whakamarama nga pouritanga ; tahuri pai mai koutou ki nga ritenga penei, me rapu te tikanga o nga kupujka rengo tatou. Ahakoa he kupu pouri, ahakoa he kupu marama, ne penei he ritenga mo tatou, ka ora tatou. Ko tenei, kei te tika ta koutou pukapuka. Kua ki atu ahau ite whakamenenga o Puketapu, kaore au c pai i te haere ki tua i te Whakangerengere, no te mea kuarongo ahau i te kupu o Mereana, te tamahine o Hori Pakeke, c ki ana ia, na Ngatiruanui te Waipuku. No konei ka mea ahau, hei Te Whakangerengere te mutunga o te ruri mo te hoko. Kei te tika ta koutou kupu ka haere ahau ki tua o Te Whakangerengere "Ka piri te tai akiaki, te tunga, ki taku niho ;" ka mate ahau no te mea he hapu ke tera whenua. Me penei hoki he ritenga ma koutou, kia mahara koutou; ka poka koutou kite haere mai ki tenei whaitua o Te Whakangerengere, "Ka piri te taiakiaki, te tunga, ki o koutou niho ;" no te mea he hapu ke nona tenei whenua, na Te Atiawa. Whakarongo mai koutou, he kupu aroha tenei kia koutou ; me noho pai koutou, me whakawhirinaki ki nga ture ote Kawana. Ekore te Kawana c whakaae kite tahae ite oneone, engari ma te iwi no ratou te whenua ma ratou c whakaae kite tuku mai, ka tika; katahi ka whakaae te Kawana kite hoko ;ka rere mai he iwi ke kite whakararuraru ka he; ehara tenei ite mahi rangatira, he mahi tutua. Hei konei mutu ai aku korero kia koutou. Na to koutou hoa aroha, Na Parete. \

Translation of Enclosure No. 2. Waitoki, October 30th, 1857. Friends, the Chiefs of the Ngatiruanui, and all the tribe, — Salutations to you ! I have received your letter, and my heart now rejoices. I say, Truly these are the acts of a chief. Let us write each to the other, to make darkness light. Do you join in these acts, and enquire the meaning of words when we hear them. If it be a dark word, or a light word, let us act according to this intention, then we shall live. Now your word is right. I stated before the Assembly that I would not go to the other side of Te Whakangerengere, as I heard the word of Mereana, the daughter of Hori Pakeke. She says that Waipuku belongs to Ngatiruanui. Hence, I say, let the boundary of the block of land to be sold end at Te Whakangerengere. You are justified in telling me that, if I go beyond Te Whakangerengere, " The lashing tide draws near and is even at my teeth"—(l shall find myself surrounded with difficulties). I shall fail, as the land is that of another tribe. Do you act up to this principle, and refrain from interfering with the land on this side Te Whakangerengere, or " The lashing tide will draw near and be even near your teeth," as the land belongs to Te Atiawa. Do you hearken ! This is a word of kindness to you. You must live in peace, and do you confide in the laws of the Governor. The Governor will not consent to steal land. It is for the owners of the land to make the offer, then the Governor will consent to purchase ; and if a strange tribe come to make confusion, they will be wrong, as this is not the work of a chief but of a slave. Let me end my words to you. From your loving friend, Parris.

Enclosure 3 in No. 66. tamati te ito to te waitere katatore. Umuroa, Oketopa 31, 1857. Haere atu c tenei karere aroha kia Te Waitere, tangihia atu ratou. E koro, tena koe ; otira, koutou katoa. Ka nui toku aroha atu kia koutou kaioa i roto i te raruraru. Ka nui to koutou pohehe i roto i enei ra. I marama ano koutou i taku waihotanga atu ; inaianei, kua he. Kia rono- 0

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mai koutou—kua kanga koutou ki aku korero ; ahakoa kanga mai koutou ki aku korero, ma koutou te kan<ja, maku te ao marama. Ka mutu era kupu ; kei pouri koutou ki enei kupu. E hoa, eTe Waitere, whakamutua tenei tikanga au. E kore ranei koe c pai kia whakamutua tenei tikanga, no te mea kua kino, kua pakaru te tati o te whenua, me te ritenga mo taua kua he. E hoa, whakamutua te korero. E koro, kia kite ai ahau i a koe. E koro, i mea atu ai au, kua nui te pouri o te kainga, kia aroha koe ki taku hupu; ka horomia c koe enei kupu ka tika, hei koha koa ma taua ka pai. Ko nga mea tenei c whakamutu ko te mahinga a to ngakau kite tuku whenua. E koro, whakamutua. Tenei tetahi. Xi te mea ka tangohia nga utu, kaua koe c tango; ahakoa mea iti, kaua c tango. Heoi ano. Na tau tamaiti aroha, Na Tamati Te Ito. Kia Te Waitere, Kei To Kaipakopako.

Translation of Enclosure ISo. 3. Umuroa, October 31st, IS57* Go my loving messenger to Te Waitere, and weep for them. Friend, salutations to you ! that is the whole of you. Great is my love for you all in the midst of perplexity. Your confusion has been great in these days. You were all enlightened when I left you, but now you are in error. Do you all hearken. You have cursed my speech ; but, although you have cursed what I said, the curse will be for you, and for me this word of light. So ends those words. Do not suffer yourselves to be depressed by those words. Friend, Te Waitere, let this proceeding of yours cease. Will you not conseut that this proceeding of yours shall cease ? It has become bad ; the chart of the land is broken, and the rule for you and I has become void. Friend, cease talking that I may see you. Friend, I have thought that great depression exists at your place. Do be kind to my word ;if you swallow these words, well. If treasured by us it will be good. The thing to be relinquished is this, —the working of your heart to dispose of land. Friend, let this cease. Here is another thing : If payment is taken, do not you take any ; however small, do not you touch it. This is all. From your loving son, Tamati Te Ito.

No. 67. MR. COMNISSIONER PARRIS TO THE CHIEF COMMISSIONER. Land Purchase Office, New Plymouth, November 18th, 1857. Sir, — I have the honor to communicate for your information the following particulars relative to the progress of the negotiations for the Whakungerengere block of land :— On Thursday last, Katatore, Tamati Waka, Raniera, Tahana, and their followers, came to my office for the purpose of discussing the price for the block of land. Raniera, Tahana, and Tamati Waka, started the discussion with representations of the magnitude of the block, and their expectations that a large price would be offered for it; for they looked upon this as the key that would open other important districts, and therefore considered that I should not be particular about the price, which they were anxious to know my thoughts upon, as they considered the block was surveyed, and sufficient information obtained as to quality and quantity ; that the Ngatiawas had consented (referring to my letter which I sent you a copy of, that, as to the opposition of Arapata and his people, they were not disposed to admit of it. In reply, I explained to them that I was glad to meet them on the subject, but, before I could make them afl offer, 1 must see the Wh.akangeren.7ere, to ascertain its position relative to the mountain, to make certain the inland boundary. In answer to this, they stated that Te Whakangerengere was a fixed place and not a floating ship, and that no one could alter its position ; that it was considerably inland of the mountain ; and as I would not make them an offer of a price, they would offer me the block for Six thousand pounds (f 6,000), As they pressed the subject so earnestly upon me to mention a price, I told them that, after 1 had been to Te Whakangerengere, if I found their representations to be correct, and Arapata would consent to sell, I would give them Three thousand pounds (£3,000). Tamati Waka, Raniera, and Tahana, were very much dissatisfied with this offer, and said they would not sell. Katatore spoke to some length, and said he had offered the block for Three thousand pounds (£3,600), and he should keep to his word • that hitherto they had sold land for cattle, clothing, tobacco, &c, but this would be a money payment, and each man could do as he liked with his respective share of the payment. Raniera replied rather inuignantly, and told him he thought he should be satisfied with offering the land without fixing the price of it. Hone Ropiha rose and spoke well. He said, — "Do not think I wish to dictate to you about the price of

Whakangerengere Reporting progress of negotiations for the WhaUangcregere Block.

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the land. You have stated your opinions ; I will state mine. I agree with Katatore. We all know the question rests with him whether the land shall be sold or not. We know he has been guilty of wicked deeds in opposing the sale of land ; we have all of us opposed the sale of land, but. since then we have enjoyed the benefits derivable from the sale of land : and now he is disposed to join us and sell land, do not let it be said that we are opposed to it, and the cause of driving him back to his old customs, at which you know so many of you would rejoice and support him." Before this party had finished another party was waiting to see me from Huirangi,—Te Waka, (Arapata's brother,) Mahau, Kowete, and about seven others- So soon as the other party had left, I sent for them, when I soon discovered they had come to oppose the sale beyond the Waiongana river, and that Mahau was at the head of the opposition. Kowete. although with them, was in favour of selling up to Te Whakangerengere, and told them he should press me to pay for the block. He is an important claimant in this and other districts, and is pledged to me for selling. Mahau wished me to buy the land so far as the Waiongana river, and said when that was settled for they would sell the other part; but his conduct has been so bad, I am not disposed to trust him. He has actef most deceitfully, for which I gaye him a severe reprimand before his friends, which I think had a very good effect, for he came to me the following morning with an apology. It is this sort of thing that has made the Ikamoana question so complicated and delicate to manage. Finding the Ngatirtiaiiuis had withdrawn their opposition, Mahau attempted to intimidate us by representations that the Taranaki people would oppose us at the Whakangerengere; but, fortunately, the following day a large party from Taranaki came to town, when I embraced the opportunity of opening the question to them ; but they all repudiated any intention to interfere, and assured me that they were willing for me to have the land. Taking a line from the mountain parallel with the coast, Mr 0. Carrington's estimate of the whole block is 36,690 acres ; but, from what I can gather, the Whakangerengere is considerably inhnd cf the mountain, which wonld make the block considerably over 40,0011 acres. The block so far as the Waiongana river, already surveyed, is estimated at 13,98>) acres. If the opposition continues, I should be disposed to purchase so far as the river first, provided they would consent to a proportionate reduction of the Three thousand pounds (£3,000J to the proportion that part has to the other, allowing for the difference of the value of the front block compared with the inland block from its being more available. However, before I consent to this, I must see my way clear for another block to settle the Ikamoana question, which I consider the whole block will do satisfactorily. From this report, Sir, (although imperfect,) you will be enabled to form an opinion as to how the question at present stands. I find it necessary to exercise a great deal of patience and caution, and thereby hope to remove the difficulties. The Ikamona question is very quiet, lhaia and his peple are hoping for favourable results so soon as the block now in treaty for is settled. They are yery wrath with Mahau, and offer to carry the line to the Whakangerengere, which, of course, I cannot entertain. My success at the Waitara depends to a certain extent upon an amicable arrangement for Te Ikamoana. This once effected, I tiope then soon to be enabled to send you a favourable account relative to that district, so much to be desired for this settlement. I have, &c , Robert Parris. The Chief Commissioner, Auckland.

■ II .11. ■ «M»wwwwaai No. 68. THE CHIEF COMMISSIONER To MR. COMMISSIONER PARRIS. Chief Land Purchase Commissioner's Office, Auckland, November 30th, 1857. Sir,— With reference to your letter of the 18th inst., reporting for the information of the Government the following particulars relative to the negociations now pending for the purchase of the Whaka-! ngagerengere Block. Ist. That in reply to the offer by the Katatore, Tamati Waka, and others of the block abovenamed, you had expressed your determination of seeing the land before you would to the price to be given for it. 2nd. That on their urgently pressing you to name a price you had assented to give them the sum of £3000, conditionally that it was found to be equal to their representations, and that Arapata did not object to the sale thereof, which offer on your part had been rejected by Tamati Waka, Raniera, and Tahana, but accepted by Katatore and Hone Ropiha. 3rd. That Mahau and others opposed the sale beyond the Waiongana river, that you had severely reprimanded Mahau for his duplicity, and had received the assurance of the Taranaki people that they would not interfere with the question. 4th. That estimating the area of the whole block at from 38,000 to 40,000 acres for which you had offered the sum of £3000, you would be disposed in the event of opposition on the part of the persons abovenamed, to give a proportional price for that part of the block (13,890 acres) which extends as far as the Waiongana river ; provided that you could see your way clear for the purchase of another block to settle the Ikamoana question.

Regarding negotiations for Whakangerengere Block.

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I have the honor, by direction of the Governor, to inform you that His Excellency has been pleased to approve generally of your proceedings in this matter. As it appears from your report that the Natives formerly favorable to the sale of land are now most extortionate iv their demands, I am of opinion that you are quite right in not hastening the negociation, It will be exceedingly advisable that you should have the boundaries definitely fixed and traversed by the Surveyors, accompanied by the Native owners, before making any payment to the Natives for the land. The purchase of the smaller block extending to the Waiongana river would be preferable to that inland, which is likely to be disputed by the Ngatiruanui, who have proved very troublesome on all matters connected with the purchase of land. I am further directed to urge upon you the necessity for using great caution in quietly conducting the negociation through its several stages, without any reference to any external influences that may be used to urge undue expedition in a matter of such a delicate nature as that of acquiring land in your District. I have, &c, Donald McLean, Chief Land Purchase Commissioner. R. Parris, Esq., J. P., District Commissioner, Taranaki.

No. 69. COPT OP A REPORT OP THE NATIVE SECRETARY ON THE MEMORIAL OP THE PROVINCIAL COUNCIL OF NEW PLYMOUTH. The Memorial of the Provincial Council of Taranaki contains so much of the early history of the settlement and of the Native feuds that have arisen there, that I need not advert to these points, inasmuch as they are already well known to the Government. The Native population within the Province is altogether under estimated, and the return of 1782 made by the Assistant Native Secretary can only apply to a portion of the Province, the Native population of the whole Province is certainly not less than 3000 souls. It is true that the land held by these Natives is much in excess of their requirements, so conscious have the Government been of this fact, that every exertion has been used to acquire by purchase from the Natives, the cession of their surplus lands at much higher rates than have been offered for Native land in any other Province, a large sum of money available for this purpose is now deposited at New Plymouth. An officer strongly recommended by the Provincial Government has been appointed to conduct negociations with the Natives, and it has been found that any more vigorous action than has been already taken for the acquisition of land could only lead to the creation of fresh feuds among the Natives in which the settlers and the Government might become seriously involved. Moreover it is clearly the duty of the Government to abstain from acquiring land when the consequence of its acquisition is in any way likely to bring about serious differences among the Natives ; the strict observance of this rule has been enjoined by His Excellency on all the officers of the Land Pui chase Department. The Memorial states that, "conflicting advice, however well intentioned, can but cause an increase of embarrassment ; this is so perfectly true, that it is to be hoped that means will be taken to prevent such advice being tendered in future; such interference has done more to retard the purchase of land at New Plymouth than can be easily imagined. The Memorial sets forth that, "the colonists of Taranaki have a special claim to the consideration of the Government, and of their fellow colonists, inasmuch as nearly the whole of the Natives now located in the neighbourhood of the Settlement were a few years since dwelling in the Provinces of Wellington and Nelson, and that the purchase of the lands held by Taranaki Natives, by right of conquest, at Waikanae and other places has beeu most prejudicial to New Plymouth, by accumulating in one spot the scattered remains of the tribes which had formerly resided here, and most advantageous to the Provinces in which such purchased lands are situated." The facts of the case altogether disprove the foregoing assertions, for in the first place, Waikanae is not yet purchased, and although it has been repeatedly offered by Win. King and other Natives, the Government declined to purchase, from a feat- that its acquisition would drive the Natives to Taranaki. 2. The migration of Natives to Taranaki commenced years before any extensive purchases were made from the Natives at the South. 3. Taringa Kuri and his 100 followers were prevented from going to Taranaki three years ago, by a purchase of land made for him at an expense of £400, lent to him for the purpose of inducing him to remain at the Hutt instead of going to Taranaki. With the same object in view, Sir George Grey purchased land for the Waiwhetu Natives, and at Nelson, the following paragraph from my report on the final cession of the Native lands of that Province to the Crown in 1856, will show that the interests of Taranaki were not sacrificed or overlooked. " 28. The unsettled state of the Ngatiawa tribe, and the disposition manifested by them to re- " turn to their former possessions at Taranaki, where their presence could only increase the troubles "that already beset the land question iv that Province, rendered the present negociation with them one

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"of no small difficulty and delicacy,—which might, if in any way mismanaged, affect the general tranquillity of the country. I was induced therefore to agree to reserves of considerable extent being " assigned to them in the various bays they were then inhabiting, with which they appeared to be "fully satisfied." I do not know what change of policy the Memorialists desire, it is very evident that nothing short of strong coercive measures would effect an immediate solution of the present difficulties at Taranaki, and it is not easy to discover on what principle such measures should be resorted to, in this instance, unless the Government is prepared to apply them to every similar case that may arise throughout the colony. With reference to the prayer of the petition that His Excellency would be pleased to cause an enquiry to be instituted into the present condition of the Native inhabitants of this Province, and to the causes which have led to the present difficulties, with a view to establish peace, &c. lam not aware from the full and complete information which the Government now possess, that such an enquiry would lead to any good result, on the contrary it would raise false expectations on the part of some, doubt and apprehension with others, a succession of such enquiries among a barbarous people will only exhibit weakness on the part of the Government, if not followed by measures which it may not be prudent to undertake. Donald McLean. Ist June, 1858.

No. 70. MR. COMMISSIONER PARRIS TO THE CHIEF COMMISSIONER. Land Purchase Office, New Plymouth, June 14th, 1858. Sir,— I have the honor to inform you that there is every probability of an early application being made to open the negociation for the block of land recently offered, 1 therefore most respectfully request to be furnished with instructions thereupon. I have, he, Robert Parris, D. McLean, Esq., J. P., District Commissioner. Chief Commissioner, Auckland.

Reporting the probability of fresh negotiations being opened for land,

No. 71. THE CHIEF COMMISSIONER TO MR. COMMISSIONER PARRIS. Chief Land Purchase Commissioner's Office, Auckland, June 29th, 1858. Sir,— With reference to your letter of the 14th inst., reporting that there is every probability of an early application being made to open the negotiation for the block of land recently offered, I have the honor, by direction of His Excellency, to lequest that you will refrain from entering in or resuming aegotiations for this land until the presenf feud is considered to be absolutely at an end, I have, &c, Donald McLean, R, Parris, Esq., J-P., Chief Commissioner. District Commissioner, New Plymouth.

Not to negotiate for land I until Native feud is ■ ended.

No. 72. MR. COMMISSIONER PARRIS To THE CHIEF COMMISSIONER. Land Purchase Office, New Plymouth, July 10th, 1858. Sir, — I have the honor to inform you that on Tuesday last I went to Te Mimi to see lhaia and his people, having received several messages from them, requesting me to do so, through tho Rev. Mr. Whiteley. 2nd.—l found them building apaat a place called Papawera, on a district of fine land called Te Kaweka, close to Mimi on the south side, where they intend to settle. 3rd.—On my arrival, 10 o'clock at night, they all assembled in a long shed which they had erected, and commenced to question me about the sale of land ; I told them 1 had not come to talk abont land-selling, but as they had sent me several messages to pay them a visit, I had done so, and the best advice I could give them (in my opinion) was to remain quiet for some time, talk over amongst themselves their respective claims to land, and ascertain each others inclinations relative to the same ; and, in the meantime, if they intended to settle where they were, to prepare some land for crops for their own maintenance, otherwise they would be short of food as they were last year at Te Ikamoana.

Reporting that he has been to visit lhaia at Te Mimi.

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4th.—They have a good supply of food at present, having gathered a quantity at Onaero an<J Urenui. The day previous to my arrival, the Mimi Natives gave them three bullocks and ten pigs to slaughter for food. sth.—l informed them that the Puketapus were likely to offer the Whakangerengere block of land almost immediately. In reply, they recommended me to buy it, and said when that was settled they would offer a block. 6th.—Nikorima's people have never yet been favorable to the sale of any land in this district but Te Ikamoana ; but I believe they are now disposed to sell ; but at present the subject must be dealt cautiously with, until the feud has died away. I have, &c, Robert Parris, Donald McLean, Esq., J.P., District Commissioner, Chief Auckland.

No. 73. THE CHIEF COMMISSIONER TO MR. COMMISSIONER PARRIS. Chief Land Purchase Commissioner's Office, Auckland, August 2, 1858. Sir, — With reference to your letter of the 10th ultimo, reporting that in consequence of having been repeatedly requested by lhaia, you had visited him at Te Mimi,— I have the honor, by direction of His Excellency the Governor, to inform you that the advice given by you is judicious; and that in the present state of affairs at Taranaki, the utmost caution, must be observed in all dealings respecting the land question. I have, &c, Donald McLean, R. Parris, Esq., J.P., Chief Commissioner. District Commissioner, New Plymouth.

Cautions to be observed in dealings respecting land question.

No. 74. THE CHIEF COMMISSIONER TO MR. COMMISSIONER PARRIS. Chief Land Purchase Commissioner's Office, Auckland, August 14th, 1858. Sir, — With reference to your letter of the 12th ultimo, reporting that the Natives wish to renew the negociations for the purchase of the Whakangerengere block, — I have the honor, by direction of His Excellency the Governor, to inform you that it does not appear that the time has yet arrived for entering into active negociations for the purchase referred to ; as it is likely that any attempt to do so at present would be more likely to retard than facilitate the acquisition of land. Moreover, it has to be taken into consideration that the block offered is of verylittle immediate value, except inasmuch as it may be the means of leading to other purchases. The Government has at present under consideration a more general plan for the purchase of land in that Province, the affect of which it may take some little time to unfold ; but as it would be imprudent to make any reference to it at present, I only do so cursorily for- your own information. While you should not discourage the Natives from discussing the sale of land, I am in hopes you will abstain for the present from evincing any eager desire to purchase, as you must be aware that tile obstacle to the acquisition of land at New Plymouth arises chiefly from the auxiety evinced by some of the inhabitants on this subject. I have, &c, Donald McLean, R. Parris, Esq., J.P., Chief Commissioner. District Commissioner, New Plymouth.

Not to purchase the Whakangerengere Block.

No. 75. THE DOCUMENT SETTING FORTH THE BOUNDARIES OF THE BLOCK PURCHASED BY THE GOVERNMENT AT AVAITARA, AND READ TO THE ASSEMBLED MATIVES BY MR. PARRIS ON THE 29tH NOVEMBER, 1859. Kia mohio nga Tangata katoa. Ko nga rohe tenei ote whenua kua homai eTe Teira raa kia Te Kawana; Ka timata kei te Piti kei Onatiki ka ahu ki uta, maro tonu tika tonu kite Kohia, kei te huanui te ara ki taku, ka tae ki reira ka ahu kite whakarua i runga i te ara kaata, ka tae ki Pukeruru ka heke ki Maungahakaia kei te taha o te wai c huaina ko Blangainau, ka tae ki reira ka ahu kei ta^

Waitara. Boundaries of the Waitara Block.

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ka haere ki Opatito kei te kahikatea c tv ana kei reira, a ka haere tonu ki Arakauere, ka tae kei reira ka ahu kei te whakarua ki Pukekohe, kei te papa ki uta o te pa, ka tae kite pari kite whakarua ka ahu kei tai, i runga i te pari, ka tae kei te taiepa keri kei Mataiwhetu ka ahu kite whakarua ka haere tonu kite awa Waitara, ka tae ki reira ka ahu kei tai ka haere tonu i roto i te awa tae kite kongutu ka tae ki reira ka ahu kite whakatonga ka haere tonu i te piti tae ki Onatiki kei te timatanga ano. E mea ana Te Kawana, mehemea ka tika te kupu o tetahi tangata c ki nei he pihi whenua tana i roto i nga rohe kua tuhituhia nei ki tenei pukapuka, kahore i a ia i te pai kia hokona taua pihi (ara tona taupa) me rohe marire me waiho tana pihi ki a ia. A mo te whakaaetanga o te Teira ma kite hoko kite hoatu tana whenua kia Te Kawana mo te Kuini o Ingarani, E whakaae ana te Kawana i te hoatn kia ratou £100 ma Parete c hoatu i tenei ra i te 29 o Nowema, 1859. Na ka oti te tapahi nga rohe me te whakarite te utu mo taua whenua, i reira ka hoatu katoa nga utu mo taua whenua kua tuhituhi nei ki tenei pukapuka.

Translation to No. 75. Know all men. These are the boundaries of the land given up by Te Teira to the Governor. Commencing on the beach at Onatiki, and running inland in a direct line to Te Kohia along the road which leads to Te Mamaku, on reaching which place it runs in a Northerly direction along the cart road till it reaches Pukeruru, descending thence to Maungahakaia to the side of the stream called Mangainau, on reaching which it turns seawards to Opatito to the kahikatea tree standing there, and on to Arakauere whence it runs in a Northerly direction to Pukekohe, to the flat inland of the pa, on reaching the bank to the North of it, it runs seawards along the bank to the earthern fence at Mataiwhetu, thence in a Northly direction to the Waitara river, on reaching which it turns seawards in the course of the river to its mouth, whence it runs southward, and along the beach to Onatiki where it commenced. And the Governor declares that if the assertion of any man is true who states that he has a portion of land situated within the boundaries recited in this document, and he does not wish his portion to be sold (that is his own strip of cultivation ground), it may be distinctly marked off and his portion left to him. And in consideration of the consent of Te Teira and others to sell and convey this land to the Governor for the Queen of England, the Governor consents that there should be given to them by Mr. Parris £100 on this 29th day of November, 1859. When the boundary lines have been cut and the price fixed for this land, the whole of the payment for the said land described in this document shall be handed over.

No. 76. COPY OF A LETTER FROM TE TEIRA AND RETIMANA TO HIS EXCELLENCY THE GOVERNOR. Te Hurirapa, March 15th, 1859. Go thou, my loving letter, to the Governor, to Mr. McLean, Mr. Cutfield, and to Mr. Parris, Salutations to you all. I have received, and am greatly pleased, with the copy of the Governor's Address. Friend, it is true I have given up Waitara to you ; you were pleased with my words, I was pleased with your words. It is a piece of land belonging- to Retimana and myself, if you are disposed to buy it, never mind if it is only sufficient for three or four tents to stand upon, let your authority settle on it, lest you should forget your child Teira; but my regard towards you shall not cease as long as I live ; it rests with the Almighty to preserve the body and the soul. You are the strong pa to protect the orphan, the widow, and the poor throughout life. Let other Natives occasion evil respecting land, and give it hands. Those Natives who are obstinate about the sale of land are seeking destruction ; but those who wish to live by the Word of God, seek life everlasting, therefore I say to them, pass from death to life, never mind false notions, but consider the great sacrifice made for us by Christ, the Lamb who knew no sin. Go straight, this letter, to your father, Governor Browne, —to your father now here, and who will preserve you. From Teira and Retimana.

No. 77. COPY OF A LETTER FROM TE TEIRA AND RETIMANA TO HIS EXCELLENCY THE GOVERNOR. Te Hurirapa, March 20th, 1859. Go, this letter of love, to my father, Governor Browne, to Mr. McLean, Mr. Parris, Mr. Halse and Mr. Cutfield.

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Salutations to you. I am endeavouring to find out the justice of the interference of the people with our (himself and Richmond) love to you. Your word advising them to mark off their own pieces of land within our line (boundary of the block offered by Teira) they have received, but they do not consent. I consent because it is correct. The advice comes from a healthy source. Be stouthearted, and move quickly in what you intend to do. Consider also you are the beginner and finisher of what is to be done. If they continue to oppose us, how will you act? but see for yourselves personally how they are likely to act; if they persist, adopt a safe plan for finishing it, and for us. You see their interference with other men's rights. This word of mine is a sign for the living: my thoughts are, that they think by their anger to prevent marriage, and to reject the food prepared by God ; but this I will explain to you, if you come to-morrow (Monday). Be mild and collected ; if they use bad language, pay them with the Word of God. From Teira and Retimana.

No. 78. COPY OF A DESPATCH FBOM his excellency GOVERNOR GORE BROWNE, C-8., TO THE right HON. SIR E. B. LYTTON, BART. Government House, Auckland, New Zealand, 29th March, 1859. Sir,— I have the honor to report for your information that I have recently visited the Province of Taranaki. I found the settlers dissatisfied with the Government, aad ill pleased with the Maories, who, though they possess large tracts of land which they cannot occupy, refuse to sell any part of it. The settlers complain that they have not sufficient pasturage for their flocks, and that immigrants and capitalists are driven to seek in other Provinces the accommodation which Taranaki cannot, under present circumstances, afford. 2. I received two separate deputations commissioned by the settlers to state their grievances, and discussed the subject fully with them. I informed them of what had been done by the Government, and of what is now in progress ; assuring them of my earnest desire to meet their views when I could extinguish the Native title to land satisfactorily, and without compromising the neutrality which I had determined to observe in all Native quarrels. I will not trouble you with details of these interviews, but the accompanying address, which was signed by the Superintendent and nearly the whole of the respectable inhabitants, shews that I was fortunate in being able to afford satisfaction. 3. I had also an interview with the Chief Wm. King, and a large part of his tribe, who came to see me. I took advantage of the opportunity to declare that, " for the future, I had determined that " every man, whether he be Maori or Pakeha, who may commit any violence or outrage within the '" European boundaries shall be arrested and taken before the Judge, and the sentence of the Judge, " whatever it may be, shall be carried into effect; that I was determined the peace of the settlers " should no longer be disturbed by evil doers ; and that the Maories who are not content to live in " peace among the Pakehas had better go elsewhere." This declaration was received with satisfaction by both races who dwell within the European boundary, and will, I trust, have a beneficial effect. Wm. King and his men, who live outside the boundary, remained silent. 4. After this, a Chief, named Teira, offered some land for sale, which he and his relatives desired to dispose of to the Government, and which, as being situated at the mouth of the Waitara river, on the South bank, will be a valuable acquisition to the Province. He pressed for an immediate answer, and I replied that if he could give a satisfactory title I would accept his offer. Another Chief rose to object, but when asked if he had any claim to the land, admitted that he had not. William King then rose, and while asserting no claim to it, said he never would permit that land to be sold ; then, waving his hand to his people, he and they left the meeting with some want of courtesy to myself. 5. Since then progress has been made in ascertaining Teira's right to dispose of the land (of which there seems to be little doubt) and, if proved, the purchase will be completed. Should this be the case, it will probably lead to the acquisition of all the land South of the Waitara river, which is essentially necessary for the consolidation of the Province, as well as for the use of the settlers. It is also most important to vindicate our right to purchase from those who have both the right and the desire to sell. 6. The right to sell land belonging to themselves without interference on the part of the Chiefs (not having a claim to share in it) is fuHy admitted by Maori custom ; any recognition of such a power as that assumed by W. King would therefore be unjust to both races, because it would be the means of keeping millions of acres waste and out of cultivation. I have, however, little fear that Wm. King will venture to maintain his assumed right; but have made every preparation to enforce obedience should he presume to do so. Copies of the instructions I have given to both the Civil and Military authorities are herewith enclosed.

No. 1. Address of Settlers, Taranaki. pith March7lB69. No. 2. Th* Governor's Address to Natives, Taranaki. Bth March, 185 ft

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7. I found the settlers extremely anxious that favor should be shewn to lhaia, the Chief with whom W. King is at feud, and who has always been a friend to the English. His quarrel with King is chiefly because the latter has some claim on the land which he desires to sell, and which King will neither yield nor sell. I have, however, declared my firm determination to remain entirely neutral in this and all other Native feuds, and to purchase no land without the consent of all who have a claim to it. I granted an amnesty to lhaia because the murder of which he was cognizant was a retributive one, and quite in accordance with the Maori law of right ; but I positively declined to interfere any further in his favour. lhaia then wrote to me, requesting that I would take him and his people under my protection, and deckling that he and they would submit to English law. I replied that he would find the same protection which is invariably afforded to all who seek it, without distinction of race or tribe, if he chose to come into the Settlement and under the British flag, but that I should not send an escort to bring him in, as my so doing would make it appear that I was a partisan of his. 8. On the whole, I venture to say that my visit to Taranaki has been been useful ; it has enabled me to satisfy the settlers that their interests have not been neglected ; the Natives have had an opportunity of discussing various matters ; and if the land now under negotiation can be obtained legitimately and without breach of Maori ideas of right, I have little doubt that other tracts of land of considerable extent will be offered for sale, and I shall thus be able to satisfy the demands of all moierate men among the settlers. I have, he, T. Gore Browe.

No. 3. Instructions to Civil Offi. cers, Taranaki, 23rd March, 1859, No. 4. Letter to Major Murray, Commanding at Taranaki. 2lst March, 1859.

No. 79. THE ASSISTANT NATIVE SECRETARY (ACTING FOR THE CHIEF COMMISSIONER,) TO MR. PAKRIS. Chief Land Purchase Commissioner's Office, Auckland, March 29th, 1859. Sir, — With reference to a letter from Te Teira and Retimana addressed to His Excellency the Governor, and dated the 20th instant, with the contents of which you are acquainted, I have the honor, by direction of His Excellency the Governor, to request that you will visit Te Teira in person, for the purpose of conferring with him on the subject of his communication. I have, &c, R. Parris, Esq., For the Chief Commissioner, District Commissioner, Taranaki. T. H. Smith.

No. 80. THE ASSISTANT- NATIVE SECRETARY (ACTING FOR THE CHIEF COMMISSIONER) TO MR. PARRIS. Chief Land Purchase Commissioner's Office, Auckland, April 2nd, 1859. Sir,— I have the honor to enclose herewith, for your information and perusal, two open letters addressed to Te Teira and Wiremu Kingi on the subject of the offer by the former of his land at Tf aitara, and to request that you will be good enough to seal and forward them as addressed. I have, &c, For the Chief Commissioner, R. Parris, Esq., J.P., Thos. H. Smith. District Commissioner, Taranaki.

Enclosure 1 in No. 80. ASSISTANT NATIVE SECRETARY TO TE TEIEA. Auckland, April 2nd, 1859. Friend Te Teira,— Salutations to you. Your letter of the 15th day of this month has been received relative to the land which you offer for sale. The Governor consents to your word, that is, as regards your own individual piece, but be careful that your boundary does not encroach upon the land of any person who objects to sell, that is, let it not be included within the boundaries of that land which you publicly offered to the Governor in the presence of the meeting held on the Bth day of March ; but consent will be given to the purchase of land that belongs to yourself. From yours, &c, Te Mete (T. H. Smith). To Te Teira, Taranaki.

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Enclosure 2 in No. 80. ASSISTANT NATIVE SECRETARY TO WIREMU KINGI. Auckland, April 2nd. 1859. Friend Wiremu Kingi,— Salutations to you. Word has come from Te Teira offering for sale his piece of land at Waitara. The Governor has consented to his word, that is, as regards his own individual piece, not that which belongs to any other persons. The Governor's rule is, for each man to have the word (or say) as regards his own land ; that of a man who has no claim will not be listened to. This is merely written to let you know the word of the Governor in answer to Te Teira's and Te Retimana's letter. From, &c., Te Mete (T. H. Smith). To Wiremu Kingi, Taranaki.

No. 81. MR. PARRIS TO THE ASSISTANT NATIVE SECRETARY. Land Purchase Office, New Plymouth, April 23rd, 1859. Sib,— I have the honor to acknowledge the receipt of your letter of the 2nd instant, enclosing one for Te Teira and one for William King of Waitara, which I forwarded in due course, and the following day I received Te Teira's reply, which I have the honor herewith to transmit for the information of His Excellency's Government. With respect to the allusions about the letter to King Potatau, I beg to report that the last_ mail from the North brought information that an anonymous letter had been sent to Waikato purporting to offer the land from the European boundary, to the Maori King, and that an anonymous letter was to be sent in reply, which has not yet been received. I have, &c, T. H. Smith, Esq., J.P., Robert Parris, Assistant Native Secretary, he, he, District Commissioner. Auckland.

Enclosure in No. 81. TE TEIRA TO THE GOVERNOR. Hurirapa, Waitara, April 20th, 1859. Go, this letter of love, to the Governor. Your letter to myself and Richmond we have received. The land that I and Richmond consented for you to have, belongs to myself, Richmond, Hemi Watakingi, Paranihi, Rawiri, my father Thomas, and Nopera. It belongs to all of us, the land that we two consented to, the seven consent to our offering it to you, it is our land from our ancestors, and therefore we consent rightly for you to have it. lam not rashly interfering with other people's land, the land is ours, and therefore we were right in giving it to you on the Bth of March near Mr. Parris's house, in the presence of a Council of 158, who heard me consent for you to have it. Do not listen to the words of others, but look to us seven. The thought was mine and Richmond's to sell to you. Mr. Parris is holding us back for the movement for peace with lhaia and his people. I tell him not to do so, but that he and the Governor should settle it at once. Mr. Parris says, wait until lhaia and William King have made friends. If peace should should not be agreed upon, what will you do ? Pay us, because there is a letter sent to the King about the piece of land I and Richmond have offered you and Mr. McLean, and therefore I say pay us. From your loving child, Teira ; also Richmond, Hemi, and To our ioving Father the Governor, Paranihi. and Mr. Smith. I have a word to say to you about a summons for our land which I and Richmond gave you and Mr. McLean. The Councillors of Wiremu Kingi Whiti Rangitake have sent a letter to King Potatau to prevent the sale of it. 1 tell tham it is no good, I shall do as I think with my land. I think favorably of the Governor, Mr. McLean, Mr. Parris, and Mr. Cutfield for my land. Look towards me, and ao not turn from your child Teira, from his true word to God and to the Governor.

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No. 82. WIREMU KINGI TO THE GOVERNOR. Waitara, 25th April, 1859. Sir,— Salutations to you. Your letter has reached me about Te Teira's and Te Retimana's thoughts. I will not agree to our bedroom being sold (I mean Waitara here), for this bed belongs to the whole of us ; and do not you be in haste to give the money. Do you hearken to my word. If you give the money secretly, you will get no land for it. You may insist, but I will never agree to it. Do not suppose that this is nonsense on my part ; no, it is true, for it is an old word ; and now I have no new proposal to make, either as regards selling or anything else. All I have to say to you, O Governor, is that none of this land will be given to you, never, never, not till I die. I have heard it said that lamto be imprisoned because of this land. lam very sad because of this word. Why is it ? You should remember that the Maories and Pakehas are living quietly upon their pieces of land, and therefore do not you disturb them. Do not say also that there is no one so bad as myself. This is another word to you, O Governor. The land will never, never be given to you, not till death. Do not be anxious for men's thoughts. This is all I have to say to you. From your loving friend, Wiremu Kingi Whiti. To His Excellency the Governor, Auckland.

No. 83. ME. PARRIS TO ASSISTANT NATIVE SECRETARY. Land Purchase Office, New Plymouth, May 28rd, 1859. Sib,— I have the honor herewith to transmit a letter from Te Teira and others of Waitara to His Excellency the Governor. I beg to state that I have not taken any steps in this matter with Wm. King and his people, on account of the meetings they have been holding for the question of a general peace, which I considered it would not be prudent to interrupt. The result of their meetings so far, has been satisfactory for the people South of Waitara, for the feeling of enmity which has existed for many years appears to be removed ; but as yet Win. Kinorefuses to extend it to Nikorima and lhaia, although many of his people are anxio us that it should be, and are urging it upon him. Te Teira and his party are growing very restless, particularly since the news of the purchase of Waitotara. I have, &c., Robert Parris, District Commissioner. T. H. Smith, Esq., J.P., Assistant Native Secretary, Auckland.

Enclosure in No. 83. TE TEIRA AND OTHERS TO THE GOVERNOR. Hurirapa, May 23rd, 1859. Go, this letter of love, to Governor Browne. Salutations to you. Listen to our words. lam pressing Mr. Parris to settle our question for Waitara. You consent to our words to you for our piece of land at Waitara, which we consented to give to you, Mr. McLean, and Mr. Parris. Our thoughts are, that you should shorten our work, and pay us for our piece of land at Waitara, because if it is prolonged, it will be the same as a female forsaken by her lover. But marry, then we shall sleep properly upon the sacred Law of God. From Teira, Rawiri, Hemi, Tamati, Retimana, Nopeka. Paeinihi,

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No. 84. ASSISTANT NATIVE SECRETARY (ACTING FOE THE CHIEF COMMISSIONER) TO ME. PAEEIS. Chief Land Purchase ( Commissioner's Office, Auckland, May 27th, 1859. Sir, — I have the honor to acknowledge the receipt of your letters of the 18th and 23rd ultimo, enclosing communications from Te Teira, who has been informed that his letters will be brought under the notice of His Excellency the Governor on his return from the (South. I have, &c, For the Chief Commissioner, R. Parris, Esq., T. H. Smith. District Commissioner, Taranaki. _

No. 85. ASSISTANT NATIVE SECEETAEY (ACING FOE THE CHIEF COMMISSIONER) TO DISTRICT COMMISSIONEE, TARANAKI. Native Land Purchase Commissioner's Office, Auckland, July 19th, 1859. Sib,— I have the honor, by direction of His Excellency the Governor, to forward to you, open, the enclosed letter to Teira on the subject of the land offered by him at Waitara, which, having perused, you will have the goodness to hand to Te Teira. I have, he, For the Chief Commissioner, R. Parris, Esq., J.P., T. H. Smith. District Commissioner, Taranaki.

Enclosure in No. 85. ASSISTANT NATIVE SECEETAEY TO TE TEIEA. Auckland, 19th July, 1859. Feiend Te Teiea, — Salutations. Your letter of the 30th May has been received relative to the land at Waitara, which you offer for sale. The Governor says that you had better apply to Mr. Parris, to the person appointed by the Governor to purchase land in that district; it is for him to arrange the terms and other matters relative to land offered to the Government, the Governor merely accepts or reject the offer. In this case the Governer has agreed to take the land ; be under no apprehension, therefore, the Governor's word will be kept, although the matter may not be arranged in a day. The Governor still keeps it in mind, he will neither forget nor alter. The Governor is in favour of the land being purchased ; but the best thing, in his estimation, is for peace to be preserved at Taranaki. The arrangement of what you mentioned will not be delayed. From your friend, Na Te Mete (Thos. H. Smith.) To Te Teira, at Taranaki.

No. 86. ASSISTANT NATIVE SECEETAEY (ACTING FOE THE CHIEF COMMISSIONER) TO MR. PARRIS. Native Land Purchase Department, Auckland, September 27th, 1859. Sir,— With reference to the offer to the Government by Te Teira and others of a block of land ea the south bank of the Waitara River, I have the honor, by direction of the Governor, to convey to you His Excellency's authority to make an immediate advance in part payment for the land referred to, should you be able to satisfy yourself that the parties offering it have an indisputable title. You will, however, inform Te Teira that the purchase will not be completed until Mr. McLean visits Taranaki. I have, he, For the Chief Commissioner, R, Parris, Esq., Thos. H. Smith. District Commissioner, Taranaki.

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No. 87. TE TEIRA AND OTHERS TO THE GOVERNOR. Ohuka, New Plymouth, October 18th, 1859. Go, this letter of love, to His Excellency Governor Browne and Mr. Smith. Your letters have been received by me, and your love also to your children, who love that good matter which I gave up in the open daylight to you and Mr. McLean, but your love is still kept by Mr. Parris (that is) our ring; Hemi, Paranihi, and I wish the matter to be settled at once, according to your word ; and Mr. Parris wishes it to stand over till Mr. McLean arrives, when it will be given to me. I said no ; Mr. Parris must give me the payment for my ancestor, which was given to His Excellency and Mr. McLean by Te Teira. If you receive this letter, write to Mr. Parris and request him to give it to us, and the payment for our daughter to me. I have spoken your word to the people, and they do not consent. Mr. Parris has been to Waitara three times, but Wiremu Kingi did not agree with his words. Mr. Parris said " The Governor and I will not cease to act in this matter." Wiremu Kingi asked " Shall Igo to the mountains ?" Mr. Parris said "It is with you ;" but Mr. Parris will not cease to act in this matter. These are all the words on this subject. This is another word : we have heard from Europeans that the coppers (money) have been sent, but Mr. Parris did not tell us. Is this word true ? So ends. From Te Teira, Hemi, Paranihi. His Excellency the Governor, and T. 11. Smith, Esq., Assistant Native Secretary, Auckland.

No. 88. DISTRICT COMMISSIONER, TARANAKI, TO CHIEF LAND PURCHASE COMMISSIONEE. New Plymouth, December 4th, 1859. Sir,. — I have the honor to inform you, that on Tuesday, 29th ultimo, I paid an instalment of One hundred pounds to Teira and others for their land at Waitara. On Friday, 25th ultimo, I went to Waitara, and informed Wm. King that I purposed doing so. On Tuesday, 29th ultimo, he came to town with a party of about thirty to oppose it. I prevailed on them to meet Teira and party and discuss the question, which was done in a very orderly manner, in the presence of a large audience of Europeans. Wm. King avowed his determination to oppose the sale, without advancing any reason for doing so ; upon which I put a series of questions to him, which I called upon the Rev. Mr. Whiteley to witness. Q. Does the land belong to Teira and party ?— A. Yes, the land is theirs, but I will not let them sell it. Q. Why will you oppose their selling that which is their own I — A. Because I do not wish for the land to be disturbed ; and although they have floated it, I will not let it go to sea. Q. Shew me the justice or correctness of your opposition ?— A. It is enough, Parris, their bellies are full with the sight of the money you have promised them, but don't give it to them ; if you do, I won't let you have the land, but will take it and cultivate it myself. Teira stops in town since he received the instalment, considering it not safe for him to stop at Waitara. I have, &c, Robert Parris, District Commissioner. I hereby certify that the above questions were put, and the answers given, as reported by Mr. Commissioner Parris, John Whiteley. The Chief Commissioner, &c, &c, &c, Auckland.

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No. 89. ASSISTANT NATIVE SECEETAEY TO TE TEIEA AND OTHERS. Auckland, 21st December, 1859. Friend Te Teira, — Salutations to you. Your letter of the 18th October, respecting the money—the payment for your piece of land—has come. The Governor has sent instructions to Mr. Parris regarding that matter. You had better go and talk with him about it. He will carry out the Governor's instructions at the proper time. From your friend, Na Te Mete (Thos. H. Smith), To Te Teira, Hemi, and Paranihi, Taranaki.

No. 90. TE TEIRA AND OTHERS TO THE GOVERNOR. Waitoki, January 19th, 1860. Friends, salutations to you. This is our word to you. Hearken. Why do you delay ? You say that Mr. Parris has the arrangement of the matter. Mr. Parris says that it lies with the Governor to consummate our marriage with the beautiful woman, Waitara—'with the land which we have given up to you. Give your consent at my request. You said that it was deceit on my part. Agree that Mr. Parris shall complete it ;do not delay the matter. If you are willing to do so, write to me ; and if you are not, write to me. Write speedily, that it may come straight to your children who are residing with Mr. Parris, We are sad, because of our marriage with this woman being deferred so long. This woman that we gave to you in the face of day is now lying cold. You had better turn her towards you and warm her, that she may sleep comfortably in the middle of the bed. Come also yourself, that I may know your intentions, and that you may hear my word to you. Come my father the Governor. This is our letter to you. From Te Teiea, Paranihi, Hemi, Te Retimana, Tamati, Rawhibi, Weterini, Matiu, Erueea, Hori. To His Excellency Governor Browne, Auckland.

No. 91. copy of a DESPATCH from his excellency governor goee beowne, c.b., to his GRACE THE DUKE OF NEWCASTLE. Government House, Auckland, New Zealand, 25th January, J 860. My Loed Duke, — In my despatch No. 29, of 29th March, 1859, I informed Sir Buiwer Lytton that I had accepted the offer of a Chief named Teira to sell to the Government a portion of land at ~~ Taranaki, provided he could prove an indisputable title to it, and that I would not permit any Chief to interfere with that engagement unless he could show some claim to the land in question, a decision which your Grace has been pleased to approve. The title of Teira and the other proprietors having since then been proved and exlinguished, and a largo instalment of the purchase money having been paid, I have directed the survey to be made in the usual manner. Rumours have reached me that the survey will be interrupted by the Chief William King (who has evidently been advised by some disaffected person) and that difficulties may ensue. Ido not put much faith in these rumours, or anticipate resistance when the Natives see that, though always ready to consider every reasonable objection, I am not the less determined to enforce Her Majesty's right to deal with her own subjects without hindrance from any one not having a legitimate interest in the transaction.

No. 10. Miscellaneous.

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I have, however, taken every precaution, and made preparations for any contingency which may srise. I have the honor to enclose a copy of the instructions sent to the Assistant Land Purchase Commissioner, together with the copy of a letter I have written to Col. Gold, the Officer Commanding the Troops in New Zealand, and one from the Colonial Secretary addressed to the Officer Commanding at Taranaki. I trouble your Grace with the present Despatch only as a matter of information, and trust it may not be necessary to refer to it again. I have, &c, T. Gore Browne. His Grace the Duke of Newcastle, &c,, he, he

i. Native Minister to Mr, Parris, 25th Jan., 1860. _ The Governor to Col. 1 Gold, 25th Jan., 1863, with enclosure. 111. - Colonial Secretary to Col, Murray, 25th Jan., 1660.

Enclosure 1 in No. 91. ME. BICHMOND TO ME. PAEEIS. Office of Minister for Native Affairs, Auckland, 25 th January, 1860. Sir,— I have the honor, by direction of His Excellency the Governor, to inform you, that His Excellency, with the advice of the Executive Council, has determined that the survey of Te Teira's land &t Waitara shall be proceeded with without further delay. The survey is to be commenced, in the first instance, without any display of force, by a Surveyor attended only by an ordinary survey party —all being unarmed—you yourself being present on the ground, or not, as may seem expedient. You are to take care that the intended commencement of the survey is publicly known ; and in particular that Wiremu Kingi and his party are made fully aware of it, and of the firm determination of His Excellency to complete the purchase. You will, however, avoid any official or formal announcement which might wear the aspect of an irritating challenge to the opposing party. Should resistance be made to the survey, the survey party will quietly retire ; and you are then to intimate to Lieutenant-Colonel Murray that the assistance of a Military Force has become necessary. Military possession of the Block will thereupon be taken and kept by the Forces under command of Lieutenant-Colonel Murray, who has received instructions upon the subjoct, and the survey is to be prosecuted under the protection of the Troops. As regards the payment of the balance of Te Teira's purchase money before commencing the survey, or at any subsequent time, you are to use your discretion. The Sub-Treasurer at New Plymouth has been instructed to make the necessary advances on your requisition. The Governor relies upon your tact and firmness in the execution of the difficult service entrusted to you, hoping that matters may be so conducted as to obviate the necessity of resorting to force, but feeling at the same time that it is impossible for himself, as Her Majesty's representative, to withdraw from the position which he has deliberately assumed in reference to this affair. I have, he, R. Parris, F jS q., C W. Richmond. New Plymouth.

No. 10.

Sub-enclosure to Enclosure 1 in No. 91. EXTRACT FROM MINUTES OF THE EXECUTIVE COUNCIL HELD ON WEDNESDAY, 25TH JANUARY, 1860. Present :— His Excellency the Governor, The Honorable the Attorney-General, ■ The Honorable the Officer Commanding tho Troops, The Honorable the Colonial Treasurer, The Honorable the Colonial Secretary, The Hon. Mr. Tattered. The Governor submits to the Council the question of the completion of the purchase from the Native Chief Te Teira of a certain block of land, situated in the Province of Taranaki, at the mouth of the Waitara, on its South and left bank, as a preliminary to which, a survey of the land is necessary. The Council, after a full consideration of the circumstances of the case, advise: Ist. That Mr. Parris be instructed to have the said land surveyed in the ordinary manner, and to take care that the Native Chief William King be indirectly, but not officially, made aware of the day on which the survey will be commenced. 2nd. Should William King or any other Natives endeavour to prevent the survey, or in any way interfere with the prosecution of the work, in that case, that the surveying party be protected during the whole performance of their work by an adequate Military Force, under the command of the Senior Military Officer; with which view, power to call our, the Taranaki Militia and Volunteers, and to proclaim Martial Law, be transmitted to the Commanding Officer at New Plymouth.

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3rd. That, when the survey shall have been completed, the Officer Commanding at New Plymouth shall, until further instructed, keep possession, by force if necessary, of the said land, so as to prevent the occupation of, or any act of trespass upon, it by any Natives. 4th. That the Civil Authorities at New Plymouth be instructed to assist and co-operate, by every means in their power, with the Military Authorities in carrying out these instructions. And the Honorable Colonel Gold and the Honorable C. W. Richmond are to give the necessary directions accordingly. F. G. Steward, Clerk of Executive Council.

No. 92. THE HONORABLE THE MINISTEE FOE NATIVE AFFAIRS TO MR. COMMISSIONER PAEEIS. Auckland, 25th January, 1860. Sib,— I have the honor, by direction of His Excellency the Governor, to inform you that His Excellency, with the advice of the Executive Council, has determined that the survey of Te Teira's . land at Waitara shall be proceeded with without further delay. The survey is to be commenced, in the first instance without any display of force, by a surveyor, attended only by an ordinary survey party, all being unarmed ; you yourself being present on the ground, or not, as may seem expedient. You are to take care that the intended commencement of the survey is publicly known, and in particular that Wiremu Kingi and his party are made fully aware of it, and of the firm determination of His Excellency to complete the purchase. You will, however, avoid any official or formal announcement which might wear the aspect of an irritating challenge to the opposing party. Should resistance be made to the survey the survey party will quietly retire, and you are then to intimate to Lieutenant-Colonel Murray, who has received instructions upon the subject, and the survey is to be prosecuted under the protection of the troops. As regards the payment of the balance of Te Teira's purchase money befere commencing the survey or at any subsequent time, you are to use your discretion. The Sub-Treasurer at New Plymouth has been instructed to make the necessary advances on your requisition. The Governor relies upon your tact and firmness in the execution of the difficult service eutrusted entrusted to you; hoping that matters mag be so conducted as to obviate the necessity of resorting to force ; but feeling, at the same time, that it is impossible for himself, as Her Majesty's Representative, to withdraw from the position which he has deliberately assumed iv reference to this affair. I have, &c, R. Parris, Esq., C. W. Richmond. New Plymouth. _^___^^_________

Waitara. The Governor has determined to proceed with the reivey of Te Teira's laud.

No. 93. MB. COMMISSIONEE PAEEIS TO LIEUTENANT-COLONEL MUERAY. New Plymouth, February 20, 1861. Sib, — I have the honor to inform you that on arriving at Waitara this morning with a Surveying Staff for the purpose of surveying the block of land sold to the Government, we were met by a party of from 60 to 80 of Wm. King's Natives, who refused to allow us to proceed with the work. I have now the honor to intimite to you (in accordance with my instructions from the Government) that the assistance of the Military has become necessary. I have, &c, Robeet Parris, District Commissioner. Colonel Murray, Commander of Forces, New Plymouth.

No. 94. STATEMENT EELATIVE TO THE PUBCHASE BY THE BRITISH GOVERNMENT OF TE TEIRA'S LAND AT WAITAEA, TAEANAKI. 18th March, 1860. What took place upon the original offer of Te Teira's land to the Governor is reported in the following article extracted from the Taranaki Herald of 12th March, 1859. On Tuesday a meeting of the Moturoa, Town, Waiwakaiho, Puketapu, and Waitara Natives, was held in a paddock adjoining the residence of the Land Purchase Commissioner. It was less numerously

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attended than many former ones, the muster of the Waitara Natives being particularly small. Shortly after 11 o'clock, His Excellency the Governor, accompanied by his Private Secretary and the ( hief Land Purchase Commissioner, arrived on the ground, and was welcomed by the assembled Natives, the whole rising up to receive him, with the exception of William King and some few of his followers. The principal Chiefs then paid their respects to the Governor. Tahana, a Native Assessor, opened the proceedings by acknowledging the benefits conferred on the Natives by the introduction of Christianity and European customs, and expressed the desire 01 himself and his tribe to have British law established amongst them. Mr. McLean, on behalf of His Excellency, spoke as follows:— The Governor wished them to understand, that the Queen regards equally all her subjects ; that all her Governors have had and would have the same instructions, viz., to do their utmost to promote the welfare of her subjects without distinction of race. The Missionaries have imparted to them the blessings of Christianity and translated the Bible for their use. It was not in the power of man to confer any other gifts which would bear comparison with that of the Bible ; but, out of regard for the Natives, His Excellency had caused an abstract of English laws to be translated into Maori. He had no wish to enforce this law ; on the contrary, it would only be put in force in those districts where the people are wise enough to desire it, and prepared to carry it into effect themselves. Some tribes in the North had already desired to have English law ; and a Magistrate had been employed to instruct them how to put it into practice. They were now engaged in doing so, with every prospect of becoming a peaceful and prosperous people, and uniting themselves with the Pakeha. This tribe is the Ngapuhi. The Governor had but two subjects on which he desired to speak particularly to the tribes living near Taranaki, and they were—First, in reference to criminal offences ; Second, in reference to land. He wished these subjects to be considered separately, and as having no sort of reference to each other. The tribes in the vicinity of Taianaki have greater advantages than most others, as they are much intermixed with the Pakeha, and ought to profit by their intercourse with them. If they choose to live peaceably and cultivate their lands, they would grow rich and multiply, instead of which they were constantly at war with each other, and their numbers were decreasing. Their disputes were almost always about matters of little or no importance, or about land which was not worth quarrelling for. Had the Governor been in New Zealand when Katatore slew Rawiri, he would have had him arrested and brought before the Judge, and, if the Judge had sentenced him to be hanged, he would have caused him to be hanged ; that he had not thought proper to arrest lhaia, because though the murders to which he was a party were horrible and disgraceful, yet they admitted of some extenuation, inasmuch as they were committed in retribution for the murder of Rawiri. All this, however, now belongs to the past; but, for the future, he had determined that every man (whether he be Maori or Pakeha) who may commit any violence or outrage within the European boundaries shall be arrested and taken before the Judge, and the sentence of the Judge, whatever it may be, shall be carried into effect He was determined that the peace of the setters should no longer be disturbed by evil doers, and that those Maories who are not content to live in peace among the Pakehas, had better go elsewhere. In reference to the second subject, the Governor thought the Maories would be wise to sell the land they cannot use themselves, as it would make what they could use more valuable than the whole ; but that he never would consent to buy land without an undisputed title. He would not permit any one to interfere in the sale of land unless he owned part of it ; and, on the other hand, he would buy no man's land without his consent. Tahana again addressed his tribe, approving of that portion of His Excellency's speech declaring that if murders were again committed the murderer should be arrested and tried by British law. He then supposed a case of a Native Policeman or Assessor (himself) shot whilst arresting a murderer, and inquired who would avenge him. He stated that if he were assured of the support of His Excellency, as he knew His Excellency would receive the support of the Queen, he could hereafter, single handed, arrest offenders. Te Teira, a Waitara Native, then stated that he was anxious to sell land belonging to him, that he had heard with satisfaction the declaration of the Governor referring to individual claims, and the assurance of protection that would be afforded by His Excellency. He minutely defined the boundaries of his claim, repeated that he was anxious to sell, and that he was the owner of the land he offered for sale. He then repeatedly asked if the Governor would buy his land. Mr. McLean, on behalf of His Excellency, replied that he would. Te Teira then placed a parawai (bordered mat), at the Governor's feet which His Excellency accepted. This ceremony, according to Native custom, virtually places Teira's land at Waitara in the hands of the Governor. Hemi Kuku then followed, and stated his desire to dispose of land at Onairo, but in consequence of violent opposition, his offer was not then entertained. Piripi, a relative of Ihaia's, then offered his land at Waitara ; his right to sell was denied by Te Teira, Te Waka (a town native), and several other of the Waitara Natives, who asserted that his land was forfeited as payment for the murder of Katatore by his relatives. Paora then informed the Governor that Te Teira could not sell the land he had offered without the consent of Weteriki and himself, as they had a joint interest in a portion of it. Te Teira replied to him, and was immediately followed by William King, who, before addressing the Governor, said to his people, " I will only say a few words and then we will depart," to which they assented. He then proceeded," Listen, Governor. Notwithstanding Teira's offer, I will not permit the sale of the Waitara to the Pakeha. Waitara is in my hands, I will not give it up ; ekore, ekoie, ekore," (i.e.), I will not, I will not, I will not. " I have spoken !" and, turning to his tribe, added " Arise let us go" whereupon he and his followers abruptly withdrew.

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It was at length decided to pay an instalment of the purchase money, full notice being given to King. The transaction is officially reported by Mr. P.trris in the following letter: — New Plymouth, 4th December, 1859, Sir,— I have the honor to inform you that on Tuesday, the 29th ultimo, I paid an instalment of One Hundred Pounds to Teira and others for their land at Waitara. On Friday, the 25th ultimo, I went to Wairara to infirm William King that I purposed doing so. On Tuesday, the 29th, he came to town with a party to about thirty to oppose it. I prevailed on them to meet Teira's party and discuss the question, which was done in a very orderly manner in the presence of a very large audience of Europeans. W. King avowed his determination to opoos- the sale, without advancing any reason for so doing, upon which I put a series of questions to him, which I called upon the Rev. Mr. Whiteley to witness, viz : — Q. Dues the land belong to Teira and party ? A. Yes ; the land is theirs, but I will not let them sell it. Q. V\ hy will you oppose their selling what is their own? A. Because I do not wish that the land should be disturbed, and though they have floated it, 1 will not let it go to sea. Q. Show me the correctness or justice of your opposition ? A. It is enough, Parris, their bellies are full with r he sisfht of the money you have promised ihem; but don't give it to them. If you do, I won't let you have the land, but will take it and cultivate it myself. Teira stops in town since he received the instalment, considering it not safe to stop at Waitara. I have, &c, Robert Parris, District Commissioner. The Chief Land Purchase Commissioner, he, he, &c, Auckland On 'lie same occasion a document setting forth the boundaries of the Block was read to the assembled natives by Mr. Parris. Appended to the document was a declaration on behalf of the Governor, that if any man could prove his claim to any piece of land within the boundary described, such claim would be respected, and the claimant might hold or sell, a3 he thought fit. No such claim, however, was put forward. Soon after the receipt of Mr. Parris's letter of 4th December, the Governor in Council gave directions tor the survey of the land. Accordingly,on the 20th February, the survey was attempted by a small unarmed party, but was put a stop to by a crowd of King s people. The Governor thereupon proceeded to Taranaki, where he arrived on the Ist March, and immediately despatched a message to William King, requesting that, to prevent misunderstanding, he should come into the Town, and learn the Governor's intentions, and offering a safe conduct. King, however, refused to come. It was now finally determined to carry the survey by a military force, and on the sth March troops were moved down to Waitara and occupied a position on the purchased block. Kipa, a Waiwakaiho Native then expressed the satisfaction that the Governor's speech afforded him, and proposed that henceforward British law should not prevail beyond the Waitaha. Matiu, a Hua Native, wished to address His Excellency on the King movement, but was informed that another opportunity would be afforded him. The meeting then separated. The report of the Herald is correct, except in omitting to state that the Governor's acceptance of Teira's offer was conditional upon his shewing a satisfactory title. At the meeting of the 12th March, 1859, no substantial exception was made to the right of Teira and his party to the land, W. King insisting merely upon his own possession. As to the possession, the facts of the case are, that when King returned to Taranaki from Waikanae in 1843, being in fear of an invasion of the W'aikatos from the North, he asked permission of Tamati Raru, Teira's father, to build apa upon the piece of land on the South bank of Waitara, now sold to the British Government. Permission was granted, and King's pa was erected on the South bank, his cultivations being on the North bank. King's followers have, however, encroached with their cultivations upon the South side of the river; and these encroachments have been, for a long time, a source of continual dissension. Afier the Governor's conditional acceptance of Teira's offer, the District Land Purchase Commissioner, Mr. Parris, made careful enquiry into the validity of the rights oi Teira, Rawiri Rauponga, Retimana, and other sellers. This enquiry was prolonged till the close of the year 1859 ; not from any doubt that existed as to the title, but in the hope that the opposing party might be brought to reason. In the frequent interviews which he had with the District Commissioner, King never pretended to deny the right of property, but insisted upon his own right of putting a veto upon all sales at Waitara. In this he was supported by a number of Nati/es who have gradually gathered about him since has settlement at Waitara ; and who, as they have been, like King himself, enjoying the use of the land, without any claim to share in the proceeds of its sale, were naturally averse t» its alienation.

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A large section of W. King's tribe residing at Queen Charlotte's Sound, including Ropoama te One and his followers, affirm the right of Teira's party. The following Manifesto had been previously published in the Maori language, and widely circulated by special agents amongst all the Tribes in the Northern Island : — MANIFESTO. I. When the Pakehas first came to Taranaki, there were no Natives at the Waitara. The Ngatiawa had been dispossessed by the Waikato. 2 The Waikato transferred their rights to the Government, and received a payment for the land. 3. Afterwards the Ngatiawa returned and occupied the land ; the Government acquiesced in this occupation. 4. In March, 1859, some of these occupants, Te Teira and others, openly offered to sell to the Government their claims to a portion of the land at Waitara. 5. William King opposed this offer, and said that no land at the Waitara should be sold. But the " mana" of the land was not with William King, and he had no right to forbid the sale of any land which did not belong to him personally. 6. The Queen has said that all the Natives shall be fiee to sell their lands to her, or to keep them, as they may think best. None may compel the Maori people to sell their lands, nor may any forbid their doins so. 7. William King sets his word above the Queen's, and says though the rightful owners of the land may wish to sell, he will not allow them to do so. 8. The Governor cannot allow William King's word to set aside the words of the Queen. 9. The Governor has said that he will not allow land to be bought the title to which is disputed. He has also said that he will not allow interference with the rightful owners in the sale of their lands. When land is offered, the title to which is clear, the Governor will use his own discretion in accepting or declining the offer. 10. The Governor accepted Te Teira's offer conditionally on its being shewn that he had an undisputed title. 11. Te Teira's title has been carefully investigated, and found to be good. It is not disputed by any one. The Governor cannot therefore allow William King to interere with Te Teira in the the sale of his oWn land. 12. Payment for the land has been received by Te Teira. It now belongs to the Queen, 13. William King has interfered to prevent the survey of the. Queens land by her own surveyors. This interference will not be permitted. 14. The Governor has given his word toTe Teira and he will not go back from it. The land has been bought and must be surveyed. The Queen's soldiers will protect the surveyors. If William King interferes a»ain, and mischief follow, the evil will be of his own seeking. 15. The Governor desires peace. It depends upon William King whether there shall be peace or not. If he ceases to interfere with what is not his own, he will be treated as a friend, and there will be peace. An article explanatory of the Governor's intentions was also inserted in the Maori Messenger, a Government newspaper published twice a month in the Native {[language. A translation of the article is here annexed :— TBANSLATION. Yesterday, the 28th inst., His Excellency the Governor and suite, with a detachment of troops, embarked on board the steamer " Airedale," which left Manukau early this morning for Taranaki. In-order to prevent our Maori friends in varions parts of the country from being misled by meie reports, we are anxious to give them correct information respecting the object of His Excellency's present visit to Taranaki, and to caution them against giving credit to any contrary statements which they may hear. The practice of raising and spreading unfounded reports is not peculiar to the Maori people. Among the Pakehas, as among them, there is no lack of persons more anxious to have something to tell, than careful that what they tell shall be true. It is wise, therefore, always to inquire before believing anything heard in this way, and to ascertain upon what authority and from what source it comes. We have no doubt that the news of the Governor's having gone to Taranaki with the soldiers will be carried far and wide. It will naturally be asked, For what purpose? And some one will probably reply, To fight with the Maories at Taranaki about the land. Such, however, is not the case. The Governor has gone down to Taranaki, and has taken troops with him for the purpose of preventing fighting. There will be no fighting, unless William King or his people are foolish enough to provoke a quarrel with the soldiers who will be sent to protect the surveyors while surveying a piece of land at the Waitara which has been purchas-ed by the Government from its rightful owners. William King has said that this knd should not be sold. But the land was not his, and he had therefore, no right to say this. The land has been sold by Te Teira and others to the Government, and the Queen's money has been paid tor it. If William King had owned part of the land, and he had not been willing that it should be sold, the Governor would not have directed that it should be bought. If, again, he had really possessed any authority over Te Teira, and had been able to prevent his offering his land to the Government, the Governor would not have interfered, and the land would not have been bought. Even after the offer of the land, if William King had succeeded in preventing Te Teira from applying for and receiving the payment, no attempt would have been made to take possession.

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But after the land had been publicly offered to the Government in William King's presence, without any attempt on his part to dispute the title of the parties offering it, and subsequently, the Queen's money had been received by the undisputed owners in payment for it, what possible ground could William King have for interference? He did interfere, however, and sent back the Queen's surveyors who were directed to mark off this land. We can only suppose that he thought the Governor was not in earnest when he publicly accepted Teira's offer, and promised him that if he could show an indisputable title to the land it would be bought by the Government. It will now be seen by all that the Governor means to keep his word. And we hope William King will be wise and give up bis obstinate and groundless opposition. At all events, we trust he will not be so ill-advised as to attempt further interference. If otherwise, the blame of what may follow must rest with him. The Governor's word will be made good: the land will be surveyed. If the surveyors are molested the soldiers must go to protect them. William King must understand that he will not be permitted to interfere with that which does not belong to him. He is at liberty to do as he pleases with his own land, but not with land which is the property of the Queen. And as he is free to do as he pleases with his own land, so was Te Teira free with respect to his land, and the attempt to interfere admits of no justification. But, let it not be said that the Governor is gone with soldiers to Taranaki for the purpose of fighting. He is gone to prevent, if possible, the necessity for fighting. Peace will continue unless it is broken by Wm, King. But it is necessary for the sake of preventing future misunderstanding and difficulty that it shall be clearly understood by all—First, that the Governor will make no promise incompatible with the maintenance of the just rights of any of Her Majesty's subjects in New Zealand, Pakeha or Maori; and, secondly, that he will break no promise which he has once made. The Officer Commanding the Troops was instructed to confine the operations of the Force at Waitara within the bounds of the purchased block. The pahs on the block, with the Houses they contain, were not to be interfered with by the Troops, and paymsnt was to be offered for crops consumed or destroyed. Up to the present time these instructions have been adhered to. Two of the pahs have been destroyed, but they were fired by Teira's party, and not by the troops. The day after the Troops reached Waitara a small pah was erected on the block by the opposing Natives in a situation commanding the road from New Plymouth to the Camp, and some carts carrying supplies for the Troops were stopped; but on a firm front being shown by the mounted escort the carts reached the Camp in safety. The same day the pah was evacuated on a summons from the Governor. On the 13th and 14th March, the sellers pointed out the boundaries of the block, which were duly surveyed and the lines cut; the sellers aiding the work. On the night of the 15th March, another pah was built by some of the rebel Natives, within the purchased land about a mile from the Camp, and the war dance was performed by the same party. The following day they proceeded to pull up the survey stakes, and made fires along the line. On the 17th March, the Officer commanding sent a written summons to the pah; but the war party refused to receive it, and threatened the messenger. Fire was then opened on the pah and continued during the day, and on the 18th the pah was evacuated and occvtpied by the Troops, witk the loss of three men wounded, one of whom is since dead. New Plymouth, March 20th, 1860.

No. 95. COPY OF A MEMORANDUM BY MB. RICHMOXJ Auckland, 27th April, 1860. That the present crisis in the affairs of New Zealand may be properly understood, it is, in the first place, requisite to give some account of the views and intentions of the Native agitators known in the Colony as the Maori, or Waikato, King party. The contest in Taranaki, between the British Government and the Chief Wiremu Kingi and his followers, derives all its importance from its connection with this movement For without the sympathy and expected support of the Waikato league, the Taranaki Natives would never have ventured upon armed resistance to the British Government. The first proposal for the erection of a separate Native state under the Waikato Chief Te AVhero Whero, (now generally called Potatau) seems to have been made as far back as 1854. There was at first considerable diversity of opinion amongst the promoters of the movement, and great consequent uncertainty as to its precise objects. Many well-disposed Natives seem to have joined in it without any thought of disaffection towards the British Government, and purely, or principally, with a view to establish some more powerful control over the disorders of their race than the Colonial Government has found it possible to attempt. But there are others whose objects have been, from the beginning, less loyal. These men have viewed with extreme jealousy the extension of the settled territory and the increase of the European population. Various influences have combined to augment the effect on their minds of this natural feeling. The lower class of settlers, sometimes wantonly, sometimes under provocation, have held out threats of a coming time when the whole race will be reduced to a servile condition. Of late a degraded portion of the newspaper press has teemed with menaces of this kind, and with scurrilous abuse of the Natives, and all who take an interest in their welfare. False notions

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respecting the purposes of the British authorities have been industriously spread by Europeans inimical t© the Government, and whose traitorous counsels enable them to maintain a lucrative influence over their credulous Native clients. And there may have been some few honest friends of the Maories, who, looking only to the better side of the agitation, have given countenance to a movement which, in their opinion, pi omised to promote the establishment of law and order and the advance of civilization, and to afford a beneficial stimulus to the languishing energy of the Maori people. The Government at one time entertained a hope—a hope now deferred, but not abandoned —that the good elements in the King movement might gain the ascendancy, and become the means of raising the Native population in the social scale. It must, however, be admitted that the agitation has of late assumed a most dangerous phase. The two objects of the league may now be affirmed to be, first, the subversion of the Queen's sovereignty over the Northern Island of New Zealand, and, secondly, the prohibition of all further alienation of Territory to the Crown. As regards the first object, the more advanced partisans of the Maori king now distinctly declare that the Queen of England may, for aught they know, be a great sovereign in her own country, but that here, in New Zealand, she shall become subordinate to their Native monarch from whom the British Governor shall take his instructions: the utmost conceded to the Queen is an equal standing with King Potatau. The absolute prohibition of further lend sales is a nceessary part of the new policy. For it is plainly seen that unless the furher colonisation of the country can be put a stop to, the Europeans will shortly outnumber the Natives in the Northern Provinces. The general sentiment of the New Zealanders with respect to their territorial possessions entirely harmonizes with the views of the King makers. The Maori feels keenly the parting with his rights over the lands of his ancestors. The expressive words of the Deeds of Cession declare that, under the bright sun of the day of sale, he has wept over, and bidden adieu to, the territory which he cedes to the Queen. It is in vain to assure him that the land remains open to him upon the same terms as to the European settler. He cannot see the matter in this light. The soil, with all its memories, and the dignity conferred by its possession, have passed over to the stranger; and in its place lie has acquired only perishable goods, or money which is speedily dissipated. The land-holding policy of the King party is popular, because it secures to every Native the occupation, in savage independence, of extensive tracts of wild land. When the first emigrant ships arrived at Port Nicholson, and landed their hundreds of colonists, the Natives are said to have wept at the sight. They had been told, but had not believed, that the foreigners were coming to settle in great numbers upon the land which the agent of the Colonising Company had just acquired. They had not realised to themselves that their country was about to be occupied by a civilized race in such force as to be able to hold its ground in spite of Native resistance. The New Zealanders have always been fond of having amongst them a few Europeans, dependent on their good will. But they love to remain masters. It is the notion of the King party that the settlers in New Zealand should be placed much on the same footing as the European squatter in a Native village, whose knowledge and mechanical skill procure for him a certain amount of respect and influence, but whose homestead is held on sufference, and who is obliged to comport himself accordingly. " Send away the Governor and the soldiers," they say, " and we will take care of the Pakehas." The old chief Te Whero Whero, who has been a firm ally of the British Government, has been removed by his relatives of the new faction from his late residence at Mangere, near Auckland, to a place called Ngaruawhia, at the confluence of the Waikato with itsprincipal feeder, the Waipa. There, his supporters have established the old man (who seems to lend himself unwillingly to the farce) in a kind of regal state. The deputation despatched from Taranaki to solicit support for W. Kingi were clothed for the occasion in a uniform dress. They approached in military order. At. a given signal all fell on their kneer, whilst some one in a loud voice recited the text " Love the Brotherhood. Fear God. Honour the King!" After the interview the deputation retired, facing towards the Royal presence. They appeared to have been well drilled in this ceremonial. The absurdity of these pretensions does not render them less dangerous. Unfortunately they are supported in the minds of the Natives by an overweening opinion of their own warlike skill and resources. It must be confessed that the imperfect success of military operations in New Zealand has given some countenance to the Natives' fixed opinion of their own superiority. In the debates of the Maori Council at Ngaruawahia, the experience of the wars against Heke and Rangihaeata, and of the Wanganui war, are constantly referred to as showing how little is to be feared iroin the prowess and boasted warlike appliances of the Pakeha. As regards the further alienation of Territory, the received interpretation of the Treaty of Waitangi recognizes rights in the Native proprietor which must be respected, however inconvenient those rights may prove. But it would not be politic, or safe, or right, to submit to the usurpation of a power of obstructing the settlement of the country which the admitted interpretation will not warrant. The treaty secures to the Native proprietor the right to part with to the Crown, or to retain for himself, lands which are his own. The King party would assert a National property in or sovereign right over, the remaining Native Territory, and are ready to support all opposition to land sales, without nice inquiry respecting, and even without reference to, the merits of each particular case. In this they infringe, at once, upon the rights of the Crown and of the Native proprietor, It is by no means meant to assert that all who have joined, or who favour the party of the Maori King propose to themselves ends so dangerous and unjustfiabie. Potatau himself is probably sincerely averse to any proceedings hostile to the Government. It is, however, uncertain how far he may have power to restrain his people, and it is undeniable that sentiments quite as strong as those above described are freely expressed throughout the districts iSouth of Auckland, and may be expected to shape the action of a large part of the powerful Tribes of Waikato.

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Such then, is the party to whom William King, of Waitara, is looking for support, and it is to be feared, with some prospect of success; and it now becomes necessary to give some explanation of the origin of the present disturbances at Taranaki. The Settlement of New Plymouth was founded in 1841 by the Plymouth Company of New Zealand, which subsequently merged in the New Zealand Company. There were at that time scarcely any Natives in the district. Some had fled southward to Cook's Straits, to avoid the nvading Waikatos. Many others, who had been captured on the storming of the Ngatiawa stronghold, Pukerangiora, still remained slaves in ihe Waikato country. The New Zealand Company's agent had purchased of the resident Natives, with the assent of some of their relatives at Port Nicholson and Queen Charlotte's Sound, a tract of country extending from the Sugar Loaf Islands to a place called Taniwa, between three and four miles north of the Waitara River. The block extended about fifteen miles along the coast, aid contained 60,000 acres. It induced the land now the subject of dispute. After the arrival uf the settlers, the refugee Ngatiawas, and manumitted slaves from Waikato, began to return in great numbers, and disputed possession of the Block with the settlers. So completely was the Waikato right of conquest admitted, that their permission was sought and obtained by the returning Ngatiawas before they ventured to set foot in the district. The Waikatos had, however, previously transferred their rights to the British Government by the Deed of Cession, which will be presently referred to. In 1844, the Land Claims Commissioner, Mr. Spain, investigated the New Zealand Company's title and reported in favour of their purchase. But Governor Fitzroy took a different view of the rights of the- absent and enslaved Ngatiawa, and refused to confirm Mr Spain's award. In consideration of an additional payment, the returned Natives consented to surrender a small block of 3,500 acres, comotising the Town site ; and within these narrow limits the British Settlement was for some time confined. Other small blocks were subsequently, from time to time, acquired, and the Settlement now extends for a distance along the coast of about five miles in each direction, North and South from the Town. The European population amounts to upwards of 2,500 souls, greatly outnumbering the resident Natives. The Northern boundary of the Settlement is little more than four miles from Waitara But on this side of the Town the Crown Lands are intermixed with territory over which the Native Title has not been extinguished. A singular spectacle is here presented of peaceful English homesteads alternating with fortified Pahs, which command the road to the Town at many points; unpleasantly reminding the spectator that the savage law of might still rules in this fair district. It need scarcely be said that the occupants of" these Pahs do not regard themselves, and practically are not, amenable to British jurisdiction. Since 1854, they have been in continual feud amongst themselves, and there has been a succession of battles and of murders, in close proximity to the settled territory. A chief has been slaughtered on the Bell Block ; skirmishing Natives have sought cover behind the hedge-rows ; and balls fired in an encounter have struck the roof of a settler's house. These feuds have arisen out of disputes as to the title to land. One Native faction has been steadfastly opposed to the alienation of territory to the Crown ; the other party has been not less passionately determined to sell, and the contest has been as to their right to do so. The sellers naturally carry with them the sympathy of the colonists, who feel, that an extension of the Settlement would bring, not simply a material prosperity, which this unfortunate place has never known, but also the far greater blessings of Peace, Security, and the prevalence of British Law. It is obvious that, in such a state of things, the relations of the two races, thus closely intermixed, must be full of peril. The embarrassment to the Government is extreme. But without some knowledge'of the Native character its'extent will not be fully apprehended. When a Native has offered to cede land to the Crown, his pride (perhaps the strongest passion of a Chief.) is committed to carry the sale into effect against all opposition ; and it may be equally dangerous to the peace of the country to accept or refuse the ofE_r. If the offer be accepted, the Government becomes involved in difficulties with the opposing party ; if refused, the seller will seek to revenge himself upon his opponent, or become disaffected towards the Government that has put a slight upon him. If his passion does not turn in either of these directions, lie will probably persevere in his attempts to induce the Governor to purchase—(hus keeping open a source of agitation and peril, Taranaki is by no means the sole seat of such difficulties. At the present juncture in the affairs of the Colony the Government is, in other quarters, placed in a similar dilemma, and is in the greatest danger of alienating those Chiefs who are .Iriendly by the rigid scrutiny to which it is requisite to subject their offers of land. The truest policy would be a fearless administration of justice between the contending parties. Unfortunately, to determine absolutely what is just is often impossible in these cases, and weie this otherwise, the British Government is not in a position to enforce its award. In March, 16*59, the present Governor visited New Plymouth, and on the Bth of that month held a public meeting of all the principal Chiefs of the District, the Native Secretary Mr, McLean, acting as Interpreter. The proceedings had reference to the establishment of British law throughout the Taranaki district, and in the course of his address, the Governor said, " he thought the Maories would " be wise to sell the land they could not use themselves, as what they retained would then become " more valuable than the whole had previously been. He never would consent to buy land without "an undisputed title. He would not permit any one to interfere in the sale of land unless he owned " part of it ; on the other hand, he would buy no man's land without his consent." Immediately after this declaration by the Governor, a Waitara Native, named Teira, stepped forward, and speaking for himself and a considerable party of natives owning land at Waitara, declared, that he was desirous of ceding a Block at the mouth of the river, on the South bank. He minutely

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described the boundaries of the block, stating that the claims of himself and his party went beyond those limits, but that he purposely confined his offer to what indisputably belonged to himself and his friends. Being a man of standing, and his offer unexpected by many present, he was listened to with the greatest attention, and concluded by enquiring if the Governor would buy his land. Mr. McLean replied that the Governor accepted the offer conditionally on Teira's making out his title. Te Teira then advanced, and laid a Native Mat at the Governor's feet, thereby symbolically placing his land at Mis Excellency's disposal. Teira's right was denied by none except a Native named Paora, who informed the Governor that Te Teira could not sell without the consent of Wcteriki and himself. Teira replied, that Weteriki was dying (he is since dead), and that Paora was bound by the act of his relative Hemi, who concurred in the sale. William King then rose, but before addressing the Governor said to his people, " I wish only to say a few woids and then we will depart." Then, turning to the Governor, he said, —"Listen Governor, notwithstanding Teira's offer, I will not permit the sale of Waitaia to the Pakeha. Waitara is in my hands, I will not give it up ; c kore, c kore ekore (i.e., I will not, I will not, I will not), I have spoken," and thereupon abruptly withdrew with his people. William King was one of the Ngatiawa who had retired to Cook's Straits, whence he returned to Taranaki in 1848. Though a well-born Chief, his land claims ate not considerable, and lie chiefly if not wholly, to the North of Waitara. On his return to Taranaki, being still in fear of the Waikatos, he applied to Tamati Raru, Teira's father, for permission to build a pa on the South bank, which was granted. He put up his pa accordingly close to one occupied by Teira's party, but his cultivations are on the north side of the river. Rawiri Rauponga Tamati Raru, Retimana and the other members of Teira's party, have culiivated the block sold to the Governor. But King has been joined by a number of Natives who have gathered about him since his settlement at Waitara, and these men have encroached with their cultivations upon the proper owners. This has been a source of dissension ,and one reason determining the sellers to part with their land. King's particular followers, who have been enjoying the use of the land without any claim to share in the proceeds of its sale, naturally support him in his opposition. During the space of eight months which elapsed between the first offer and the final acceptance of the land, opportunity has been freely afforded to adverse claimants to come forward and establish their right. The last occasion was on the 29th November, 1859, on the payment of the first instalment of the purchase money, which was publicly done in presence of King and a large number of Europeans and Natives. On that occasion a document setting forth the boundaries of the block was read to the assembled Naiives by Mr. Parris. Appended to the document was a declaration, on behalf of the Govrnor, that, if any man could prove his claim to any piece of land within the boundary described, such claim would be respected, and the claimant might hold or sell as he thought fit. No such claim, however, was put forward. The question of title is one on which persons not versed in the intricacies of Native usage cannot expect to form an independent judgment. It is a question to be determined upon authority. The Native Secretary, Mr. McLean, who in addition to his general experience, has a special acquaintance with the Taranaki Land Question, dating back to 1844, denies King's right to interfere. The Rev. John Whiteley, Wesleyan Missionary at New Plymouth, and Mr. Parris, the District Land Purchase Commissioner, both of whom have had a long acquaintance with the subject, agree with the Native Secretary. A very valuable testimony to the same effect is furnished by a letter recently addressed to various Chiefs of Waikato and Mokau by Wi Tako, a Ngatiawa Chief, a translation ot which is appended to this Memorandum (App. No. 1). Wi Tako's evidence carries great weight, as his prepossessions are adverse to the British Government. For some time he has been strenuously advocating the cause of the Maori King, and the letter in question was actually written by him whilst on his return to Wellington from Ngaruawahia, where he had been attending the deliberations of the Maori Council. It is said that he was specially deputed by Potatau to inquire into the merits of the Waitara question. W. King himself does not asseit a right of property, as plainly appears from Mr. Parris' official report of the meeting, already referred to, of 29th November, 1859 (App. No, 2). In answer to the question, publicly put, "Does the land belong to Teira's party?" King says, "Yes, the land is theirs, but I will not let them sell it." Again, being asked " Why will you oppose their selling what is their own %" he replies, "Because I do not wish that the land should be disturbed, and though "they have floated it, I will not let it go to sea. It is enough, Parris, their bellies are full with the "sight of the money yon have promised them. But don't give it to them. If you do, I will not let "you have the land, but will take it and cultivate it myself." King's stand is really taken upon his position as a Chief; and possibly had the Ngatiawa not been broken up, and driven from their territory, or had the circumstances of King's re-establishment at Waitara been different, his birth might have given him the command over the Tribe which he pretends to exercise. It is enough to say that King's right to dictate to them is not recognised by the principal men of the Ngatiawa in Taranairi, and that its attempted exercise is the real cause of the disturbances which have so long vexed the district. Still less would Te Whero Whero and the Chiefs of Waikato have countenanced King's ambitious views until the rise amongst them of the new ideas, of which an exposition has been given in the former part of this Memorandum. The Waikatos themselves, claiming the district by right of conquest, transferred their rights to the Crown in 1842, by deed of cession, of which a copy is annexed. (App. No. 3.) The boundaries named in the deed extended from Tongaporutu, 10 miles south of Mokau, to the Waitotara River, near Wanganui. This deed was relied upon as, at all events, precluding the interference of Waikato irt the Taranaki question.

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It now seems that this reliance was not well founded. But should the tribes of Waikato take arms in a case in which they have so little concern, in which the Governor is so clearly in the right, and in which they are themselves so pledged and bound to support His Excellency—it will be manifest that the state of their feeling was such as that by no possible sacrifice of interest, honor, and principle, could a rupture have been long avoided. And in that case it might be, on the whole, matter of reasonable congratulation that the British Government should have come openly to an issue with the King party, before the preparations of the enemy were complete. The Districts north of Auckland are yet firm in their allegiance. But everywhere else in the Northern Island the determination to shake off the British dominion has been steadily gaining ground. The agents of the Government hear it everywheie avowed by Natives that their desire is to humble the Government (whakaiti i te Kamanatanga), and to recover for the futute Maori Nation the Sovereignty which they were, in their chidish ignorance, beguiled to part with to Queen Victoria. The Waitara purchase has brought the Government front to front with the King-party before the preparations of the latter were complete. To use the phrase employed by themselves in answer to the deputation from Taranaki, "the Pa is not yet built." A view of the present political state of the Natives would be incomplete if notice were omitted of the part taken by the Ngatiruanui and Taranasi Tribes, who inhabit the country extending from New Plymouth southward, round the base of Mount Egmont, to the River Patea. These people have long cherished designs against the British settlers, and, as far back as 1853, invited Katatore, the Puketapu Chief, to join them in an attack on New Plymouth. Katatore, much to his credit, firmly refused to be a party to an unprovoked atrocity, and disclosed the correspondence to the British authorities. These people have seized the occasion of the Waitara dispute to attempt the execution of their old project— which is nothing less than the extermination of the whites. They have commenced with murders, already reported to the Secretary of State ; aud though happily repulsed with loss at Waireka, when on their way to attack the Town of New Plymouth, they are, according to the latest intelligence, preparing for a fresh attempt. That a war between Natives and Settlers would be of a most merciless character is probable, from the approbation which many of the Waikato Natives express, of the murders of defenceless settlers perpetrated by the Taranaki and Ngatiruanui Tribes. These people have shown that they are still savages as rapacious and bloodthirsty as their forefathers, May it not be justly feared that in a contest with the settlers the impressions produced on the Natives by forty years of Christian teaching would be obliterated ? Former wars had a chivalrous character which cannot be looked for in th« impending struggle. The Colonists, as a body, are in no degree responsible, directly, or through their Representative*, for the existing state of affairs. They have never had the direction of Native policy, Nor have they dictated, or even suggested, the acts of the Imperial Government in its relations with the Natives. But they approve of the stand made by His Excellency in the Taranaki case, and are naturally willing, as their present attitude proves, to risk life itself in the maintenance of the Queen's authority over the Islands of New Zealand. At the same time it is evident that the resources of so small a community are unequal to sustain, unaided, a prolonged war with the Aborigines. Industrial pursuits would be brought to a stand-still. Under continued pressure the better part of the population would drain off to neighbouring Colonies—• their places being supplied by lawless and desperate men from both shores of the Pacific. The Colony, in a word, would be ruined. Nor would the Natives themselves fare better. The contending forces would be nearly matched, and the weak cannot afford to be merciful. All modes of warfare would be deemed legitimate against a savage foe ; and though the Maories might for a time gain the ascendant, their ultimate extermination would be a matter of certainty. Justice, therefore, and Humanity require that England should freely recognize the onerous duties cast upon her by the Colonization of New Zealand. To avert calamities such as seem to impend, it is indispensable to place at the disposal of the Governor a Military and Naval Force, adequate to support him in a policy of equal justice to the two Races which have been placed by Providence in a relation to each other so singular and difficult. C. W. Richmond.

Appendix No. 1. Waitoki, Taranaki, April 10th, 1860. This is my message to Waikato, that Waikato may understand the character of this foolish work at Taranaki. I arrived here and have ascertained the causes of this war. Enough of this. Another word, my message is to Tikaokao Chief of Tongaporutu, to Te Wetini Chief of Tarariki to Takerei of the Kauri, to Hikaka of Papatea, to Reihana of Whataroa, to Te Wetini of Hangatiki to Eruera of Mohoaonui, to Te Paetai of Huiterangiora, to Heuheu of Taupo, to Paerata of the Papa to Te Ati Arohena, to Epiha of Kihikibi, to lhaia of Hairini, to Hoani of Rangiawhia, and Hori te Waru, to Tamihana of Tamabere, to Rewi at Ngaruawhia—to all of you. You requested me to investigate the subject and send you the truth, which is this. Friends, this wrong is William King's. Another wrong has been committed by Taranaki greater than all the evils that have been done in the land.* Let your thoughts be true to the words (or pledges) given to me by you and which we consider right. Friends, the work that you have to do is that which is right and that only. Don't voh

• This refer: to the murders committed by the Tarnnakis at New Plymouth,

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look towards the foolish works of this land. Friends listen to me—former days were days of error, the days that succeeded were days of truth, let this be your only work to obey the word of the Great Father in Heaven, which is a line that has one end above and the other reaching down to the earth. That is the fighting for us, be true to your agreement with me. Friends, listen to me. The cause of this war is the land only,—not the King. Let not the evil spirit lead you into temptation From your true friend in the Lord, From Wi TaeO Ngatata.

Appendix No, 2. New Plymouth, December 4th, 1859. Sib, — I have the honor to inform you, that on Tuesday, the 29th ultimo, I paid an instalment of One hundred pouuds to Teira and others for their land at Witara, On Friday, the 25th ultimo, I went to Waitara to inform Wm. King that I purposed doing so. On Tuesday, 29th ultimo, he came to town with a party of about thirty to oppose it, I prevailed on them to meet Teira's party and discuss the question, which was done in a very orderly manner, in the presence of a very laige audience of Europeans. Wm. King avowed his determination to oppose the sale, without advancing any reason for doing 10 ; upon which I put a series of questions to him, which I called upon the Rev. Mr. Whiteley tc witness. Q. Does the land belong to Teira and party? — A. Yes, the land is theirs, but I will not let them sell it Q. Why will you oppose their selling what is their own?— A. Because I do not wish for the land to be disturbed ; and although they have floated it, I will not let it go to sea. Q. Shew me the correctness, or justice, of your opposition ? — A, It is enough, Parris, their bellies are full with the sight of the money you have promised them, but don't give it to them ; if you do, I won't let ycu have the land, but will take it and cultivate it myself. Teira stops in town since he received the instalment, considering it not safe for him to stop at Waitara. I have, &c, Robert Parris, The Chief Commissioner, District Commissioner. &c, &c, &c, Auckland.

Appendix No. 3. Know all men by this book, We, chiefs of Waikato, do let go and sell these lands of ours to ffeorge Clarke, the Protector of Natives for H.M. "Victoria, Queen of England, her Heirs and Successors, whether Male or female, the land and all things that are on or under this land, we sell to George Clarke the Piotector of Natives for an estate for the Queen, her Heirs and Successors, whether male or female, for ever. The beginning of the Northern boundary is at Tongapourutu, the Western boundary is along the sea shore between Tonaapourutu and Waitotara and on the South beginning from Waitotara and going inland to Piraunui. We receive these payments on behalf of the tribes of Waikato for their interest in the said land, One hundred and fifty pounds money, two horses, two saddles, and two bridles, one hundred red blankets. Witness our names and signs, written in Auckland, on this thirty-first day of January, in the year of our Lord one thousand eight hundred and forty-two. (Signed) Tb Kati, Witnesses— Te Whkrowhkeo. (Signed) J. Coates, George Clarke, Sub-Protector. True Translation—(Signed) Thomas S. Forsaith.

No. 96. THE CHIEF COMMISSIONEE TO ME. COMMISSIONEE PABBIS. Auckland, November 13th, 1860. Sfeß, — With reference to your letter of the 29th ultimo, stating that the survey of the Pekapeka, block at Waitara is completed; I have the honor by the direction of his Excellency the Governor to? inform you that in compliance with the request of Rawiri Rauponga and Tamati Rawa it is intended t to retain the purchase money until affairs in the district are in a more settled state. I have &c„ Donald McLean. E. Parris, Esq., D.C. Taranaki. Chief Cemmissioner.

Waiiara. The purchase money for Waitara to be retained fo? the present,

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No. 97. ME. COMMISSIONEE PAEEIS TO CHIEF COMMISSIONEE. New Plymouth, June 6th, 1861. Sib,— I have the honor to acknowledge the receipt of your lettars of the 15th and 21th ultirm, requesting to be furnished with a return jf all lands purchased in this district, from 31st July 181)0, tj 31st March 1861. Also a general report on land purchasing operations, the disposition of the Natives regarding the alienation of their lands, together with any difficulties that may exist in reference to any particular block with respect to claims affecting the same &c. REPORT. In consequence of the Native insurrection, land purchase operations in this Province have be®n suspended since March 1860. The return of land purchase sinca July 1850 will be nil. Among the bona fide claimants of this district, there has baeu for many years past a majority in favour of alienating their land, but have been deterred by the influence of the minority with other tribes, who have always been rea'iy at their bidding to invade this district for the purpose of supporting the oppositions and the annihilation of land sellers. You aie aware Sir, that this state of things has produced native feuds which have kept this district in commotion for the last seven years, and silenced many who were desirous to throw off the yoke of oppression and their ancient customs, to become free to act under an enlightned Government. Many such there are who have been among the insurgents during the insurrection, not from choice, but coerced by tear of the plans which for along time have been concocting for opposing any further progress of the Government in acquiring territory. The late insurgents of the district are generally waiting for the result of the Waikato negociations with the Government for peace, and therefore say but little about individual claims to land in the district at present. Another reason for their disinclination to talk of the subject of claims to land at present, is that the Waikatos, on leaving the district, reminded them of their dead who had fallen for the land, intimating that the land was tapued. On the other hand, those claimants who have acted as allies of the Government, are desirous to alienate the land, aud are opposed to the Government abandoning the district where military operations have been carried on. Among the southern insurgents there are many who would be glad to alienate a block of land, as a peace-offering with the Government, but are afraid to move in the matter for fear of being expelled from their district by the opposition, being isolated from Government protection. Such are the difficulties of the land question iv this Province, which nothing but a favourable termination of the present struggle for supremacy can solve. With reference to claims, and other difficulties, to particular blocks not yet completed. The first I would report upon is the Watwakaiho block, purchased in the year 1853. Subsequently to the purchase of this block from the resident claimants, and also from the absentees at Wellington, some of Te Puni's people returned from Wellington and settled upon the frontage of the said block of land, and have from that time prevented the occupation of the sams by Europeans. Ample reserves were made both for the resident and for the absentee Natives : for the former, 1,100 acres; and for the latter, 1,000 acres, in different allotments. In addition to this, I believe a block of 300 acres, seaward of the Devon Road, was offered to those Natives who returned from Wellington ; but they refused those terms, and have been occupying the said 300 acrc3, and several hundred acres besides, inland of the Devon Road, ever since. Many attempts have been made to reconcile them to a reasonable adjustment of the difficulty, but without success. It is due to this party to state that, during the insurrection, no le have been more faithful or behaved better than they have. At the request of the military authorities, they abandoned their Pa, and destroyed it, and occupied a position at the Henui. As those Natives are about to leave the Henui to resume the occupation of the lanl referred to, the present opportunity seems favourable for a final adjustment of the dispute, and for getting them to subscribe to a definite settlement. In the purchase of the Hua block, a plan was introduced to allow tha Natives to purchase at a fixed price of Ten shillings an acre to the amount of One thousand pounds, to be entitled to Crown Grants for such re-purchases. In this arrangement a difficulty has arisen with regard to tha issue of Crown Grants from the fact of a number of the allotments having no roadway to them. It appears to have been the intention to take a line of road throngh the different allotments, which the Native owners approve! But if Crown Grants are issued before a road is laid dowu, it may lead to difficulties and litigation hereafter. To that part of this block of land near the base of the mountain the Taranaki tribe lay claim, and have cut a line through, land selected by settlers to assert their claim. The chief Thomas Williams was paid Two Hundred pounds, in acknowledgment of the claim, but the tribe say that he appropriated it to himself. The Tribe offered two years ago, a most desirable arrangement for the settlement of the dispute, namely to alienate the block between Omata and Tataraimaka and be allowed to retain the land arround the foot of the mountain. This proposal the Poutoko Natives opposed. _ In the Pekapeka block at Waitara, there are few small claims which will be found to be valid, in addition to the claimants who sold the block? Provisions were made to admit those claims, when ths first instalment was paid in November 1359, but no claimant availed himself of the provision or offer-

General. General Report on the state of land purchasing operations at Taranaki,

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Ed any explanation respecting a claim but thereto the negotiation for the block on the principle before alluded to, namely entire repudiation of the entire repudiation of the alienation of law and defiance of Government authority. In do not anticipate any difficulty in proving (should the investigation be resumed) that Rauponga Raru, Ropohama Teira, and the others were justified in alienating the block of land. A small block of land 5 miles north of Waitara, (Wainui) is under offer of the Government by a Native named Heriapa and others of the Ngatirahiri tribe, but the return of the Ngatirahiri Natives under Te Maraine from Arapawa will necessitate the relinquishment of this offer for a time. I have &c, Robert Pabeis. District Commissioner. The Chief Commissioner, &c, &c, Auckland.

C—No. 11

WELLINGTON DISTBICT.

No. 1. W. P. G. SEEBANTES, ESQ., TO THE HONOEABLE THE COLONIAL SECEETAEY, NEW MUNSTEE. Porirua, 27th March, 1848. Sir — I have the honor to acknowledge the receipt of your letter of the 22nd instant, requesting j that I would furnish certain information concerning the purchase of the Porirua district, and in reply, r beg, for the information of His Excellency the Lieutenant Governor, to state as follows:— a Ist. The amount of purchase money for that district was £2000, to be paid in three instalments, the first to consist of £1000 (One thousand pounds), the second of £500 (Five hundred pounds), and the third of £500 (Five hundred pounds), which instalments were to be paid on the Ist April, 1847, the Ist April, 1848, and the Ist April, 1849. 2nd. The first instalment of £1000, was paid over by Lieutenant-Colonel McCleverty, (to whom I acted as interpreter on the occasion), in equal proportions to the following ten chiefs. The first eight of whom are also those that signed the deed of sale, the other two being absent at the time of its signature. 1. Rawiri Kingi Puaha, 2. Te Watarauihi Nohorua, 3. Mohi Te Hua, 4. Henere Matene Te Whiwhi, 5. Tamihana Te Rauparaha, 6. Ropata Hurumutu, 7. Nopera Te Ngiha, 8. Paraone Toangira, 9. Te Waka Te Kotua, 10. Tapui, 3rd. With reference to any subsequent claims that may have arisen, I beg to state that no new claims whatever have been made by any parties to the land sold on that occasion, but that certain natives to whom the chiefs that received the first instalment did not distribute any portion of it, have made a claim to a share of the purchase money, they are as follows :— 1. Te Warehau, 2. Hoani Te Okoro, all the relatives of Martin and Thompson, and one or two of those of Paraone Toangira, all of which claims I consider are valid. Those persons who claim a share of the Wairau purchase money are Te Rau-o-te-rangi, and the relatives of Martin and Thompson, which claims I. also consider valaid. In answer to that portion of your letter that requests that I will give any information that appears to me likely to be conducive to such an arrangement of the next payment, as may be most satisfactory, to the largest number of the Natives interested, I would most respectfully but strongly recommend to His Excellency that the original arrangements should be abided by, as if once departed from, it will be a precedent for doing so on all future occasions, and Natives who are disaffected or discontented are sure to take tho opportunity thus offorded them, of having the purchase as it were, revised, in hopes that by doing so, they may possibly receive a larger share of the purchase money, than they are properly entitled to. Besides the arrangement is satisfactory to the great body of the Natives interested, and the departing from it would possibly cause disconteut amongst them, as they have always anticipated that the instalments would be paid in the same proportions as the last. With respect to those persons who have been overlooked on the distribution of the last instalment, I would suggest to His Excellency, that the Chiefs who ought to have given them portion of what they received, should be directed to do so at the time of the ensuing payment, and that such should be done in presence of the person who may be directed by His Excellency to pay over the next instalment. 1 have, &c, W. F. G. Sebyantes, The Honorable The Colonial Secretary, Interpreter to the Major-General. Wellington.

(No. 294.) PORIBUA. Furnishing information relative to land at Porirua,

No. 2. THE HONOEABLE THE COLONIAL SECEETAEY, NEW MUNSTEE, TO DONALD MCLEAN, ESQ. Colonial Secretary's Office, Wellington, 31st July, 1848. Sib,— I have the honor by direction of the Lieutenant-Governor, to inform you that His Excellency has duly received your letter of the 19th instant, forwarding the Deeds and other documents relating to the adjustment of the Wanganui land question, in which you have recently been engaged.

Whanoantji. r Conveying thanks of the . Government for settle- ' ment of the Whanganui Land Question,

G—No. 1

COMMISSIONERS' REPORTS

I am to take this opportunity of conveying to you His Excellency's grateful thanks for the zealous and able manner in which you have discharged the difficult and delicate task assigned to you, and assure you that he consideres it to be principally due to $o your careful and patient investigations, as well as to your active and indefatigable exertions that so successful a result has been achieved; and that it gives His Excellency very great pleasure to report to the Governor-in-Chief the high sense he entertains of your services on the occasion alluded to, and further to recommend that some sum be allowed to you in lieu of travelling allowances, as a compensation for the sacrifices you must have made, and the personal inconvenience and discomfort to which you must have been subject in the performance of the duty entrusted to you. The Lieutenant-Governor desires me to add that he regretted extremely to learn that from the unfavorable season of the year, and exposure to its inclemency, whilst engaged in the service at Wanganui, you had suffered so severely in your health, and that it afforded His Excellency sincere pleasure to hear from your last communication that you were rapidly recovering, and trusts that you could soon be restored to perfect health. I have, &c, Alfbed Domett, Colonial Secretary. Donald McLean, Esq., Taranaki.

No. 3. DONALD M'LEAN, ESQ., TO THE HONOEABLE THE COLONIAL SECEETAEY, NEW MUNSTEE. Taranaki, September, 1848. SIE, — I have the honor to lay before you, for the information of His Excellency the Lieutenant Governor my final report on the adjusment of the Whanganui Land Question. The progress made from the Ist to the 16th May, in collecting Native claimants, deciding boundaries, and enquiring into Native rights, being already communicated in my letters addressed to His Excellency, as per margin, this report may be considered as a continuation of those letters. Instead of proceeding up the Whanganui River on the 17th of May, as intimated in my letter to His Excellency of the previous day, I found it necessary to direct immediate attention to the Ngatiruanui and Waitotara claimants, who were assembled in considerable numbers at Kai Iwi. These Natives sent to inform me that they did not desire to dispose of their claim, which I now ascertained, by admission of the Whanganui chiefs, to be of greater extent than was anticipated. On the 17th, I visited Kai Iwi, having sent a message to the Natives expecting to meet me up the Whanganui, that I should see them after I had settled and walked round the North-eastern boundary. The objections by the Kai Iwi natives to the disposal of their land were that they were not bound as a distinct tribe, possessing a distinct claim to confirm the sale by the Whanganui natives, or recognise imaginary boundaries on maps which in any way interfered with their rights without their knowledge or sanction. This party were evidently actuated by strong feelings of jealousy toward the Whanganui tribes, which I endeavoured to remove, and convinced them that a settlement of their claims and disputed boundaries (which I had given them a opportunity of arranging, by sending eighty miles to invite them) would be the surest means of extinguishing their long-pending animosities, and of ultimately introducing Europeans to live on the land they were desired to part with, who would promote peace and harmony, and confer lasting benefits on themselves and their posterity. Having succeeded in bringing those Natives to an understanding respecting their claims, I requested the most influential to accompany me, to witness the cutting of the North-east boundary line, while the others should go on to Whanganui, where I had advised the Natives to entertain them in a friendly manner until my return. While engaged on this boundary, which occupied some days, Natives were arriving from different parts of the coast, some of whom had travelled day and night to oppose the boundary: this opposition was, however, overcome, and the opposing Natives induced to form an accession to our working party. I despatched a Native policeman to request the Tunuhaere natives to meet me, that they should have the boundary explained to them. A party of them did so on the day I got into their district; they expressed their satisfaction at meeting, and assured me that they fully understood the boundary, as represented to them by Mr. Wills and myself, that it was, therefore, quite unnecessary to cut any farther, as some of them had, in 1846, accompanied Mr. White, the Surveyor, to the termination of the boundary, and perfectly understood where the line we were cutting would join Mr. White's. At Tunuhaere, I met with a cordial welcome, large quantities of food being provided for our party. The Chief and several influential representatives from other tribes who came there to meet me spoke in a most reasonable and decided manner about parting with their land to the Europeans. From this place, I took a canoe down the river, calling on my way at Waipakura reserve, where I found Pehi Turoa, Ngapara, and Hamarama, the principal Chiefs (excepting Mamaku) who were engaged in hostilities against the Europeans, and whose claims I had been instructed to take into consideration. These Chiefs appear less decided about parting with their land than those of Tunuhaere; they agree, however to have a conference with me on the subject, on any day I should appoint, objecting at the same time to enter into negociation in concert with the Putiki tribes, as a

48—1110. Whawqahdi. General Beport on the settlement of the Whanganui Land Question, ] May 12, 1848. May 10, 1848.

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feeling of enmity existed between them, and no reconciliation had taken place since the late war. I informed the Chiefs of this party, that all the other tribes with whom I had been negotiating promised to make up their difficulty, and unite in a friendly spirit to dispose of their claims, —therefore, I did not expect that they, as Chiefs, would allow petty animosities to influence them against doing the same. In my visits to the different tribes, which were now completed, I took every pains in instructing them as to the binding nature, on themselves and posterity, of the engagements they were entering into respecting the transfer of their land. My intimation of having a minute and public investigation of claims induced many of the principal Chiefs to moderate their exclusive ideas on this subject, and to admit the equitable right of others, as well as of the members of their respective tribes to participate in the compensation. I was therefore enabled, before convening a public meeting, to obtain a more accurate knowledge of the several claimants, and of the extent of land owned by them individually and collectively. To afford the Natives every opportunity of adducing their claims, and of fully reflecting on the engagements they were entering into, I gave timely notice that I should hold three public meetings— namely, on the twenty-sixth, twenty seventh, and twenty-ninth days of May. On the 26th, the several tribes and claimants, to the number of about six hundred (600), assembled. The Natives appeared fully impressed with the importance of this meeting, which wag attended with more than usual Native pomp and ceremony. The elder men were dressed in their best dog-skin and kaitaka mats; some of them had their heads decorated with huia and kotuku feathers, not nrglecting their mere pounamus, and every other ancient emblem of chieftainship by which they could distinguish themselves. The younger Chiefs and members of tribes were generally dressed in the best European garments they could ptocure for the occasion. The various tribes, each with its representative, were seated in distinct groups, forming a semi-circle in front of the Whanganui Hotel. The preliminaries of recognizing the Natives being over, I requested them to give unreserved eßpression to their sentiments respecting the definitive sale of their land. To this they successively responded by several animated speeches to the effect that they had, in accordance with their own customs, cried, lamented, and wept over their land, which they now wished for ever to be given up to the Government. The deed of sale, which I drew up in the most simple and perspicuous, yet binding, terms that the Native language would admit of, was then read over, the Natives fully assenting to the external boundaries, the boundaries of their reserves (all of which were pointed out to them on the map annexed to the deed), and to every other condition embraced in that document, which, with its translation, I had the honor to forward to His Excellency, with my letter of the 19th of July. On this day (26th), eighty-three of the principal claimants signed the deed, including three young boys, who were brought forward at the request of the Chiefs to be future evidence of the acts of their parents. On Saturday the 27th, the deed was signed by ene hundred and fourteen (114). On Monday the 29th, the deed was again read to the assembled tribes to explain the external boundaries, and their consent to part with their lands, when ten additional signatures wore attached. Several of the Chiefs stated their desire that a numerous body of Europeans should possess the lands they were giving up. Te Mawae, in a long speech, gave expression to the same sentiments, and forcibly impre°sed upon his tribe the necessity and propriety of good behaviour to the Europeans, and of strictly fulfilling, and for ever remembering, their present promises and engagements. The compensation money of One thousand pounds, in bags containing each Ten pounds of silver, was then handed over in the following order:—

Order paid. Tribes receiving payment. Chiefs to whom paid. No. of Bags. Amount. 1 2 3 4 5 6 I 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 1 *7 A t 13 19 20 21 22 Ngapairangi Ngapoutama Ngatitumango Ngatiruaka pu < Nj lutama Ng ititarewa Ngapairangi Te Patutokotoko Ngatiangipotaka Te Opokotia Ngatirongomaitawiri Mangawhero Wangaehu Patea Kai Iwi Ngapairangi N;5atihau » .Ngatiruaka a Kawana, raua ko Ibaira... Hakaraia Hone Rangirunga Mete Paora Muri Farewa Waka Tamati Toa Tahana Epiha Takarangi Katene Anaru Aperahama Hori Pori Te Munu Rangitauira Mamaku Mawae Kepa (absent) Hone Wiremu 5 5 5 5 5 5 5 5 5 5 5 5 5 2 8 2 7 1 1 9 1 4 £ 50 50 50 50 50 50 50 50 50 50 50 50 50 20 80 20 70 10 10 90 10 40 s. 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 d. 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 u 0 0 Ngatitumango £1,000 0 0

C—No. 1

COMMISSIONERS' REPORTS

—The amount of Ten pounds for No. 21 was delivered to Hori Kingi Anaua in trust for Te Kepa, who was absent. In the foregoing distribution, I was assisted at the request of the Natives by Hori Kingi, the Chief and Assessor at Putiki. After receiving their money, the tribes quietly dispersed to their residences and encampments, evincing perfect satisfaction with the compensation received. Tne arrangements concluded with the Natives for their land are in accordance with tho3e proposed by Mr. Symonds in 1846, and to which I have been instructed by His Excellency to adhere; with the exception, however, that the Natives have been inducad to give up, in addition to lands alludal to in my letter to His Excellency of the 12th of May, two portions of land on the banks of the Whanganui river, viz., at Tutaeka and Mataongaoriga—these lauds are coloured grey on the map herewith forwarded, —also the lands coloured grey, Cormarly demanded by the Natives from Mr. Symonds, which so materially interfered with the surveyed sections allotted to Europeans by the New Zeala-id Company. The boundaries of this purchase, as intended by Mr. Symonds, and shown in the accompanying map, contain, including Native Reserves, eighty-six thousand two hundred acres; the Reserves are coloured yellow on the map, and may be estimated at five thousand four hundred and fifty acres, an amount of land considerably le3S than the Natives vvouid be entitled to under the arrangamants of the New Zealand Company. On the other hand, I would remark that a valuable block of land at the Putiki pa, near the mouth of the river, and in other favourite localities, have been chosen by the Natives, which, under the original arrangements and Mr, Spain's award, would not be coufirmad to them. I would consequently submit to His Kxcellency that the advantages to tha Natives of their present selections may be held as an equivalent for the decrease in amount. The Native Reserves, as recognized by Mr. Spain—that is, such portions of them as are not included in the present reserves—are given up by the Natives, as specified in the deed of sale, and are coloured red on the map. By an official return furnished by Mr. Sheppard, one of the New Zealand Company's surveyors, to the Police Magistrate at Whanganui, a copy of which is hereinafter inserted, it will be perceived that the Company's plan of the district, signed by Mr. Commissioner Spain, is estimated to contain eighty-nine thousand six hundred acres, —whereas, the award made by that gentleman in favor of the New Zealand Company is only for the surveyed part of forty thousand acres. It is not improbable that this difference arose from the marginal line of the map being considered the boundary. Mr. Sheppard's Return. — District of Whanganui, 14 miles coast, by 10 miles inland. Comprises 89,600 acres Acres. Estimated quantity of productive land 44,800 Surveyed land 39,845 Unsurveyed 4,955 44,800 Chosen by sectionists 25,400 ' ' Allotted to Natives 2,700 Unallotted to Natives 1,700 4,400 Unappropriated by the New Zealand Company 15,000 44,800 Before I left Whanganui for Taranaki, repeated offers were made by the Natives to dispose of large tracts of land extending from the South and North boundaries of the Company's block. A desire was also generally evinced by the tribes for the settlement of more Europeans among them, as a moans of securing the peace and prosperity of their couutry. While engaged at Whanganui, I have great pleasure in acknowledging the assistance I received from the Reverend R. Taylor, Captain Young of the 65th Regiment, Lieutenant Balneavis of the 58th, Mr. Wood of the Commissariat, Mr. Alfred Wills, deputed by Colonel Wakefield to conduct the survey of the district, and indeed from all the respectable settlers and inhabitants of Whanganui. In conclusion, I may be permitted to add that it affords me much sntisfaction to have succeeded in bringing to a final close, in conformity with his Excellency's instructions, a question involving the rights and intricacies of claims of so many different and differently disposed tribes. I have, &c, Donald McLean. The Hon. the Colonial Secretary, Wellington.

District, 89,600 acres. Award, 40,000 acres.

No. 4. DONALD M'LEAN, ESQ., TO THE HONOBABLE C. A. DILLON, CIVIL SECBETAEY, NEW ULSTEB. Taranaki, December 4th, 1848. SIE, — I beg to acknowledge the receipt of your letter of the 14th ultimo, enclosing a copy of s letter from the native chief Mamaku of Whanganui, and requesting, by direction of His Excellency the Governor-in-Chief, that I should state what portion of the payments for Whanganui was set apart

Whanganui. | Belative to share of purchase money of Whanga* 1 iiMi block, set apart for 1« Mamaku, t

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for this Chief, to whom it was instructed, and any further explanation I might think necessary for the guidance cf His Excellency. In reply, I have the honor to observe that when I arrived at Whanganui to settle the land question, Mamaku was absent bird-snaring in the forest, bordering on the Taupo country. Hamarama, who is a brother-in-law of his, and through whom he claimed a small portion of land in the Company's district, offered to represent his interests, and the Natives generally, informed me that he had an unquestionable right to do so. I therefore handed over a bag of money containing £10 (Ten pounds) in silver to Hamarama, with which amount he expressed himself perfectly satisfied, and some weeks afterwards informed me that he had received a message from Mamaku to the effect that he was gratified at his claim being recognized at the public meeting on the 26th May; also with the amount of compensation awarded, which he wished to be taken up the river and presented to him, and with the whole of the arrangements connected with that question as specified in my letters (per margin), copies of which I had the honor to forward to the Colonial Secretary, at Auckland, for the information of His Excellency the Governor-in-Chief. A translation of Hamarama's receipt is herewith enclosed. I have, he, The Hon. C. A. Dillon, Donald McLean. Civil Secretary, &c, he, Auckland.

May 12th, ISM " 16th, •< July, 19th, " Sept. 20th, "

No. 5. THE HONOEABLB THE COLONIAL SECEETAEY, NEW MUNSTEE, TO DONALD M'LEAN, ESQ. Colonial Secretary's Office, Wellington, 12th December, 1848. SlE— On the 11th October last, I had the honor to write to you through Captain King, respecting the purchase of certain lots of land on the north side of Cook's Straits. I am now directed to inform you that it is the desire of Government that you should at once enter upon the negotiations necessary to effect the purchase in question, and to convey to you the following general instructions for your guidance. Ist. The Government is desirous of purchasing the whole of the Native claims to the country between Porirua and Whangaehu, where the boundaries of these claims upon the coast a.re marked, the reserves will be ascertained and defined; then the whole claim, however far inland extending, having in every case been purchased, the mere registration of the reserves will be the registration of the entire Native claims in the district. It is considered preferable thus to negotiate for the whole claims without attempting to define their exact inland extent, instead of suggesting in the first instance as the boundary »f the desired purchase any gieat range of mountains or other natural feature of the country; you will of course take case to reserve such tracts for the Natives, as they may now or at a future time require. 2nd, The payments to be made to the Natives are to be annual, and to extend over several years. Small life-annuities, if found desirable, may in addition be given to a few of the principal Chiefs. These are the only points on which it is necessary to convey to you the views of Government, previously to your commencing the negotiation you are entrusted with. As soon as you have communicated with the various tribes interested in the sale, ascertained their respective claims, their disposition as to parting with lands, and their wishes as to the Reserves to be made for them; you will be good enough to report to Government upon the terms you may find it desirable and practicable to make, specifying the amount of purchase money and of annuities, and the situation and extent of the reserves required. A surveyor will be provided you as soon as you report the negociations in such a state of forwardness as to render his services necessary in defining Reserves and boundaries. Your remuneration and the date from which it is to commence, have been stated in my former letter eonimunicated to you by Mr. King. You will be kind enough to keep a journal of your proceedings from the time of your leaving Taranaki to enter upon the present service, and to forward the same to me at the close of each week. You will also omit no opportunity of transmitting to Government information as to the progress and prospects of the negotiations you are now entrusted with the conduct of. I have, &c, Alfeed Domett, Donald McLean, Esq. Colonial Secretary.

Genbkal. To purchase land from the Natives on the Nor. them shores of Cook* Straits,

No. 6. THE HONOEABLE THE COLONIAL SECEETAEY, NEW MUNSTEE, TO H. T. KEMP, ESQ. Colonial Secretary's Office, Wellington, 12th December, 1848. SlB, The Lieutenant-Governor having laid your report relative to your mission to the Wairarapa before the Governor-in-Chief, I am directed to inform you, that His Excellency is desirous that you should at once return to that district, and, bring your negotiations to as speedy a termination as may be practicable. On this subject His Excellency considers further instructions to be unnecessary.

Waikakapa. To complete arrangements for purchase of land from the VVairajap* Natives,

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COMMISSIONERS' REPORTS

But lam to add that as there is a possibility of the proposed Canterbury Settlement being established elsewhere than in Wairarapa; it will be your duty fully to inform the Natives to that effect, in order that they may not have reason to complain hereafter of being misled as to the intentions of the Government, or the purposes for which the district was sought to be acquired. You will at the same time make the Natives aware of the prospect of a succeeding settlement being located in the district you have been instructed to acquire, and that the object of purchasing such larga tracts of land is of course providing room for such settlements. I have, &c, Alfred Domett, H. T. Kemp, Esq., Colonial Secretary. &c, he, &c, Native Secretary.

No. 7. THE HONOEABLE THE COLONIAL SECEETAEY, NEAV MUNSTEE, TO H. T. KEMP, ESQ. Colonial Secretary's Office, Wellington, 24th January, 1849. Sir,— His Excellency has received and laid before the Executive Council your Report on the subject of your mission to the Wairarapa, dated the 18th instant, on which you state that having offered to the Natives a sum of £4000 for the purchase of about a million of acres, they had at once rejected the proposal, and demanded the sum of £16,000. In reply I am to instruct you that, acting under the advice of the Executive Council, Hi* Excellency directs the Natives to be informed, that the Government considers their proposal »o unreasonable and exorbitant as not to be for a moment entertained. I am further to request your immediate return to Wellington. I have, he, Alfred Domett, Colonial Secretary. H. T. Kemp, Esq.

WAHCMUrA. _ 'I-lie price demanded for lent is unreasonably high.

No. 8. THE HONOEABLE THE COLONIAL SECRKTAEY, NEW MUNSTEE, TO DONALD M'LEAN, ESQ. Colonial Secretary's Office, Wellington, 20th March, 1849. Sib,— I am directed by His Excellency the Lieutenant-Governor to request that you will be good enough to ascertain and report what are the wishes of and requirements of the Natives of the Manawatu, with reference to the sites and extent of the villages which Mr. Scroggs has been sent up to lay out, bearing in mind in making your recommendations that it is not desirable to form too many villao-es in one neighbourhood, and thus distract and divide the energies of the people, and that all such sites should be chosen so as to be equally suitable when the district shall be acquired. I have, &c, Alfeed Domistt, Colonial Secretary. Donald McLean, Esq. &c, &c, &c.

Manawatp. Relative to tha sites for Native villages laid out »y Government.

No. 9. THE HONOEABLE THE COLONIAL SECEETAEY, NEW MUNSTEE, TO DONALD m'LEAN, BSQColonial Secretary's Office, Wellington, 25th April, 1849. Sib, — I am desired by the Lieutenant-Governor to acknowledge the receipt of your letter of the 11th instant, reporting your proceedings in reference to the acquisition of the Eangitikei district, and to inform you that his Excellency having laid that communication before tho gentlemen acting e» behalf of the New Zealand Company during the absence of the Principal Agent, he has, on the part of the Company giveu a general acquiescence to the terms proposed by you for the purchase of the above mentioned district.

EaKCITIK-EI. Approving of terms proposed by hira for purchase ef land at Rangitikei,

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I am therefore instructed to convey to you His Excellency's authority for carrying these terms into effect, that is to say:— Ist. The whole of the claims or rights of the Ngatiapa Natives and of any others who may possess such rights (excepting as regards such specific reserves as may be set apart for them) shall bo acquired throughout the district lying between the Rangitikei River and the Whanganui Block, and running indefinitely inland as far as any such claims extend. 2nd. The total purchase money shall be Two thousand five hundred pounds. 3rd. One instalment of One thousand pounds to be paid immediately the setting apart and marking on the ground of all the reserves is completed. 4th. The other One thousand five hundred pounds to be paid in three subsequent equal annual instalments. The gentleman acting on behalf of the Principal Agent, expressed a desire that the sum to be paid immediately should be somewhat less than One thousand pounds, but at the same same time stated that if necessary he would be prepared to provide that amount; if, therefore, on reconsideration of the subject you still think it desirable that the sum originally named should be adhered to, the LieutenantGovernor does not, for the reasons which you gave, and which appear to His Excellency to be strong and valid, think you should be at all fettered in this respect. There are only' two other points upon which His Excellency thinks it necessary to touch, in addition to your general instructions. These are—first as regards the reserves to be set apart for the Natives, which His Excellency would strongly advise should be clearly agreed upon, distinctly marked upon the ground, and that the plan should be given to the Natives of each prior to the payment of the first instalment. The other point relates to the granting of annuities. Fully coinciding in the view taken by you in regard to this particular purchase, His Excellency considers that no reference should be made in the Deed to anything beyond the Two thousand five hundred pounds, which should be taken to be the consideration paid for the same. At the same time, I am to add that the Government will be prepared to receive and consider favourably any recommendation you may make for small annuities to influential Chiefs, as an act of grace and favor on the part of the Government to deserving individuals, and with a view to securing the zealous assistance and co-operation of such persons in locating settlers, preserving peace and order among their own people, and generally aiding in carrying out the views and wishes of the Government. His Excellency <loes not however think that such annuities should be all acceded upon immediately, or that any of them should commence at once; but upon this point the Lieutenant-Governor will be glad to receive your report and recommendations. As a matter of course no annuities will be promised to extend beyond the lives of the individuals to whom granted. The New Zealand Company's agent will be prepared to furnish the first instalment whenever required. I have, &c., Alfred Domett, Donald McLean, Esq., Colonial Secretary. Whanganui.

£i,m £1.(100 £1,509

£i,m

No. 10. THE HONOEABLE THE COLONIAL SECEETAEY, NEW MUNSTEE, TO DONALD M'LEAN, ESQ. Colonial Secretary's Office, Wellington, 20th May, 1849. Sir, — I am directed by His Excellency the Lieutenant Governor to request that you will be good enough to get Mr. Park to lay out a Native village at Putiki (Whanganui) before that gentleman «juits the district. As this same will be performed at the expense of the Government, you will make the most favorable arrangements you can with Mr. Park for the execution of it. You will cause a copy of the plan of the village to be left with the Natives, and the original to be transmitted to the Government. I have, &c, Alfeed Domett, Donald McLean, Esq., Colonial Secretary. he, he, he, Whanganui.

Whanganui. To instruct Mr. Park, Surveyor, to lay on* a village site at Putila Wharanui,

No. 11. DONALD M'LEAN, ESQ., TO THE HONOEABLE THE COLONIAL SECEETAEY, NEW MUNSTEE. Wanganui, 6th July, 1849. Sir, — I have the honor to acquaint you, for the information of His Excellency the LieutenantGovernor, that, in pursuance of the instructions conveyed in your letter, No. 15, of the 20th May, I

(49-956) __Whanganui. Relative to a village site laid off by Mr. Park ha the Putiki Natives.

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employed Mr. Park to lay out out a Native village at Putiki, the original map of which is herewith transmitted, and a copy furnished to the Natives. The laying out of this village promises fairly to lead to a most beneficial change in the state of the Putiki Natives, who have, except in one or two instances, willingly acceded to the breaking down of large portions of their fortified pa to make way for wide healthy streets, instead of the muddy contracted cross-paths they have hitherto used. One respectable house of similar dimensions as Te Rauparaha's, at Otaki, has been erected of* Native materials by George King, the Chief of Putiki, and four other houses of a similar description are in course of erection on the new town allotments. It is quite pleasing to witness the burning down by the Natives of some of their filthy old huts, which generate so much disease, and to witness the preparations making to replace those huts by comfortable buildings constructed in the style of neat verandah cottages. I will furnish Mr. Park's account for the expense of the survey when he returns from Whiritoa, where he is employed in taking the Dearings of the Native Reserves in that part of the district. I iiave, &c, Donald McLean. The Hon. the Colonial Secretary, Wellington.

No. 12. THE COLONIAL SECEETAEY, NEW MUNSTEE, TO DONALD M'LEAN, ESQ. Colonial Secretary's Office, Wellington, 10th July, 1849. Sir, — In acknowledging the receipt of your letter of the 25th ultimo, reporting that Mr. Park had received instructions from the Provincial Agent of the New Zealand company, to complete certain surveys of Native reserves within the Whanganui Block, and that you consder it advisable that you should remain, at Whanganui to assist him until that business is in a train for completion, I am directed by His Excellency the Lieutenant-Governor to observe that, while he is most anxious that you should afford Mr. Park every possible assistance in carrying out the instructions of Mr. Fox, he would remind you of the importance of the adjustment of the Manawatu question with as little delay as practicable; that most probably your preliminary negociations and investigations related with it will consume a considerable portion of time, during which Mr. Park might proceed with his present undertaking; and that should your presence on any occassion be required by Mr. Park, you will always be within a day or two's ride of him, I need not say, however, that His Excellency has the highest confidence in your zeal for the public service, prompting you to make the best arrangements possible in every case for its effectual fuitherance. I have, &c, Alfeed Domett, Colonial Secretary. Donald McLean, Esq.

Manawatu. Urging the necessity of completing arrangements for the acquisition of land at Manawatu. !

No. 13. DONALD M'LEAN, ESQ., TO THE HONOEABLE THE COLONIAL SECEETAEY, NEW MUNSTEE. Taranaki, New Plymouth, August 31st, 1849> Sir, — I have the honor to acknowledge the receipt of your communication of the 13th instant, drawing my attention to your letter of the 20th May last, and requesting me to explain why two Native villages are charged for as having been surveyed by Mr. Park when only one was authorized to be laid out. The reasons why I slightly deviated from your instructions by incurring the responsibility of laying out a second village, were —• Ist. A young Chief named John Williams desired to have the town sections necessary for himself and his tribe laid out some little distance beyond the site of the public village, so as to enable him to have a larger plot of ground in a more eligible situation than that site would afford for planting out his fruit tree 3, keeping a market garden, and enclosing a paddock, which is much required near the road on which he is situated for the horses of the travellers passing to and from Wellington. 2nd. Besides the absence of a good situation for the above purposes, I calculated that the expense of laying out this village would not be greater, if so much, as that of surveying the same number of sections on the Putiki site, the frontages of which were already allotted to their respective owners, so that it would be necessary to survey a fresh back street and cross ones to carry out a design sketched by Mr. Park, which provides for the future enlargement of the village. 3rd. I felt assured that, by this arrangement, a spirit of emulation would be created among the Natives as to who should keep tke neatest and best regulated village, thereby leading to habits of

Whanganoi. Explaining reasons for instructing Mr. Park to survey two villages at Putiki, Wharanui,

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industry and improvement, which I have the satisfaction of being encouraged by the Government to facilitate and promote. I have, &c, Donald McLean, The Hon. the Colonial Secretary, New Munster.

No. 14. DONALD M'LEAN, ESQ., TO THE HONOEABLE THE COLONIAL SECEEi AEY, NEW MUNSTEE. Taranaki, 9th November, 1849. Sir,— In acknowledging the receipt on the sth instant of your despatch No. 835, of the 2nd ult., I have the honor to state that the several letters and instructions therein alluded to, in reference to my being employed on the Wairarapa purchase, have not yet come to hand. This, however, is accounted for in your subsequent despatch, No. 893, of the 22nd ultimo, which states that these letters are waiting for me at Mr. Duncan's, on the Manawatu. The first intimation I received of the Wairarapa purchase being placed under my directions was on the 22nd ultimo, in a note I was favoured with from His Excellency the Lieutenant-Governor. I can assure you that it is my most anxious desire to resume the Manawatu negotiations, and undertake the Wairarapa purchase, as soon as possible; but I have felt the necessity of remaining here longer than I expected, from an accumulation of duties connected with Taranaki that have, up to the present time, demanded my constant attention: for instance, I have to settle several payments due for blocks of land acquired from the Natives since 1847, —to settle various differences throughout the district, some of them affecting the European settlement, —to encourage and countenance those Natives favourable to the disposal of land, as their being overlooked might close up the field for future negotiations, —ta keep up a general correspondence with the Natives of this extensive district, —and to arrange and leave matters, as far as practicable, in such a state as would enable me, on my return to the South, to give my undivided attention to the important negotiations there with which 1 have the honor of being entrusted. By the last overland mail from Auckland, I received intelligence that Sir George Grey would shortly arrive here, and as there are various important matters connected with Land and other Native affairs at this settlement which I am anxious to bring personally under Sir George's notice, I hope I may be permitted to remain to avail myself of this opportunity to do so; should I however hear by next Saturday's mail that the Governor-in-Chief's visit is likely to be in any way delayed, I will proceed on my journey to the Manawatu next weeek. I have, &c., Donald McLean. Ihe Hon. the Colonial Secretary, Wellington.

Waibabapa. Belative to his proceeding to Wairarapa to negotiate for the purchase of land.

No. 15. 3IE. COMMISSIONEE M'LEAN TO THE HONOEABLE THE COLONIAL SECEETAEY, NEW MUNSTEE, Wellington, November 4th, 1850. Sir,— I have the honor to report to you for the information of His Excellency the Lieut.-Governor, that the inland boundaries of the Whanganui and Rangitikei purchases were finally adjusted on the 12th ulto., the date on which I returned with Mr. Park, the New Zealand Company's principal Surveyor, and a large body of Natives from fixing the inland boundary at Turakina. The satisfactory completion of the inland Whanganui boundary extending to the Whangaehu river was communicated in my letter of the 12th of August. The delay in settling this boundary and defining many of the Native reserves at Whanganui has arisen from not having a Surveyor at my disposal for this express'service, the consequence has been that I have been obliged to take advantage of every assistance I could from time to time receive from Mr. Park and his assistant to complete these important surveys, and I am glad to state that the delay has not been productive of any misunderstanding with the Natives, as might be anticipated; on the contrary, in order to meet my wishes, they sanctioned the running of the line along the most prominent natural features of the country, conceding without further remuneration a considerable enlargement of the purchases as indicated on the sketch herewith enclosed. The inland boundary of the Rangatikei purchase, including all the most fertile and available portions of that district was finally decided, on the sth of last September, as reported in my letter of the 17th of that month; from the opposition manifested by a large body of the interior tribes to the inland extent of this boundary, and from the indirect co-operation these tribes were receiving from several influential Chiefs on the coast, I engaged the services of many of the latter chiefs, and the co-operation of several others from various tribes who publicly expressed their determination to aid the Government

Whasqaktji. Has adjusted the inland boundary of the Whanganui and Rangitikei block.

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in maintaining any unjustifiable opposition the boundary that has been openly and unanimously decided upon. A notice in the Native language, of which I will presently give the substance, was read over and agreed to by the following Chiefs named therein, then placed under ground in a sealed bottle at the point from which the line strikes off to Turakina. Notice. Know all people, that on the sth day of September in the year of our Lord, 1850, the inland boundary of the European population at Rangitikei was decided upon in presence of Taratoa, Ihakara, and Turakape, of the Ngatiraukawa tribe, of Tahana, Turoa, Parata, Matiu, Hohepa, of the Natihau tribe of Whanganui, of Wiremu te Tauri of Taupo, of Hori te Rangiao, of Panapa Houterangi, of Tohe Kura, of Wiremu and Hemi of Ngatiapa, several of the Ngatiraukawa, of Ngatihaua, of N(>atirangatahi Ngatiapa, and of the Ngatiawa. The Europeans present: Mr. Best of Manawatu, Messrs. Park, McLean, and Pinniger. Therefore be ; t remembered that in the presence of the aforesaid parties this mark is laid down at a spot named Te Tahuhu, at Te Whauwhau, this sixth day of September, 1850. (Signed) Donald McLean, Land Commissioner. A party of Taupo Natives who opposed a settlement of the boundary met us at the Pohui, and signified their determination to oppose any boundary inland of Te Heu Heu's mark at Parewa; this party were obliged to relinquish their objections which they supposed would be seconded by Ranginaeta, with whom I had a previous interview on the gubject. Rangihaeta directed Ngawaka, the principal man of this party, to discontinue any further opposition to the Government on land they had fairly purchased, and also advised him to abandon certain cultivations on European property, the obstinate retention of which the Natives previously expected would be fully sanctioned by Rangi. Having adjusted a variety of disputes in the Rangitikei and Whanganui districts, I next proceeded to fix the inland Turakina boundary, with which I did not experience much difficulty; the point from which the line to meet the Rangitikei boundary was to start being decided in the presence of Mr. Park and about forty Native claimants, we returned to the settlers station at Turakina, with the pleasing reflection that the various troublesome questions in reference to boundaries were settled in such • manner as to give a feeling of confidence and security to both Natives and English settlers which they did not previously enjoy in those flourishing and interesting districts. I shall address you a separate despatch in reference to arrangements which, subject to His Excellency's approval, I propose to carry out with the Natives respecting their reserves in the Rangitikei district; in the meantime, I would earnestly advise the Government against encouraging, or in any way sanctioning, the leasing by the Natives to Europeans anxious to make terms with them, of their large reserve marked red on the enclosed sketch, and situated between the Turakina and Whangaehu rivers, as I conceive that such a measure, even if consented to by a portion of the Natives, would seriously injure and interfere with their future welfare and prosperity as a tribe. I cannot conclude this letter without acknowleding the assistance which Mr. Park has afforded me throughout the various tedious questions and negotiations in which I required his services and aid. J have, &c., Donald McLean. Land Commissioner. The Honourable the Colonial Secretary, New Munsier.

No. 16. ME. COMMISSIONEE M'LEAN, TO THE HON. THE COLONIAL SECEETAEY, NEW MUNSTEE. Wellington, 9th November, 1850. Sic, — I have the honor to bring the following subjects connected with the Whanganui settlement under your Excellency's consideration. Ist. There is a very great desire manifested by tho Natives to become purchasers of land within the boundaries of the New Zealand Company's Block at W T hangauui, provided they can do so, under the auspices and with the assistance of the Government. 2nd. Hori Patara, a nephew of Maketu, the fighting chief killed during the late rebellion, has already purchased a section of one hundred acres for Forty pounds (£4O), near Tunuhaere, the extreme end of the Company's inland boundary, from money realized by himself and his brothers by road making, both on this island and at Port Cooper; he has purchased several head of horses and horned cattle, which were lately driven up from Wellington to run upon a section, a considerable portion of which is being fenced in for growing wheat, barley, potatoes and natural grasses; he has commenced to saw wood for the erection of a weather-boarded cottage and barn, and there is every prospect that he will soon have a flourishing farming establishment, having now every encouragement to make permanent improvements, which he would not otherwise have undertaken if he held his land under the precarious tenure which native title affords.

WmANOANIJI. •n various subjects con. nected with the Whanganui sttilasnaHt,

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3rd. Mr. Cameron, Captain Campbell's partner at Whanganui, a respectable settler who possesses considerable knowledge of Native character, and other settlers residing at that place, express great satisfaction at the arrangements made with Hori Patara, which, considering the position in which he is located, and the influence Patara possesses oyer a considerable section of the Patutokotoko tribe, renders him, in their estimation, a more certain protection to the settlement generally, than if a detachment of troops were stationed at the same place. _ 4th. Several Chiefs at Whanganui, including Te Mawae, Hone TV iremu Hipango, lahana luroa, and Te Waka Tarewa are anxious to become purchasers of land on the same terms as Hon Patara, who has two years allowed him to pay for the section, but such is his extreme desire to have the land entirely his own, that, I believe he will not take advantage of the extended term, but will, in all probability, pay the whole amount, in order to get a title and conveyance secured to him before the expiration of another year. ,__... • i_ sth. Te Waka Tarewa's application to re-purchase land at Hikitara, even at a price more than twenty times higher than he received for it, and which particular spot he relinquisned with very great reluctance, exhibits more fully than any other circumstance that has lately come under my notice, the marked improvement that is going on among the Whanganui Natives, and their increasing confidence and respect for the British Goverment and their Majesty's representatives m these islands. Te Waka Tarewa was, a few years since, a turbulent Chief, who repeatedly opposed a settlement of the Land ■Question, and gave considerable annoyance to the early settlers, but who now appears in European dress, in a mild respectful manner, soliciting the Government to sell him at any reasonable price the lands'to which he has been so long attached, and in return for which, if he obtains them, he will always consider himself and his numerous tribe bound to protect the interests of the Europeans who may be settled around him from any wanton aggression on the part of wandering Natives from other tribes. 6th. The expected dissolution of the New Zealand Company, and consequent resumption by the Crown of its rights to the lands acquired from the Natives in this Province, may render it worthy of consideration whether some legislative measure should not be introduced to facilitate under such regulations the re-purchase by Natives at a moderate price of land from the Government, such a step would induce many to dispose of their extensive, and, in their hands, comparatively valueless tracts of waste land the?difficulties in acquiring, which, from a jealous people like the New Zealanders, has been greatly augmented from the fear of their not being able at any future period to re-purchase land once sold by them, however necessary it might be for their existence; moreover, they have found in many instances that they could not purchase or retain the most insignificant spots for cultivation, the Government being frequently called upon to insist on their abandoning the precipices where they might have small gardens, and other spots entirely destitute of value for European culture or for any other purpose excepting those for which they themselves used them. 7th? Within the last few months the retention by a small tribe of Natives of an old kumara ground at Taranaki has entailed me a correspondence of upwards of twenty letters, although Ido not believe the land, excepting for its present use, would ever realize twenty shillings in the hands of an English Pr ° PI i e mention this as one of the many cases, although trifling in itself, which have occasioned so much discord between the races, which by a little mutual concession, or giving way in indifferent points, might have been easily avoided. , Bth. Pending whatever regulations or changes your Excellency may introduce respecting the administation of Crown Lands in this Province, or transfer of portions of the same under certain limitations to the Natives, may I, in the meantime, to meet their present wants, make bold to apply for a loan from Native or other funds at your Excellency's disposal for a sum of One hundred and forty pounds ■'£140), to purchase scrip when it can be obtained at a low rate, so as to transfer it to the Whanganui Chiefs above alluded to, with security on the land they might select till they refurnished the advance, which would probably be done, as in Patara's case, in two years from the date on which they would obtain possession. ,',,'', ~ i r. n . 9th. The next point which I would reecommend, would be the granting by your Excellency of a yearly pension of Twenty pounds (£2O) to Hori Kingi te Anaua, the principal Chief at Whanganui, and the most tried, faithful, and zealous supporter the Government have in the Southern Province. I have already brought tome of this Chief's services under your Excellency's notice, such as the protection of the settlers when exposed to imminent danger before the troops were stationed at Whanganui, his continued solicitude for their security and welfare ever since, at the risk of losing caste and influence among a large portion of his own and other tribes, which he certainly has done with the Pukehika Natives who were his most numerous followers, but who now frequently taunt the old Chief with "having taken up arms against his own natural tribe to favor the Europeans who are not_ likely to reward him for his services." These remarks, however sarcastic and severe, do not dimmish Hori Kingi's sincerity ; during the last six months, he has, under my instructions travelled several hundred miles besides being twice up the Whanganui river adjusting disputes and conducting the duties of his office'as an Assessor, and for all these services lie has been very slightly remunerated. I need not adduce further proof of Hori Kingi's faithful co-operation and loyalty, as his services appear to be fully known and appreciated by your Excellency, but I may add that a mark of disinterested distinction unexpectedly conferred on him at a time the districts under his sway are tranquil, would have a powerful effect in inducing other Chiefs to imitate and follow his example, not only in maintaining peace and order, but in disposing of their superfluous land and encouraging the introduction of English settlers * m 10th. From my official intercourse for several years with Whanganui and its numerous tribes, which including Patea, may be estimted at 5,000 souls, I feel deeply interested in everything connected with the tranquillity and progress of the settlement. I may therefore be permitted to remark, that the

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opening of the hospital, which has been for several months ready for the reception of patients, would fee very desirable, inasmuch as there is a great deal of pulmonary and consumptive disease prevailing among the Natives, which the efforts of the Rev. Mr. Taylor, and gratuitous services of Dr. Rees, whohas devoted a good deal of his attention and time to the medical wants of the Natives, cannot effectually restrain until this institution is in full operation. I have, he, Donald McLean, Land Commissioner.. His Excellency Sir George Grey, X.C.8., Governor in Chief, Wellington.

No. 17. ME. COMMISSIONEE M'LEAN TO THE HONOEABLE THE COLONIAL SECEETAEY, NEW MUNSTEE. Eangitikei, 26th November 1850. Sib, — I beg to acquaint you for the information of His Excellency the Lieutenant-Governor that the Ngatiawa have for some weeks past expressed a wish to dipose of land at Whareroa in the Waikanae district. 2nd. Ngatitoa tribe object to the sale and affirm that they, with the Ngapuhi's, were the original conquerors of thedistrict, they do not dispute the right of the Ngatiawa to possess anl occupy tha land for their own use, but they strongly object to their disposing of it to the Government. 3rd. The Ngatiawa on the other hand assert that, although the Ngatitoa _ were the original conquerors, they were not of themselves able to hold the land against the original Muapoko and Ngatiapa tribes, from fear of whom and the Ngatikabununu they were compelled for safety to live on the island of Kapiti. The Ngatiawa, after their arrival, assisted in finally conquering the district They presented the Ngatitoa ata public feast with two large canoes and other produce, on which occasion the Ngatitoa Chiefs publicly transferred their right to the land now offered for sale to the Ngatitoa, who have since that time held undisputed possession, consequently they insist on their right of sale. The land in itsef is not of much extent or value, the greater portion of it being necessary for the use of the natives.^ I am anxious, however, to have the rights of the selling party or their opponents fairly established according to the prevailing customs of the country, so that if the land is in future required, no difficulty of disputed title may thereafter arise. A numerous meeting, attended by Major Durie and myself, was held at Whareroa on the 21st instant. The Ngatitoas asserted their right in strong terms, the Ngatiawa were equally firm, and as the meeting lasted the greater part of the day, without any party arriving definite understanding, I advised them for the present to discontinue further discussion on the subject. I have, &c , Donald McLean, The Hon. the Colonial Secretary, Land Commissioner, Wellington.

Whaeeboa. The Natives of Waikanae desire to dispose of land called Whareroa.

No. 18. ME. COMMISSIONEE M'LEAN TO THE CIVIL SECEETAEY, NEW MUNSTEE. Wairarapa, 2nd September, 1853. g IK I have the honor to report to you, for the information of His Excellency the LieutenantGovernor, that the Wairarapa Natives signed a Deed of Sale, and were paid the first instalment of One thousand pounds (£1000) yesterday for a tract of country consisting about one hundred and fifty thousand acres, and bounded on the North-east side by the Wairapara River and Lake, and on the South-west by the lands acquired from the Ngatiawa tribes of Wellington. This pui chase includes several tracts of country about the Whangaroa and Pakurutae, and other valleys and mountain ranges, through which the new line of road passes, and to which their claims have not been previously extinguished; although the presumption has been, according to the maps of the Wellington and Porirua districts, that these tracts had been ceded by the Ngatiawa and Ngatitoa tribes, whose right to have done so, beyond a certain boundary agreed to between themselves and these Natives (the Ngatikahungunu) was, at least, very questionable. The terms of this purchase, as authorised by His Excellency, are a payment of Two thousand pounds (£2000) iv yearly instalments, and Five per cent of the net proceeds of all future land sales within it, that may be realized by the Government, after deducting the general expenses of surveying and laying off the land for sale. . , . . A first instalment of One thousand pounds (£100),) the receipt of which is acknowledged in the Deed of Sale, was paid over to the Natives yesterday. _ . A second instalment of Five hundred pounds (£500) is to be paid to to the Natives in Bay, 1854, and the last, or third, instalment of Five hundred pounds (£500) is to be paid in May, 1855.

Waikakafa. Reporting purchase of a block of JSO.OOO acres at Wairarapa.

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The Deed of Sale provides that the Five per cent payable to the Natives in addion to _ the following sums should be set apart for the following purposes, in such proportions, and at such periods, as the Governor of New Zealand, (or an officer appointed by him,) and the Natives themselves may mutually agree to:—for schools, hospitals, and medical attendance, flour mills, and annuities for the Chiefs who have ceded their lands. But it is reserved entirely to the Governor, or an officer acting for him, as to whom, at what periods, and how, these annuities are to be distributed. Rents which will now cease to the amount of One hundred and twenty pounds (£120) a year have been paid to the Natives for land leased within this purchase by the parties named in the margin. The survey of such of the external boundaries as are not defined by natural features of the country, and of the Native reserves within this block, demand my immediate attention, in order that the district may be thrown open for selection, and that there may be no disputes or difficulties as to boundaries hereafter with the Natives. The Names of the boundaries of the different reserves, only four in number, together with a right of eel fishing in such places as may not be drained by the Europeans, are particulais specified in the Deed of Sale, a translation of which I herewith enclose. His Excellency having himself taken an active part in directing how this negotiation should be carried out, until it was nearly brought to a termination, I need not enlarge any further on the details connected with it, beyond stating that I have every reason to expect that it has so satisfied the Natives that it will be the means of leading to the acquisition of additional tracts of land in this valley. I have, &c., Donald McLean, The Civil Secretary, Land Commissioner. &c, &c, he, Wellington,

C. Matthews, T. V. Alsopp, A. Gillies.

No. 19.MB. COMMSSIONEE M'LEAN TO THE HONOUEABLE THE COLONIAL SECEETAEY, NEW MUNSTEE, Wairarapa, 3rd September, 1853. Sir, — I have the honor to report to yon, for the information of His Excellency the Governor, that the disputes between Mr. R. Barton and the Natives respecting his occupation under a dubious and most incomplete cession to the Crown of a sheep run on the South-east coast since March 1845, have been at length finally adjusted. The circumstances of this case, which has entailed a most complicated correspondence with repeated references to the Government, and several of its officers, are simply these, that Mr. Barton took a sheep run for £12 a year from the Natives on the South-east coast, where the Government had no land whatever, and where it could not be expected to afford much protection to parties who went their for their own benefit and at their own risk. It appears that Te Wereta, the principal Chief on the coast, was never consulted about letting this run, and he was very much displeased with the Natives for doing so. He paid a visit to Mr. Barton's station to consult him about it, and he was quite friendly with the men at the station until a simple circumstance arose which led to an altercation between Wereta and one of Mr. Barton's shepherds. Te Wereta while waiting for breakfast happened to put on a pair of trousers belonging to one of the shepherds, with whom he was quite familiar, and intended to return him the trousers after breakfast. The shepherd Jones abused Te Wereta about the trousers, refused to give him any breakfast, and one of the Natives who remarked that Wereta was acting improperly was knocked down and beat severely by that Chief for his interference. The man in charge of the station named Bell was looking after the sheep, when he returned Jones complained to him about Te Wertta's behaviour. This led to further words, Te Wereta got excited ; Bell the head shepherd offered him certain goods to keep peace with him, this led no doubt to further demands, Bell got frightened, and, according to his own sworn depositions, he drank several glasses of spirits to keep tip his courage as he said, that he might not fall as the people had done at Wairau ; and taking a shingle hammer in his hand, he kept striking the Natives indiscriminately until be drew blood from a young inoffensive Chief who took no part whatever in the robbery. 801 l became so madly intoxicated with drink that the other shepherd was obliged with the aid of the Natives to tie him up. Mr. Protector Forsaith was sent down to enquire into the case, when the Natives admitted the whole facts of the case and expressed their regret for what had occurred. Te Wereta and his tribe offered, and did actually return, most of Mr. Barton's goods, and agreed to pay forty pigs and other produce for the offence. Mr. Forsaith dictated very different terms, which he drew up of his own accord, without any reference to the Natives, for the formal surrender by them, as an atonement for their offence, of a district of country fourteen miles long and containing about eighty thousand acres. Te Weiela and the rest of the Natives objected entirely to this proceeding, but they were threatened by Mr, Forsaith that "they might expect a messenger of a very different character, one who would offer no terms, but would proceed to inflict the punishment the law prescribed " The fear of this threat, which was equivalent to a declaration of war, induced Te Wereta and a few of his relatives, to sign the deed for the cession of a district to which several other Natives not in any way concerned in Te Werata's robbery had claims, which they certainly never could be called upon by any principle

Baeton's Run. Reporting circumstances connected with dispute regarding Barton's run.

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of equity, justice, or law, not even under their own barbarous customs, unless they were at war, to relinquish as an expiation of such an offence. The Natives who considered themselves unjustly deprived of their country never permitted Mr. Barton to have peaceable occupation of it, and they constantly compelled him to make considerable payments by way of yearly rents until they could obtain further redress for their property, which Mr. Barton could not have held for a day if they did not fear the consequences of a rupture with the Government from whom they eventually expected every justice and redress. Mr. Purvis Russell rented a portion of the land thus ceded for thirty six pounds a year, from a section of the tribe who were within fifty miles of Te Wereta when the robbery was committed, and some of whom, instead of participating in the matter, promptly interfered when they heard of it to have the property restored. Mr. Barton himself agreed to pay thirty-six [sounds a year for the remaining portion of the ceded land, and notwithstanding these payments the Natives were still discontented with the unfairness of this transaction, and I cannot help regretting that the Government were in any way parties in it beyond demanding such a payment as might be coasidered equitable for a person who could only be considered in the light of a private adventurer who placed himself with his sheep in the midst of a rude uncivilized tribe some of whom were opposed to his being there, and who were all known at that time to be ignorant of English laws and customs, and in the habit of frequently plundering Europeans on much slighter pretences than those which I have detailed. In order to put an end to this question, without altogether invalidating a transaction that had received the official sanction of His Honor Major Richmond, the Superintendent at that time of the Southern Province, and the Governor of New Zealand, which I informed the Natives could not now that they had signed the deed be repudiated, I proposed to them that they should add an additional tract of fresh land to the run occupied by Mr. Barton, and that by so doing I should then feel authorised to make them a payment for the whole district, that the Natives who were not in any way parties at the former cession might be remunerated. To this the Natives have after some discussion assented; they have allowed four years rent at £12 a year to be deducted for the goods they took from Mr. Barton who had a lease of the land from the Government at a peppercorn rent for five years, the fifth year under this lease, I considered the Government owing to its lease to Mr. Barton, should pay to the Natives, which has been accordingly done. Mr. Barton has paid all other arrears of rent due to them, amounting to One hundred and twenty-four pounds and I have agreed to pay them for his run, including some fresh land they have ceded, a sum of £1000 payable in three yearly instalments of £300 this present year, £300 next year, and a last payment of £400 in 1855. Mr. Barton assures me that he will purchase from the Crown Five hundred pounds worth of the land at once, and that he will make a further purchase of Five hundreds pounds worth next year, so that the Government will have a clear estate of about Thirty thousand acres, which, after deducting what is sold to Mr. Barton for One thousand pounds, will yield for licenses, fees, and assessment on stock, about Sixty pounds a year. Hoping that this arrangement which disposes of a very troublesome question will meet with His Excellency's approval, I have, &c., Donald McLean, Laud Commissionsr. To the Hon. the Colonial Secretary.

No. 20. MEMOEANUM BY ME. COMMISSIONEE M'LEAN. Turanganui, sth September, 1853. A block of about 100 acres on the North-east of the Mataruawai stream, on the West side ol 'the Wairarapa lake, is included in the land ceded by the Natives to the Crown, and I believe it comprises a portion of land partly occupied as a home station by Mr. T. V. Allsop Donald McLean, Land Commissioner. To the Crown Commissioner, &c, &c, he, Wellington, It is understood that the right of preemption to their homesteads is to be waived in favour of the Wairarapa settlers ; that is, that they are to be placed exactly in the same position as if they had been holding from the thrown as regards the land they occupy, which has been acquired by purchase from the Natives by the Government; at least I believe I understood His Excellency the Governor to express himself to that effect, and I may add that I fully concurred in the fairness of such an arrangement, especially towards all those settlers who conditionally co-operated with the Government in obtaining the cession of the district from the Natives.

AxLSOr's Station. Eespecting a bush of 100 ' acres on the West side of ( Wairarapa Lake.

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No. 21. ME. COMMISSIONEE M'LEAN TO THE CIVIL SECEETAEY, NEW MUNSTEE. Wairarapa, 7th September, 1853. SIE, — I have the honor to report to you, for the information of His Excellency the Governor, that I have concluded the purchase of the lower portion of the vVairarapa valley. This purchase includes the Home stations and runs of several of the settlers, and extends inland from the coast about seven miles; it is well bounded by the Aorangi range of mountains on the East, by the Wairarapa lake on the West, and by the Paharakeki stream that falls from the Aorangi range inland; the sea forming the boundary on the coast. The consideration for this block, besides five per cent net proceeds on all future land sales for certain Native institutions, as instructed by His Excellency, is Eleven hundred pounds (£1100.) Of this amount the Natives have received Seven hundred pounds (£700) yesterday, and I have arranged—as there must bo considerable outlay for land purchases this year, —that the second and last instalments should not be paid until May, 1H55. An intelligent young Chief Raniera who was the principal claimant to both the districts latelyacquired by the Crown, was chiefly induced to relinquish his claims so readily to this portion of the valley, under an understanding that he should have a Crown Grant for a block of land bounded by the Lake and Turanganui River on the one side, and inland by the Te Kope road to the coast. Raniera has out of this block given up the right of the Ferry which yielded him a rent of (£l2) Twelve Dounds a year, to the Government, besides eighty acres of land for the Ferry Station, which should be permanently retained by the Government, to ensure, under certain regulations, proper accommodations for travellers, and due attention to the ferrying of passengers and stock. Raniera's block is of considerable extent, probably it may contain One thousand four hundred acres, but this is certainly not more than he is entitled to have a grant for, as he is a proprietor of several horses and cattle, and has arranged this morning to purchase fifty or sixty sheep; it is moreover very desirable to secure such possessions to principal Chiefs under Titles from the Crown, and I therefore bee to recommend that, when a survey of Raniera's land is made, His Excellency may be pleased to grant him a Crown Title for it. The reserves within the purchase are pretty well defined by natural boundaries; at the same time it is necessary that a surveyor should be placed as soon as possible under my instructions to have them marked off I do not consider, however, that the resident settlers should be delayed on this account from selecting and purchasing their homesteads and runs, as they are generally aware of the extent and position of the different reserves; and as they have held so long under a precarious and disagreable tenure, I conceive that they should now have every facility afforded them to secure their possessions without further delay, with an understanding, of course, that no grant is issued to them beyond a pre-emptive right of selection, until the necessary surveys are fully completed. A thoroughfare of one hundred feet deep, to allow for the overflowing of the river, should be reserved on the right and left banks of the Turanganui to afford the Natives free access to their several cultivations on the banks of the river, and to facilitate the conveyance by canoes of European and Native produce to the ferry. A right of public road through all the Native reserves is secured to the Crown. In addition to the general reserves specified in the Deed of Sale, I consider it advisable that a special reserve of fifty acres out of the lands ceded to the Crown should be made to Rihara, the principal Church of England Missionary iv the valley, who was almost destitute of land, from having no claims to any in this district himself. I herewith enclose a (copy) translation of the Deed of Sale which was executed by the Natives yesterday. I have, &c, Donald McLean, To the Colonial Secretary, Land Commissioner. &c, &c, &c, Wellington.

Waiearapa. Reporting purchase of the Lower Wairarapa Valley.

No. 22. ME. COMMISSIONEE M'LEAN TO THE CIVIL SECEETAEY, NEW MUNSTEE. Otaraia, Wairarapa, 13th September, 1853. Sib,— T have the honor to report to you, for the information of His Excellency the Governor, that on Saturday the 10th inst., 1 agreed with the Natives for the purchase of a tract of land in continuation of the last purchase, including Mr. Angus McMaster's home station and run in the valley besides a large extent of back country, lying in a South-easterly direction beyond the Aorangi range' i which formed the North-east boundary of the purchase of the lower end of the valley. This block 1 may be estimated to comprise about ninety-five thousand acres (95,000 acres),

> McMastebs' Run. i Has concluded negotia--1 tions for a block of and including Mc Masters' run,

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Captain Smith has kindly furnished me with a rough sketch by the eye of this and the other purchase, which I have the honor to enclose. The lowest price for which I could secure this district was One thousand pounds. Of this amount, a first instalment of £300 has been paid to the Natives a second instaltnent of £250 falls due in May; a third instalment of i 250 in May, 1855; a fourth and last instalment of £200 in May, 1856. I herewith enclose a translation of the Deed of Sale. I have, &c, Donald McLean, To the Civil Secretary, Land Commissioner. &c, &c, he, Wellington.

No. 23. ME. COMMISSIONEB M'LEAN TO THE CIVIL SECEETAEY, NEW MUNSTEE. Wairarapa, 20th September, 1853 Sic, — I have the honor to transmit to you, for the information of His Excellency the Governor, a translation of the Deed of Sale for a block of about eight hundred (800) acres of land at Huangarua, comprising considerably more than the whole of Captain Smith's and Mr. Tully's home station, paddocks, and improvements. The price which the Natives have been paid for this land is One hundred pounds (£100) the receipt of which is acknowledged in the Deed of Sale. It will be observed that I have not inserted a clause in this Deed for a further payment of five per cent, to the Natives, inasmuch as the price paid for these small purchases must be considerably higher to secure the settlers in their homesteads than for larger blocks. At the same time, I cannot help thinking that this land has been secured at a wonderfully cheap rate, when it is considered that the Natives are generally so apt to take advantage of improvements to increase their demands, and they are sufficiently intelligent to know that Captain Smith, as well as all other settlers on Native land, are quite in their power, and that that gentleman alone has expended upwards of £1000 on his establishment. Captain Smith intends to secure this 800 acres of land by immediate purchase from the Crown at 10s. per acre; so that the Government, even if it has to pay the first outlay of £100, will have a clear gain of £300 on the transaction, besides securing an energetic and valuable settler in quiet undisturbed possession of tho most valuable part of his Wairarapa property. I have, &c, Donald McLean, To the Civil Secretary, Land Commissioner. &c, he., he, Wellington.

Huangaktja. Forwarding deed of a block of 800 acres including Smith's and Tully's stations.

No. 24. MB. COMMISSIONEE M'LEAN TO THE CIVIL SECEETAEY, NEW MUNSTEE. Wairarapa, 22nd September, 1853. Sib, — I have the honor to report to you, for the information of His Excellency the Governor that 'the Wairarapa Natives have signed a Deed of Sale, and received a first instalment on the 19thinstant for a tract of country comprising in the whole about three hundred thousand (300,000) acres. This district is situated, as indicated on the enclosed tracing, on the North-west side of the Wairarapa lake, and extends to the ranges on the Westward above Otaki and Waikanae, That portion of it within the Wairarapa valley, estimated at 30,000 acres, extends from the boundary of the first purchase at the new line of road to the Waengawa river, near Mr. Donald's station. The block within the Wairarapa valley is described by several travellers as being well supplied with wood and water, excellent timber for building, and fine rich soil at the Waiohine and the slopes under the Tararua range. 1 have no doubt, considering all these advantages, and its proximity to the new line of road, that this must become an eligible site for an agricultural settlement. The consideration to the Natives for the whole purchase, as shewn in the translation of the Deed of Sale herewith enclosed, is Two thousand pounds, and the remaining One thousand pounds is to be paid in five yearly instalments of Two hundred pounds each, besides five per cent, nett proceeds on all sales that may be made by the Government. I herewith have the honor to enclose for his Excellency's information tracings fnrnished to me by Capt. Smith of the several larger purchases concluded in this district up to the present time. I have, &c., Donald McLean, To the Civil Secretary, Land Commissioner. &c, &c, &c, Wellington.

tVAIKARArA. I The Wairarapa Natives have signed a Deed ofi sale for 300,008 acres, ,

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No. 25. ME. COMMISSIONEE M'LEAN TO THE CIVIL SECEETAEY, NEW MUNSTEE. I Wairarapa, 20th October, 1853. I have the honor to report to you for the information of His Excellency the Governor, that the following homesteads have been purchased for the Wairarapa settlers. Acres. 1 Ist. Morrison's Station about 400 2nd. Gillies' do. at Torohanga 200 3rd. Burling's do., entrance of new line of road 100 4th. Collins' do. at Te Ore Ore 400 1,100 —These homesteads have been sold by the Natives expressly for the settlers in actual possession of them, and in some instances they have requested this condition to be inserted in the deeds of sale which has been accordingly done. I take this oppoitunity of reporting the completion of these purchases in order that the settlers may not be unnecessarily delayed in selecting and paying the Government for the quantities of land above referred to, and I shall feel obliged by your notifying to the Crown Land Commissioner that these purchases have been made in order that there may be no unnecessary delay in permitting the settlers to secure those portions of their homesteads that have been purchased. Translations of the deeds of sale for these places shall be duly furnished on my return from Hawke's Bay. I have, &c, Donald McLean, Land Commissioner. To the Civil Secretary, &c, &c, &c, Wellington.

; Wairarapa. Reporting purchase of 4 homesteads, comprising 1100 acres.

No. 26. ME. COMMISSIONEE M'LEAN TO CAPTAIN SMITH. Wairarapa, 20th October, 1853. Sic, — You are already aware that the Natives have agreed to sell a very large tract of country, including several fertile plains at the head of the Wairarapa valley, and that the boundaries of the ■ purchase extend towards the Manawatu on the west, and the Castle point purchase on the east,; including what is usually designated the Forty-mile bush, through which it is expected that the! line of road now in progress at the Rimutaka will be carried, so as to connect the Manawatu and Hawke's Bay districts with Wellington. It is most important that such parts of this district as do not appear on your sketch map of Wairarapa should be explored, and a sketch of it made; so that an estimate can be formed of the extent and quality of the district before finally arranging with the Natives for the price that is to be paid for it. _ . The Natives will also point out to you the reserves they require for themselves within the purchase, and it will be necessary for you to employ two intelligent Natives at the Kaikokirikiri, in addition to those who may voluntarily accompany you to point out the boundaries and reserves; the former are to be paid 3s. per diem, but the latter must understand that as they go to point out their own lands for which they are to be paid, that they are not to receive any wages. At the same time, if you find it very essential" to take one or two intelligent old men to give you the names of boundaries, of course you may do so. I believe the Natives will be demanding extravagant reserves at Opaki, Makoura, Koangawareware and the other plains within the valley. In such case you will be good enough to inform them that you are not prepared to agree to such reserves, and that, although they give information respecting them, it is necessary to confer with me before acceding to any beyond what you may consider essential for their welfare. From your own experience, local knowledge, and acquaintance with the Native tribes of this valley, I need not trouble you with further details, as much must be left to your own discretion as to the best and most economical mode of conducting this service; but I must in general terms request, your undivided attention to a settlement of the Native boundftr.es to prevent future disputes, and to facilitate the present negotiations before you undertake any other surveying. I have, &c, Donald McLean, Land Commissioner, Captain W. M. Smith, J,P„ Wairarapa.

Wairarapa. To commence the survey of a large block of land at the head of Wairarapa Valley.

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No. 27. ME. COMMISSIONEE M'LEAN TO THE COMMISSIONEE OP CEOWN LANDS, WELLINGTON. Wellington, 23rd December, 1853. Sib, — I have the honor to inform you that I have arranged to purchase from the Natives that block of land formerly reserved by them at the entrance of the new line of road at Burling's, including the site so much required by the small farming associatialion for their own town and suburban lands. The whole of this block is estimated at 19,00G acres, and as it is of such urgent importance to acquire it, I have agreed to pay the Natives £1000 for it, the Natives at the same time offering to give the Government an additional block of land elsewhere in consideration of the high price they are to receive. To conclude this purchase with the least possible delay, I should feel obliged by your furnishing me with the sum of One thousand pounds (£1000) to-day, as you ate aware how essential it is to settle this question as soon as possible. I have, &c, Donald .McLean, Land Commissioner. To the Crown Commissioner, Wellington.

Waiearapa. Has agreed to purchase from the Natives 19,000 acres, including the site of Featherstone.

No. 28. ME. COMMISSIONEE m'IEAN TO THE HONOURABLE THE COLONIAL SECETARY, NEW MUNSTEE. Taranaki, 6th February, 1854. Sir, — I have the honor to report, for the information of His Excellency the Officer administering the Government, that I have been detained at the Southern Provinces much longer than I expected, in consequence of having to complete several important purchases of land from the Natives. The Deeds of sale as well as the details and expenditure connected with these purchases shall be duly furnished when I reach Auckland. I should state that for a long period considerable difficulties existed in reference to the purchase of land from the Southern tribes, a great majority of whom were combined to limit the Europears to the immediate neighbourhood of Wellington; this confederacy was strengthened by some of the more remote interior tribes of Taupo aud Rotorua, who, although they took no active part in hostilities against the English during the wars occasioned by the unsettled state of the land question at the South, were nevertheless strongly prejudiced against their occupation of any part of the Island, except what immediately bordered on the sea coast. In order to remove those difficulties, a steady course of negotiation was entered upon by the Government under thcdirections of His Excellency Sir George Grey, which resulted in obtaining some valuable tracts of land, and in promoting the most friendly relations with the different tribes with whom the Government was in treaty. It was not however until lately that the Natives were induced to relinquish their claims to the Wairarapa, a district within 35 miles of Wellington, from which they were realizing an annual rental of about f 1,200 from European stockholders who had established themselves there with their flocks and herds, and notwithstanding the insecurity of their tenure, had considerable property invested there. The improvements alone about their home stations could not be estimated at less than £7000, and those improvements, the result of muny years industry, they were liable to be deprived of at the caprice of the Chiefs or their followers without the slightest notice, thus rendering their position the most precarious and unsatisfactory of any class of settlers in the island. This system of leasing lands from the Natives was threatening to entail a most serious evil on the prospects of the Colony, as they would not of course alienate any of their lands to the Crown if such a system was permited to exist. It also encouraged among the recipients of those rents the most idle extravagant habits, depriving them of all industry by inducing them to look forward to those incomes as their chief means of subsistence. To put an end to this system, without inflicting any serious injury on the European settlers who were holding land from the Natives, was an object of continual solicitude on the part of the Government; and His Excellency Sir George Grey spared no personal effort to accomplish this end, which was in a great measure effected by his counsel and presence previous to his leaving the Wellington Province. In order to complete as far as possible the negotiations which had occupied so many years of constant labour and attention, and also to take advantage of a disposition on the part of Te Hapuku, Te Moananui, and other influential Chiefs of Hawke's Bay and the country between there and Wairarapa, who accompanied me from thence to Wellington to arrange about their claims, I deemed it my duty to apply to His Honor the Superintendent at Wellington for a sum of money to enable me to purchase whatever blocks of land those Chiefs were disposed to sell. To this requisition the Superintendent promptly responded by supplying all the funds I required, which enabled me to leave the Wellington Province in a most satisfactory state as regards the land question.

Geneeal. Reporting that he has j been detained in the Southern Provinces by difficulties connected with the purchase of land.

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I herewith beg to enclose copies of correspondence which I have had with the Superintendent of Wellington, by which His Excellency will perceive that I have not delayed any longer in that Province than was absolutely necessary to bring the several pending negotiations of which I will furnish the particulars hereafter, to a favorable termination. I have, &c, Donald McLean, Land Commissioner. The Hon. the Colonial Secretary, Auckland.

Enclosure 1 to No. 28. HIS HONOE THE SUPEEINTENDENT OP WELLINGTON TO ME. COMMISSIONEE M'LEAN. Superintendents's Office, Wellington, January 10th, 1854. Sib, — It affortk me peculiar gratification to enclose to you a copy of an Address unanimously voted by the Provincial Council on Friday last, in which, after explaining their warm appreciation of the services you have rendered to this Province, they desire me to use my best endeavours to prevail upon you to postpone your projected visit to Auckland. After the very urgent solicitations I have repeatedly made to you to continue your labours in this Province for some months longer, I should scarcely have felt myself justified in again pressing the matter upon your consideration, especially as I am aware that you have already been detained here longer than you anticipated, did I not hope that the weighty reasons urged by the Council iv support .of their request, and the fears they so forcibly express as the effect of even your temporary absence at this juncture upon future negociations, may possibly induce you carefully to reconsider the subject, and ultimately to accede to their wishes. The" two great difficulties which have hitherto stood in the way of the acquisition of Native territory —viz., the unwillingness of the Natives to sell, and the want of funds on the part of the Government —having been removed, 1 am satisfied in my own mind, looking to the earnest desire manifested by Sir George Grey to extinguish the Native title to as great an extent as possible, that His Excellency would not wish you to withdraw yourself from the Province at the very time when your services are deemed of such vital importance, both by the Executive and the Legislature, and also, I believe, by the Natives. On the contrary, I am convinced His Excellency would, if he were acquainted with the favourable opportunity which now presents itself for continuing the negociations which you have already conducted with so much ability and success, be quite as anxious as we are that you should remain here until you have purchased all the districts—more especially those of Waikanae. Manawatu, and the Euataniwha plains, together with the remaining portions of the Wairarapa—the acquisition of which, as you well know, is essential to the rapid progress of this Province. The immediate purchase of the Districts I have just named has become of much more urgent necessity, owing to the Council having voted large sums to be expended in opening them up by tho formation of roads and bridges. For, undoubtedly, a much larger price will be demanded by the Natives, if the purchase be not effected before the works in , contemplation are commenced. Noji- need I add that I do not myself see how, without the aid of your influence over the Chiefs, we can reasonably expect to carry on the roads, trusting, as we must necessarily do, for their execution in a great measure, if not entirely, to Native labor. You will perceive, from the concluding paragraph of the Address, that the Council attach such importance to your remaining for at least some time longer that they declare their readiness " to make good any pecuniary engagement into which I may enter, whether for the purpose of paying for the extinction of the Native title, or of otherwise cultivating friendly intercourse between the settlers and the Natives;" so that you really are now for the first time almost entirely unfettered by any difficulty or restriction. Hoping and believing that you will, after reconsidering the subject, deem it consistent with your duty and your other engagements to comply with the wishes of the Provincial Government and Council. I have, &c, I. E. Featheestone, Donald McLean, Esq., Superintendent. Commissioner of Crown Lands,

Sub-enclosure to Enclosure 1 to No. 28. ADDEESS OP THE PEOVINCIAL COUNCIL OP WELLINGTON TO HIS HONOE THE SUPEEINTENDENT. We the Provincial Council beg that your Honor will be pleased to accept our thanks for the high gratification which we have derived from meeting at your table, on Friday last, a considerable number of Native Chiefs of the Province; and we also request that your Honor will convey to Mr. Commissioner McLean our sense of the kindness and remarkable ability with which, on that

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occasion he enabled your guests of the two races to exchange a full expression of mutual feelings of confidence and good will. At the same time, we are further desirous of addressing your Honor on subjects of great and very urgent importance to both races in the Province, which have been suggested by the meeting in question, as proper topics of communication from the Council to the head of the Provincial Government. We are sure that your Honor must bo convinced, like ourselves, of the expediency of promptly seizing and diligently turning to account the singular opportunity which now presents itself of finally perfecting relations of harmony between the settlers and the Natives throughout the Province of Wellington. It is plain to us that the Natives, instead of fearing or disliking, are already disposed to embrace yvith cordiality the new order of things, under which equal political rights are conferred on all Her Majesty's subjects in the Province, without distinction of race. We cannot doubt that Mr. McLean's labors as Commissioner in the extinction of Native Title have just now brought to a crisis the one question which affects all others relating to harmony or disagreement between the races, or that it mainly depends on your Honor and ourselves whether these labours immediately yield their proper fruit, or shall be wasted through a sudden interruption of negociations for the purchase of Native territory which are now ripe; and, through neglect of the present disposition of tho Natives to extend such negociations, to nearly perhaps tho whole of the Provincial territory. It is greatly to be feared that any serious interruption of this most favorable course of events might bring the Provincial Government into discredit with the Natives; and might, by means of an unpleasant reaction in the Native mind, create insuperable difficulties in the attempt at some future time to restore tho happy state of things resulting from Mr. McLean's long exertions under the late Governmet, and from your Honor's prompt appreciation of them, as head of the Provincial Executive. We therefore learn with deep regret, and even apprehension, that it is doubtful whether Mr. McLean may not feel himself compelled by engagements elsewhere, to quit the Province immediately. We aro persuaded that your Honor would be unable to supply the want of his services as a medium of communication between the Government and the Natives, and that the happy completion of his works in this Province would materially facilitate and conduce to the success of his proceedings in any other Province. Wherefore, we most earnestly beg that your Honor will use your best endeavours to induce Mr. McLean to postpone his departure from the Province until he shall be shall be satisfied that it will involve no serious loss of favourable opportunities that might never return if they were now neglected, and trusting that on a balance of consideration affecting himself, this Province, and the whole colony, the Commissioner may feel it to be his duty to comply with your request. We assure your Honor that we shall always bo ready to make good any pecuniary engagements into which you may enter, whether for tho purpose of paying for tho extinction of Native title, or of otherwise cultivating friendly intercourse between the settlers and the Natives, and the confidence of the Natives in the justice and kindness of the Provincial Government towards them. Council Chamber, January 6th, 1854.

Enclosure 2 to No. 28. ME. COMMISSIONEE M'LEAN TO HIS HONOE THE SUPEEINTENDENT OP WELLINGTON. Wellington, 14th January, 1854. Sic, — I beg to acknowledge the receipt of your Honor's letter of tho 10th inst., enclosing an Address unanimously votod by the Provincial Council, in which they have been pleased to express their appreciation of my services in this Province, and requesting that your Honor would use your endeavours to postpone my projected visit to Auckland. Under any other circumstances than those in which I am at present placed, I should deem it my duty to accede to your Honor's repeated, and urgent requests that I should remain here for some time longer, as I am convinced that my doing so, if I did not neglect other important duties, would be approved by the Governor-in-Chief, by whom I have been instructed to render every assistance towards acquiring from the Natives those valuable districts for colonization without which the prosperity of both races in the Province must necessarily be retarded. Ido not, however, consider that the present urgency for my remaining here is so great as it was even a few days ago, inasmuch as the numerous questions of claims that have been recently discussed at their several meetings by tho Chiefs of the East and West coast of this part of the island have been adjusted ; almost all the lands which those Chiefs were prepared to sell have been acquired, excepting some portions in Hawke's Bay which I expect to purchase in a day or two ; —so that I do not apprehend that my absence for a short time at Auckland will interfere in the slighest degree with those negociations which have been pending for so many years, and which are now progressing with every prospect of a favourable termination. I can only, therefore, assure your Honor that, while I feel imperatively bound to proceed to Auckland, in the early part of next week, I shall feel equally bound when I get there to represent to His Excellency Sir George Grey the necessity of returning here to arrange with the Natives

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for the final cession of such additional tracts of country as may be essential to the prosperity of this Province. "?Z_ : y■• f* r"!T4ON< In conclusion, permit me to return to your Honor and the Members of the Provincial Council my best thanks for their kind appreciation of my services, as it cannot but afford me the utmost satisfaction to find that my exertions have so far merited such marked approbation. I have, &c, Donald McLean, His Honor Land Commissioner. Tho Superintendent of Wellington, &c, &c, &c.

No. 29. THE CHIEF COMMISSIONEE TO THE HONOEABLE THE COLONIAL SECEETAET. Land Commissioner's Office, Auckland, May 18th, 1855. SIE, I have the honor to report for the information of His Excellency the officer administering the Government, that His Excellency Sir George Grey promised Te Manihera and Wiremu Kingi, chiefs at Wairarapa, that a good mill should be erected for them by the Government at Papawai, a' place that has been laid out as a village site for the Natives of that District. Those chiefs expect the fulfilment of this promise, and have repeatedly urged it since His Excellency's departure. I instructed a Government contractor, Mr. Carter, to employ a skilful millwright to examine the site, and send in the necessary plans and specifications for the erection of the mill. It appears, by a letter received to-day from the contractor, a copy of which is enclosed, that he has advanced ihe sum of Twenty-five pounds for this purpose, and I shouldsfeel obliged for authority to repay this sum, and to receive His Excellency's instructions in reference to proceeding with the erection of the mill. I understand the man who undertakes to build it is a skilful millwright, and it would be a great benefit to the natives to have it erected. I have, &c Donald McLean, The Honorable Colonial Secretary. Land Commissioner.

! _ Papawai, Relative to a mill promised by Sir G. Grey to the Chiefs of Wairarapa.

No. 30. THE CHIEF COMMISSIONEE TO ME. COMMISSIONEE COOPEE. Land Purchase Department, Auckland, 26th May, 1865. Sir, — You will observe in the deed of sale for the Whareahama block, that five hundred acres at the entrance of the right or south bank of the river are to be conveyed to Hamuera Piripi, Sarah .Abraham, or to each or any of them as may be decided upon by the parties who sold the block in question. Mr. Meredith agreed to lease this land from them at a rental of Sixteen pounds (£l6), per annum for fourteen years. When a survey of the land is made, which, no doubt, Mr. Park has by this time completed, a Crown Grant can be issued for it, a lease can be entered into by the Natives with Mr. Meredith, or on his behalf, with Mr. Guthrie, of Castle Point, and you will have the goodness to direct your attention of the carrying out of this arrangement at your earliest convenience. I have, &c, Donald McLean, G. S. Cooper, Esq., Land Commissioner. District Commissioner,

Whakehama. Regarding reserve of 50 acres on the banks of the Wharehama river.

No. 31. THE CHIEF COMMISSIONEE TO ME. COMMISSIONEE COOPEE. Auckland, Ist June, 1855. Sib, I have the honor to transmit to you herewith, a Eill of Exchange on the Union Bank of Australia, Wellington, for the sum of Two thousand, two hundred and fifty pounds (£2250) out of. which you are to pay the several instalments due in May last, as per deed of sale, to the Wairarapa: Natives. i

Waibarapa. Transmitting Bill of Exchange for £22.50 to pay instalments on purchases at Wairarapa,

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COMMISSIONERS' REPORTS

In any cases where advances have been made to the Natives on account of the money instalments, you will take care to deduct the amount of such advances from the payments you have now to make. As the several accounts and receipts and other documents are in your possession, you require no further instructions from me as to the payments which it is essential to make at present. In purchases such as Barton's run, where the external boundaries and boundaries of reserves have not been perambulated, it is advisable that you should do so yourself in company with some of the Natives who sold the land, before handing them over the last instalment. You will be good enough to acknowledge the receipt of this communication at your earliest convenience. I have, &c, Donald McLean. G. S. Cooper, Esq., Principal Commissioner. &c, &c, &c.

No. 32. TnE HONOEABLE THE COLONIAL SECEETAEY TO THE CHIEF COMMISSIONEE. Colonial Secretary's Office, Auckland, 15th June, 1855. Sir,— 1 In reply to your letter of the 18th ultimo, in which you report that His Excellency the late "Governor Sir George Grey promised the Native chiefs Te Manihera and Wiremu Kingi, at Wairarapa, that a mill should be erected for them on a College reserve at Papawai, and that the erection of such mill should form part of the conditions for the purchase of the Wairarapa District, and in which you request such promise may be carried into effect, and also that Mr. Carter, a Government contractor, who advanced £25 for the employment of a competent millwright should be repaid that sum ; I have the honor, by direction of the officer administering the Government, to convey to you Mis Excellency's approval for the erection of the mill alluded to, the expense of so doing being considered a part of the purchase money of the Wairarapa District, and charged against the land fund of the Province of Wellington. I have also to convey to you His Excellency's sanction for the repayment to Mr. Carter the sum of £25 incurred by him in employing the services of the millwright alluded to. I have, he, Andrew Sinclaie, Mr. Commissioner McLean. Colonial Secretary.

Papawai. Regarding mill promised by Sir G. Grey to Wairarapa Chief. Vide Letter No. 20.

No. 33. TnE CHIEF COMMISSIONEE TO ME. COMMISSIONER COOPEE. Land Purchase Department, Auckland, September 15th, 1855. Silt,— I have the honor to acquaint you that you are not to engage in any fresh purchase of land from the Natives in the Pioviuce of Wellington, until you have first made a full report to me on the subject, and that you will for the present confine your operations to an examination of the boundaries of land already disposed of by the Natives, in order to a final adjustment being made of eld purchases before embarking in any fresh engagement. I have, &c., Donald McLean, G. S. Cooper, Principal Commissioner. District Commissioner, Wellington.

General. ! To report fully as to land purchasing opera- j tions in the Province of "Wellington, 1 1 0

No. 34. THE CHIEF COMMISSIONEE TO ME. COMMISSIONEE COOPEE. Land Purchase Department, Auckland, 21st June, 1855. Sir, — . The Native Chief Tutere paid me a sum of Twenty pounds (£2O), for the purchase of forty t acres of land on the right bank of the Buamahanga, a place which forms part of a block that originally belonged to Haimona Pita Te Henake and which was sold to the Government by Te Hapuku.

.. Ruamahanga. Relative to 40 acres to be purchased by Tutere at Buamahanga.

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This land has not yet been surveyed or its boundaries pointed, but when this is done you will not forget that Tutere is entitled to a selection of Forty acres for money paid by him on the 19th December, 1853. On the same date Te Matanga a Chief who resides in the neighbourhood of Mr. McMasters also paid me a sum of Twenty pounds for Forty acres of land which he has iv cultivation, in bush, between Mr. McMaster's and Gillies' station. You will ascertain whether this cash was Te Metenga's own, or whether it belonged generally to the Natives who cultivated the land, in order that no advantage may be taken by Te Muhenga or other Natives, should it be found advisable to issue an individual Crown Title to him for it. The subsequent payments that have beeii made to me by Natives in the Wellington Province, for the re-purchase of lands for their own use, are recorded in the documents which are now in your possession, and of which, in transmitting the originals to me, you should keep copies. I have, &c, Donald McLean, Land Commissioner. G. S. Cooper, Esq., he, he, &c.

No. 35. THE CHIEF COMMISSIONEE TO ME. COMMISSIONEE COOPER. Land Purchase Department, Auckland, September 15th, 1855. Sic, — I have been directed by His Excellency the Governor to request that you will, in all future arrangements for the purchase of land, use the greatest possible caution in cases where the Title is disputed, or a difference of opinion exists on the minds of the Native owners ; and upon no account to enter into negotiations for the purchase, until such differences have been amicably settled between the parties concerned. I have, &c, Donald McLean, Principal Commissioner. G. S. Cooper, Esq., District Commissioner, Wellington.

General. To use great caution ia negotiating for blocks of which the title is iiii--1 puteii.

No. 36. THE CHIEF COMMISSIONEE TO MB. COMMISSIONEE COOPEE. Taranaki, 22nd September, 1855. Sir,— I am desirous that you should ascertain as soon as convenient, the extent, quality, and probable value of the different blocks of land in which first instalments have been paid, and a receipt taken for the same, in the Wairarapa and Castle Point Districts, in order that final arrangements may be made to complete these purchases, and that the proper deeds of sale may be executed. It is important that all arrangements already entered into should be completed before entering into fresh engagements with the Natives more especially when those engagements with the Natives may in any way involve the payment of sums of money which the Legislature have not provided for this service. When you have carefully perambulated the boundaries of the several blocks of land on which instalments have been already paid, you will then report on the extent of the land, giving the names of the principal claimants, the price they expect, the amount you consider the land worth; but at the same time you must give the Natives distinctly to understand that all questions relating to price, periods of payment and other important matters relating to each purchase, must be referred to the Government for final decision. It has been stated that the bioek comprising Mr. Browick's run has been so expensive that its acquisition will be a loss rather than a gain to the Government. It appears to me that there must be some misunderstanding on the subject. I have therefore to request that you will report to me at your earliest convenience your views in reference to this, and all other purchases that have been made, since you joined me at Wellington Province. I have instructed Mr.Kemp, who is acting for me at Auckland, to communicate with you on other matters connected with your duties. I have, &c, Donald McLean, Chief Commissioner. G. S. Cooper, Esq., District Commissioner, Wellington.

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COMMISSIONERS' REPORTS

No. 37. THE CHIEF COMMISSIONEE TO THE HONOEABLE THE COLONIAL SECEETAEY. Land Purchase Department, Auckland, July 27th, 1855. Sir,— A sum of Four hundred and seventy pounds (£470) was advanced by me to the Native Chief, Wikitoa Taringakuri, to purchase a section of one hundred acres of land for him and his tribe at the Hutt. Of this advance, Taringakuri has already repaid to Mr. Bell, the Crown Commissioner at Wellington, the sum of Three hundred and fourteen pounds (=£'3]4), and that gentleman has requested me to apply to you for an authority to receive that sum, together with the remaining balance due from Taringakuri, when he is prepared to pay it, in order that it may be brought forward in the public accounts in the usual manner. May I therefore request that you will have the kindness to issue the necessary authority for Mr. Bell to receive the money. I have, &c. Donald McLean, Principal Commissioner. The Hon. the Colonial Secretary.

Hutt. Eelative to £4/0 advanced to Taringakuri to purchase a section in the Hutt,

No. 38. THE CHIEF COMMISSIONEE TO D. POSTER ESQ., SURVEYOR. Whanganui, 17th December, 1855. Sib, — It is of great importance that the survey of the boundaries of the several Native reserves, which have been agreed to between the Natives and myself in your presence, should be undertaken, as soon as possible, to prevent a recurrence of the difficulties that have already arisen in consequence of delaying this important service. It is quite necessary that you should finish the position of the Kai Iwi line from the Kahikatea tree to the Kai Iwi river; Horina and Arapeta should accompany you as witnesses to that boundary; Tamihana and Tohara will assist you in laying out the Waipakura reserve and have undertaken, in case the flat at the South-eastern extremity should prove too extensive an addition to their reserve, to assent to any reasonable reduction you may propose, Pehira and Tamati will accompany you totheAramoholine; beyond this reserve, near the Northern boundary and at the back of Mr. Brigg's section, a piece of twenty acres should be made out for the young Chief Petira, as it appears that a portion of this land, as laid down by Mr. White the surveyor ha? been included in the European sections at the North-eastern end of the boundary. Hori Kingi and Te Mawae should have forty acres of land at Urapai on the Pohueroa stream, and Tamati te Rere should also have forty acres where his wheat is growing, provided neither of these sections interfere with any European choice. But this land is only to be marked off for these Chiefs conditionally, that they relinquish all claims of whatever kind, now adduced by them to certain other portions of land behind the Aramoho boundary. I shall feel obliged by your furnishing me with a map at your earliest convenience in which the Several boundaries, as now arranged, will be clearly exhibited. It is also necessary that you should proceed with as little delay as possible, to ascertain if Mr. Jackson is occupying land beyond the European boundary, on the left bank of the Whanganui; Jackson himself, together with Takarangi, Tamihana, and others, should accompany you to point out the boundary as laid off in the presence of the Natives, by Mr. Park and myself. Should it be found that the Native lands have been encroached upon by Mr. Jackson, he should be warned without delay to discontinue his occupation of any land beyond the territory ceded by the Natives to the Government. At Tauaroa, one hundred acres of land purchased from me by the Chief Hori Patara should be surveyed, in order that a conveyance may be executed in favour of the nearest relatives of the late Hori Patara, out of my selection of one hundred and fifty acres on the right bank of the river. In conclusion, I have to thank you for the prompt and ready assistance you have rendered, ia surveying the various boundaries that have been adjusted during my visit to Whanganui. I have, &c, Donald McLean, Chief Commissioner. D. Porter, Esq., Assistant Surveyor, Whanganui.

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No. 39. THE CHIEF COMMISSIONER TO MR. COMMISSIONEE COOPEE. Chief Commissioner's Office, Wellington, January 18th, 1856. Sib, — In your letter, numbered 55-22 of the 9th October last, you refer two points to me bearing on the purchases, by individual Europeans, subjects of Her Majesty, of land from the Natives, subsequent to the 16th January, Eighteen hundred and forty (1840\ and request to be instructed how an officer of this department is to recognise such claims. In reply, I have the honor to acquaint you that it is the duty of the officers of this department to report on each particular case of this kind that comes under his notice, stating the circumstances under which the land was obtained, the consideration paid for it, whether the whole of the Native claimants signed the Deed of Conveyance (a copy of which should accompany the report) and any other information, such as the satisfaction or otherwise of the Natives with the transaction, that may be of importance. Such cases must generally be decided according to the particular merits of each, haying due regard to the circumstances under which every purchase of this kind may have been made. I have, &c, Donald McLean, Chief Commissioner. G. S. Cooper, Esq., J.P., District Commissioner.

No. 40. THE CHIEF COMMISSIONEE TO ME. COMMISSIONER COOPEE. Chief Land Commissioner's Office, Wellington, 18th January, 1856. SIE, — In reply to your letter numbered 55-20, under date of the Bth October last, desiring to be instructed whether officers of this department are bound, upon application made to them by Native lessees of runs leased to Europeans, to take steps for the ejectment of such lessees ; I beg to inform , you that it is the desire of the Government that you should abstain as much as possible for the present from interference with contracts existing between the European settlers and the Natives, inasmuch as there is every probability that before any considerable length of time, the lands so leased may be acquired from the owners, by the Crown, without exposing the present lessees to any great inconvenience. I have, &c, Donald McLean, Chief Commissioner. G. S. Cooper, Esq., J.P,, District Commissioner, Wellington.

Gbnbkat.. Regarding the occupation of Native lands by English ; lessees.

No. 41. THE CHIEF COMMISSIONER TO THE COMMISSIONER OF CROWN LANDS, WELLINGTON. Chief Commissioner's Office, Wellington, January 23rd, 1856. SfR, A statement has been made in reference to Bidwell's run at Wairapara, to the effect that the quantity of land acquired from the Natives, was so small, that the Government might sustain a loss by the transaction instead of any gain from it. I believe the statement has been put forward, that only two (2) or (3) hundred acres were acquired, for an outlay of Twelve hundred pounds (£1200). The facts, as stated by the Chiefs in your presence at the Crown Land's Office, a few days ago, are, that about Six thousand acres (6000) acres have been acquired, for the sum of Seven hundred pounds, leaving Three throusand (3000) acres in that block beyond what you have already sold, open for selection. An arrangement has been entered into, to acquire certain other valuable pieces of land comprised ir. that run, and out of the last block purchased there, near the race course, for a sum of Sixty pounds. Matiaho was to have a right to select Two hundred (200) acres by paying you the usual price of Ten shillings (10s.) per acre, or One hundred pounds (£100) which he has deposited in the bank for that purpose. Several other portions of land have been acquired in the vicinity of the Wairarapa, but I do not consider that it would be advisable to offer these lands for sale until the surveys of them are completed, or the boundaries perambulated and defined by an officer of this department.

Bibwhll's Kkk.

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COMMISSIONERS' REPORTS

The dispute about the sale of Morrison's bush does not now exist. Donald's homestead has been acquired by purchase from the Natives. Manihera agrees to give Williams such portion of disputed land as may be necessary to make up his selection of Two hundred (200) acres. I have, &c, Donald McLean, F. D. Bell, Esq., J.P., Chief Commissioner. Commissioner of Crown Lands.

No. 42. THE CHIEF COMMISSIONER TO THE COMMISSIONER OF CROWN LANDS, "WELLINGTON. Chief Commissioner's Office, Wellington, 23rd January, 1856. Sir,— I have the honor to acquaint you that I have purchased from the Ngatiawa tribe at Ohariu for a consideration of One hundred pounds (£100), three (3) reserves in that district, marked and numbered on the original Deed of Sale, which is deposited with you for registration, at the office of the Registrar of Deeds at this place. There is no obligation, as far as Native Title is concerned, to the disposal of this land by the Government. I have, &c, Donald McLean, F. D. Bell, Esq., Chief Commissioner. Commissioner of Crown Lands, Wellington.

Ohariij. Has purchased three re. serves at Ohariu for £'100.

No. 43. ME. COMMISSIONEE SEAEANCEE TO THE CHIEF COMMISSIONEE. Wellington, 26th February, 1858. Sir,— I I have the honor to forward the original deeds and receipts of The Tupurapura, ) ;; ™*\. i Blocks. " 1 apapokia, j "Te Kopi, j " Maungaraki, i " Korakonui, > Ninis Sale, Anam's Sale. " Korakonui, J and to report on them for the information of His Excellency the Governor. Tupurapura, Whaiao, Tapapokia and Te Kopi together constituted one large block comprising an area of about forty-nine thousand (49,000) acres, for which the sum of Two thousand three hundred and seventy pounds (£2370) has been paid. This sum includes former advances of £50, made by you in January, 1856, of £30 made by me in July, 1858, to Raniera and others on the Waikakarihu Block in June, 1858, of which I presently remark also of £50 made by me on the Kopi Block, in October, 1858. The boundaries have been traversed by me, and fully agreed to by the natives, previous to the completion of the purchase; a great deal of discontent was evinced in the first place at the smajlness, but it was eventually considered by the natives as satisfactory and sufficient, and the amounts for the different claims as settled by me and received by them as final. The lands are well suited from the nature of the soil for agricultural purposes, the hilly in parts is not so rough, but it may be easily and advantageously cultivated, were a road to be opened up through the block. The western side of the range is a rich grassy land dotted with timber and bush. The eastern side has been, until within a few yeans, covered with timber, but which rejjeated fires have almost destroyed, leaving however, a valuable belt of timber on the banks of the Wainuiora River. The whole of these blocks is in great demand, and will be readily purchased by Europeans; the Natives have also, independently of their reserves, subscribed amongst themselves money to purchase other portions for their own use. The reserves are small, one thousand three hundred and fifty, (1,350) acres, this includes five hundred and fifty acres, promised by the late Governor Sir George Grey and yourself to Wi Kingi te Hiakai, and his little boy, which promise by your instructions, lam now enabled to fulfil. Maungaraki- —this is a block on the north end of the same range as the above mentioned blocks, but divided from them by a strip of land still in the hands of the Natives, I was anxious to obtain this also so as to complete the purchases in this district, but was compelled from the absence of and disputed ownership among the Natives themselves, to leave it for the present. A sum of two hundred (£200) pounds was advanced on the Maungaraki Block in February, 1855 by you, and considerable difficulty existed amongst the owners as to who was entitled to the balance I was enabled to settle this by increasing the sum I proposed to give them as a balance to the sum of two hundred pounds (£200) ; they on their part also considerably extending the boundaries on the

General. Forwarding the Deeds and Receipts of seven blocks of land,

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south side, the land is of good quality but rough and broken in some parts, is principally bush, and comprises an area of about seven thousand five hundred acres. I started to traverse the boundaries, but was not able, from an inflammation in my eyes, to complete it. I was pointed them out from a hill within the block, which will enable me at any time to direct the survey. Ruakonui Nini's sale is a small block to the east, or seaward, of the Wainuiora River, which divides it from the last mentioned block of Maungaraki, comprises an area of about 2,500 acres of rich grassy plains. A sum of One hundred pounds (£100) was advanced by you on this block in August, 1855. I have paid a further gum of Fifty pounds (£5O) which has been received by the owners as a final payment. Kurakironui, (Anaru's sale,) is a portion of the Kurakironui Block on which there seems to have been a difficulty for some time. It was included in a sale of land by Te Wereta-Kawekairangi in. October, 1853, but was disputed at that time by Piripi Awara and others. Mr. G. S. Cooper, the late Commissioner in the District, agreed with the Natives to pay them a sum of Four hundred pounds (£400) as full satisfaction of their claims, and I believe had Mr. Cooper not been compelled to hurry his departure from the Wairarapa by the disturbances at the Ahuriri amongst the Natives, that it would have been settled; subsequently, other claimants arose, and now demand a much larger sum than the Four hundred pounds (£400) agreed upon by Mr. Cooper. Being anxious to get the dispute settled, I accompanied the Natives round the boundaries, and calculated the block at about ten thousand acres (10,000 acres) but did not increase on Mr. Cooper's offer. Ultimately, finding that we could not come to terms under that arrangement, I made them an offer of Fifty pounds (£5O) more, (in addition to the Four hundred pounds, £400) ; this also was refused. Finding that there was no dispute on the portion claimed by Anaru and his friends, and that they were anxious to have their claims separated from Piripi's and settled, I paid him an instalment of One hundred pounds (£100), retaining the other One hundred pounds (£100), to give Piripi and the disputing parties an opportunity of joining in with him and making one sale of the whole block on my visit to Wairarapa I have instructed Mr. Fraser to commence at once the survey of these blocks, as intending purchasers are anxiously awaiting the opening up of this land for sale. Tupapokia is one of the small blocks included in my report on Tupurupuru, and demands some explanation of the circumstances under which it was sold. On the 23rd of June, 1858, a sale of a small block adjoining to the Ahiarupe block, took place by Raharuhi and Raniera; I subsequently discovered that it had been included in a sale of land by Wi Kingi and others. On my informing Raharuhi of this, he protested that the land belonged to him, that he had never received any payment on account of it, and that he was also quite unaware of its having been sold. As he lives in a distant part of the Wairarapa, and is an old man, I believed what he told me was the truth, and informed him that he must substitute some other piece of land as payment for the money received by him; this he has done by giving me the Tupapokia block without reserve. As I should be unwilling to meet him in a less liberal spirit, I have paid him the sum of thirty pounds (£3O), in addition to the former payment of Twenty pounds (£2O) paid him for the Whakakariti block, the deed for which must, therefore, now be cancelled. I have, &c, Wm. N. Searancke, Donald McLean, Esq., District Commissioner. Chief Commissioner.

No. 44. MR. COMMISSIONEE SEARANCKE TO THE CHIEF COMMISSIONEE. Masterton, 31st Bfay, 1858. Sir, — I have the honor to submit for the information of His Excellency the Governor the following general report of the Wellington Province. In the Wairarapa valley and its adjacent country recently the whole of the land has been alienated by the aboriginal owners to the Crown. One large tract of a broken hilly country known by the name of the Mangaraki alone remains; on small portions of this advances have been made, and other portions are now offered for sale, There are also three small blocks of land in the upper part of the valley, viz., the Manaia block adjoining the Township of Masterton, of about four thousand (4000) acres in extent, a small block known as Tirohanga, two thousand (2000) acres in extent, situated in the Ruamahanga between the Kuhangawarivvari and Mananita blocks, and the Rangitumau block about fifteen thousand (15,000) acres in extent, on the eastern boundary of the Manawatu block. lam now engaged in carrying on negociations for the purchase of these three blocks of land, and trust to have them completed in a few days. Maungaraki,—in consequence of the numerous offers of the sale of this land, I have been induced to enter into negotiations for the purchase of a portion of it of about sixteen thousand (16,000) acres in extent, and have this day returned from there, not having been able to conclude the purchase on account of the best portions of the land between the boundaries being reserved by the Natives, and also from the large price asked by them for it. I offered the sum of Five hundred pounds (£500) which, deducting the large reserves, will be a fraction more than eightpence (Bd.) per acre; this sum was refused by the Natives. Korakonui. —This is a small block of about eight thousand (8000) acres, situated between the Wainuiora river and the coast, and will be settled as soon as I have time to see it. In the lower part of the valley the land unsold is but small in extent, and it will be a matter of consideration how far it is desirable to make any more purchases without inconveniencing the Natives,

General. Reporting generally as to the state of land p»rchasing operations in Wellington Province.

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COMMISSIONERS' REPORTS

Waikanae block on the West Coast.—This is a large broken hilly country lying between the coast and the Wairarapa district, and contains about sixty thousand acres (60,000). On this I shall have the honor to report more fully as soon as I can make arrangements for its being surveyed. I have marie an advance to the Ngatitoa and Ngatiawa tribes of the sum of One hundred and forty pounds (£140) on it, and trust to be able to complete the sale during the winter ; the numerous conflicting claimants cause considerable delay. Otaki.—Several small blocks of land are offered for sale, but I do not think that it is desirable to make any purchases in this district before the negotiations now pending at the Manawatu are in a more advanced state. Manawatu block, offered for sale by Ihakara and others, is still in the same state as left by you. I purpose returning there immediately, to advance, if possible, the negociation commenced by you. Seven mile bush. On this I have made an advance to the Rangitane tribe, of One hundred pounds (£100). lam at present engaged in ascertaining what claims the Ngatikahungunu Natives have on this block, in order that as soon as I can ascertain the extent, which at present I suppose to be about sixty thousand acres (60,000 acres) their claims, in common with those of the Rangitane, may be settled. Ihurauablock,—Mr, Kempthorne is still engaged in surveying this block. Owing to the constant rain and floods in the rivers during the last month, I have been quite unable to accomplish my purpose of seeing him. I have, however, written to him, requesting him to finish his work there, as I am confident that surveying cannot be carried on with advantage to the public service in that district at this time of the year. Mr. George Smith is still engaged laying off the Native reserves in the Kuhangawariwari reserves. I am much in want of the assistance of surveyors generally, out at the same time I cannot recommend that any more should be appointed in this district at the present time, until at least the weather clears up. Mr. Smith has been unable to work more than 11 days during the last month on account of the almost incessant rain; I was myself detained from the 7th to the 17th by the floods, being unable to cross the Ruamahanga river, and at the present time am unable to move from the same cause, with every prospect of a very heavy flood of considerable duration. I would also most respectfully recommend that Mr. Kempthorne's services should be made use of in a district where they would be of great advantage, as from his total ignorance of the Maori language, I found that he was very much misled by the Natives previously to Mr. Grindell's arrival at Ihuraua. and I find that I cannot spare Mr. Grindell to be continually with him; this reason, combined with his being also quite ignorant of localities, compels me to call your attention to this subject. I have the honor to forward copies of my instructions to Messrs. Kempthorne and Grindell, also the latter gentleman's diary. I have, he, William N. Seaeancke. Donald McLean, Esq., Chief Commissioner. I also beg to call your attention to the numberless claims made by the Natives on lands already alienated to the Crown; also from the boundaries of former purchases not having been defined on the ground, the actual boundaries are now very much disputed; also the vague notions entertained by some of the Native* that large sums (of money) are still due to them on their lands. I may here mention, that meeting the Natives on these claims disputes, &c, &c„ have occupied a very large portion of my time since my return from Manawatu.

No. 45. ME. COMMISSIONEE SEAEANCKE TO THE CHIEF COMMISSIONER. Wellington, sth July, 1858. Sib,— In accordance with your instructions I have the honor to forward herewith the original deeds of lands on which the final instalments have been paid ; also, the deeds of purchase of blocks of land lately negociated for and completed, and receipts for advances made on lands, deeds of lands on which the final instalments have been paid. Ngatitoa claims, west coast, Waikato ... ... ... ... ... ... £240 Ngatiraukawa, Waipa ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... 20 Makoura, 5 per cent. ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... 7 Mataongaonga, Wanganui ... ... ... ... ... ... ... 5 Ahikauru... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... 30 Kuhangawariwari ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... 200 Taratahi 200 Tahitarata 200 Kaiaho 150 Deeds of purchase of blocks of land lately negociated for and completed. Tirohanga 160 Manaia 550

General. Forwarding original deeds of lands on which instalments hare been paid.

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Waikakariki 20 Te Kiwakairo 50 Wangaehu ... ... ... ... ... 100 Receipts for advances made on lands. Maungaraki (Hoera) ... .... ... ... ... .... ... ... 10 Te Ahitunumanawa ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... 80 Nga-awapurua ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... 100 Do 50 Matapihi 100 Waikanae 140 Ngatitoa claims. —This is a deed and receipt in full, for claims of this tribe on all the lands sold to the Crown by the Waikato Natives on the west coast, between Kawhia and the Waikato river. Ngatiraukawa claims. —This is a receipt for £20 for the claims of the Ngatiraukawa tribe, on lands sold to the Crown in the Waipa district. Makoura. —This is a payment of the 5 per cent claims, being the whole amount due up to the present time. Mataongaonga. —Burial place at Whanganui. This is a receipt for £5, in full satisfaction of claims on a small spot of ground formerly reserved as a Burial place. Ahikauru. —This is a final payment on a small block of about five hundred acres (500) consisting of hilly pastoral land. The boundaries were pointed out to ma but not surveyed. Kuhangawariioari block. —ln consequence of the dispute pending among the Natives, the result of a payment made formerly to te M anihera ; and as large purchases have been made by Europeans in this block where peace would have been seriously jeopardized, I undertook the responsibility of paying a further sum of One hundred pounds (£100) in addition to the One hundred pounds (£100) legally due to them. This is the final payment on this block. Taratahi. —This is also a disputed case between two of the most important Chiefs in the Wairarapa, there is a sum of Pour hundred pounds (£400) put down as due on this block in the General Abstract. I have made a payment of Two hundred pounds (£200) only, and I believe the disputes now on this block to be entirely settled, though Te Man-ihera still claims a balance of Two hundred pounds (£200) as due to him. This claim I have already referred to you; the dispute as between the Natives themselves is now happily settled Tahitarata. —This is the final instalment of Two hundred pounds (£200) due on this block, the general boundaries were pointed out to me, but I could not undertake in the present season to get it surveyed. Kaiako. —Donald's homestead and Kuripuni, the deeds of these blocks are not in either case final. As these blocks are all surveyed and all sold by the Provincial Government to Europeans, I considered it advisable, at once, to meet the Native claims, which, as the land increased in value would increase, and offered them a sum of One hundred and fifty pounds (£150) which they accepted. Of the original and final deeds of purchase of land. Tirohanga is a small piece of about fourteen hundred acres (1400) good pastural land and three hund.-ed acres (300) of valuable timber, is valuable from its situation being surrounded by land formerly sold to the Crown, as aiso the only spot fit for a homestead. Manaia, five thousand five hundred acre block. This is, from its situation adjacent to the small farm settlement of Masterton, very valuable. I have therefore been obliged to exceed my instructions in the price given ; it consists of about seven hundred acres (700) of timber land, one thousand acres (1000) of good swampy, but easily drained flax land, and three thousand eight hundred acres (3,800) of good sound pastural land, and with the exception of the eastern side, where the river Ruamahanga forms a natural boundary, is surrounded entirely by land sold to the Crown. Waikakariki. —This is a small three cornered piece of land of one hundred and forty acres (140) between the Ahikauri block and the two former sales of January 9th and 11th, 1854, parts of Captain Smi'h's run. The boundaries being clearly pointed out to me on the ground, I thought it advisable to purchase it, to prevent disputes in future. Te Rewarewa Maungaraki. — Westward of Wainuiora is a small block of about 600 acres (unsurveyed), and Was purchased by me as a homestead for Mr. Morrison, who the Natives at Papawai are now driving off his own. I was also induced to make this purchase, as a guide to the Natives, who are offering all the land in the immediate neighbourhood, but at a price per acre, which I should not be justified in giving them. This block consists of about five hundred acres, (500), good pastural land, and one hundred (1 ~)0) acres, of bush. Wangaehu. —A block of seven hundred, (700 acres,) adjoining Mr. Collins' homestead, at Tioreore, consists of light bush, and is good agricultural land; this deed must be received as final, as I have apprised the Natives, that I cannot make them any further payment, they having very much misled me in the extent of the receipts for advances made on different blocks of land, Maungaraki (Hoera), this is a second payment made at the Ahuriri; by your instructions, I have preferred leaving the whole of these Maungaraki and Waimaori advances until the fine weather, when one survey will include the whole. Te AM Tunu Manawa —This is an advance made at the Ahuriri to te Manihera and is situated on the Ruamahanga River. From the constant rain and succession of floods on the Wairarapa valley for the last three months, I have not been able to spare ihe time to see this land. Ngaawapurua Block. —This is an advance to the Rangitamu Tribe, on the Wairarapa end of the Seventy-mile bush. The extent I cannot at present say, but anticipate that it will exceed one hundred thousand (100,000) acres, and is, with the exception of a few small spots of open land, not exceeding

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in all five thousand (5000) acres, of heavily timbered land. I shall not be able to settle the balance of payment until I can ascertain the different conflicting claimants, and personally go through and see the land. I thought it best at once to buy up the claims of the Ngatiraukawa Tribe on this block. Matapihi. —This is a block of about fifteen thousand (15,000) acres, situate at the head of the Wairarapa valley to the Eastward, and adjoiding the Kapuranga, Manawatu, and Ahiaruhe blocks, is rather broken, and may be divided into about two thirds timber and agricultural land, and one third pastural. The Native owners demand a further sum of Six hundred pounds, and this sum I consented to give them, if the extent and quality of the land equalled their description. Waikanae. —This is an advance on a very large block of land extending from the West coast over the hills to the Tarararange, the boundary of land sold by the Ngatikahungunu tribe to the Crown. lam now on my way to Waikanae, so soon as the weather sets in fine, to complete, if possible, the negociations for this block. As far as at present lies in my power, I have now reported on these different payments on the various blocks of land in this district; but I cannot help remarking that, from the almost incessant rain and consequent floods, I have been unable to get any of the lands in the Wairarapa surveyed. I have also to inform you I have been quite unable, from illness, during the month of June, to perform, with any zeal, the very complicated duties of my office. I have, for the present, declined entering into any further negotiations in the Wairarapa District, the Natives wishing to sell the land in small blocks, according to their individual claims. I have, therefore, determined, as soon as I am able, to proceed up the coast, as far as Rangitikei, and complete the negociations now pending, if possible; and then, weather permitting, proceed inland up the Manawatu, and through the Seventy-mile Bush, ascertaining the different claims in that district, in order that the terms of the negotiation for its purchase may be submitted for the approval of His Excellency the Governor, previous to its completion. Referring to your instructions of the 19th April, 1858, to me, I beg to inform you that I shall, if I do not hear from you on the subject, so soon as the weather clears up, recommend that one or two surveyors more be appointed temporarily in this district. I should then be at liberty to attend to the surveys which are now so much in arrears. I have, &c, William N. Seaeancke. Donald McLean, Esq., Chief Commissioner, Auckland.

No. 46. ME. COMMISSIONEE SEAEANCKE TO THE CHIEF COMMISSIONEE. Waikanae, 31st July, 1858. Sir, — I have the honor to submit for the information of His Excellency the Governor, the accompanying report, which I have this day received from Mr. Grindell, Interpreter, Native Land Purchase Department, containing some very generally interesting information respecting the Manawatu district. I have, &c., William M. Searancke. Donald McLean, Esq., Chief Commissioner, Auckland.

Mauawath, Forwarding Mr. Grindell's report on the Manawatu District.

Enclosure 1 to No. 46. Journal of James Grindell, Interpeter, N.L.P.D., from June Ist to July Z\st, 1858. June Ist, Tuesday.—Left Masterton this evening for Ihurana and Manawatu, and on the Saturday following reached the " Kehu" (a small cultivation adjacent to Ihurana) ; ""heavy rain and hail on Friday and Saturday this week. Found here two Natives who had been sent by Mr. Kempthorne for provisions. They had been here several days and excused themselves from proceeding further by a plea of illness and the inclemency of the weather ; rain from this time until the Wednesday following. The Natives said the Ihurana was impassible and they would not proceed until the flood had subsided. I was therefore obliged to wait. On Thursday 10th we started and met Mr: Kempthorne at Waiapio on his return. He had been obliged from want of provisions and bad weather, to make an end of the survey by cutting a connecting line across to Waitengaere before reaching Mangaone, as had been iutended. I returned with him to the " Kehu" and assisted him to arrange his accounts with the Natives, and on Friday morning, the 11th, I started with a Native guide for Manawatu, Mr Kempthorne proceeding to Masterton to join Mr. Searancke. Monday, 14th.—Reached Tutaikaru, a small village containing some 20 inhabitants, and situated about the centre of the Ngaawapurua block. We were here again detained by an unusually high flood in the Mangataenoka, until Thursday 17th. The Natives of this place are the chief opponents

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to the sale of the Ngaawapurua block. Nikaera, the principal man of the village, was absent with several others on a pig hunting expedition. I had not therefore an opportunity of conversing with him on the subject. The Natives, however, assured me that he would follow me to Manawatu. Friday, lsth.—Arrived at Mongohao. This is a broad and rapid river, navigable for canoes, rising in the Tararua and flowing northwards to the Manawatu. Saturday 19th.—My guide, apprehensive of a flood in the Mongahae, returned to Tutaikaro, and I proceeded alone to Manawatu. Arriving at length near to Raukawa—Te Hiriwanui's settlement, further progress was impeded by the waters of the Manawatu, which had inundated all the adjacent country, The river had forced a new channel for itself, cutting off all communication with the settlement. I remained 72 hours in this unpleasant situation without food, and I was providentially rescued by the arrival of a canoe from Raukawa (Wednesday 23rd) with a party of boys who had been collecting a species of fruit called "Tiore." I found Te Hiriwanu and his people opposed to the sale of the Ngaawapurua block, upon which Mr. Searancke had paid to Hoani Mehana and others of the Rangitane £100. He said that Hoani Meihana had, most unjustifiably, acted in direct opposition to the expressed desire of the people resident on the land. He did not appear to object to its being sold at a future period, but he thought Hoani had been too precipitant. They were determined not to sell any lands on the East of Tararua (viz., in the 70 mile bush) until they had disposed of all their lands on the west side—supposing, no doubt, that these lands, being nearest to the Ngatiraukawas, were the most likely to be disputed and claimed by them. He said they were now prepared to sell all that tract of country lying to tho west of Ruahine and extending to the boundary of Rangitane, or Hoani Meihana's people, and north of Manawatu to the sources of the Oroua, Mangaone and Puhangina rivers, all tributaries of the Manawatu. This last flows along the western base of Ruahine and enters the Manawatu dose to the gorge, which separates Ruahine from Tararua. The Natives ascend it many miles, in canoes. Friday, 25th.—I started to ascend a prominent part of Tararua range for the purpose of getting a view of the country for sale ; but rain and hazy weather coming on, I was obliged to return. Monday 28th. —Again ascended, and succeeded in getting a partial view of the country north of Manawatu. A large extent of bush country lay before me, apparently perfectly level and dotted here and there, near to Manawatu, with one or two small plains. The only hills which I could see in the direction of Rangitikei appeared to be at least 20 miles distant. The timber in this part of the block consists chiefly of Totara, and the land, according to the native account, is dry. Tuesday 29th.—Nikaera of Tutaikara, for whom I had been waiting, not ariving, I induced Te Hiriwanu and his people to descend the river with me, to Puketotara, for the purpose of discussing with the Rangatane the Ngaawapurua question, and also to give that tribe and others an opportunity of bringing forward any claims or objections they might have to the Puhangina block north of Manawatu. As we descended the river, I observed the marks of the flood high upon the trees on the north bank, whilst the south side, being much higher, was, excepting one or two places, but very little affected. I pointed this out to Te Hiriwanu and told him that if be was anxious to have white settlers in the conntry he should offer them dry places for their houses and homesteads, and for landing their goods, and proposed that the south side also should be included in the block. He demurred at this, but promised to consider about it. Slept this night at the Ngatiupokoriri's settlement in order to have some conversation with them respecting the sale of the Puhangina block. These people, in consequence of a feud with the Whatiapiti (allies of Te Hapuku) during the wars of former times, migrated from Ahuriri to this place and were well received, and a portion of land allotted to them by Te Hiriwanu's people in consequence of their having spared two of the Rangitane people who fell into their hands during the wars. Of late years the land was again turned over to Te Hiriwanu, and a part of the tribe returned to Ahuriri, where they took part against Te Hapuku during the late outbreak at that place. Collecting all the families on the banks of the river as we proceeded, we arrived at Puketotara next day. Wednesday 30th. —From this place I sent a letter to the Ngatiapas, informing them that matters were about to be'discussed affecting their interests, and advising them to attend. Thursday, July Ist. —This day was spent in collecting food for the visitors, and making complimentary speeches (usual on such occasions), with but little reference to the business in hand. Two bullocks and half a score of pigs were killed, and various other preparations made for the celebration of a grand feast. Friday, 2nd.—l commenced the business of the day with a short address to the tribes assembled, in which I told them that I had been sent by Mr. Searancke to ascertain what lands they were willing to sell, with the boundaries, position, &c., and also to enquire into the resoective claims of the people occupying such lands. I represented to them that as they were all related together (having descended from one common source) they should endeavour to agree relative to boundaries and claims—that they should " speak with one voice"—that if they were disunited by internal dissension they would be laying themselves open to the attacks of the Ngatiraukawas from whom much opposition was to be expected, and that there would thus be much less chance of coming to an amicable understanding with that tribe. I reminded them that there were several families located amongst them who had become part and parcel of themselves, and exhorted them to be mindful of the interests of these people in the disposal of their lands. After four or five days consultation, it was determined unanimously that not only the Puhangina block on the north, but a corresponding block also on the south of Manawatu, should be offered for sale—the whole comprising, I should say, some 150,000 acres. Boundaries and reserves were fixed, and a portion of land allotted to the Ngatiupokoriri. I was anxious to have the Oroua river as a western boundary, but it could not then be arranged as the Ngatiraukawa have claims east of that river.

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No definite understanding was arrived at with regard to the Ngaawapuna block, Te Hiriwanu and his people persisting, chiefly I think on account of the absence of Nikaera, in their opposition, and the Rangitane equally firm in their determination to sell; had Nikaera and his friends been present the result might have been different. It was decided that upon the arrival of Mr. Searancke, Hoani, Meihana, and the chief men of the Rangitane, should proceed with that gentleman up the river to discuss the matter with Nikaera, and I have no doubt that it will then be so satisfactorily concluded— very probably that block may be added to the Puhangina block, and the whole sold together. I do not expect that the purchase of this block will be effected without some opposition from the Ngatiraukawas, but I am not inclined to think that any very serious obstacles will be raised by them— nothing but what may be got over by judicious management. They are the less likely to make any strenuous opposition, as they are divided amongst themselves on the land question, and they know or will shortly know, that a message has arrived from the Whanganui tribes, encouraging them to persevere in the sale of their lands. Wednesday, 7th.—Hiriwanu and people returned to Raukawa, and I remained at Puketotara waiting tho arrival of Mr. Searancke. Employed myself the remaining part of this week making out a genealogical list of the various tribes and families on the Manawatu, with a short notice of their claims to the lands which they occupy, for my guidance in future negotiations with the Natives. Monday, 12th.—Mr. Searancke not arriving, and being anxious to collect as much information as possible, as to the state of the Native mind relative to Te Hiriwanu's proceedings, and land selling in general. I started for the Awahou and Otaki. I was absent on this trip until Thursday 22nd, when I returned to Puketotara. I found the Ngatiraukawas divided into two distinct parties, the sellers and non-sellers. The latter party is headed by Nepia Taratoa; but I believe his opposition to be mearly a matter of form—merely an assertion of his authority—an up-holding of his dignity, which will die away with the jealousy which occasioned it. Kuruhou, an active supporter ol Taratoa, assured me that many of the Chief's of the Ngatiraukawas had gone over to the land selling side, and that the land would eventually be sold, that it was impossible to resist the " Kawanatanga." The sellers, looking upon Te Hiriwanu as one of their party, appear disposed to support him, whilst the non-sellers say that his intentions of acting independently of them is a piece of assumption. If they were all united, Te Hiriwanu might meet with more opposition; as it is, I have little doubt that the purchase of the laud offered by him would lead to the acquirement of all the lands in the hands of the Ngatiraukawas. The advocates of land selling in that tribe (and they are numerous) would look upon such an event as a signal for a general action, and their opponents, considering further opposition useless, would confine their attention to those tracts to which their claims were undisputed. Ihakara offers for sale a block of some 10 or 12 thousand acres at the Awahou, a very desirable situation for a township, on a navigable part of the Manawatu and exempt from floods; I am satisfied his title to this block is just, although disputed (for the present) by Nepia Taratoa, who, however, is pretty certain to come over to the land selling side, as he is awf.re that public opinion is becoming too strong to be long resisted. The amount to be paid for it, I imagine, would not be a very difficult matter to settle, as the Natives consider the settlement of Europeans amongst them a matter of much more importance than the money they would receive for the land. This also appears to be the feeling of the Rangitane and Hiriwanu's people. When the Ngatiraukawas first established themselves in the country, each division of the tribe, claimed, and took formal possession of certain tracts, as their share of the conquest, of which they forthwith became the sole proprietors and which they ever afterwards retained possession; but now, when the idea of selling the laud is gaining ground amongst them, the opponents of such a step, for the first time, assert that the country is common property, and that no portion of it can be sold without the consent of all. The feeling, however, in favour of selling is spreading rapidly, and the ranks of the sellers are daily augmented by deserters from the non-sellers; yet, there is so much jealousy existing amongst the Chiefs as to preclude the idea of these conflicting claims ever being so thoroughly harmonized as to admit of the sale of the country without tedious disputes and quarrels amongst the Natives. That the time is fast approaching when the country will be bought up, there can be no doubt, but much care and circumspection will be necessary in conducting the negociations. Most of the Chiefs and influential men wish to sell the particular districts which fell to their share after the conquest, but the purchase of the country in such small pieces would not only materially increase the cost, but give rise to numerous irreconcileable disputes. On my return from Otaki, I saw Nepia Taratoa at the Awahou. He did not seem to object altogether to the sale of the land, but he said he wished the thing to be duly weighed and considered, and the claim of all parties properly adjusted before any portion of it was sold, otherwise, evil might result. He complained of the rashness and precipitance of the other chiefs, and said he had been strengthened in his opposition by their sneers and taunts and threats, to sell the land in spite of him. His mind had evidently undergone a change within the last few days, and I think he now finding the current of public opinion setting too strong against him, wishes to take the lead, and alone have the credit of selling the land, as he before had the credit of withholding it. But the other chiefs, who consider themselves his equals, will not acknowledge his supremacy in the matter. The Ngatihuias, heretofore, have been his most staunch supporters —out of respect, chiefly I believe, to the memory of Rangihaeata, the last of the old Ngatitoa chiefs who first invaded the country and assisted in its conquest. When expelled from Porirua by the Government, he settled amongst the Ngatihuias at Porotawhao, and always enjoined them to resist all attempts on the part of the Government to alienate their lands. He was ever jealous of the increasing power of the whites. But even iv this tribe Nepia has his opponents. Several have already openly declared themselves in favour of selling, whilst many others are privately of the same opinion, and, in all probability (if

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he persist in his opposition longer than they deem necessary to evince his power and importance) will ■come over to the other side. It was rumoured amongst some of his party that he had a notion of selling the land to private individuals in lots to suit purchasers. During my absence at Otaki, he had been to Puketotara to see the Rangitanes about the land which they offer to sell; finding them determined to sell, he told them to " wait a little while, a very little while," and he would not oppose their desire. He has since declared his intention of selling the whole country between Manawatu and Rangitikei, including a portion of Te Hiriwanu's block. 1 believe, however, he does not object to Te Hiriwanu's receiving the money —he is merely ambitious of the name and anxious to prove his right to sell the whole country. Tuesday 27th.—Hearing that Mr. Searancke was at Waikanae, I started to join him, and reached Waikanae next day, 28th. I remained here until the end of the month, assisting Mr. Searancke in his negotiations with the natives at that place. July 31st, 1858.

No. 47. ME. COMMISSIONER SEARANCKE TO THE CHIEF COMMISSIONEE Otaki, August 6th, 1858. Sib, — I have the honor to submit for the information and approval of His Excellency the Governor, the completion of the negotiation for the purchase of the Waikanae block. Refering to my letter to you of the 26th ultimo, I was then cf opinion that all the difficulties were, by their leaving the extent of the reserves to be referred to His Excellency the Governor, amicably settled. I was, therefore, much surprised at the demand of the friends of Rev. Riwai Te Ahu, that the lands should, prior to any sale, be surveyed and conveyed to them; also insisting that the disputed portion of the block, aboutfifteen hundred acres (1500) acres in extent, should also be reserved, in addition to the reserve which I had consented to let them have, in extent about twenty-five hundred (2500) acres; this I could not consent to, but have agreed to refer it to you. I proposed that it should be left for their use for two years, with the right of purchase during that time, and to this I believe they will agree, if approved of by you. The number of families for whom this reserve is made is thirty, of whom only six have children. There are three other reserves, one at Ninapoko of about two hundred and fifty acres in extent, for Eruini and his party, including all their plantations; a second reserve for the same party, including their settlement adjacent to the present Ferry House at Waikanae, and the third at Mataihuka, not to exceed Two hundred (200) acres, for the Natives at present living there. An extension to the Northward as far as a small stream named Kukutauaki, so as to include the whole of the lands claimed by the Ngatiawa tribe has been made. The area will now be, so far as I can judge in this very rough and hilly district, about ninety five thousand (95,000) acres, allowing for reserves. The extent of level land in this block is very small, not exceeding ten thousand (10,000) acres; all the other portion of it is apparently hilly and covered with timber, and extending to the Eastward, to the boundary of the lands sold by the Ngatikahungunu to the Government, and to the Northward to Kukutauaki, a small stream Northward of Waikanae about three miles. The price I have agreed to give for this Block considerably exceeds the sum I proposed to you in my report of the 26th ultimo. I then mentioned that I did not propose a larger sum than 6d. per acre, which, considering the extent of hilly and valueless land, I considered sufficient. But taking into consideration the position of this block, the large actual extent, also the jealousy existing among the various Natives resident on this land, I consented that I would give them a sum of Three thousand two hundred pounds (£3200), which they have consented to take as full payment for the block. This sum, together with the sum of One hundred and forty pounds (£140) already paid to them, and the settlement of the claims of the Muaopoko and Ngatikahungunu tribes, will raise the price of the land to a fraction more than ninepence (9d.) per acre. This arrangement I beg most respectfully to submit for the approval ef His Excellency the Governor. I have, &c, William M. Seaeancke. Donald McLean, Esq., Chief Commissioner, Auckland.

No. 48. MR. COMMISSIONER SEARANCKE TO THE CHIEF COMMISSIONER. • Manawatu River, September 27th, 1858. Sir, — , I have the honor to submit for the information of His Excellency the Governor, a report of my proceedings, together with the present state of the negociation for the purchase of the upper portion ©f the Manawatu District.

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The arrangement for the purchase of the Waikanae Block having been completed (report on which I had the honor to forward to you, for the approval of His Excellency the Governor) I proceeded to Otaki. where, from the jealousy existing among the various tribes, I found the negotiations for the purchase of the land between the Otaki river and Waikanae Block, though strongly supported by some of the owners, could not be carried on without leading to quarrels among themselves. On the 19th ultimo I arrived here, and after a few days delay, proceeded in company with Nepia Taratoa, Ihakara, and about forty others of the Chiefs and principal men of the Ngatiraukawa tribe, up the Manawatu river to Raurawa, the settlement of Te Hiriwanu, the Chief of the Rangitane and Ngatimotuahi tribes. A numerous meeting of Natives from the Ngatiraukawa, Ngatitehihi, Ngatiwaratere, Te Upokoriri, Ngatiapa, Ngatimotuahi, and Rangitane took place, when the whole of the upper part of the Manawatu was formally returned to Te Hiriwanu by the first three named tribes : they fully consenting to his selling the whole of it to the Government, Nepia Taratoa, the Chief of the Ngatiraukawa tribe, more particularly wishing him to complete the sale of this land at once. The day after the meeting, Nepia and his friends returned down the river, and I then, assisted by Mr. Grindell, made enquiries about the boundaries of the block of land for sale, and requested that some of them would at once accompany me to some point from which I might get such a view as would enable me to make a rough sketch of it and also enable me to calculate its area, in order that we might at once come to an arrangement about the price. To this they demurred, saying, before any final settlement could be come to, the land must be surveyed all round its boundaries, and also a price per acre fixed. I was much surprised at the perseverance and obstinacy with which they, for two days, insisted on these terms; both Mr. Gindell and I explained to them the utter impossibility of complying with their wishes, the whole of the land being heavily timbered and covered with a very thick un<ierwood. The Natives at length finding - that I was prepared to relinquish any further negotiation, agreed to accompany me to a point on Ruahine range in the Block, from which the whole of the land was visible, and from which I could make a sketch survey, which they also agreed to be satisfied with. Mr. Grindell, three Natives, and I started, proceeding up the Puhangina river about five miles; leaving our canoe, we travelled in a North-easterly direction for the Ruahine range, from the summit of which we were distant, in a straight line, about six miles, the Natives stating that, we should have ample time to return in a day. We were, from the misinformation of the Natives, two days absent; Mr. Grindell and I only succeeded in reaching the summit from which I was driven by the intense cold and heavy mist without accomplishing the object in view. We returned to Raurawa, and having procured Natives who were supposed to know the country better, started a second time up the Puhangina river, making a sketch survey as I went; and proceeding up it about ten miles struck inland for a high and prominent point of the Ruahine named Taratarariki which we reached on the second day ; the difficulty of making our way through the thick underwood, the steep ascents and descents, not allowing of our travelling more than eight miles a day. We were fortunate in having beautiful and clear weather, which enabled me to make a sketch of the whole of the Block and its boundaries on the North, East, and South, towards the Manawatu river. The whole of this block is, with very small exceptions, covered with timber and dense underwood, the soil rich and fertile but liable to heavy floods; the area of which is about one hundred and seventy thousand, (170,000) acres, generally level, or where hilly, regular in its ascents and descents, except immediately under the Ruahine Range, where it becomes more broken. On returning to Raurawa I found letters from Ngatiiarohata, a tribe living at Te Orua on the East boundary, also from the Ngati tohiti Natives living at Petea, disputing the boundary on the North and West, and also a letter from Nepia, requesting that I would meet him at the Awaturi, Te Ngatikawhata settlement, that the disputed boundaries might be settled without delay. I therefore at once accompanied by Te Hiriwanu aud all his tribe proceeded to meet him, and after several days dispute succeeded in getting the boundary amicably settled. The Ngatikawhata and Ngatiwhiti, giving way to Te Hiriwanu, I found that the West boundary not being defined by any natural features, but merely by certain names of places, the position of which were uncertain, and therefore liable to be moved at the Natives' pleasure, it would be necessary that a line (boundary) should be cut, and I determined, as the weather was but indifferent, at once to proceed to Te Awahou, to procure such tools as would enable Mr. Grindell with one party, and myself with auother, to do the necessary work expeditiously. I arrived at the Awahou on Friday the 17th instant, and found that a large party of Ngatikahungunu Natives from the Wairarapa were at the different settlements on the coast agitating the principle of a genera! combination of all the Tribes in this District to partake equally in the money arising from the sale of any lands, and for other purposes. As the principle was such as might tend to trouble and of a generally mischevious tendency, I at once from conversation with the Ngatiraukawas ascertained that they did not join iv them; and as I could not obtain the tools I required at the Aawahnu, proceeded on the following day, Saturday the 18th instant, to Whanganui, where some of the Ngatikahungunu had preceded me, and having met with Hori Kingi and Te Mawai, was satisfied that they did not coincide in the views of their friends from the Wairarapa. I returned from Whanganui on Monday forenoon, arriving here on Tuesday morning. On Wednesday, notwithstanding the heavy rain, being anxious to complete-the boundary line in order that the purchase might be made of this block at once, I proceeeded to Puketotara, and up the Orua river, near to which the boundary line commences, but after various detentions from the constant and heavy rains which, commencing on Tuesday, never ceased until Saturday morning, I have been compelled (the whole of the country for miles in extent being under water) to return to the Awahou. I may remark that none of the oldest residents, either Natives or Europeans, have ever seen a flood in

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this district equal to the present. The flood is still increasing, all communications with other settlements entirely cut off, and the effects, I much fear, will prove most disastrous, not only in this district, but in other places on the coast. Under these circumstances, anxious as I am to complete this purchase, I am unable to move, or in fact do anything, at present. I have not definitely settled yet on the price per acre for Te Hiriwanu's block of land, but am of opinion that an average price of Nine pence (9d.) per acre will satisfy all the claims; but even if a further sum were required to complete the purchase, I should have no hesitation in recommending it for His Excellency the Governor's approval, taking into consideration the position and quality of the soil, and the extent of this block, one hundred and seventy thousand (170,000) acres, one hundred thousand (100,000) of which are of the very best description and perfectly level. I have also had several conversations with Nepia Taratoa respecting the sale by Ihakara of the Manawatu, and he informed me in Ihakara's presence, that as soon as Te Hiriwanu's land was sold, he would be quite prepared to commence the negotiation for the sale of the whole of the outer part; that he was anxious to see the land question in this district settled, and that no opposition would be made by him. I have found Nepia, since my arrival here, of very great assistance in settling disputed boundaries and in many ways by his influence used in my favour; I therefore feel that I cannot do less than recommend him to your favourable notice. I beg to mention that it is not in my power to send herewith a copy of my sketch of this block of land, having left it at the Awahou from whence I cannqt obtain it on account of the floods. I have the honor to inform you that I propose, on the first opportunity, proceeding to Wellington, and obtaining by requisition from the Sub-Treasurer, a sufficient sum of money to enable me to pay the first instalment both on Te Hiriwanu's land and the outer part of Manawatu. 1 have, &c, William M. Searancke. Donald McLean, Esq, Chief Land Purchase Commissioner, Auckland.

No. 49. ME. COMMISSIONEE SEAEANCKE TO THE CHIEF COMMISSIONEE. Wellington, October 11th, 1858. Sic, — I have the honor to acknowledge the receipt of your letter of the 18th ultimo, in which you inform me that His Excellency's Government, taking into consideration the hilly and rugged character of a large portion of the Waikanae block, &c., authorize that the payment should not exceed sixpence per acre on the estimated area. As the sum authorized is so much less than the sum expected by the Native owners, I fear that the completion of the purchase of this block will be at least very much delayed. On my return from Manawatu, I will, if possible, complete the purchase on the conditions as approved of by His Excellency's Government. I have, &c, Donald McLean, Esq., William Seaeancke. Chief Land Purchase Commissioner, Auckland.

Waikanae. Relative to the price to the Waikanae block.

No. 50. ME. COMMISSIONEE SEAEANCKE TO THE CHIEF COMMISSIONER. Manawatu, November 12th, 1855. Sir,— Referring to my letters to you of the 27th September and 12th October, in which I explained how far the negociations for the purchase of the Upper Manawatu block had been carried, and also of my having, in accordance with the wishes of the aboriginal owners and claimants on this land, that the purchase should be completed as quickly as possible, proceeded to Wellington and obtained from the sub-Treasurer by my requisition, the sum of Fifteen hundred pounds (£l500), to enable me to pay a first instalment, both on this block, and, if satisfactorily arranged, on the block at the head of the Manawatu offeled for sale by Ihakara aud the Ngatiwhakatere tribe to you in March last. On my arrival at Manawatu, on the 16th ultimo, lat once proceeded to point out the boundaries of the Upper Manawatu block to Mr. Stewart, in order that he might at once commence the survey, and also communicated with Te Hiriwanu and others interested to meet me at Puketotara in order that the arrangements and understanding come to at our former meetings might be practi.

Manawatu. Reporting the aimcuuy attending the purchase of land from Hiriwanu.

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cally completed. To this Te Hiriwanu consented, but requested me to hold the meeting at Raukawa, on account of the scarcity of provisions at Puketotara; I accordingly, in company with some of the Rangitanes and Ngatiapas, interested in the land, proceeded there on the 27th ultimo. On the same evening, we arranged anew the reserves, reducing them very much in extent, and I also consented, as there appeared to be a complication of difficulties, to cut off a portion of the land on the Orua river and make it a distinct purchase. On the following day, having listened to their repeated wishes to have this long pending question settled, having myself explained our former arrangements and my wish, together with their own, now to complete it, 1 was very much surprised to hear from Te Hiriwanu that he had changed his mind, s<nd determined not to sell his land except by the acre. To this, I at once demurred, and explained to him that he had fully understood formerly that these terms could not possibly be complied with. In this view I was supported by the majority of Natives present, but most obstinately opposed by Te Hiriwanu. After considerable discussion, Te Hiriwanu said, that as I and the Natives were anxious that the land should be sold in the dark, that he should require a much larger sum than we formerly spoke about, and mentioned a sum too ridiculous to report. I then, after summing up the whole of this negotiation, its numerous difficulties, the number of years that he had attempted, in vain, to effect the sale of his land, the general consent of all his former opponents gained, pointed out the advantage to himself and tribe to at once complete the sale, and at the suggestion of some of the Natives present, offered him a sum of Five thousand pounds (£5000) to be paid in instalments This Te Hiriwanu at once declined, and implied that his land must be at once surveyed, according to a promise he states was made to him in Auckland, and that he has written to you on the subject. I explained to him the difficulties into which he was himself re-plunging his land, which was now principally, through my interest and exertions with opposing Tribes, assented to, and the sale of it allowed tc him, but I explained in vain; I therefore declined carrying on a fruitless discussion. From his manner, I feel convinced that Te Hiriwanu depends on being supported in his idea of selling his land by the acre by you, grounded on some conversation which he states took place in Auckland ; considering this and his fixed obstinacy, I determined to leave for the present the question of the sale of this land open, to the great regret of many of the Natives interested, whom I advised to reason with him on the subject, and returned on the following morning to Puketotara. The nnmber of different tribes interested in the sale of this Block, and their having all made over their claims to Te Hiriwanu in order that the land may be sold without any confusion or difficulty, has had, in my opinion, the effect of making him fearful of selling it for a sum of money that, though a fair price and large, would appear but small when divided among so many ; irrespective of this reason, the isolated position and ignorance of these Tribes, but seldom brought into contact with Europeans, or even their more civilized brethren on the coast; and who, through accidental circumstances, have been again put in full possession of the lands of their forefathers, having but a slight knowledge of the value of money, makes them more anxious to conduct the sale of their own land slowly, and attended with all their own Maori customs, and strive to obtain a price and enunciate a new principle in the sale of land which will give them importance, and place them in favorable contrast with the Tribes who have sold land to Government. I shall be guided by circumstances in renewing the negociation for the purchase of this Block. The fact of Mr. fctewart carrying on the survey will keep the idea of the sale of it constantly and prominently before the Natives. A few lines from you to Te Hiriwanu would, I think, tend considerably to do away with the present difficulty, arising from some erroneous impressions on his part respecting the survey. I have, &c, W. N. Serancke, District Commissioner. Donald McLean, Esq., Chief Commissioner. Auckland.

No. 51. ME. COMMISSIONEE SEAEANCKE TO THE CHIEF COMMISSIONEE, Wellington, Nov., 15th 1858. SIE, I have the honor to report for the information of His Excellency the Governor on the present state of the negociations for the purchase of the Awahou Block offered for sale by Ihakara and the Ngatiwakakore tribe. The Awahou Block is situated at the mouth of th,e Manawatu river, extends about thirty miles up that river, comprises an area of about thirty-seven thousand (37,000) acres, and contains the only available site for a Township in the District. At the former meeting that took place in our presence at tho Awahou in March last, when the Block was first offered for sale by Ihakara, the opposition offered by Nepia Taratoa and his friends, though without any feasible grounds, was very strong, and we then, while acknowledging the right of Ihakara to sell the land, deemed it politic at the time to postpone any farther discussion till September (last), Nepia promising in the

Awahou. Reporting on the state of negociations for the Awahou block.

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meanwhile to think over it. I arrived at Manawatu in August last, and while taking every means to pacify Ihakara and his party, who were still very urgent aud anxious that the negotiation. should be carried out, took every opportunity of associating Nepia Taratoa with myself in all the disputes and negotiations pending in the District; this gave me opportunities of frequent private conversations with him, when I informed him of my intention to fulfil the pledges given to Ihakara at the meeting in March. His answers, though dubious, I considered on the whole to be favourable Immediately on my return from Raukawa, Ihakara assembled all his friends (who were very much increased in numbers since the meeting in March) and requested that the promises made to him might be fulfilled. In the meanwhile Nepia had, unknown to the Natives generally left Te Awahou, and was visiting all the settlements lying between the Manawatu and Otaki, 'a week elapsed before I succeeded in persuading him to return. I arrived at Awahou on Tuesday. On the following day the meeting took place; about one hundred and fifty (150) Natives were present, when Nepia not offering any opposition to the sale of the whole Block not only all the Natives present, but myself fully believed in his consent to the sale. Nepia demanded that we should at once discuss the price to be paid for the Block; this was done, Nepia taking no part in the discussion, but after some time finding that the demands made by the Natives were likely to be acceded to by me, quietly slipped away, and the first thing I heard on the following morning was that Nepia was sending Natives over the whole Block marking out his own and friends' claims which are with one exception very small, and the worst parts of the Block the whole not amounting to one-third of the whole Block. Ihakara and his friends again assembled and demanded that the sale should be proceeded with, I with some difficulty pacified them and iv the meanwhile sent for Nepia, and found that notwithstanding all his promises made both to me and the Natives, he was determined, while preserving an apparently friendly appearance to the Government, to resist the sale of any lands over which he had a claim.. This determination on his part I believe to have some connection with his evident wish to proceed to Auckland to see the Maori King. I clearly explained to Nepia his present position, how utterly impossible it was for him to resist the general wish of the Natives to sell their waste lands, a wish daily gainino- strength- that in the case of Ihakara's sale his conduct would have the effect of creating a distrust in tho minds of the Natives generally towards him, and also if any further difficulty took place that I should look to him as the secret author of it, and also that I should feel it my duty to make the Government aware of his conduct in the matter, and that it was my intention at once to purchase the Block. I was compelled by the circumstances I was placed in, and the very deceitful way in which Nepia has acted, to speak plainly to him, and I did so the more, that I believe that he and some others, always steady opponents of Land Sales to the Government, have had too much notice taken of them. Nepia then left, declining to make any reply to my remarks. The arrangement come to between the Natives and myself for the purchase of the Block was that a sum of Two thousand five hundred pounds (£2500) should be paid to them in instalments'. Immediately after Nepia left me, I paid Ihakara and his friends, the sum of Four hundred pounds (£400) on account; this instalment may appear to be large, but I feel that the result will be that many now wavering between selling and holding the land, will consider that any further opposition to the sale of the Manawatu district will be useless. I should mention, that it is in my power at any time to complete the purchase of those portions of the Block belonging to Ihakara and hi* friends; but before taking such a step, I should like to have your opinion. Taking into consideration the number of years, and the many difficulties that the Manawatu question has been involved in, I have taken a step which I firmly believe will lead to its solution at an early period, for this is not a question of the purchase of a few acres, but of the whole District. I have, &c, W. N. Searancke, D. McLean, Esq., J. P., District Commissioner. Chief Commissioner, Auckland.

No. 52. ME. COMMISSIONEE SEAEANCKE TO THE CHIEF COMMISSIONEE. Wellington, November 27th, 1858. Sib,— I have the honor to report for the information of His Excellency the Governor, that I have not been able to complete the purchase of the Whareroa Block, in accordance with your instructions of the 18th of September last, the price sixpence (6d.) per acre, mentioned therein. being in the opinion of the Natives, too little. Ascertaining that the Natives were divided in opinion respecting the sale, and that tho Ngatitoa tribe were willing to sell their portion at a proportionate sum, I at once completed the purchase (Deed forwarded herewith) for the sum of Eight hundred pounds (£800), seventy pounds of which they had received on the 20th of April last. The area of this, the Matahuka or Whareroa Block is about Thirty Four thousand (34,000) acres, commencing at the Whareroa stream, and alono- the coast, northerly, to the boundary of the Huruhi settlement about four and a half miles, and back over

Whareroa. Has not been able to effect the purchase of Whareroa block.

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the hills to the boundary of the land formerly sold by the Ngatikahungunu Natives about twelve miles and consists of about Five Thousand (5,000) acres pastoral land, and the rest bush and heavy timber, a portion of which is very hilly and broken. There are two small reserves made by the Natives for their own use, and also a claim made by a European on behalf of his half-caste children, which, when the block is surveyed, I will mark out and transmit for the approval of His Excellency the Governor, with particulars. I may remark that there was no objection or difficulty made by any of the Natives to the sale of this block, and that I purpose having it surveyed so soon as I can obtain a surveyor. I am of opinion that the other portions of the block can be immediately purchased at a small advance on the price, sixpence (6d.) per acre, that I am authorized to pay them, say seven pence (7d.) per acre. I have, &c, William N. Seaeancke, Donald McLean, Esq., District Commissioner. Chief Commissioner, Auckland.

No. 53. ME. COMMISSIONER SEARANCKE TO THE HONOEABLE THE MINISTER FOE NATIVE AFFAIRS. Wellington, November 30th, 1858. Sir,— I have the honor to call your attention to the following extract from a letter of instructions from the Chief Commissioner, dated 19th April, 185b:— " The price to be paid for new lands should be, for pastoral districts, from fourpence (4d.) to eightpence (Bd.) per acre; and for agricultural districts, from ninepence (9d.) to one shilling and sixpence (Is. 6d.) according to quality and position. Of course I need not say that economy on this head is highly essential. Ido not expect that the land at Manawatu or Waikanae can be acquired on the above terms, but as negotiations for those places progress, the Government will be able to form an opinion as to the terms on which land in the district can be acquired." I have therefore to request that in accordance with the above extract, as negotiations in the Manawatu district are now progressing, some further instructions may be given me. I have, &c, William N. Seaeancke. The Honorable C. W, Richmond.

GeWKRAI,. As to the scale of prices j to be paid for land in his district.

No. 54. ME. COMMISSIONEE SEAEANCKE TO TnE CHIEF COMMISSIONEE. Wellington, November 30th, 1858. Sir, — I have the honor to call your attention to a serious difficulty existing in the Wairarapa Valley. The facts are these:— On the purchase of the Moroa block on the 23rd December, 1853, a reserve of one hundred acres (100) was made in favor of Rawiri Piharau at Motupiri (ou the Tauherenikau river) but the boundaries never set out on the ground. Subsequently, the land was all sold to Europeans by the Crown Lands Commissioner without making any reserve; but I believe that all the purchasers were informed, at the time that they made their respective purchases, that the land was liable to this reserve. Rawiri, finding that no reserve had been made for him, cut down a plantation for himself at Otorohanga, (subsequently purchased by Mr. Hodder,) refusing to give up possession, and has lately been cutting down some valuable bush and timber land belonging to Mr. Jackson. There are now only two means of ejecting Rawiri from the land that he has illegally taken possession of. The first is, to give him possession of the section to which he is legally entitled. This would cause some trouble, as the land has passed through two or three hands. The second and easier way would be to buy out his claim altogether. For this purpose I would not recommend a larger sum than £150, (one hundred and fifty pounds). As lam immediately proceeding to the Wairarapa I have the honor to request that I may be favoured with your opinion on this matter, and if necessary, that I may be authorized to obtain from the Sub-Treasurer a sum not exceeding One hundred and fifty pounds (£150), to enable me to buy out Rawiri's claims on his reserve at Tauherenikau. I have, &c, William N. Seaeancke, District Commissioner. The Honorable C. W. Richmond, Minister for Native Affairs.

Wairarapa. Reporting on a difficulty which has arisen in the Wairarapa District.

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No. 55. MR. COMMISSIONER SEARANCKE TO THE CHIEF COMMISSIONEE. Wellington, December 30th, 1855. SlE,— In accordance with your instructions I have the honor to forward herewith the original deeds and receipts for purchases of Native lands, and advances made on Native lands and on the 5 per cents. due to the Natives. Maungaraki, Thirty pounds (£30): this is an advance made to Ngairo on account of a large block of land, situated in the Wairarapa, owned conjointly by him and Wi Kingi te Hiakai. No previous advance has been made on this block, which has been for some time offered for sale by the Natives. The circumstances under which I made this advance, were to allay the irritation among the Natives, which the issue of a payment for a debt incurred by Ngairo had caused. Te Hapuku, Twenty pounds (£20): paid by your instructions on his account to Mr. Livin of Wellington. Ngaawapurua block, Twenty-five pounds (£25): this is an advance to the Ngatiwatea Natives on account of their claim on this block, which from its immense extent and numerous claimants will require some time in its settlement. Te Topi on the Tanara river, Wairarapa, Fifty pounds (£5O), is an advance on the purchase money agreed upon for this block of (£150) One hundred and fifty pounds. I have not concluded the purchase, trusting to be able to get the survey completed, without which, or an accurate and defined knowledge of the boundaries, I do not think it will be advisable to make any more purchases in the Wairarapa district. Waikanae, Fifty pounds (£50): this is an advance made under peculiar circumstances, and will be included in the next purchase in that district. Awahou block, Fifty pounds (.£50): this is a second payment on this block, was made to the Ngatiapas by desire of Ihakara, and will be deducted from the gross amount agreed upon. Waikaraka block, Fifteen pounds (£5O). On this block a sum of One hundred pounds (£100) was paid in 1854, a further sum of Five hundred pounds (£500), is still due, less the above Fifteen pounds (£l5). There will be now no further difficulty in completing the purchase. Pihautea, Bidwell's Homestead, One hundred pounds (£100). This is the final Deed of purchase the extent is about 6"0 acres. Mr. Bidwell is the oldest settler in the Wairarapa district, having been 15 years resident, has a large house and homestead, and upwards of Two hundred acres (200), fenced in, and in cultivation. I have therefore taken some trouble to induce the Natives to sell it, in order to secure him on the land, on which he has spent so much time and labour. Five per cents (£150). One hundred and fifty pounds have been paid to Mr. Hooker, the millwright of the mill at Papawai, on account of his claim against that mill, on which Mr. Revaus and I had the honor to report and recommend, in May last. We then considered that Mr. Hooker was entitled to a sum amounting to £226 175.; this sum, you informed me, you were of opinion, that you did not consider the Government liable for, but the Natives themselves, by not acting up to their part of the agreement. I have mentioned this to the Natives, Te Manihera and others principally interested, and they have agreed that the sum of One hundred and fifty pounds (£150) shall be paid out of the 5 per cents to Mr. Hooker, which I have done on their account. I have, he, William N. Seaeancke. Donald McLean, Esq., Chief Commissiouer, Auckland.

Maungaraki, £30. Te Hapuku, £20. Nga-awa-purua, £25. Te Topi, £50. Waikanae, £50. Awahou, £50. Waikaraka, £15. Pihautea, £101). 5-per-ceuts., £150,

No. 56. MR. COMMISSIONEE SEARANCKE TO THB CHIEF COMMISSIONER. Wellington, 6th July, 1859. Sir, — I have the honor to inform you, for the information and approval of His Excellency the Governor, that I have completed the purchase of the Wainui block, West Coast; also the survey, a tracing of which, together with the Deeds, I hand you herewith. The Wainui block, about thirty thousand acres (30,000) in extent, is a portion of the Waikanae district on the West Coast, having a frontage to the Westward of five and a-half miles, is principally heavily tinbered laud and apparently hilly, and about three thousand acres of open fern and marshy land, is valuable from its proximity to Wellington, and being on the road from Wellington to Wanganui. The Reserves appear to be large; but when the number of Natives resident within the boundaries is taken into consideration they could not in justice be made smaller. There are also two pieces of land (tracings of which are forwarded) within the boundaries, conveyed by Deeds of gift to the half-caste children of John Nicol, and his wife Peti ; and to Henry Flugent and his Native wife, in consideration of a residence of 28 years among them. I beg to recommend that Crown Grants should be given in these two cases. The price paid altogether for this block is (£850) eight hundred and fifty pounds.

i Wainui. , Reporting ihecompletion of the purchase of Wainui block.

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A small portion only of this land is at present available, the back country being unknown am! unexplored. I propose, subject to your approval on the completion of the purchase of the Waikanae township block of land, to carry the survey from the West coast to Wairarapa, in order that the surveys of the East and West coasts may be properly connected. I have, &c., William N. Seaeancke, Donald McLean, Esq., Chief Commissioner, Auckland.

No. 57. ME. COMMISSIONEE SEAEANCKE TO THE CHIEF COMMISSIONEE. Wellington, Bth July, 1859. Sir, — I have the honor to hand to you memorandum of boundaries of the Manaia, Tirohanga, Piharitea, and Wainui blocks, in order that the same may be (no objection existing) proclaimed, and thrown open for sale. The exterior boundaries of each block have been surveyed, and all reserves marked out on the ground, and pointed out to the Natives concerned. I have, &c, William Searancke. Donald McLean, Esq., Chief Commissioner, Napier.

General. Forwarding a memorandum explanatory of the boundaries of various blocks.

MEMOEANDUM. Province of Wellington, Wairarapa District. Tirohanga Block Area, 1,700 acres Boundaries. —Commencing at the confluence of the Orowhensa stream with the Ruamahanga River running in a north-easterly direction, (bearing by compass 49° ,) to Mangapungapunga on the Ropuaranga River ; thence down the river to its confluence with the Ruamahanga; thence up the Ruamahanga to the the mouth of the Owhanga stream, being the point of commencement. "Province of Wellington, Wairarapa District. Pihautea Block, Area 518 acres, Bedwell's homestead. Boundaries. —Commencing on the Ruamahanga River at Manawawiri ; thence westerly in a straight line, (bearing by compass 219 °,) to the Wharehuatn; thence in a N.W. direction to the Puahi ; thence in a straight line to the West end of the Waiapokopoko swamps, and through the swamps in a straight line, (bearing by compass 290 ° 30',) to Te Maire, up the Maire stream to the Kokoti stream, and up the Kokoti to a marked stream ; thence to the Wakapuna ; thence easterly in a straight line, (bearing by compass 27 ° ,) io a stake on the Ruamahanga ; thence following the course of the Ruamahanga River to Manawawiri, the point of commencement. Province of Wellington, Waikanae District.. Wainui Block • Area, 30,000 acres. Boundaries. —Commencing on the sea coast at the mouth of the Whareroa stream, up the stream to the Whareroa settlement ; thence in a straight line over the hills to Paparauponga ; thence southerly along the boundary of the land formerly ceded by the Ngatikahungunu to the Crown to Pawakotaka, whence it turns in a westerly direction in a straight line over the hills of Porawa, and on to Tauape, crossing the road and running in a straight line, (bearing by compass to the Anaahua en the sea coast,) and along the sea coast North to Paekakariki, Wainui, and to the mouth of the Whareroa stream, the point of commencement. Reserves. Wa'nui Township 135 acres Whareroa Settlement 17 acres Paekakariki cultivatians 280 acres Te Rongo o te Wera 160 acres Te Ruka 60 acres Situate at Paekakariki. A piece ol land, six and a half acres in extent, is conveyed by Deed of Gift from the abjrirri na l owners to the children of John and Peti Nicol. A piece of land situated also at Paekakariki, two and a half acres, is conveyed by Deed of Gift from the aboriginal owners to Henry Flugent.

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No. 58. ME. COMMISSIONEE SEAEANCKE TO THE CHIEF COMMISSIONEE. Wellington, 24th August, 1859. Sir,— I have the honor to enclose sketch of a small piece of land on the South side of the Manawatu, opposite to Moutoa, containing three hundred and fifty acres, offered for sale by the Ngatiteupokoriri tribe, who, being about to return to their original home at the Ahuriri, are anxious to *ell all their lands in the Manawatu district. Their right to sell is undisputed by the neighbouring tribes. This small piece of land is situated within the boundaries of the lands reserved as a general Native Reserve, i.e., between Otaki, on the South, and Manawatu river, on the North, I would here call your attention to the fact that the views of His Excellency Sir George Grey, in making this large Reserve, not having been found to be feasible by the jealousies and want of unanimity among the Natives themselves, proved by the offer of sale of this and other lands within the usual boundaries, it will be desirable to reconsider the advantage of any longer refusing to purchase lands the Natives are so anxious to sell. The great advantage gained by the purchase of this particular piece of land is that the course of the river can be, at a very trifling cost, so altered from its present tortuous course to an almost direct one, so as not only to considerably lessen the danger from floods in the immediate neighbourhood of the river, but also cutting off the present channel by which the Awahou swamp is supplied with water, thereby draining at least the upper part of it. The Natives being very anxious to have the sale completed, I offered them, subject to the approval of His Excellency the Governor, the sum of Fifty pounds (£50); this sum I was only induced to offer them from the advantages gained by the alteration in the river (if made), and the large quantity of the land secured from any future floods. The Natives declined this sum as not sufficient, and demanded a a sum of Eighty pounds (£80); this I refused, as out of all proportion to the land. The Natives ultimately agreed to refer it to you for your decision. The advantages to be gained by the purchase of this block are the safety with which a considerable tract of country will be drained, and the getting in of the claims of this tribe, who, through removing to a distance, may give considerable trouble to any land purchasing operations in the district- Whether these advantages are not more than counterbalanced by the disadvantages of this sale as a precedent, being both small in extent and hio-h in price, I will leave to your decision. I have, &c, William N. Searancke, Donald McLean, Esq., District Commissioner. Chief Commissioner.

Manawatu,

No. 59. ME. COMMISSIONEE SEAEANCKE TO THE ASSISTANT NATIVE SECEETAEY (ACTING FOE THE CHIEF COMMISSIONEE). Waikaraka, Wairarapa, 7th November, 1859. Sic,— T am requested by Donald McLean, Esq., Chief Commissioner of Native Land Purchase Department, to transmit to you the particulars and boundaries of certain blocks in this Province over which the Native title has been extinguished, in order that you may bring them under the notice of the General Government for early proclamation in the New Zealand Gazette. In the Tapurapunu block there are certain reserves set apart for the Natives, to be held by them under individual grants from the Crown. These have all been accurately surveyed, and plans of them will shortly be furnished. It appears, from the improvident character of one or two of the Natives entitled to those reserves, that it will be most expedient to insert a clause of entail for one generation in the Crown Grant, in order that it may not become legally alienable during the lifetime of the present holder. The grant to William King, te Hiakai, a chief of high rank, but extravagant habits, particularly requires some provision of this nature, as he has disposed of most of his lands, and has several children to be provided for. It is Mr. McLean's wish that no delay should arise in having these blocks submitted for proclamation, as several parties are desirous of purchasing, particularly in the Tapurupunu block, the survey of which is complete, and plans deposited in the Crown Lands Commissioner's Office at Wellington. I have, he, William N. Seaeancke, T. H. Smith, Esq, District Commissioner. Assistant Native Secretary, Auckland. '.'"-' ■' ... . ' ■ ' «

General. Transmitting description* of boundaries of various blocks.

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COMMISSIONERS' REPORTS

No. 60. ME. COMMISSIONEE SEABANCKE TO THE CHIEF COMMISSIONEE. Wellington, February 20th, 1860. Sic, — I have the honor to acknowledge the receipt of your letter of the 25th ultimo, with copy of letter from Matiaha te Parata, of Wairarapa, an explanation and report on which I have now the honor to forward for His Excellency the Governor's information. A small block of land on the Ruamahanga, named on Deed Arangi te Kura, was sold to the Crown on January 18th, 1556, by Matiaha te Manihera and others for a sum of sixty pounds (£6O), and a promise of a Reserve to Matiaha. The sale was effected in Wellington to the Chief Commissioner, and the money reserved by him for his own uses, and not divided amongst the other owners of the land. The sale was disputed immediately on the return of Matiaha to Wairarapa by Te Wakatatuahi, his son Pehi, a violent and turbulent Native, and several others, and a large portion of it was at the time of the sale, and still is in the occupation of, and under cultivation by them. I have repeatedly tried to get this question settled, but without success, the Natives refusing to allow me to survey it, and I believe, had I persisted in taking pos-ession of the block, that it would have led to serious disputes amongst the Natives themselves, and totally prevented its quiet occupation by Europeans. The object of Matiaha's letter is to obtain a Grant for the Reserve for himself, and the boundaries clearly pointed out. This in the present state of the question, it is impossible to amicably carry out, the whole block beinoclaimed by Wakatatuahi as his own property. His reference to Mr. Bidwell, is on account of a purchase by Mr. Bidwell of a large piece of land at the Papapurei, or race course, part of which he thought he had himself purchased, but which Mr. Bidwell refuses to give up to him. I shall have the honor of referring this question for your opinion on your arrival here, as to the best means of settling it. I have, &c, W t illiam N. Seaeancke, Donald McLean, Esq , District Commissioner Chief Commissioner, Auckland.

A-BANGI-TE-KuKA. Relative to Matiaha Te Parata's claims upon A-rangi-te-Kura.

No. 61. ME. COMMISSIONEE SEAEANCKE TO THE CHIEE COMMISSIONEE. Wellington, 21st February, 1860. Sic, — I have the honor to report generally in accordance with the instructions of His Excellency the Governor, for the information of the Government, on the state and prospects of the Native land 'purchasing operations in the District of Wellington. Also to furnish a return of purchases of land made, and of old purchases completed, during 1858-59, ending December 31st, at Wairarapa and East coast. The purchases in this portion of the Wellington' Province have been, as shown by the Returns, numerous, but not of great extent, and adjacent to the purchases made in the years 1853, 4, and 5. Had the Natives used these lands in depasturing flocks or cultivation, it would no doubt have been most politic to have left them in possession, but instead of this I found them a most fertile source of constant quarrel and dispute from their extreme jealousy. In some cases the lands lying idle were trespassed upon by the stock of settlers living in the neighbourhood, and thereby causing quarrels between the Europeans and Natives. Others, let to Europeans, and realizing good rentals, too frequently monopolized by a few, to the prejudice of the other claimants. Purchases of lands from the Natives are from the following causes proceeding but slowly. The extreme jealousy of the Natives amongst themselves respecting the ownership of claims of different families, thereby rendering it necessary that the boundaries of lands offered for sale should, when possible, be surveyed or very clearly defined by perambulation previous to completion of purchase. The necessity that the consent of all the owners should be obtained, and the greatest publicity being given to the negociation, thereby preventing any of them making after claims, for which I regret to say they have a peculiar aptitude. This conclusion I have come to, from the innumerable claims made on lands sold in 1853, 4, and 5. The inability of the Natives to sell large blocks of land involving a numerous ownership, makes it almost impossible to agree amongst themselves in dividing the payment: and so little faith have they in each others honesty that they now invariably insist, either on my portioning the money, or doing so themselves iv my presence. Their constant communication with the Europeans, while leading them to put an exorbitant value on their lauds, has also rendered it most difficult to arrange about the price so as to bring it within the limits of my instructions. Their demands however high are invariably backed up by the most determined obstinacy and perseverance, and supported by unblushing effrontery of falsehood. I find that the promise of individual or family reserves subject to the approval of His Excellency the Governor in the blocks of land under negotiation, act as a powerful inducement to complete sales—and this principle of gradually introducing individual reserves, I believe to be the easiest method of terminating the unceasing jealousy of the Natives, on the subject of land, as however small the piece of land may be, whether held under Native title or Reserve by the Crown, so long as claims are general, so long will they be a fruitful source of dispute. A general feeling

General. Reporting generally on the state and prospects Of. land purchasing opera. : liong in Wellington Dis-. trict,

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of insecurity respecting the tenure of their reserves now pervades the Native mind, through the whole Province, and I believe results from a want of tangible proof that the Crown has made over such reserves to them and their posterity for ever. There appears a feeling that they will be deprived by the Europeans of such reserves as are not held either by grant from the Crown, or other document emanating from the Governor himself. It must not be forgotten that the Maori King movement was first started in the district of Wellington by using the question of Reserves as a lever. The last and greatest difficulty in the way of purchasing land is the Maori King or Runanga party, whose principles introduced within a few months into this district, by emissaries from the Waikato, have taken a fatal hold on the imagination of the Wairarapa Natives, a large party of whom now openly question the Queen's authority over tho Maori people and have organized a determined opposition to any further alienation of land to the Crown. These causes are at present operating disadvantageously to land purchases: on the other hand, their immediate necessities, combined with the heavy liabilities of the Natives, must compel them to sell their waste lands. The negotiations at present going on in several of tho blocks in the Wairarapa, I believe will terminate favorably. There are still several of the old purchases not completed, owing to the many calls upon the services of one officer in so largely extended a district, and where such widely different interests must be consulted. West coast. —Here the difficulties are of an entirely different character, the conquered (the original owners) and the conquerors (claiming to be owners by right of conquest), and these again divided into the Maori King party on the one hand against the sale of land; and the selling party favorable to British authority on the other, renders the question more intricate—conquerors and conquered being intermixed on either side. Every step iv negotiation requires the greatest care and tact. The Natives generally are very clever and able men, and by their connexion and almost daily communication with tho Natives of Taranaki, Waikato, and Auckland, well versed in the Maori politics of the day. Purchases of land on the coast will I believe take place at an early period, but the price required is large when the small quantity of land, available for settlement, is taken into consideration in comparison with the unavailable land. The negotiation is still pending as to purchase of the upper Manawatu block, which is Two hundred and fifty thousand acres in extent, One hundred and thirty-six thousand (136,000) of which are of good quality, level, and available. A portion of the block, from its rugged and broken nature, is not of any value at present. The exterior boundaries have been surveyed and the reserves marked out. A sum of Six thousand pounds (£6000) was offered by me to the aboriginal owners for the block in November 1859, which sum was considered sufficient and satisfactory in your letter to te Hiriwanu in December last. I have received no further communication from him, and from my detention in Wairarapa, have been prevented proceeding there to hasten the completion of the purchase. Mr. Assistant Surveyor Stewart is now engaged surveying the Reserves iii the Waitotara block, having completed that of the upper Manawatu. Mr. Assistant Surveyor Fraser has now completed the survey of the lands under negotiation at the head of the Wairarapa valley, but ho has not made the plan, having while engaged in the field received a hurt in one of his hands, which, I regret to say, has completely disabled him for the present. I propose that Mr. Fraser should this winter complete the survey of the Reserves in the Wairarapa and East coast districts; tho surveys of lands purchased, have been so much in arrear that I have hitherto been unable to spare his services for this duty. I beg to forward the returns herewith; of the old purchases completed, of new purchases made since my appointment in this district, also of the lands still under negotiation. Taking all the difficulties into consideration, and the opposition met with at every step in negotiation, I am still of opinion that a moderate quantity of land may be obtained within the next twelve months, both on the East and West coast. I have, &c, William N. Seaeancke, Donald McLean, Esquire, District Commissioner. Chief Commissioner, Auckland.

No. 62. the assistant native seceetaey, (actlng cob the chief commissionee), to me. commissioner seaeancke. Native Land Purchase Department, Si E) — Auckland, March 6th, iB6O. With reference to the stipulations in the purchase of the Wainui block (Province of Wellington, District of Waikanae) that Crown Grant 3 should be issued for portions of the block to the Half-caste children of Henry Flugent and of John and PetPNicol respectively, i I have the honor to inform you, that His Excellency the Governor has been pleafsed to confirm' that promise by writing under his hand, and am directed to request that you will have the goodness to furnish to this office the names at full of the grantees, together with such other information as may be necessary for carrying out tho above promise. I have, &c, W. N. Searancke, Esq., Thos. 11. Smith, District Commissioner, Wellington. For tho Chief Commissioner.

Watmpi. Crown Grants are to lie issued to certain half-caste children for portions of Wainui block.

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No. 63. ME. COMMISSIONEE SEAEANCKE TO THE CHIEF COMMISSIONEE. Wellington, 2nd April, 1860. Sic, — Some of the Natives resident in the Wairarapa and at Tutaekura, in the 40 mile Bush, having offered for sale a large portion of that Bush, I shall bo obliged by your letting me know whether it is desirable that negotiations for its purchase be carried on at present. If you consider the purchase desirable, would you be so good as to inform me on what terms. This block, as its name denotes, is all Bush, and the timber were it in the neighbourhood of settlers, valuable with but very little underwood: is level and the soil of good quality. For the purpose of settlement this land will not be available for many years; on the other hand, the purchase of it might possibly accelerate the sale of the upper Manawatu block held by te Hiriwanu and the Rangitane Tribe, on the ground that the price offered is too small. I have the honor to request that you will favor me with tho advantage of your advice and experience on this matter. I have, &c, William N. Seaeancke, Donald McLean, Esq., District Commissioner. Chief Commissioner, Auckland.

TUTAEKURA. The Wairarapa Natives have offered for sale a portion of the Forty-mile Bush.

No. U. ME. COMMISSIONEE SEABAKCKE TO THE CHIEF COMMISSIONEE. Wellington, 3rd April, 1860. Sic, — I have the honor to transmit herewith Memorandum of boundaries of blocks of land as per margin, the purchases of which are now quite complete, and which I hope will be gazetted at as early a date as may be convenient. I have, &c, D. McLean, Esq., J.P., William N. Seaeancke, Chief Commissioner, District Commissioner. Auckland.

Various Blocks. Transmitting a memorandum relative to the boundaries of certain blocks of land.

Enclosure in No. 64. Wellington, 3rd April, 1860. Sic, — I have the honor to forward Receipts and Deeds as per margin, with report on the same, for the information and approval of His Excellency the Governor. Wairarapa. Kararau. This is a small block, comprising about four thousand acres (4,000) adjoining the Waimaori block, on which a sum of £100 (One hundred pounds) was advanced in November last. I was induced to make this advance, in order that one purchase might be made for the whole. Mr. Assistant-Surveyor Fraser will proceed with the survey when the reserves are all completed. It is a rough piece of bush land, principally agricultural, and of good quality. Makara, Wairarapa (lower portion) is a block of about eight thousand acres (8,000), very broken and hilly bush land: cannot be completed before survey. Kaparinu, Wairarapa, is a long strip of excellent land, situated between the boundary of the Atuariba block and the Ruamahanga river. Is about twelve hundred acres (1,200) in extent, and is valuable to the settlers in the neighbourhood for the timber. Tupapakurua, Korakonui, Wairarapa, is a large and valuable block of partly pastoral and partly agricultural and bush land; and has been a very fruitful and constant subject of dispute between the Natives and Europeans for many years. I paid on Korakonui in February 1859 a sum of £100, and have now completed all the Native claims and disputes by a payment of Five hundred pounds (£500), which sum, though large, I thought it better ot once to pay and end a dispute which might have led to serious difficulties with the Europeans settled on it. Otahuao, Wairarapa, is a small block of good pastoral land adjoining the Te Ore Ore plains. A sum of Two hundred pounds (£200) was paid on it in December, 1854, and the purchase has now been completed by a further payment of Two hundred pounds (£200.) I have considered it better to yield to this rather large payment than allow a valuable piece of land on which so large a sum has been paid to lie idle any longer. I have not done so without frequently trying but in vain, to induce the Natives interested to take some smaller sum. Matapihi, Rangikunau, Wairarapa, is a large block of generally good quality, but rough bush land, with large tracts of valuable Totara timber. The greater portion is not at present available, but will be valuable as the fast increasing plantation of the Masterton small farms spreads itself. A payment of One hundred pounds (£100) was made in June, 1858, and the sum of Three hundred and fifty-five pounds (£355) now made is the final and full consideration on this block,

Kararau, Makara, Kaparinu, Tupapakurua, and Korakonui, Otahuao, Matapihi, Te Whanga, first "payment £10, incomplete.

January 1556, £60. January 1860, £20, incomplete. Total paymenc, £100, Purchase completed.

February 1859, £100, January 1360, £500. Purchase completed.

December 1854. £200. March 1860. £200. Purchase completed

June 1858, £100. March 1860, £355. Purchase completed.

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Te Whanga, Wairarapa, is a small block of land to the North of the Tepurapura block, of good pastoral quality, and is a valuable addition to it. There is now but a small piece of land in the hands of the Natives between the Tepurapura and Maungaraki blocks, which I believe will be offered for sale at no distant date. I beg to call your attention to the fact that the prices I have paid for these lands are slightly higher than I am authorized by your instructions to give: but I hope that His Excellency the Governor will, considering the circumstances in some cases, the increase of knowledge among the Natives, and the very circumscribed pieces of land which they have for sale, be pleased to approve of the same. I have, &c, v William N. Searancke, District Commissioner. Donald McLean, Esq., Chief Commissioner, Auckland.

Purchase completed,

No. 65. THE ASSISTANT NATIVE SECEETAEY ( ACTING FOE THE CHIEF COMMISSIONEE) TO ME. COMMISSIONEE SEAEANCKE. Native Land Purchase Department, Auckland, May 25th, 1860. Sir — Information has reached His Excellency the Governor to the effect that dissatisfaction is j being created among the Southern Natives in consequence of your having commenced a survey of) disputed land at Manawatu and Muhunoa. If it be the case that any survey of disputed land at the ' places named has been begun, I have to request that you will suspend operations forthwith, and report' the circumstances connected with such survey for His Excellency's information. I have, &c, Thomas H. Smith. W. N. Searancke, Esq., District Commissioner, Wellington.

Manawats. Certain Natives have expressed dissatisfaction at his having commenced a survey at Manawatu.

No. 66. MR. COMMISSIONEE SEAEANCKE TO THE ASSISTANT NATIVE SECEETARY. Wellington, 31st May, 1860. Sir,— I have the honor to acknowledgethe receipt of your letter of the 25th instant, stating that information has reached His Excellency the Governor, that dissatisfaction is being created among the Southern Natives in consequence of my having commenced a survey of disputed land at Manawatu. I trust that the following explanation will be satisfactory to His Excellency the Governor. On the purchase of the Awahou block in May, 1859, three Natives refused to accept the money offered them for their claims, viz., Te Peina, Wereta and Horima. Upon this, and previous to the purchase. Ihakara and the Natives above mentioned with several others—Mr. Grindell the (at that time) Interpreter, and some Manawatu settlers met —the individual claims of the three above-mentioned Natives were there discussed, and subsequently pointed out to me on the ground by Ihakara. I then instructed Mr. Assistant-Surveyor Stewart to make a correct survey of them. On his proceeding to do so, he was stopped by Te Peina, and I at once requested him not to attempt to go on until I could make a satisfactory arrangement. On my proceeding to Manawatu in April, I wrote to all the parties concerned, also to Nepia, King, Te Ahouho and Hanita to come and assist me with their advice and knowledge of local claims to settle these disputes, but they all without exception on different excuses refused to come, and I then instructed Mr. Stewart to proceed as quietly as possible to complete the survey, showing both the boundaries as pointed out by Ihakara, and the claims made by the different parties distinctly on the plan, in order that the block might be gazetted, and such portions thrown open at once for sale as are undisputed. I have not yet received the plan as completed by Mr. Stewart, but I understand from him it is completed, and without any trouble, dispute or annoyance of any kind on either side. I strictly enjoined him at once to discontinue the survey if the Natives concerned were in the least angry about it. Muhunoa Ohau is a small block of land situated between Otaki and Manawatu, and has been repeatedly offered for sale by Hukiki and others, and their ownership never was, that I have heard, disputed. Hukiki again pressed me to purchase this land when I was at Otaki in April, and I then informed him that in the present unsettled state of affairs I could not think of involving the Government in farther embarrassment by making any purchase of lands. He then requested that I would go and see his land in order that no delay might take place in the survey and sale of it when peace was re-established. This I consented to do, but with a clear understanding that I would not at the time make any purchase. I proceeded to Muhunoa on Tuesday the 7th May, when the Natives then

Manawatu. Explaining reasons for commencing survey of land at Manawatu. Manawatu.

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present pointed out the boundaries, and I have a rough sketch of the block so as to obtain an approximate idea of its acreage. Discussions took place amongst themselves respecting disputed portions and parts which they wish to retain, I was on the point of leaving (the same day), in fact had started, when one of the principal owners of the land began talking about the price, saying that as the boundaries of the land were clear, it would be as well to have the purchase money also clear. To this I answered that I had already told them that in no case would I consent to make any purchase on this coast without having the whole facts laid before His Excellency the Governor, and his sanction and approval obtained. To this there was much demur on the part of Hukiki and his friends, and considerable grumbling. I then said that if they would write a letter to His Excellency the Governor I would forward it. Tbis they declined to do until the price was fixed for the land, and they mentioned a sum of Seven thousand pounds (£7,000), which I told them was out of the question: that had they mentioned a reasonable amount (say One thousand pounds £1,000) I would have had n© objection to have laid their offer before His Excellency for his approval or otherwise. The Natives then said that until the price was arranged it would be useless writing to Auckland. This conversation occurred on horseback, Hector McDonald, who was present, returned to Horowhenua, and I came on to Otaki. No farther conversation took place either previous or since that time about this land or any other on the West Coast, and did not at the time cause the slightest feeling of dissatisfaction among the Natives, for they were all well aware of my unwillingness to discuss any land question at that time, confining my remarks to the preservation of good feeling between the races, and repressing as muchlas possible the spread of the Taranaki and King fevers in this district. I also beg to refer, in proof of my not intending to make any purchases on the West coast, to my letter of the 7th instant, in which I have requested that Mr. Assistant-Surveyor Stewart may be removed to some district where his services may be required, there not being any likelihood of any purchases being made at present here. I have, &c, William N. Seaeancke, Thomas H. Smith, Esq., District Commissioner. Assistant Native Secretary, Auckland.

No. 67. ME. COMMISSIONEE SEAEANCKE TO THE CHIEF COMMISSIONEE. Wellington, 18th June. 1860. Sic, — I had the honor in my letters of the 29th March and 2nd April last to suggest to you the necessity of suspending for the present all negotiations for the purchase of Native lands in this Province. I did not receive your sanction for this suspension of Land Purchases: I therefore consider it my duty to lay before you certain private reasons which I trust you will consider to be a sufficient justification for acting on my own judgment and responsibility. The only sure way to elicit real truthful information from Natives is by putting them off their guard and engaging in an unreserved conversation. In this manner I ascertained some time ago (lately confirmed) that two-thirds of all sums of money paid on account of land during the year 1859 and to the end of March, 1860, has been devoted solely to the purchase of arms and ammunition ; also that large sums of money have been forwarded to Waikato for the use and purposes of the Maori King. Sums of money have been subscribed and levied by fines among one another by the authority of the Maori King magistrates or Natives acting in his name. These sums I have reason to believe from my not being able to trace or get any information of them, have been also devoted to the same purpose; at one time a sum of £400 had been collected by these means. I have also very good reasons to believe that so long as the Natives have money, so long will Europeans be found to supply them with arms and ammunition. I know this to be a fact, that arms have been purchased by Natives since the disturbance commenced at New Plymouth, and that ammunition is still purchased in the Wairarapa: but while stating this, and while I declare my solemn conviction of its truth, I am too well aware that to prove it in any ono case is an utter impossibility. Nothing will induce a Native to give any information or evidence that would bring a charge home against a European ; —on the the contrary, any amount of mendacity would be employed to screen any party threatened by the law. These reasons have induced me to make no payments at present in the Wairarapa. And I would again most respectfully press upon your notice the great advantage that would arise from a registry of all arms in the hands of Europeans. Their compulsory production on demand would throw a serious impediment in the way of sale. I am well aware that the Natives are already well armed, but only with indifferent fowling pieces generally. The report of the disturbances in New Zealand will probably cause large importations of fire arms of abetter description —such as rifles and revolvers, and it is to prevent the present fowling pieces being exchanged for them, that I would recommend some steps, more effectual than a penalty, to be taken. I have, &c, William N. Seaeancke, District Commissioner. Donald McLean, Esq., Chief Commissioner.

General. Relative to the desirability of suspending land purchasing operations,

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No. 68. MR. COMMISSIONER SEARANCKE TO THE CHIEF COMMISSIONER. Wellington, 28th July, 1860. Sic, — I have the honor to forward to you General Report on Land Purchasing operations in the district of the Wairarapa, also plan of the same shewing all the different blocks bought, the Reserves made in the same for the aborigines, the lands the purchase of which has not yet been completed, and the lands still in the hands of the aboriginal owners. ; The plan is compiled from the numerous district surveys made during the last seven years, and is still very deficient in many parts- This deficiency I propose to remedy by making a complete trigonometrical survey of the whole country between Castle Point to the North, the Ranges on the West and the Coast on the East and South, and by the completion of the surveys of Reserves in connection with the trigonometrical survey. The plan forwarded herewith can only be regarded as a sketch plan, though I believe correct in many parts. I have, &c, William N. Seaeancke, Donald McLean, Esq., District Commissioner. Chief Commissioner, Auckland.

WAIRAKAPA. Forwarding a General Report on land purchases in the Wairarapa district.

Enclosure to No. 68. General Report on the Wairarapa District. The Wairarapa District includes all the land laying between the Rimutaka and Tararua Ranges on the Westward, the Coast on the East and Southward, and the boundaries of the block of land known as the Castle Point Block on the Northward, and is very thinly occupied by a branch of the great Ngatikahungunu family, a tribe occuping the whole of the East Coast from Wairarapa Lake on the South, to Ruranga on the North. This District, from its being an open country, was subjected to repeated predatory irruptions from tribes resident in and about the neighbourhood of Wellington and the West Coast, who, driven from their own lands at Mokau, Kawhia and Whaingaroa, had, headed by Te Rauparaha, migrated and settled here, driving its former owners, the Muaopoko and Ngatikahungunu tribes before them ; the former were almost extirpated, the latter retreated into Wairarapa, which they subsequently deserted, being completely broken spirited by repeated attacks, retreating in a body to Nukutaurua, a settlement near Table Cape, where they remained about twelve years, returning to Wairarapa barely two years previous to the first arrival of settlers in Wellington, at the invitation of Warepouri and other Chiefs who had been the cause of their migration. The fact of their being a broken tribe prepared them to welcome European settlers among them, and subsequently, fearful that the Government would remove them, consented to the alienation of their lands by sale to the Crown. The sale of lands commenced in the year 1853, and was vigorously carried on both in that year and in 1854 ; the payments for most of these lands extending over a term of years, a system well adapted to enable the Maories to establish themselves comfortably, and lay the foundation of future wealth and prosperity, had it been in the power of the Government to retain some control over the expenditure ; this from Native jealousy and other causes was not done, and the result has been that the deferred system of payments for lands has had a directly opposite effect to what was intended, i.e., an incessant craving desire not only to sell the lands still in their hands, but also to keep a constant agitation over the lands formerly sold in order to obtain from the Government renewed supplies of money for wasteful purposes, which they appear to think they are entitled to. The leading Chiefs of Wairarapa have sold nearly the whole of their available land, they are now in a helpless state of debt and poverty; they lived on or rather wasted in a thoughtless and prodigal display the capital derived from their lands in place of laying it out to advantage and living on its interest. Flattered by storekeepers and others with whom they wasted their money and who seemed to have listened with eager credulity to their description of their lands as boundless, they were able to obtain credit to an extent almost incredible, considering that they had to overreach European sagacity. But a small proportion of these liabilities have been liquidated, and this state of debt and poverty has paved the way for discontent and jealousy against both the Government and the Europeans generally, and has caused a much higher price to be demanded for the small pieces of land eagerly offered for sale, and also their claims on them to be boundless. They see the Europeans thriving in possession of lands which they now believe to have been foolishly sold at too low a price, and without disputing the actual sale of the land, unceasingly make renewed demands for payments, which demands having no other alternative according to the terms (already fulfilled) of the deed of sale, but to dispute and prove the fallacy of, has led, I am aware, to a very indifferent feeling on the part of the claimants to myself, and will be found to be prejudicial to any officer of the Native Land Purchase Department acting in this District for some time, until at least time and non-success proves the fallacy of their claims. In the blocks of land alienated, extensive reserves, much more than they occupy or make use of, have been made for the Natives amounting altogether to about 20,224 acres. The right of run

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over these reserves I have in several instances succeeded in letting to advantage to the neighbouring runholders, the Natives holding a right of occupation for agricultural pursuits of any portions they preferred. I have lately found that the rents being frequently monopolised by a few to the prejudice of the others, (though the arrangement made was agreed toby all at the time,) has been a fruitful source of trouble and dispute. Nearly the whole of the lands still owned by the Maories are let to Europeans, and produce a much larger rental per annum than they would if owned by the Government. These rents are generally received by thase who did not join nor receive any benefit from the land sales of 1853 and 1854. The approximate area of the Wairarapa District within the boundaries shewn on the plan is 1,200,000 acres, of which 957,864 acres have been alienated by the Maories to the Crown. Reserves to the extent of 20,234 acres have been made out of the alienated lands for their use and benefit, 40,480 acres are still under negotiation, small advances on account having been made on them ; 187,856 acres are still in their hands and at their absolute disposal. The quantity of land the purchase of which is still incomplete is large: the delay in its completion may be explained by the demands on it being so exorbitant, by their being so disputed as regards ownership, by the , monopoly in some instances of the lion's share by a few only of those interested, and by the difficulty I find in assembling together the different claimants. All these difficulties considered, I have thought it the most judicious course to adopt, to at least delay the completion until the payments required were more moderate and within the limit of my instructions. Another important question requiring consideration is the 5 per cents, due to the Maories on the lands sold by Government in certain blocks ; only there is much excitement among them on this subject, and they have repeatedly demanded that the money so due should be paid to them. It appears that the undertaking, as expressed in the deeds of sale, is that 5 per cent, of the whole sum received by the Government on account of land should be laid out either in building churches, schools, mills or in some other way for their advantage. I would therefore most respectfully recommend that steps should be taken to settle this question. In the lower part of the valley the Natives interested are unanimous in wishing that the monies due to the 5 per oents. should be expended in the erection of a mill. This I would recommend should be carried out, as it would be an encouragement for at least some time, for them to carry on more industrial pursuits than they have lately been engaged in. One of the principal assumed causes of discontent in this District is an attempt made by me (in conversational argument only) to induce Rawiri Piharau to remove from the land on which he is at pretent settled :it having been bought from the Government by Europeans. It appears that when the block of land was sold on which the township of Featherston is situated, a reserve of 100 acres was guaranteed to Rawiri Piharau at a place called Motupiri on the Tauherenikau river, nearly three miles distant from the Torohanga, the spot on which he is now illegally located. The land now pointed out by the Natives as Motupiri was sold in 1854 by the then Waste Lands Commissioner to a settler named Vennell, who has built a house on it, with other considerable improvements, without noticing in any way Rawiri's claim, which the Natives say was brought forward before any improvements were made, and frequently since. Both on my arrival here and since, this question has been a trouble to me, urged on the one hand by the Europeans to give them possession of the lands illegally occupied by Rawiri ; on the other, to confirm him in possession of his holding, or to give him his land at Motupiri, it has not been in my power to comply with the request of either. I could not give Rawiri land bought by Europeans though forcibly held by himself, nor could I give him a portion of Mr. Vennell's land which he holds by grant from the Crown, but I represented it to him that his illegal withholding of European's land at the Torohanga would not be tolerated by the Government, and that he must remove, offering him land, elsewhere ; this was refused by him. I then made an attempt to purchase for Rawiri the land on which he is living ; this I was in hopes to have succeeded in, but subsequently failed, by the interposition of others. Subsequently, I, in compliance with your instructions, informed Rawiri, (who in the meantime had been joined by several other Natives from the Upper Hutt and Whanganui,) that in order to remove a cause of trouble and ill feeling between the Europeans and Natives, I would put him in possession of 100 acres of land at Tauherenikau which I had surveyed for him at the time, and also pay him a sum of £100, if he would remove off the Torohanga land when his crops were ripe and removable ; this he also declined, saying that unless Manihera told him to remove he would not do so. I then saw Te Manihera who delined asking Rawiri to remove unless he were put in possession of the land at Mr. Vennell's homestead. In January last I had another meeting on this subject when the whole of the Natives interested were present, and I was then informed that the only terms on which they would allow Rawiri to give up possession of the land was one hundred and fifty acres of land elsewhere and a sum of Four hundred pounds as compensation for resigning his claim to the land held by Mr. Vennell. As I could not with the terms, I informed the Natives so, and this most vexatious question still remains in statu quo, and as a grievance on which the Natives ground all their complaints. In conclusion, I deny that the feeling of tho Natives with respect to Land Purchases, except through their own mutual jealousies, is bad. A few, principally those with small or doubtful claims, are now headed by Te Manihera, a Chief of some influence, to oppose any further alienation of land to the Crown. Another more friendly party exclaim loudly against the delay in the purchase of their lands ; the cause I have already explained. Furthermore is it not preferable that they should rather have a complaint of non-purchase or non-completion of purchase, than that those feelings of amity which have so long existed, and still exist, in this district between the two races, should be endangered. William N. Seaeancke, District Commissioner.

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No. 69. ME. COMMISSIONEE SEAEANCKE TO THE CHIEF COMMISSIONEE. Wellington. 6th August, 1861. Sic,— - I have the honor to forward herewith two plans, one on an enlarged scale of the Awahou ' block, the other the same on a reduced scale, the Manawatu Gorge (Te Apiti), the Ahuaturanga t or Upper Manawatu and Oroua blocks, as offered for sale by te Hiriwanu, and surveyed by t Assistant-Surveyor Stewart. Also memorandum of boundaries of the Awahou block. The Awahou plan shows the land bought from the aboriginal owners on the 14th May, 1858, the reserves made for them at that time, the pieces of land accepted as compensation on behalf of the New Zealand Company, four distinct pieces of land included in the Deed of Sale, but now disputed by some few of the vendors; a piece of land given by the Natives to the Rev. James Duncan, and a piece of land made over by Deed of Gift to the half-caste children of T. N. Cooke, Esq., also two pieces of land on the South side of the Manawatu river (without the boundaries) made over to the same half-caste children. Te Awahou block will be from its position very valuable, being the key to the whole of the fine timbered inland country; also to the rich and fertile district situated between the Oroua and Rano-itikei rivers, known as the Whakaari plains. A large portion of this block is of a wet and swampy nature, but I feel convinced that the engineering difficulties in draining it are not of an insuperable kind, nor would the expense be heavy. Upwards of one hundred acres are in.the occupation of, and cultivated by, a settler, Mr. Burr, and are a proof of what may be done by skilful and judicious draining and culture. Notwithstanding this large swamp, and the sandy nature of this block of land, the purchase of it will be found eventually to be one of the most advantageous and valuable made of late years in this district. Te Ahuaturanga or Upper Manawatu block is still unsettled, and must continue so until the aboriginal owners become much more moderate in their demands. In September (27th) 1858, I had the honor of reporting to you on the negotiation for the purchase of this block. I then succeeded in obtaining the consent of all the leading chiefs of the Ngatiraukawa tribe to the sale, and the waiving by them of their claims on it. Immediately their consent was gained, difficulties were thrown in the way of the completion of the purchase by a price per acre being insisted on, and the acreage ascertained. Whether these difficulties were made at the suggestion of the Ngatiraukawas, or by Te Hiriwanu himself in the pride of his heart at becoming the acknowledged and undisputed owner of so much land, I am not prepared to say, but looking at the present unsettled state of Native affairs I am inclined to lean to the former reason, the more so when I recollect the eagerness of Te Hiriwanu and his friends to sell, previous to the Ngatiraukawa's waiving their claim. On 12th November, 1858, I had again the honor of reporting to you on the negotiation for the purchase of this block of land, when his obstinacy was farther confirmed and shewn. I then offered him a sum of £5,000, and subsequently £6,000, both indignantly refused. Since that time I have twice seen him and his friends, but his demands were still so exorbitant that I was compelled to decline any further negotiation verbally till such time as he would listen to reason. The acreage of this block is (250,000 acres) two hundred and fifty thousand acres, of which quantity one hundred and thirty-six thousand acres (136,000) are of good and available quality, as shewn by Assistant-Surveyor Stewart's report, forwarded to you in September, 1859. I have, &c, William N. Searancke, Donald McLean, Esq., District Commissioner. Chief Commissioner.

Makawatu. Forwarding plans of the Awahou block, and of the Upper Manawatu block.

No. 70. ME. COMMISSIONEE SEAEANCKE TO THE CHIEF COMMISSIONEE. Wellington, 20th August, 1860. Sir,' — . ■' ■ I have the honor to hand you herewith my accounts to date. There is still a balance a-t - the Bank of £305, with which I purpose, so soon as you think it judicious, to complete the purchase r of the Upper Tauheru blocks. On the return of the Native chiefs from Auckland, they were anxious to obtain money on their lands at the head of the Valley. I have made a small advance on account, on these grounds: that the land is all surveyed, that the ownership is clear and undisputed, and that many of the Natives interested are now in a very distressed state from want of proper food, and many others from the want of any food. I have made three distinct advances of (£6O, £50, and £10) Sixty pounds, Fifty pounds, and Ten pounds. I have also made a further advance of Twenty pounds (£2O) on the five per cents, to Raniera, in order that the mill so much required by the Natives in the lower part of the Valley should at once engage their attention. They have now received Fifty pounds (£5O) on account, which is

Gbnbhal. Forwarding ac©our«t current.

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placed in the Bank at Wellington. Also a sum of Twelve pounds (£l2) was advanced to Ngatuere as a loan, to be accounted for when the Tauheru sale is completed. Also a receipt for a sum of Fifty pounds (£5O), which was paid to Te Hiriwanu and the Rangitane Natives for their claims on lands sold by the Ngatikahungunu in the Forty-mile bush. This receipt was taken with some other papers out of my haversack, and only lately recovered. I have, &c, William N. Seaeancke, Donald McLean, Esq., District Commissioner. Chief Commissioner, Auckland.

No. 71. MR. COMMISSIONEE SEAEANCKE TO THE CHIEF COMMISSIONER. Wellington, 29th August, 1860. Sir, — I I have the honor to submit for the information of His Excellency the Governor, a report of ■ a visit made by me to West Coast and up the Manawatu River. I left Wellington on Monday evening the 20th instant. At Paekakariki I found that the Natives who had emigrated with their Chief Paramata to settle on the Middle Island, on some reserves there, had all returned, accompanied by about thirty of the Ngatihinetahi tribe from the South. These latter are all settled at Waikanae where they are busily employed planting potatoes, &c. At Waikanae the Natives are all anxiously looking forward to the arrival of Wi Tako and the Hutt Natives, (the women and children) left the Hutt yesterday. The whole of the Waikanae Natives were absent from the village busily occupied clearing for their cultivations. They appear to be badly off for food, sulky, and uncommunicative. At Otaki village a few women and children only were to be seen, all the men being engaged on their plantations, and they appear to be working harder this year than usual, having between three and four hundred acres of wheat sown. The same activity prevails at all the smaller settlements between Otaki and Manawatu. From Manawatu southward to Paekakariki there is a general sympathy among the younger men for the Natives at Taranaki, and there is an ill concealed anxiety to join them by many openly expressed. This may be attributed to a natural desire for excitement together with the constant arrival of letters from Wi Kingi Te Rangitakc and others at the seat of war, giving glowing accounts of their successes over the Europeans. These letters are principally addressed to the Ngatihuias, to a Chief of which tribe, Karanama, a letter arrived from Te Rangitake asking him why he did not come and see him ; all the young men of this tribe are anxious to proceed to the seat of war, and I believe are only held in check by the influence of the old men. The Natives at Waikanae have been invited by the Ngatihuias to join them, but until Wi Tako's arrival at Waikanae no decision will be come to. At present with some few exceptions the Waikanae Natives are opposed to any active measures. I have taken every means in my power to ascertain the intentions of Wi Tako and his friends on the West Coast, but in vain ; but I am not of opinion from the little I can gather that any course of action is as yet settled, but a large meeting is to take place soon, when probably some principle will be determined upon. Amid all this feverish anxiety it is singular that with one exception there is not any apparent disposition to molest or the slightest appearance of any ill feeling towards the Europeans living amongst them. The exception is an appropriation by the Ngatihuias of about 200 sheep belonging to some Europeans at Manawatu and renting Maori land there. The sheep straying across the boundary of the land were seized by the Ngatihuias for the trespass, and notwithstanding repeated efforts made for their recovery are still in their possession. At Manuwatu and up the river, the Natives are both quiet and peaceable, and although the majority have given in their adherence to the King Movement, they have no present intention to do anything inimical to European interests. Many of the Natives interested in the sale of the Upper Manawatu Blocks, heretofore opposed to the sale, proposed to me to at once proceed to complete the purchase, assuring me that Te Hiriwanu was now willing to come to my terms if I would go and see him ; but this was not in my power to do, nor would I recommend that under existing circumstances the purchase should be completed, when even the most friendly Natives evince such sympathy for their friends at Taranaki. I have been informed that Wi Tako and the Hutt Natives do not propose leaving the Hutt before the return of His Honor the Superintendent of Wellington from Auckland, in order that an interview may take place between Wi Tako and His Honor previous to the departure of the former. I have, &c, William N. Seaeancke, Donald McLean, Esq., District Commissioner. Chief Commissioner, Auckland.

General. Report of a visit to the West Coast, and up the Manawatu river,

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No. 72. ME. COMMISSIONEE SEAEANCKE TO THE CHIEF COMMISSIONEE. Wellington, 17th October, 1860. In compliance with His Excellency the Governor's direction, and in accordance with the: copy of an extract from the Journals of the House of Representatives, I have the honor to forward; herewith a return of all outstanding contracts for the purchase of Native lands, and also to inform you, that a sum of of 305 is in my hands for the purchase of Native lands, which sum has been retained with the object of carrying on the purchase of the Upper Tauheru block. ' I beg to observe that your letter of the 14th September, with accompanying extract from the Journals of the House of Representatives, did not arrive in Wellington until the 26th September, immediately after my leaving for the West Coast, and no opportunity of forwarding the returns accompanying, has occurred since my return on the 11 th instant. I have, &c, William N. Seaeancke, Donald McLean, Esq., District Commissioner. Chief Commissioner, Auckland.

Gekebal. Forwarding a Retwrn of all outstanding contracts for purchase of Native lands.

No. 73. ME. COMMISSIONEE SEAEANCKE TO THE HONBLE. THE MINISTEE FOE NATIVE AFFAIES. Wellington, November 28th, 1860. g IR I have the honor to request that it may be submitted for the approval of His Excellency the Governor, that I be allowed to at once proceed with the completion of the purchase of the undermentioned blocks of land in the Wairarapa district :— Arangi te Kura on the Ruamahanga river. Arama Karaka's land on the Pahaua. Makara inland of Wharekaka block. Upper Tauheru, Head of the Valley. Wainuiora and Korarau. Wi Waka's land, forty mile bush. Arangi te Kura, is a small block of land on the Ruamahanga river, of good quality, and in good position, about Four hundred acre (400) in extent, a sum of Sixty younds (£6.0) was paid on account by the Chief Commissioner in 1856. The purchase has not been completed on account of opposition by Te Waka Tahuahi, who did not get any portion of the payment, though I have reason to believe from inquiries I have made, one of the principal owners. Te Waka has lately informed me that he is now willing to give up his claim if I will make him a farther payment; the land is not at present surveyed, but I have instructed Mr. Fraser to proceed at once with it on the completion of the survey of the land of Rawiri Piharau. ~..-„ , :ta kaan Arama Karaka's land, on the Pahaua river, is a block of land of originally about (Z.oOU) two thousand five hundred acres: a late addition will I think nearly double this quantity, is of good quality of soil, part pastural, and part heavy scrub; a sum of (£100) was paid on account by the Chief Commissioner in 1856. Mr. Fraser had commenced the survey of this block lately, when I was compelled to recall him to plot the reserves. . . - Makara, a block of land inland of Warekaka, of about Eight thousand acres (8000), consisting of broken bush hills principally; a sum of Sixty pounds (£6O) was paid by the Chief Commissioner in 1856, on account. I have not yet been able to have this land surveyed, but will it possible this summer. I cannot recommend this purchase from its inaccessibility and broken character but: in order that o-ood faith with the owners be kept, it is desirable that it be completed. Upper Tauheru, a large block of land at the head of the valley, containing by admeasurement about Twenty one thousand (21,000) acres of good but broken hilly country, part pastural and partly agricultural. A sum of Seventy two pounds (£72) has been advanced by me on account. From its propinquity to the flourishing township of Masterton, I believe that this land will be valuable, and strongly recommend its completion, Wainuiora and Korarau a block of land adjoining the Tupurupuru purchase, its extent is uncertain but I believe nearly Twenty thousand acres (20,000) of hilly country, and good soil, and though not at present in demand, will be so as, the settlers in the Tupurupuru block increase m numbers and stock. A sum of One hundred and ten pounds (£110) has been paid by me on account, and 1 believe this purchase may be completed without any great difficulty. Wi Waka's land, forty mile bush, is a small block of land situated between the so-called Manawatu block and Te Waingongoro block; the purchase of this will complete the line of Crown land on the Eastern border of the forty mile bush. _ , The price per acre for each block separately, I would most respectfully submit, should not exceed the following scale:—

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Arangi te Kura 2s. Od. per acre. Arama Karaka's land - - Is. Id. " Makara - - - - Is. Od. " Uper Tauheru - - - Is. 6d. " Wainuiora and Korarau - - Is. 2d. " Wi Waka's land - - - Is. Od. " In recommending the completion of these purchases at the present time, I beg to make the following observations. The excitement arising from the the war in Taranaki has considerably subsided, but has been succeeded by a sullen discontent at their lands not being purchased or rather the purchase not being completed. It is not desirable in a district where such important interests are involved, that one cause of excitement and discontent should die out to be succeeded by another. The Natives generally are in this district disposed to be quiet and peaceable and acknowledge the Queen's authority, and I believe that the completion of these purchases will distract their attention from the disturbed districts, and also in justice to myself I trust that His Excellency will allow me to at least try to complete these negotiations on which I have spent both time and labour. I have, &c, William N. SeaeanckEj The Hon. F. A. Weld, District Commissioner. Minister for Native Affairs. ■"■■■ m^——MMp^M—

No. 74. ME. COMMISSIONEE SEAEANCKE TO. THE CHIEF COMMISSIONEE. Wellington, 28th November, 1861. Sib, — I have the honor to forward in plan case together with Plan of Reserves in Wereta's Pahaua Block the following mounted tracings of Reserves, subdivided into Reserves individualized, and Reserves general for the information and approval of His Excellency the Governor.

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No. Name of Natives. Area Acres. Block in which Reserve is situated. Date of Deed. 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 Wiremu Kingi Heneri Kingi Te Kaninamu Ngairo Maika Purukau Wiremu Kingi Maika Purakau Wiremu Waka Paul Stone Kingi Ngatuere Rihara Taka Tamati te Kokori Raniera te Iho o te Rangi Te Manihera te Rangitakawaka Ngatuere Tawhao 495 50 100 J00 100 100 100 1000 40 50 50 100 2840 10a. 2r. 100 Tupurupuru a it it a Te Whaio a Kuhangawariwari a 28 January, 1859 a a in 31 January, 1859 11 January, 1854 a u Otahuao East side of Lake Native Land Manaia 27 March, 1860 6 September, 1853 28 June, 1858

No. Name of Natives. Area Acres. Block in which Reserve is situated. Date of Deed. 1 2 3 4 Wairua and others Te Hamua tribe W. Kingi and others Te Ropiha and others Te Retimana and others 397 200 200 300 300 Tupurupuru Manawatu a 28 January, 18o9 December, 1853 Kuhangawariwari 11 January, 1854 a 5

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Reserves Individualized. Nos. 1 and 2 are sections of 495 and 50 acres set out by me for Wiremu Kingi, Tutepakihirangi and his son Heneri Kingi in accordance with a promise made by the late Governor Sir G. Grey and your instructions. These sections are situated in the Tupurupuru Block, were named and consented to at the time of sale by the whole of the vendors present to be made over to the Natives named in list, all men of influence, extensive owners in the land alienated and active promoters of the sale. Ngairo's name was not mentioned in the deed of sale as 1 the sole owner of the Reserve, though assented to by the Natives generally, it being my wish to make some enquiries which subsequently proved satisfactory. Ngairo though one of the most active supporters of the King movement in this district is not I believe so bad as many not so prominently known, and I believe that the issue of a Grant from the Crown to him for this section will have a good effect generally. Nos. 6 and 7 are two sections of 100 acres each which at the time of the purchase of the Whaio block were stipulated for as one of the conditions of the sale to be laid out for Wiremu Kingi and Maika Purakau. No. 8 is a section of 1000 acres set out for Wiremu Waka on the Opaki plain in accordance with the term of sale of the Manawatu block, of which I believe he was the most active promoter, he is in actual possession of this section and is recognised as sole owner by all the Natives. No. 9 is a section of 40 acres on the Opaki plain occupied by Paul Stone and his family of whom he is the head, is a portion of the Kuhangawariwari general Reserve, is situated in the midst of numerous European settlers, to whom as a general reserve it would be a considerable annoyance. Paul Stone is a young man of considerable ability, steady, and speaks the English language tolerably well, is much respected by his European neighbours, and of some influence among his countrymen both in the Wairarapa and at Manawatu. No. 10 is a section of 50 acres set out by me in accordance with a promise of the late Governor Sir G. Grey and your instructions for Kingi, the eldest son of Ngatuere Tawhao. No. 11 is a section of 50 acres situated in the Kuhungawariwari block, marked out for Rihara Taka. By the terms of the deed of sale of the land known as the East side of Lake block, 50 acres were to be given back to Rihara Taka. From this not being done at the time, all the available land being bought up by Europeans I was Compelled with Rihara's consent to mark it for him in this, the Kuhangawariwari block. No. 12 is a section of 100 acres situated in the Otahuao block, was consented to by all the vendors to be given up to Tamati te Kokori, and was one of the conditions of sale on the completion of the purchase. No. 13 is a reserve of 2840 acres, is particularly mentioned in the deed of sale of the East side of Lake block as being reserved for Raniera te Iho o te Rangi. No. 14 is a piece of land of 10 acres and 2 roods in extent,. reserved from all land sales by Te Manihera, is consequently still Native land but is looked upon by all the Natives as the exclusive property of Te M anihera who has had a large wooden house built upon it, the cost of which was upward of Four hundred pounds (£400.) lam of opinion that the issue of a Grant from the Crown to him for this piece of land would tend to conciliate him at the present time. No. 15 is a section of 100 acres situated in the Manaia block, was one of the conditions of sale and made especially for Ngatuere Tawhao. From the firm and friendly attitude assumed by him to the Europeans in the township of Grey town and its neighbourhood, he has hitherto been the means of preserving peace and preventing a panic which would inevitably have led to the ruin of the whole district. Reserves General. Nos. 1, 2, 3, 4, and 5 are tracings from surveys and general reserves. These tracings from actual surveys of reserves are the first of a series which I hope to have the honor of submitting for the approval of His Excellency the Governor. Much complication has arisen from the time allowed to elapse between time of sale when the reserves were made and the accurately defining and surveying the boundaries; but I believe that the surveys I have been and am now making (taking adyantage"of the temporary cessation of Land purchasing operations) will tend to simplify it. I believe that ill feelings and many difficulties between Europeans and Natives, and among Natives themselves, have been caused and aggravated be unsettled land questions in this district particularly. Individualization of Title will tend to remove this. It is also the more necessary, in a district where the Europeans are daily increasing in numbers, that the title to land should be simplified as much as possible. Having been eitber personally concerned in or having made most particular inquiries into their correctness and justice I cannot hesitate to most respectfully submit for the approval of His Excellency the Governor, that Grants from the Crown, unconditional (No. 1 only accepted), should be issued for the aforementioued fifteen reserves individualized. I am confident that the issue to these Natives, all men of either rank or talent, of unconditional grants from the Crown, will be productive of the best results, and be properly appreciated by them and be looked upon as a trust reposed \a them for the benefit of their children. Ido not anticipate that they would be persuaded except under strong pecuniary inducements to part with them, and I also believe that the issue of Crown Grants, where practicable among them, will tend to remove one of the

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great lines of demarcation between the Native and European, and every difference removed will be on cause less for jealousy and dispute. I have, &c, William N. Searancke, District Commissioner. Donald McLean, Esq., Chief Commissioner, Auckland.

No. 75. ME. COMMISSIONER SEAEANCKE TO THE CHIEF COMMISSIONEE. Wellington, 29th November, 1860. Sic, — In reference to your letter of 22nd October, instructing me to report for the information of" His Excellency the Governor on certain claims preferred by a Native named Mikaera on lauds situated on the east side of the Wainuiora, Wairarapa (Wereta's Pahaua Block). I have the honor to submit, that claims on this block of land have been made to me, not only by the above-mentioned Mikaera, but also by Arama Karaka who attempted to sell to me a portion of the land within the boundaries alienated to the Crown, but without success, as I insisted on seeing the land and personally perambulating the boundaries. This Arama declined, allowing that the land had already been sold to the Crown, but that as he had not received any portion of the payment, he conceived that he had a right to sell it again. I explained to him that that could not be allowed, and have not heard anything more of his claim. Te Wereta and Te Wenerei also make a claim of further payment on this block, the claim of the former Native Chief was only brought prominently before me lately (26th October.) I offered them to listen to any statement he and others had to make, and forward the same to you. Wereta then told me that he either had or was going to write to you on the subject, and I believe also he mentioned that a sum of Two thousand five hundred pounds (£2,500) was due ou the block, and that as you had told him when in Auckland that you would yourself come and investigate and settle this question, it would be useless for us to talk at all about it. From the conversations I have had with the Natives on these claims I find that they are all involved in one question, that of some further payment for this block of land, Mikaera's, Wereta's, Arama Karaka's, Te Wenerei's and others. They state that the payments received were for the coast only, and that the inland portion is still unpaid for. On referring to the deed of sale dated October 29th, 1853, I find that a sum of Seven hundred pounds (£700) was paid on account of this block by you, and it is further agreed that when the land is surveyed and examined, and the reserves clearly defined and agreed upon, then the balance remaining to be paid shall be fixed and decided on. This deed also provides that 5 per cent, shall also be paid to them on all sales of land in this block, also for certain reserves. There are 157 signatures to this deed, but not the name of Mikaera, though all the names of the leading Chiefs of his hapu or tribe are signed. By deed dated 24th December, 1853, a second payment is made on this block, of One hundred pounds (£100), this is also on account. By deed dated 11th January, 1855, which is both clear and conclusive in its wording, a further sum of Four hundred and fifty pounds (£450) is paid. This is seated to be the final and concluding payment of this block, the previous payments of Seven hundred pounds (£700) and One hundred pounds (£100) are taken into account, and the total amount of Twelve hundred and fifty pounds (£1250) acknowledged as received by the Natives. The reserves are also defined and the boundaries mentioned in this deed. Again in the concluding portion of the deed (which is signed by 17 Natives only) they again unreservedly give up all the land in this block (reserves excepted) to tha Crown. It appears to me that the claims made by Mikaera, Weneri, Arama Karaka and others arise from their not receiving any part of the payments of One hundred pounds (£100) and of Four hundred and fifty pounds on the 24th Dec, 1853, I am not prepared to speak at present to the extent of Alikaera's claims on this block, and in any case should hesitate to recognise a claim which would be a very dangerous precedent in this district, where the Natives are so ready to take any advantage or means to obtain money. The deed of sale of 11th January, 1855, particularly and clearly shows that the balance then paid was conclusive, and it is not in my power to re-open negociations so decidedly complete, without more ample instructions. I have, &c, William N. Seaeancke, District Donald McLean, Esq., Chief Commissioner, Auckland,

Pahaua,

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No. 76. ME. COMMISSIONEE SEAEANCKE TO THE CHIEF COMMISSIONEE. Wellington, Ist February, 1861. Sic, — I have the honor to acknowledge the receipt of a letter from Patoromiu te Apatu, addressed to you, and referred to me. The purport of the letter is that the land lying between the Puakenuiri and Awheanui rivers, be given to him, for himself and children, that the place on which he is now residing is too small, and does not belong to him, and by implication threatening that a breach of your mutual friendship will take place, if his wishes are not complied with. The land applied for by Pataromiu is situated in the Awhea block, purchased in 1854. The Deed does not point out any particular Reserves for the Natives, but states that lands for the Maories shall be arranged by yourself on your return from Auckland. On my arrival here in 1858, I was applied to to mark out the Reserve by the principal Natives interested—Te Marutuna and Heremaia— who produced a memorandum (copy accompanying) of the Reserve promised them by Mr. District Commissioner Cooper. No mention is made of extending the boundaries to Awheaniu, nor _ did ] think that they required it. The extent of the Reserve, which is the only good and valuable piece of land in the block, is about 1800 acres (Mr. Cooper's boundaries). Ob my expressing my wish to make a survey of the Reserve as described in Mr. Commissioner Cooper's memorandum, Patoromiu and his son Tamati objected and refused to allow me, unless the land mentioned in his letter was to be included; as they expressed themselves with considerable violence and rather strong language, I did not attempt to carry out my wishes. I made a second attempt in 1859, and finding that the feeling was still strong, and being threatened personally by Tamati, if I made an attempt to survey it, I again refrained. In May, 1860, being very much pressed by the Provincial Government to settle this question, I again promised, but found only a few old Natives, who objected to any survey being made in Patoromiu's absence, and refused to point out the boundaries. This Reserve is still unsurveyed; but I have instructed Mr. Fraser to proceed there with Te Maratuna, and, if the survey can be made quietly, to complete it at once. The sketch accompanying will show the land proposed to be reserved, about 1800 acres of the best quality for about thirty Natives, of whom eleven or twelve are men, and about fifteen acres are under cultivation. The piece of land applied for by Patoromiu is very poor, and, with the exception of a karaka bush of about fifteen acres, quite incapable of cultivation, and includes an area of about 550 acres. His (Patoromiu's) object is to obtain this land, not for his own use, but to let to the neighbouring runholders; he has also other lands reserved for his own and family's use at Waikaraka. I may also mention that the piece of land asked for by Patoromiu was sold by the Crown Lands Commissioner, in 1845, immediately after its purchase from the Natives to D. Riddeford, Esq., and is the only piece of frontage left for the Europeans of the whole block. lam not of opinion that Patoromiu has any right to the piece of land, even had it been in my power to give it to him. I have, &c., William N. Seaeancke, Donald McLean, Esq. District Commissioner. Chief Commissioner, Auckland. _____

No. 77. MR. COMMISSIONER SEAEANCKE TO THE CHIEF COMMISSIONER. Wellington, Ist February, 1861. I have the honor to inform you that yesterday the 31st ultimo, I held a meeting of all the Natives interested in the Hokowhitu sections. I had previously explained to Hemi Parai the reasons which had compelled me to oppose the issuing to himself* a Crown Grant for the two sections. The account of the payments having been brought forward by Hemi Parai, I was enabled with little difficulty to settle the whole question, and obtained the consent of all parties to a fair subdivision of the land in proportion to the different payments, and shall instruct Mr. Assistant-Surveyor Fraser on .the first opportunity to mark out the different allotments on the ground. 1 have, &c, William N. Seaeancke, Donald McLean, Esq., District Commissioner. Chief Commissioner, Auckland. __ mtm

No. 78. ME. COMMISSIONEE SEAEANCKE TO THE CHIEF COMISSIONEE. Wellington, Ist February, 1861. Silt, — j In answer to your letter of the 29th November, 1860, requesting me to report whether I L considered it judicious to proclaim the Awahou block in the Government Gazette, t

Tis Awahou. Eecommending that tha Awahou block be proclaimed

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I beg most respectfully to recommend its being immediately gazetted, and thrown open for sale with as little delay as possible, on the following grounds: That a great number of Europeans are anxious to purchase land, and settle in this block of land; that I believe the settlement of this district will lead to a better feeling between Europeans and Natives ; that the Natives themselves are most anxious to see settlers among them, and are disappointed at the delay, and openly state that as the Crown is not making use of the land they will resume possession ; that its non-occupation is daily bringing forward fresh disputes, and that the settlement of Europeans amongst them will tend to distract their attention very much from other and more exciting subjects, by giving them employment and its consequent pecuniary advantages, and the establishment of a healthy social intercourse between the two races. And finally, that no advantages under existing circumstances can be gained by its being withheld from sale any longer. I also enclose two sketches of portions of this block, one shewing a small piece of land taken possession of and fenced in by some relations of Heneri te Herekau, which at the present time it would hardly be judicious to dispute with them, though their claim is indefensible, and which, had 1 had time, I should have held a meeting on, and I believe settled their claim; but it does not always follow that Natives, though convinced of the fallacy of their claim, are always prepared quietly to yield possession, especially where, as in this case, the Natives are strong supporters of the Maori King's supremacy. I would therefore recommend that the piece of land at the Iwi te Kai, now occupied by them be withheld from sale for the present, together with the other disputed portions of the block. No. 2 is the Whakawehe burial ground and reserve. I would recommend in this case, in order to meet Heneri Herekau's wishes in some degree, that the Ngatiwhakatere tribe be allowed a right of pre-emptive purchase at the upset price of any portion of land adjacent to the present reserve, not to exceed fifty acres, and that a letter to this effect be written to inform Heneri te Kerekau in answer to his application for an extension to the boundary of the reserve, a proceeding I will not by any means recommend, I do most conscientiously and respectfully recommend that the Awahou block be immediately gazetted, subject to the disputed parts marked on plans and aforementioned, and to the right of pre-emption also shown on plan and aforementioned. I have, &c, William N. Seaeancke, Donald McLean, Esq., District Commissioner, Chief Commissioner, Auckland.

No. 79. ME. COMMISSIONEE SEAEANCKE TO THE CHIEF COMMISSIONEE. Wellington, 4th March, 1861. Sic— I have the honor to repot t for the information of His Excellency the Governor that I have in accordance with i your instructions investigated the claim of Aperahama Te Ao and others on lands at Whareama on the East coast. I find that two blocks of land at Whareama were purchased by the Crown during the months of November and December, 1853, in which Aperahama was interested as a leading claimant, On one a sum of (£400) Four hundred pounds was paid, on the other (£100) One hundred pounds only was paid. On the first, I found, on enquiry, that no equitable claim could be established, but on the other, both by the terms of the deed, and the verbal understanding at the time of the sale, I found that the Natives had a feasible claim, the deed not being final. I therefore, considering that several settler's homesteads were situated within the block, entered into arrangements to satisfy their claims, and was enabled satisfactorily to do so for a sum of One hundred and fifty-five pounds (£155) which sum I made them fully to understand was a final payment for all their claims on the Whareama lands, as shewn by the Deed, and this sum I was induced to pay to them at once rather than leave the claim open to captious disputes, and thereby endanger the security of the settlers. I have &c, William N. Seaeancke, District Commissioner. Donald McLean, Esq., Chief Commissioner, Auckland.

Whareama,

No. 80. ME. COMMISSIONEE SEAEANCKE TO THE CHIEF COMMISSIONEE. Wellington, sth March, 1861. SIE, In reference to the letter of Matiaha and others of 31st Janurry last, stating that their land situated between the Para and Waitangi streams has now been taken by Pakehas. I beg to state

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that this land claimed by them is a portion of the Taratahi and Hikawera block sold by these men and others in 1852-4. The subjoined sketch shows the position of the block alienated by the Crown to Europeans in 1855-56, also the portion left unsold by the Crown, I believe on account of Native disputes, and still unoccupied by either race. According to the wording of the Deed the whole of this land now claimed by them, with the exception of a reserve not to exceed one hundred acres (100) in extent, to be situated between the Para and Waitangi streams, is alienated to the Crown, and I have frequently requested the Natives Pirika and others to accompany me, in order that not only I might consult their wishes in regard to the locality, but also point out the boundary to them, to prevent disputes. They declined doing so, unless I would also survey for them the four hundred acres (400) which they claimed on account of a sum of (£200) Two hundred pounds, which they state they requested you to pay on their account for land in this locality, at the time of the purchase of the block. lam not aware, nor do I believe the Natives ever until very lately claimed this land as a reserve (Native). It appears to me on the face of it to be a very captious and unfounded claim, taking advantage of the troubled times, and I would respectfully recommend that in communication with the writers of the letters no claim should be allowed them beyond the hundred acres mentioned in the Deed. Referring to this subject, 1 beg to hand you herewith a letter from W. Fitzgerald, Esq., Crown Lands Commissioner, to me, •enclosing copy of Mr. Carter's letter to him, also my answer. I have, &c., William N. Seaeancke, District Commissioner. Donald McLean, Esq., J.P-, Chief Commissioner, Auckland.

No. 81. MEMOEANDUM BY ME. COMMISSIONEE SEAEANCKE. 22ud March, 1861. In Eaniera's letter of the 25th May, 1860, allusion is made to the reserves made for the Natives in the block on the East side of the Wairarapa lake. Three only of these reserves were individualized one for the writer Raniera, another for Rihana, and a third for Wiremu Tamehana Hike. The other reserves, which are numerous, are by the Deed general, that is to say, for the use of all without distinction. I am not prepared to say whether an equitable subdivision of these reserves could be effected, but I believe if the consent of all concerned could be gained, and the subdivisions effected with a due regard to the wishes- and prejudices of the Natives concerned, bearing also in mind that these parties have always been, so far as I could see, loyal subjects up to the present time, and amenable to the law it would be a most desirable object effected, and one that would tend more than any other to consolidate good feelings between the races in this district of Wairarapa, by the effectual removal of a very frequent source of quarrels and jealousies both amongst themselves, and between them and Europeans. As regards the 5 per cents, due not only on this block, but on several others in the Wairarapa, I ( would recommend the amounts due on the different blocks to be made up, and either paid to the i claimants or expended for their advantage as His Excellency the Governor may deem most expedient without any further delay. These five per cents, extend over several blocks in the Wairarapa district, and would not in any one case amount to a very large amount, which would again have to be subdivided amongst numerous claimants. In this particular case Raniera and his people are very anxious to have a small flour mill, for the i expenses of building which they purpose to devote the whole of the five per cents, due on their lands ; and I further believe that it will be most gratifying to them to be informed that His Excellency the Governor approves of their mill, and will allow of their five per cents, being devoted to this purpose. ... . . ii. The plan of Raniera's land at Putanglrangi has been for some time in Auckland, having been forwarded by me in accordance with instructions, in order, as I understood, that the Crown Grant might be issued from Auckland, some difficulty having been made by the Crown Lands Commissioner in Wellington. A grant from the Crown for his land has been distinctly promised to him, and the delay in the issue of it can only tend to weaken the confidence of Natives in the Government. William N. Seaeancke, District Commissioner. 22nd March, 1861.

Report, 21st Feb,, 1 it

General Report, Wairarapa, 28th July, 1860.

Report, 20th Augs, 1860,

Plan is now in office of the Land Purchase Deo paitment.

■ ■IM-_«J__llllIllt

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No. 82. MR. COMMISSIONER SEARANCKE TO THE CHIEF COMMISSIONER. Auckland, 6th June, 1861. Sir, — In accordance with the request contained in your circular letter of the 15th ult. I have the honor to hand you the accompanying Report on Land Purchasing operations and the land question in the Province of Wellington. I have, &c, William N. Seaeancke, Donald McLean, Esq., District Commissioner. Chief Commissioner, Auckland.

Genebal. Forwarding General Report of land purchases in his district.

General Report on Land Purchasing operations in the Province of Wellington. The accepted area of this Province is 6,820,000 acres, which may be subdivided into about, 2,800,000 acres of open grass and fern, and 4,020,000 acres of timber and bush land, occupied by a European population of 14,000 and an aboriginal population of nearly 8000 souls. The first acquisitions of territory made by the New Zealand Company in 1839, were followed by those of the Government, vis:., the Porirua,in 1857, Whanganui in 1848, Rangitakei in. 1849, and the Wairarapa and East Coast in 1853-4. The total acquisition of land over which the Native Title has been extinguished down to the present time may be estimated at 8,088,079 acres and 570,100 acres under negociation, leaving an area of 3,161,121 acres still in the hands of the Natives. In the Wairarapa and East Coast where considerable purchases of land have been made, there are still some few instances in which the Natives are adducing claims, and vyhich may require care and judicious management in their settlement. The principal questions are :— Ist. Disputed land on the Waiohine River in the Taratahi Block. 2nd. Disputed boundary of Reserve for Ngatuere Tawhao at the Waohine Bridge. 3rd. Reserve claimed by Patoromiu on the East Coast. 4th. Disputed sale of Arangatekura block. sth. Disputed sale of Wharehanga block. 6th. Settlement of Natives right of pre-emption over the Wakataki reserve purchase. 7th. Reserve claimed by Hoera Wakataha on the East Coast. Bth. The five per cents., and also 9th, Clainjs upon portions of the Awahou block in the Manawatu district, West Coast. The first involves two questione, one raised by Te Manihera who claims a right of pre-emption to purchase 400 acres of land on Borlase's run, the other is a claim set up by Pirika and others. Te Manihera states his claim thus : He was in Mr. Crown Land Commissioner Bell's office at Wellington, date uncertain, in company with Mr. Bell and Mr. McLean, when he expressed a wish that £200 of the amount then due on the Taratahi should be paid into the Land Office for four hundred acres of land, that Mr. Bell had a plan of the Wairarapa before him, and with a pencil marked off in the locality pointed out by Te Manihera a piece of land ou the plan, purporting to be 400 acres, and wrote what he believed to be his name across it. On my referring to Mr. Bell, he agreed in substance with Te Manihera's account, to the effect that when the land was thrown open for sale, he (Te Manihera) should be then allowed to purchase the 400 acres. Under these circumstances it is advisable that good faith be kept, and that the sum of £200 still due on the block be paid into the Land Office on Te Manihera's account for this land, if not contrary to the claims of the runholder in occupation. Pirika's claim is made to the tract of country lying between the Pari and Wa'tangi Creek running from the Tautahi Plains to the Waohine River.. The wording of the original deed in reference to this reserve runs thus ; " One portion only is withheld within the boundaries, the spot between the Para and Waitangi, as the site for an eel fishery house. This portion shall not exceed one hundred acres, while the land between the two creeks now claimed by the Natives Pirika and others will exceed fifteen hundred acres, an extent which could never have been intended, the eel fishing being at that time the only object in making the reserve. The 2nd is a dispute about the reserve for Ngatuere Tawhao at the Waohine Bridge arising out of a misunderstanding about the road as orginally laid out. This difficulty is now in the course of settlement by the Resident Magistrate of the Wairarapa. The 3rd. By the deed of sale the returning of a portion of the land then sold is left to the decision of the Chief Commissioner, who approved of the reserve as now laid out, comprising an area of nearly 2000 acres of the best portion of the block, not twenty acres of which are under cultivation. Patoromiu, one of the vendors now claims a further reserve of about 2003 acres more, nearly the whole of which is poor, hilly, pastural land, and has been for several years the freehold property of D. Riddeford, Esq. The 4th. The sale of this small block of land is disputed by Te Waka, Tahuahi. It appears that both Matiaha, the vendor, and Te Waka are equally interested both in this block, in the Wharehanga, and in the adjacent lands. The Wharehanga was sold by Te Waka, whose daughter received the money, Matiaha not receiving any portion then sold to Te Arungatekura. Te Waka being an

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elderly man, disputes his right to alienate land and now demands that a payment should be made to him, and this course I have recommended as the simplest method of settling the question. The sth. The sale of the Wharehanga is also disputed by Te Manihera who refuses to allow of any survey being made. His right to do so and claim on the land is denied by the Natives, who openly asserted that Wiremu Kingi and Te Waka are the rightful owners. The 6th. I am not aware that any difficulty exists ; it only remains to mark out on the ground, in terms of the Native right of pre-emption the lands for which they have deposited purchase money up to the expiration of the time of the exercise of that right. The 7th is a claim made by Hoera Wakataha to a reserve on the East Coast. This claim is just and in accordance with the terms of the deed of sale, but has become a dispute on account of Ploera demanding to have a portion of it given to him on Cameron's homestead, a freehold property purchased from the Crown by the Messrs, Cameron, seven years ago. I believe that this Reserve will be accepted elsewhere, unless the Natives are anxious to keep it as a grievance. The Bth, the five per cents. This is a per centage on all lands sold by the Crown within certain blocks, and is to be laid out for the benefit and advantage of the Natives, who are now very anxious for its settlement. There is one rather material point of difference, they demanding that the money should be paid to them direct, in order that each recipient may exercise his own views as to the most judicious way of laying it out. The 9th : At the execution of the deed of sale of this land, all the parties were present and acquiesced in the sale ; subsequently a Native named Werena, who personally was a recipient of some of the money then paid, took possession of a portion of land sold. The boundary of the piece of land retained from sale within the exterior boundaries by Horima and Te Peina is also disputed by them though clearly pointed out at the time of sale. I believe these to be the principal questions in abeyance, questions not of any great difficulty in themselves, if the Native mind could only be divested of its state af antagonism to Europeans, arising out of sympathy with the King movement, and a craving desire whether right or wrong to obtain money under any pretences they can possibly advance. During the years 1855-6 & 7 periodical visits only appear to have been made to the Wairarapa by the District Commissioner, more important and pressing duties detaining him at Ahuriri, and precluding active operations in the purchase of land at so distant a part of the District, beyond the payment of the instalments due to the Natives on the lauds already sold. On my arrival in 1858 in that Province in which I had the honor to be instructed to act as District Commissioner and Surveyor, I found but few payments of cash on former purchases due to the Natives, but numberless questions of boundaries, of reserves, and claims of payment to be met, which questions I adjusted simultaneously with the acquisition of fresh blocks of land. The area of these lands, nearly the whole of which have been surveyed and the purchase completed, is 212,749 acres, and I was not aware up to the time of my leaving Wellington in February last, of any dispute of any importance on any ot them, claims on the Awahou block excepted. Negotiations have also been carried on for the acquisition of other large tracts of country. Non-completion in many instances is attributable to the inevitable delay in fixing boundaries, making surveys, marking out reserves, and making them understood by the Natives interested, and to the exorbitant demand by the vendors; time, patience, and consequent explanation would have remedied these diffict ities, had not an effectual bar been placed in the way of settlement by the action of the anti-land selling league. There cannot be a doubt amongst those acquainted with the Natives living in the country districts of this Province, that there is, notwithstanding their outward professions of loyalty, a deeply seated undercurrent of sympathy with the principles of the Waikato King movement, which is directly opposed to any further alienation of land to the Crown. On the Western portion of the Province, some purchases of land have been effected: one, a block at the mouth of the Manawatu river on the North bank : the negotiations for this block, from the importance of the position and the antagonistic interests involved, engrossed considerable time, trouble, and patience also. Between Waikanae and Porirua an extensive tract of country has been acquired, extending from the Coast back to the Tararua range. In the Upper Manawatu District negotiations were for some time carried on for the purchase of an extensive tract of forest land, but discontinued from the number of distinct contending interests: the high price demanded and other adverse difficulties; the survey of this block of land is completed. Negotiations were also commenced for the purchase of two smaller blocks of land on the West Coast, but stopped on account of the excitement that might have been caused by the completion of the purchases. The following is a complete list of the blocks of land in this Province, for the purchase of which negotiations have been commenced but suspended by instructions given me by command of His Excellency the Governor :—On the West Coast and inland, the Ngawakangutu block, the Ohau block, the Upper Manawatu block, the Nga-awapurua block, the Waikanae block, and the Hinepuihawe block. In the Wairarapa and East Coast, the Makara block, the Arama Karaka block, the Upper Tauhere block, the Lower Tauhere block, the Wainuiora block, and the Wakarongo block. The estimated area of these blocks is 570,000 acres, and are principally timber and bush land. Advances have been made on them to the amount of (£1002) One thousand and two pounds. During the last twelvemonth the operations of the Land Purchase Department in this Province have been more particularily confined to the settlement and surveying of the exterior boundaries of lands purchased, and of lands under negotiation on which advances have been made, and of reserves for the Natives. William Seaeancke, District Commissioner. 6th June, 1861,