PAPERS RELIATING TO THE CONSTRUCTION OF RAILWAYS.

Appendix to the Journals of the House of Representatives, 1871 Session I, D-06f

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PAPERS RELIATING TO THE CONSTRUCTION OF RAILWAYS.

Vll. —Copies of all Eesolutions passed by any Council of a Province relative to the Eailways to be constructed in such Province ; together with the opinion or recommendation, in writing, of the Superintendent of such Province, and any documents, maps, plans, or drawings referred to therein, in compliance with Section 6 of " The Immigration and Public AVorks Act, 1870."

PRESENTED TO BOTH HOUSES OP THE GENERAL ASSEMBLY, BY COMMAND OP HIS EXCELLENCY.

WELLINGTON.

1871.

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SCHEDULE OF CORRESPONDENCE.

AUCKLAND. No. Date. From. To. Subject. 1870. Dec. 30 The Superintendent of Auckland The Superintendent of Auckland Hon. Minister for Public Works Hon. Colonial Secretary Forwarding resolutions of the Provincial Council, recommending that the branch line of the Waikato Kailway leading to Onehunga should be continued to the Bluff. Also, that the above resolutions be rescinded, and recommending that the proposed railway to Onehunga should be extended to the wharf at Geddes' Point. Forwarding a resolution of Provincial Council recommending a continuation of the line from Auckland to Waikato by the Valley of the Waikato to the frontier settlements of the Waikato Delta. 1871. Jan. 31 '2 taranak: 1871. 3 August 1 The Superintendent of Hon. Colonial Secretary Tarauaki Forwarding a resolution of the Provincial Council requesting His Honor to enter into correspondence with the Government and Messrs. Ross, Hotson, and Co., with regard to a railway between New Plymouth and Wanganui. HAWKE'S B. .Y. 1871. June 1 Tho Superintendent of Hawke's Bay Hon. Colonial Secretary Hon. Colonial Secretary Forwarding resolution of Provincial Council, expressing its willingness to make provision for the construction of a railway from Napier to Wellington and the West Coast, by setting aside such part8 of the waste lands of the Crown within the Province of Hawke's Bay as may be required. Again forwarding the above resolution. The Superintendent of Hawke's Bay Juno 6 WELLING-Ti UN. 1871. July 11 The Superintendent of Wellington Hon. Colonial Secretary Forwarding a memorandum of railway works recommended by the Provincial Council to be undertaken by the General Government, and expressing the opinion that the following portions should be immediately proceeded with, viz., Wellington to Masterton, Wanganui to Waitotara, and Wanganui to Marton. NELSON. 1871. July 7 The Superintendent of Hon. Colonial Secretary Nelson Forwarding resolutions of Provincial Council, recommending that the following railways bo constructed, viz., from Nelson to Foxhill, from Cobdeti to the Brunuer Coal Mine, and from Westport to the Mount Rochfort Coal Field.

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SCHEDULE OF CORRESPONDENCE— continued.

CANTERB 1870. Not. 10 Hon. Colonial Secretary Forwarding resolutions of the Provincial Council, recommending the following railways, viz., Extension of the Northern Line to the River Waipara, and Southern Line from the Rakaia to the River Ashburton, with bridge thereover, and from Temuka to the Orari. Branch lines from Rolleston to Southbridge, and from the Northern and Southern Trunk Lines respectively, to Malvern Hills and Oxford; and expenditure of £7,000 voted by the Province for the railway between Timaru and Temuka. Forwarding resolutions of the Provincial Council approving provisional arrangement for transfer of railway works, in the hope that the railway between Rakaia and Selwyn, Temuka and Timaru, and Kaiapoi to Southbrook, will suffer no delay. Appropriating certain sums for tramways to Oxford, Eyreton, Malvern and Ellesmere, and that the Ashley Township Line is most calculated to serve the best interests of the Province. The Superintendent of Canterbury The Superintendent of Canterbury Hon. Colonial Secretary 1871. August 5 OTAGO. 187 . June 22 10 The Superintendent of Otago Hon. Colonial Secretary Forwarding message to and resolution of the Provincial Council recommending that the Dunedin and Clutha Railway may be early completed, and the following additional lines for the sanction of His Excellency the Governor and the Assembly, viz.:— Invercargill to Matuura, Waitaki to Moeraki, thence to Waikouaiti, Tokomairiro to Tuapeka, Jlossgiel to Outram, Winton to Kingston, and Balclutha to Mataura. Forwarding resolutions of the Provincial Council recommending the following additional lines, viz., Branch, Papakaio to Greytown; Waikouaiti and Dunedin ; Tokomairiro to Lawrence, together with petition of certain residents in Dunedin and Tuapeka relative thereto ; Oamaru to Waiareka. The Superintendent of Otago Hon. Colonial Secretary 11 July 24

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" Copies of all Resolutions passed by any Council of a Province relative to the Railways to be constructed in such Province; together with the opinion or recommendation, in writing, of the Superintendent of such Province, and any documents, maps, plans, or drawings referred to therein." AUCKLAND. No. 1. His Honor T. B. Gillies to the Hon. W. Gisborne. Sir, — Superintendent's Office, Auckland, 30th December, 1870. I have the honor to transmit to you herewith an application made by me, in terms of section 6 of "The Immigration and Public AVorks Act, 1870," to His Excellency the Governor, for the continuation of the branch line to Onehunga of the Waikato Railway to the wharf at Geddes' Point, Onehunga. I have, &c, Thomas B. Gillies, The Hon. the Minister for Public Works, Wellington. Superintendent.

Enclosure in No. 1. His Honor T. B. Gillies to His Excellency Sir G. F. Bowen, G.C.M.G., Governor of New Zealand. Sir, — Superintendent's Office, Auckland, 30th December, 1870. I have the honor to enclose copies of resolutions, as per margin, passed by the Auckland Provincial Council, with reference to the continuation of tho railway line to Onehunga; and in pursuance of section 6 of " The Immigration and Public AVorks Act, 1870," I have the honor to request that your Excellency will be pleased to cause such works as you may think fit, to be constructed for continuing the branch line to Onehunga of the Waikato Railway to the wharf at Geddes' Point, Onehunga. I have, &c, His Excellency Sir G. F. Bowen, G.C.M.G., Thomas B. Gillies, Governor of New Zealand. Superintendent. Sub-Enclosure to Enclosure in No. 1. Address No. 48.—Session XXVI., 1870. (Extract from the Journals of the Auckland Provincial Council, Friday, 25th November, 1870.) Resolved, That, in the opinion of this Council, the branch line of the Waikato Railway leading to Onehunga should be continued to the Bluff, and that the construction of that extension should be commenced as early as possible. Resolved, That an Address be presented to His Honor the Superintendent, requesting him to • forward this resolution to His Excellency the Governor, in accordance with the terms of the 6th section of " The Immigration and Public Works Act, 1870." Maurice O'Rorke, His Honor the Superintendent. Speaker. Address 66.—Session XXVI., 1870. (Extract from the Journals of the Auckland Provincial Council, Thursday, Bth December, 1870.) Resolved. —l. That the resolution of this Council, with reference to the continuation of Onehunga Railway to Bluff, passed on the 25th of November last, be rescinded. 2. That, in the opinion of this Council, the proposed railway to Onehunga should have an extension of the line made from the present site of the railway terminus, opposite the Police Office, to the new Government Wharf, at Geddes' Point, where all the steamers frequenting the Manukau now lie. 3. That an Address be presented to His Honor the Superintendent, requesting him to forward these resolutions to His Excellency the Governor, in accordance with the terms of the 6th section of " The Immigration and Public Works Act, 1870." G. Maueice O'Rorke, His Honor the Superintendent. Speaker.

PAPERS RELATING TO THE CONSTRUCTION OF RAILWAYS.

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PAPEES RELATING TO THE

No. 2. His Honor T. B. Gillies to the Hon. AY. Gisborne. Sib, — Superintendent's Office, Auckland, 31st January, 1871. In reply to your letter No. 23, of date the 24th instant, I have the honor to forward herewith copy of resolutions adopted by the Auckland Provincial Council in reference to the operation of "The Immigration and Public AVorks Act, 1870," within this Province, and to state that I concur with the Council in the views expressed by them in such resolutions. Upon receipt of your letter dated the 3rd December ultimo, I lost no time in consulting the Provincial Council upon the subject, but they failed to arrive at any conclusion before the 27th instant (last Friday). I have, &c, Thomas B. Gillies. The Hon. the Colonial Secretary, Wellington. Superintendent.

Enclosure in No. 2. Address No. 127.—Session XXVI. (Extract from the Journals of the Auckland Provincial Council, Friday, 27th January, 1871.) (Note. —The -first three resolutions relate only to immigration and purchase of land, and are not therefore printed herein. They are, however, printed in Papers relating to Immigration, D.—No. 3, page 7.] Resolved, That this Council recommends that the following railway should be undertaken by the Colonial Government, in pursuance of clause 6 of " The Immigration and Public AVorks Act, 1870:"— A continuation of the line from Auckland to AVaikato, by the valley of the AVaikato to the frontier settlements of the AVaikato Delta; and that, if practicable, it should be carried out under the guarantee by the Colony of 6 per cent, upon the outlay. Resolved, That an address be presented to His Honor the Superintendent, requesting him to forward these resolutions to His Excellency the Governor, in accordance with the terms of tho 6th section of " The Immigration and Public Works Act, 1870." G. Maurice O'Rorke, Speaker.

TARANAKI. No. 3. His Honor F. A. Carrington to the Hon. W. Gisborne. Sir, — Superintendent's Office, New Plymouth, Ist August, 1871. I have the honor to enclose herewith copy of a letter which I have received from Messrs. Ross, Hotson, and Co., Civil Engineers and Contractors, of Dunedin, on the matter of constructing railways and colonizing the waste lands between this place and AVanganui ; also, my reply to the letter, and likewise a copy of the resolution passed by the Provincial Council after the said letter had been considered by that body. It will be clear to you, Sir, from what I have stated in my lejtter of the sth April, 1871, No. 29, that until the claims of the Natives to the confiscated lands between Waingongoro and this place be settled, it will be premature to arrange for the making of a railway in that particular locality. I have, &c, F. A. Carrington, The Hon. the Colonial Secretary. Superintendent.

Enclosure 1 in No. 3. Messrs. Ross, Hotson, and Co., to His Honor the Superintendent of Taranaki. Sir, — Princes Street, Dunedin, 30th June, 1871. Some twelve months ago we had the honor of addressing a communication to the Hon. the Colonial Secretary (28th June, 1870,) on the subject of railways in the North Island, of which the enclosed is a copy. The answer received by us was that the matter would be considered; however, as far as we are aware, nothing has been done. We have since learned that it is the Superintendents of Provinces who are expected to inaugurate railways in their various districts, as they have the power to set apart land, and make such other arrangements as may be necessary for the construction and carrying on of same. This being the case, we have taken the liberty of communicating directly with your Honor and with His Honor the Superintendent of AVellington. We are still prepared to carry out the proposals contained in the communication enclosed; and further, to construct and hand over the various railways complete for the sum of £5,000 per mile. In using tho word " complete," we mean that not only shall the railways be formed, but they shall be provided with rolling stock, stations, and every requisite necessary for the proper working of same. We would also include in this sum the purchase of such private lands and properties as might be required for railway purposes. Although prepared to carry out any of the railways agreed on, with a view to the speediest opening up of the country, we would suggest that tho portion between AVanganui and Patea should be the first begun; then the portion from Patea to New Plymouth. Tlie land beyond the AVaitotara River being still unsettled and in the hands of the Government, and being open to be dealt with under the Immigration and Public AVorks Act, we are prepared to accept

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payment for the railway works in land in that district at the rate of one acre for every pound expended in these works. As the principle of payment inland for portions of the intended railways has already been affirmed by the Assembly, we need not enlarge on the many advantages of this mode over others in a country where land is plentiful and money scarce. At the same time, we may be permitted to remark that we agree with the Government in that the real colonization and permanent settlement of the country will be more economically, speedily, and efficiently carried out under this system than under any other, more especially if dealt with in the way we propose to deal with the lands that may be acquired by us. The economy of this method will be apparent from the fact that we would survey and subdivide all the land at our own expense, thus saving to Government the whole cost of surveys and otherwise dealing with it. Land being at present unproductive, our taking it in lieu of money would prove a double profit to the country. It would save the commission and other charges connected with the raising of money, and also the payment of interest on sum paid up before being actually required, and, by increasing the population and productiveness of the country, would provide for the profitable employment of the railways. In order that the country may be settled on as speedily as possible, we intend to commence the surveying and subdividing of the land set apart for us as soon as the railway line is fixed on, and to dispose of same not only to those who may be engaged on the railway works but to others, so that the real work of colonization may be carried on completely in all its branches simultaneously. That the settlement of the country may be done efficiently as well as speedily, it is our intention to circulate large numbers of our land maps, with popularly-written essays on the facilities connected with the acquisition of land, and the many advantages to be derived from settling in such a country as New Zealand, more especially during the time that such extensive public works are being carried on. AYe would appoint agents in the chief towns in Europe ; also in Australia and America, more particularly in the latter countries, as by so doing we would secure a number of enterprising and experienced colonists without delay. AYe are aware that in South Australia there are large numbers of industrious settlers anxious to leave on account of their lands being exhausted. Our first care would be to induce as many of these to come over as possible. Believing that to settle a country efficiently it is necessary that the people coming to it should follow a large variety of occupations, therefore we would offer every encouragement to mechanics and manufacturers to come over. To induce settlers to engage in the manufacture of flax, iron, and other Native products, would be one of our chief aims, and we would aid them in every possible way by setting apart and granting sites specially adapted for such industries. In subdividing the land, due care would be taken to reserve sites for churches, mechanics' institutes, and other public purposes. In fact, as it would be the interest of a company to have the lands Bpeedily and profitably occupied, we would bestow great attention on this subject, and would also work heartily with the Government in striving to obtain the desired end. Hoping our proposals will merit your early- consideration, AYe have, &c, Ross, Hotson, Payman, Walker, and Co., His Honor the Superintendent of Taranaki. Civil Engineers aud Contractors.

Enclosure 2 in No. 3. Gentlemen, — Superintendent's Office, New Plymouth, Ist August, 1871. . I have the honor to acknowledge the receipt of your letter of the 30th June, 1871, together with a copy of that which you addressed to the Hon. the Colonial Secretary on the 20th June, 1870, in reference to laying out and completing lines of railway, and colonizing the waste lands of this country. In reply, I beg to inform you that I have perused your communication, and also laid it before the Provincial Council, but beyond this I regret to say that until I go to AVellington and confer with tho General Government on this most important matter, I shall not be in a position to make any arrangements for carrying out the desirable work in question. I purpose leaving this place on the, 10th instant for the General Assembly, and so soon as I shall have had an opportunity of consulting Ministers on the subject of your letter, I will again write to you. I enclose a copy of a resolution of the Provincial Council consequent on your letter. I have, <&c, F. A. Carrington, Messrs. Ross, Hotson, and Co., Civil Engineers, Dunedin. Superintendent. Sub-Enclosure to Enclosure 2 in No. 3. Extract from Minutes of Provincial Council of Taranaki. Council Chambers, New Plymouth, Thursday, 27th July, IS7I. Resolved, That a respectful Address be presented to His Honor the Superintendent, requesting him to enter into correspondence with the Colonial Government, and with Messrs. Ross, Hotson, and Co., with regard to the construction of a railway between New Plymouth and AVanganui by that firm. Provided that no arrangements should bo concluded for which the Province of Taranaki is to be liable without being laid in detail before this Council. James B. Lawson, Clerk, Provincial Council. 2

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HAWKE'S BAY. No. 4. His Honor J. D. Ormond to the Hon. W. Gisboene. Sir, — Superintendent's Office, Napier, Ist June, 1871. On the 4th May I had the honor to send you the draft of a Bill I purposed submitting to the Provincial Council of this Province on the subject of setting aside lands for railways, and requesting the favour of a reply as to whether the proposed Act provided sufficiently for the object desired. On the 13th May you were good enough to send me the opinion of the Attorney-General, who thought the Bill premature, and recommended the passing of resolutions agreeing to set aside lands. I now enclose copy of a resolution passed unanimously by the Provincial Council, by which that body undertakes to appropriate by Act, in terms of the 17th and 20th clauses of " The Immigration and Public AA rorks Act, 1870," such waste lands of the Crown in this Province as may be required to secure the construction of the proposed railways. As the purchase of the Seventy-Mile Bush is now virtually completed, this undertaiung includes those lands. I shall be glad to hear from you by telegraph, on receipt of this letter, whether you consider the resolution sufficient for the purpose it is intended for, in order that, if it requires amendment, it may be done before the Session of the Provincial Council terminates. I have, &c, J. D. Ormond, The Hon. the Colonial Secretary, AVellington. Superintendent.

Enclosure in No. 4. Resolution of Provincial Council of Hawke's Bay. Mr. Ormond moved—" AVhereas by the 12th clause of " The Railways Act, 1870," the Governor is authorized to cause such inquiries, reports, and surveys to be made, and such acts and proceedings to be taken, as may be necessary to enable him to submit to the General Assembly during its next Session proposals for the construction of a railway from Napier to AVellington aud from Wellington to AVanganui and New Plymouth : And whereas by the 17th and 20th clauses of " The Immigration and Public Works Act, 1870," it is provided that the waste lands of the Crown in any Province may be set aside, sold, or given in lieu of payment for tho construction of railways : And whereas this Council desires to express its willingness to make provision for the construction of the railway from Napier to AVellington and the AVest Coast, —It is resolved, that this Council undertakes to set aside and appropriate by Act, in terms of the 17th and 20th clauses of "The Immigration and Public Works Act, 1870," such parts of the waste lands of the Crown situate within the Province of Hawke's Bay as may be required for the construction of the railways above referred to ; and further undertakes, "that, on the completion of the purchase of the lands known as the Seventy-Mile Bush, such portion of thoso lands as may be required shall be included in such appropriation for the purpose aforesaid." Mr. Tanner seconded the resolution. Carried unanimously. Jno. Buchanan, Speaker.

No. 5. His Honor J. D. Ormond to the Hon. W. Gisborne. Sic, — Superintendent's Office, Napier, 6th June, 1871. I have the honor to transmit copy of resolution unanimously agreed to by the Provincial Council, undertaking to set aside such lands as may be required in terms of tho 17th and 20th clauses of " The Immigration and Public AVorks Act, 1870," for the construction of the railways that may be agreed to by the General Assembly within the boundaries of this Province. Now that the purchase of the Seventy-Mile Bush is virtually completed, a very large and valuable estate will be available ; and, by the resolution of the Council, whatever portion of these lands may be required is agreed to be set aside and granted. I trust the early assent of the General Assembly will be given for the construction of the railway from Wellington to Napier and from the Seventy-Mile Bush to the AVest Coast, so that the colonization and settlement of the extensive district it will open may be proceeded with. I have, &c, J. D. Ormond, The Hon. the Colonial Secretary, AVelliDgton. Superintendent.

Enclosure in No. 5. Resolution of Provincial Council, Hawke's Bay. Mr. Ormond moved—" Whereas by the 12th clause of " The Railway Act, 1870," the Governor is authorized to cause such inquiries, reports, and surveys to be made, and such acts and proceedings to be taken, as may be necessary to enable him to submit to the General Assembly, during its next Session, proposals for the construction of a railway from Napier to AVellington and from AVellington to AVanganui and New Plymouth : And whereas by the 17th and 20th clauses of " The Immigration and Public Works Act, 1870," it is provided that the waste lands of the Crown in any Province may be set aside, sold, or given in lieu of payment for the construction of railways : And whereas this Council desires to express its willingness to make provision for tho construction of the railway from

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Napier to Wellington and the West Coast, —It is resolved, that this Council undertakes to set aside and appropriate by Act, in terms of the 17th and 20th clauses of " The Immigration and Public Works Act, 1870," such parts of the waste lands of the Crown situate within the Province of Hawke's Bay as may be required for the construction of the railways above referred to ; and further undertakes, that, on the completion of the purchase of the lands known as the Seventy-Mile Bush, such portion of those lands as may be required shall be included in such appropriation for the purposes aforesaid." The resolution was agreed to unanimously. Geo. T. Fannin, Clerk of Council.

WELLINGTON. No. 6. The Hon. W. Fitzherbert to the Hon. W. Gisborne. Sir, — Superintendent's Office, AVellington, llth July, 1871. I have the honor to forward you herewith copy of a memorandum of railway works recommended by the Provincial Council of Wellington to be undertaken by the General Government; and I beg to state that it expresses the wishes of the Provincial Council, and has my entire approval. I have, &c, W. Fitzherbert, The Hon. the Colonial Secretary, Wellington. Superintendent.

Enclosure in No. 6. Memorandum of Railway AVorks recommended by the Provincial Council of Wellington to be undertaken by the General Government. A main line of railway from AVellington to Patea, passing through AVairarapa, Manawatu Gorge, and AVanganui, having been surveyed by the General Government, this Council recommends to the General Assembly the adoption of the said line, and is of opinion that the following portions of the line should be immediately proceeded with : — 1. Wellington to Masterton. 2. AVanganui to AVaitotara. 3. Wanganui to the Village of Marton, or to such point nearest to Marton as the line may run. This Council is also of opinion that it will greatly facilitate and encourage the more speedy settlement of large areas of valuable bush country, and he of high value to the operations of defence, if the intermediate portions of the aforesaid main line are opened up as soon possible by means of a light tramroad, preparatory to the formation of the permanent way, which would by this means be formed when required with far greater ease, economy, and despatch, through labourers being already settled along the line of way, through the saving in cost of transit of materials and supplies, and through the expenditure on the tramroad being really only a prior instalment of tho necessary labour on the permanent way.

NELSON. No. 7. His Honor Oswald Curtis to the Hon. W. Gisborne. Sir, — Superintendent's Office, Nelson, 7th July, 1871. I have the honor to transmit herewith copies of three resolutions passed by the Provincial Council of Nelson, recommending that the following works should be executed under the provisions of " The Immigration and Public Works Act, 1870" :— A railway from Nelson to Foxhill. A railway from Cobden to the Brunner coal mine. A railway from AVestport to the Mount Rochfort coal field. In my letter to you of the 13th April last, I have already expressed my concurrence with the Provincial Council as regards the two first named undertakings, and as the necessary surveys are now in course of execution by order of the Hon. Minister for Public Works, it would be superfluous to add to what I have already written on the subject. With reference to the proposed lino from Westport to the Mount Rochfort coal field, I forward or your information a copy of a report by Mr. Henry Wrigg, of a hasty examination of the country by him in 186S, and I further refer you to the same gentleman's report upon the proposed line from Nelson to Cobden and Westport, of which I. also furnish you with a copy.* By the accompanying copy of the report of the Select Committee, upon which the resolution of the Council in favour of the construction of a railway from Westport to Mount Rochfort was founded, you will observe that the impression appears to have prevailed in the mind of the Council, that, on more complete exploration, a less expensive route than that indicated by Mr. Wrigg may be discovered and, also, that by the adoption of the wire tramway, or other less costly means of conveying the coal to the port, a large reduction may be made from Mr. AVrigg's estimate, which, including rolling stock, amounts to about £120,000.

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I think, also, that some further and more complete scientific exploration of the Mount Rochfort coal field would he desirable before the precise route and terminus of the line are decided upon, as it appears to be not improbable that workable seams of coal may be discovered in a more accessible position than those hitherto examined, and that the cost of the line might thereby be brought largely under the sum estimated by Mr. Wrigg. I have, therefore, to suggest that in the event of the Colonial Government, end the Assembly consenting to the execution of this work, its actual construction should be preceded, not only by additional exploration and survey beyond that made by Mr. Wrigg, but by a careful examination of the Mount Rochfort coal field itself, by the officers of the Colonial Geological Department. I have, &c, Oswald Curtis, The Hon. the Colonial Secretary, Wellington. Superintendent. * Nelson Gazette, No. 20, of 23rd April, 1868. Enclosure 1 in No. 7. Resolutions passed by the Provincial Council of Nelson on Tuesday, 2nd May, 1871. 1. That in the opinion of this Council, it is highly desirable that the line of railway from Cobden to the Brunner coal mine should be constructed without delay. 2. That in the opinion of this Council it is highly desirable that the lino of railway from Nelson to Foxhill should be constructed without delay. Enclosure 2 in No. 7. Resolution passed by the Provincial Council of Nelson on Friday, 26th May, 1871. That in the opinion of this Council, it is highly desirable that a line of railway from Westport to the Mount Rochfort coal field should be constructed under the authority of, and in the maimer provided by, the Public AVorks and Immigration Act.

Enclosure 3 in No. 7. Report of the Select Committee of the Nelson Provincial Council, on the best means of developing the Mount Rochfort Coal Field. Your Committee, in dealing with the subject submitted to them for inquiry, have done so with an eminent sense of the extent and value of the inquiries which have already been made in connection with the same subject by Select Committees of the Council, and by scientific men, who, at different periods, were specially selected for the purpose by the Provincial Government. Acquaintance with the recommendations of these several Committees and Commissioners considerably relieved your Committee from the necessity for carrying out any close inquiry as to the characteristics of the coal field, or as to the description of works best calculated to promote its development. According to all the reports furnished to the Council, and according to the now very generally distributed information on the subject, the coal field in question is quite exceptional in the Colony, by its vast extent and by the superior quality of the coal; and the one desideratum in connection with its development, seems to be the construction of a line of railway from the most conveniently approached point of the field—first to the port of AVestport, and ultimately to any main line of rail laid down between the two Provincial termini, Nelson and Cobden. The obstacles which have hitherto existed in the way of such a work being undertaken, have been high, and your Committee are disposed to believe, exaggerated estimate formed as to the cost of constructing a sufficiently suitable railway from Mount Rochfort to Westport, and the absence of adequate encouragement, by guaranteed interest or otherwise, to any company of capitalists who might be prepared to undertake that work solely, without reference to the general proposal of a railway from Nelson to the AVest Coast. Your Committee consider that a further and close examination of the country, undertaken with a view to the construction of the lighter forms of railway, or wire tramway, now so generally recommended as the works most suitable for similar situations, would result in demonstrating that sufficient facilities for the conveyance of coal from the mine to Westport might be furnished at a much lower cost than that indicated in existing estimates. Though they have no actual evidence before them that such would be the case, they feel justified in coming to that conclusion by their partial knowledge of the situation, and by a comparison of the results in similar situations where the more modern systems of railway construction have been adopted. They are further justified in doing so by the statement contained in Mr. AVrigg's report, that, in the actual construction of the proposed railway, the discovery of coal in closer proximity to AVestport is a highly probable contingency. And with regard to the best means of encouraging the construction of such works, and thereby developing this valuable coal field, your Committee consider that ample primary provision for that purpose is made by two measures, passed during the last Session of the General Assembly, " The Immigration and Public AVorks Act, 1870;" and they venture to consider that, if advantage is to be taken of these Acts, (sic) with a proper regard for the general interest of the Province, and with an equal regard for the development of a portion of the public estate, which is of the highest value to the Colony as a whole, the construction of a railway from the Rochfort Coal Field to the port of AVestport, either as a separate line, or as an integral and essential portion of the Nelson and AVest Coast Railway, is one of the works which should be specially recommended by the Council to His Excellency the Governor.

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UUI.OII-UVjll'-'iX \J±! J_V2l_A__J TV Jti. AO.

The Committee are, therefore, of opinion that, with a view to promote the early execution of the proposed work, His Honor the Superintendent should be empowered to take, in this case, as in the case of the proposed Brunner and Foxhill Railways, the steps necessary to bring it under the notice of the Governor, and they beg to submit for the adoption of the Council, the following resolution: — " That in the opinion of this Council, it is highly desirable that a line of railway from Westport to the Mount Rochfort coal field should be constructed under the authority of, and in the manner provided by, 'The Public Works and Immigration Act, 1870.' " Alexandee Reid, Chairman.

CANTERBURY. No. 8. His Honor W. Rolleston to the Hon. W. Gisborne. Superintendent's Office, Sic, — Christchurch, Canterbury, 10th November, 1870. I have the honor herewith to enclose copy of resolutions passed by the Provincial Council recommending the construction of certain railways in this Province, in addition to the railways authorized by " The Railways Act, 1870." I have, &C., W. Rolleston, The Hon. the Colonial Secretary, AVellington. Superintendent.

Enclosure in No. 8. Resolutions passed. 1. That, in view of the proposed extension of railway communication throughout the Colony, under the provisions of " The Immigration and Public Works Act, 1870," this Council is of opinion that in the Province of Canterbury, in addition to the railways authorized by " The Railways Act, 1870," the following lines should be undertaken —-viz., the extension of the Southern Line from the Rakaia to the Temuka, and from Timaru to the AVaitaki, and the extension of the Northern Line to the River Hurunui. 2. That at the above works the following sections should be proeeded with so as to be completed within two years from the present date—viz., the extension of the Northern Line to the River Waipara and of the Southern Line from the Rakaia to the River Ashburton. including a railway bridge across that river, and from Temuka to the Orari. 3. That it is desirable the branch railway from the Rolleston Station, on the Southern Line toSouthbridge, should be proceeded with as speedily as possible, under the provisions of the Immigral tion and Public Works Act, and that the sum of £7,000 should be contributed out of the Provincia chest towards the cost of this work. 4. That lines of tramway or railway to branch from the Northern and Southern Trunk Linos respectively should be constructed, under the provisions of the above Act, to tho coal deposits in the Malvern Hills and to Oxford. 5. That information regarding the above lines of railway, the country to be traversed by them, and the probable traffic receipts, be forwarded, together with a copy of these resolutions, to the Colonial Government, through His Honor the Superintendent, requesting that the necessary surveys, plans, and estimates of cost may be proceeded with without delay. 6. That inasmuch as the sum of £7,000 has already been provided by the Province towards the construction of the railway between Timaru and Temuka, it is expedient, in the event of any delay taking place in the raising of funds for railway purposes by the Colonial Government, that the above sum should be made use of for the immediate prosecution of the necessary detailed surveys on this line, and for the commencement of the work in the neighbourhood of Timaru. Provincial Council Chambers, 2nd November, 1870.

No. 9. His Honor "W. Bollesto>' to the Hon. W. Gisbobnk. Sin, — Superintendent'8 Office, Christchurch, 5th August, 1871. I have the honor to forward herewith copies of resolutions passed by the Provincial Council, referring respectively to the transfer of railways to the Colonial Government, and the crossing place, at the Eiver Ashley, of the Northern Railway. I have, &c. W. Eollistoit, The Hon. the Colonial Secretary. Superintendent. Enclosure 1 in No. 9. ReSOI/UTIOXS. 1. That this Council having before it the correspondence between the Colonial Government and the Provincial Government of Canterbury, on the subject of the provisional arrangement under which 3

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the railway works in this Province are now being carried on, begs to express its approval of such provisional arrangement having been entered into by the Provincial Government. 2. That this Council concurs in the proposal contained in the letter from the Colonial Secretary of the llth July, 1871, that such railway works shall now be taken over by the Colonial Government, the amount of money already expended thereon by the Provincial Government being refunded to it in accordance with the terms of the arrangement above referred to. 3. That this concurrence is expressed in the confident hope that the commencement of the railway between the Rakaia and the Selwyn, and between Temuka and Timaru, as well as the continuation of the Northern Line from Kaiapoi to Southbrook, for which works the plans and specifications are all but complete, will suffer no delay from the proposed transfer. 4. That with a view of promoting the early construction of tramways within the Province, this Council will be prepared to appropriate the following sums in aid of such works out of moneys to be refunded by the Colonial Government, viz.: — Tramway to Oxford ... ... ... ... ... ... £10,000 „ ' Eyreton ... ... ... ... ... ... 5,000 „ Malvern ... ... ... ... ... ... 10,000 „ Ellesmere District, including the expenditure on the Selwyn Bridge ... ... ... ... ... ... 12,000 Such tramways to be constructed by the Provincial Government, subject to such control on the part of the Colonial Government, in respect of the description of the work and the direction of the lines, as will enable the Colonial Government to undertake the continuance of these tramways when it may be in a position to set apart the necessary funds for that purpose. Resolved, That the line called in the report of the Acting Engineer-in-Chief of the Colonial Government the Ashley Township Line, is the one, of the three lines therein reported on, best calculated to serve the best interests of this Province.

OTAGO. No. 10. His Honor J. Macandrew to the Hon. W. Gisborne. Province of Otago, N.Z., Sir, — Superintendent's Office, Dunedin, 22nd June, 1871. I have the honor to acknowledge the receipt of your letter of the 29th ultimo, and to thank you for the assurance that the General Government has received with great satisfaction the expression " of the wish of the Provincial Government of Otago to aid in the advancement of the interests of that Province by a cordial co-operation in giving practical effect to the colonizing policy sanctioned by the late Parliament, and that on their part they sincerely reciprocate that wish ;" and that " it will be their duty, as it is their desire, to consult and act in harmony with the Provincial authorities of Otago in devising and executing practical measures under the authority of that Act." As a further evidence of the desire of this Province to assist and co-operate with the General Government in the matter, I have to forward copy of my Message No. 5, of Ist June, to the Provincial Council, and the resolution passed on the Bth instant by that body in reply. I have, Ac, J. Macandrew, The Hon. the Colonial Secretary, AVellington. Superintendent.

Enclosure 1 in No. 10. Message No. 5, Superintendent, Otago, to Provincial Council. The Superintendent transmits herewith Despatch just received from the Honorable the Colonial Secretary, in which he invites, in pursuance of the 6th section of " The Immigration and Public Works Act, 1870," the expression of the opinion of the Superintendent and Provincial Council, relative to the construction of certain lines of railway, with a view to those opinions being laid, in terms of said section, before the General Assembly at its next Session. The Superintendent solicits the concurrence of the Provincial Council in the construction of the line in question. J. Macandrew, Ist June, 1871. Superintendent. -.

Enclosure 2 in No. 10. Reply to Superintendent's Message No. 5. —Otago Provincial Council. TnAT this Council having had under its consideration the communication from the Hon. the Colonial Secretary, contained in His Honor's Message No. 5, — Resolved, That this Council acquiesces in the construction of the railway between Dunedin and Balclutha so far as it has made progress, and respectfully requests that the Colonial Government will continue its construction and complete it at the earliest possible time, and will take all necessary steps to obtain the concurrence of His Excellency the Governor and the sanction of the General Assembly

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to the immediate construction of the following lines of railway in terms of " The Immigration and Public Works Act, 1870," namely :— 1. Invercargill to Mataura. 2. Waitaki to Moeraki, thence to Waikouaiti. 3. Tokomairiro to Tuapeka. 4. Mossgiel to Outram. 5. Winton to Kingston ; and 6. Balclutha to Mataura. Passed the Provincil Council, Bth June, 1871. Chas. Smith, Clerk of Council. Jno. G. Gillies, Speaker.

No. 11. His Honor J. Macandrew to the Hon. W. Gisborne. Sir, — Superintendent's Office, Dunedin, 24th July, 1871. Referring to my letter of 22nd June, forwarding resolutions of the Provincial Council as to the construction of certain railway lines therein specified, I have now to transmit herewith further resolutions recommending the following, viz.: — Branch Railway, Papakaio to Greytown. Railway between AVaikouaiti and Dunedin. Railway —Tokomairiro to Lawrence ; together with Petition of certain Residents in Dunedin and Tuapeka relative thereto. Railway —Oamaru to Waiareka. Recommending the respective lines to the favourable consideration of" the Government, I have, &c, J. Macandrew, The Hon. the Colonial Secretary, Wellington. Superintendent.

Enclosure 1 in No. 11. Resolution of Provincial Council of Otago: Branch Line of Railway, Papakaio to Greytown. That a branch line of railway from the Main Trunk Line at Pukeuri Point, Papakaio to Greytown, Awamoko Creek, a distance of about twelve miles, be placed in the Second Schedule of Railways to be recommended for the sanction of the General Assembly to be constructed in terms of " The Immigration and Public AVorks Act, 1870." (Mr. Sumpter and Mr. Mervyn.) Passed the Provincial Council, 13th June, 1871. Chas. Smith, Clerk of Council. John G. Gillies, Speaker.

Enclosure 2 in No. 11. Resolution of Provincial Council of Otago : Railway Line between Waikouaiti and Dunedin. That an Address be presented to His Honor the Superintendent, requesting him to urge the Colonial Government to cause the survey of a railway line between AVaikouaiti and Dunedin fo be effected, with the view of having that line constructed at an early period. (Mr. McKenzie.) Passed the Provincial Council, llth June, 1871. Chas. Smith, Clerk of Council. John G. Gillies, Speaker.

Enclosure 3 in No. 11. Resolution of Provincial Council of Otago: Petition of certain Residents of Dunedin and Tuapeka. That an Address be presented to His Honor the Superintendent, requesting that he will be pleased to forward for the information of the General Government the petition of certain residents in Dunedin and Tuapeka, having reference to tbe construction of a railway from Tokomairiro to Lawrence (presented to the Council by the Provincial Secretary ou the 23rd November, 1870), together with a copy of the Report of the Select Committee upon the same, and to request the General Government to lay the same upon the table of the General Assembly. (Mr. Bastings.) Passed the Provincial Council 16th June, 1871. Chas. Smith, Clerk of Council. John G. Gillies, Speaker.

Enclosure 4 in No. 11. Resolution of Provincial Council of Otago: Railway between Oamaru and Waiareka. That in the opinion of this Council it is very desirable that encouragement should be given to parties who may be willing to enter into contract with the Government for the construction of railways on the principle of guaranteed interest on capital employed. Certain parties having offered to construct a railway between Oamaru and AVaiareka on tho terms above stated, it is the opinion of this Council that this railway will open up a large grain and stone producing district, and prove a valuable feeder to the main line. That His Honor the Superintendent be recommended to request the General Government to grant a guarantee, for a period not exceeding twenty years at the rate of 6 per cent., for the construction of this railway, not to exceed in cost £3,000 per mile: Provided that any deficiency which the Government may be required to pay under the guarantee, shall be charged

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against the district or districts through which the branch line of railway may be constructed, and that power be given to defray the deficiency of guarantee (if any) by the levy of an assessment or assessments over the districts for that purpose. (Mr. Sumpter.) Passed the Provincial Council, 27th June, 1871. Chas. Smith, Clerk of Council. Jno. G. Gillies, Speaker.

Enclosure 5 in No. 11. To the Honourable the Provincial Council of the Province of Otago, The Memorial of the undersigned, Residents of Tuapeka and other Places in the Province of Otago: Humbly Sheweth, — That your Memorialists have learned with satisfaction that the Government intend topromote the construction of the Otago Southern Trunk Railway. Your Memorialists respectfully submit that in conjunction with the proposed line a branch line in connection therewith, as far as the Township of Lawrence, would be eminently desirable and tend greatly to make the main line directly reproductive. Your Memorialists submit the following grounds in favour of the above suggestion, namely :— 1. The traffic between Tuapeka and Dunedin is at present greatly in excess of that between Balclutha and Dunedin. 2. If such a line were constructed, all the traffic between the greater portion of the Otago gold fields and Dunedin, which at present is chiefly carried round by a difficult, tedious, and lengthened route, would be diverted to Lawrence and be carried along the railway line. 3. The proposed branch line would not exceed twenty miles in length, and presents no engineering difficulties of any magnitude, and might therefore be constructed at a small cost. 4. It would pass through country all of which is well suited for settlement, and which is at present being rapidly occupied. 5. The land for the site of the proposed line is still in possession of the Crown, and the difficulty and cost of treating with private proprietors would not occur. 6. The great difficulty that would accrue upon the maintenance of the main line of road from the entire absence of suitable material would render the maintenance very costly and inefficient. 7. It has been conceded by all engineers acquainted with the gold fields that the route by way of Tuapeka is the natural highway to the interior of Otago, and that which any railway hereafter constructed must necessarily follow. Your Memorialists would respectfully draw your attention to the Statistics and Papers published from time to time by the Government of Otago, which, if examined, will furnish much of the necessary information and will conclusively substantiate the statements of your Memorialists. Your Memorialists have learned with satisfaction that the gauge on which railways are to be constructed in the Colony is to be established at 3 feet 6 inches, which would put the Government in a position to construct the proposed line to Tuapeka, as well as the line to Balclutha, at a probable cost for the whole not exceeding £365,000. Your Memorialists therefore pray that your Honourable Council will authorize the construction of the railway to Lawrence, in conjunction with the Southern Trunk Railway, and take such steps as to your wisdom may seem best, to include the line to Tuapeka in the guarantee already provided for the remainder of the Otago Southern Trunk Railway. And your Petitioners will ever pray. [Here follow 466 signatures.]

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