REPORTS FROM NATIVE MEDICAL OFFICERS

Appendix to the Journals of the House of Representatives, 1885 Session I, G-02a

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1885. NEW ZEALAND.

REPORTS FROM NATIVE MEDICAL OFFICERS

Presented to both Houses of the General Assembly by Command of His Excellency.

No. 1. The Under-Secretary, Native Department, to Native Medical Officers. . (Circular No. G.) Sir,— Native Office, Wellington, 20th April, 18S5. I have the honour, by direction of the Native Minister, to ask you to be good enough to favour him with a report on the sanitary state of the Natives in your district. As the report is intended for presentation to Parliameut, it is desirable that it should be forwarded to this Office by the 20th proximo. I have, <fee., T. W. Lewis, Under-Secretary.

No. 2. Dr. Trimnell, Mongonui, to the Under-Secretary, Native Department. (No. 85/1538.) Sir,— Mongonui, 4th May, 1885. I have the honour to forward a report on the sanitary state of the Natives in the District of Mongonui. For the last two years typhoid fever has been very prevalent; many deaths having occurred. In the various villages distant from Mongonui itself they appear to have suffered more severely ; but on the whole, comparing the rate of mortality with that of previous years, I consider it less ; probably, through the care and attention of those gentlemen who have been kindly supplied by the Government with drugs for the use of the Natives. Oa the whole, however, with the exception of typhoid fever, there is less disease amongst them than formerly; and this I attribute to their more sober habits and general prosperity. I have, &c, Tuos. Jas. Trimnell, The Under-Secretary, Native Department, Wellington. Native Medical Officer.

No. 3. Mr. E. Spencer, Hokianga, to the Under Secretary, Native Department. (No. 85/1539.) Sir, — Native Dispensary, Herd's Point, Hokianga, 6th May, 1885. In accordance with the instructions contained in your Circular Letter No. G, dated the 20th April, and in pursuance of my duties as Native Medical Officer for this district, I have the honour to present my report of the sanitary or other condition of the district, and likewise of the number and class of the maladies treated during the past year. I regret to have to point out to you the fact that lately there has been an amount of sickness arising from zymotic disease, affecting that portion of my district adjoining the Bay of Islands County, near Kaikohe, and extending to Te Taheke ; the spread of the disease, typhoid fever, has to some extent depended upon the infection being carried from one portion of the district to the other through carelessness, and also upon the insanitary conditions in the locality now affected. The disease has not attacked any portion of my district wherein a Native school has been established, so that there has been no check to educational matters in that respect. I have carefully inspected all cases of sickness arising from zymotic disease that have been reported, and have notified the Resident Magistrate, and informed him as to the origin in each case, and also have reported any insanitary conditions which I considered likely to influence or promote disease among the

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Native people ; furthermore, I have repeatedly expostulated with the Natives for continuing to inhabit the unhealthy localities, at the same time drawing their attention to the rapidity with which the disease has spread under these conditions, and likewise the almost total absence of disease of any character under favourable and other circumstances. They, however, treat the mattter with indifference, and the conditions in nearly every case remain unaltered. There is no doubt but that the feeling of absolute security from attack by a hostile band, which has obtained since the establishment of British rule, is the prime cause or reason why the Natives have adopted the injurious practice of building their kaingas on the low-lying grounds adjoining their cultivations, where there is little or no drainage, and where the dank, unwholesome atmosphere is fertile in producing and augmenting all diseases of a zymotic character, or of affections of the respiratory organs, more especially among those of a scrofulous diathesis. It is with sincere regret, then, that I have to report that the conditions just mentioned may be considered the sanitary state of the district under my charge, and yet, taking it as a whole, it is not to be considered worse than most other localities in the north of this Island, and it is only under circumstances the most aggravated where infectious diseases establish themselves. The district during the past year has, until latterly, been exceptionally free from contagious disorders, and, I may say, that the recent advent of typhoid fever may be accounted for by their living under canvas, and in wretched tenements during the excitement caused by an outbreak of a superstitious nature at Kaikohe, and the subsequent hardships experienced by the young, whose parents were attending the Native Land Court at this place ; the children being left improperly, or rather negligently, to their own devices, with an insufficiency of food, and that of a bad quality, and all this combined with the unhealthy situation chosen for their habitations. There is one other matter, I may mention here, as perhaps being worthy of remark, affecting as it does the existence of the race, and that is, the carelessness, amounting to culpability, of the maidens from the age of purberty to marriage ; the baneful practices adopted by them at and during the periods of menstruation, whereby they suffer chills, etc., supervened by fever in many cases, and which cause a cessation of the function, and, of course, affecting altogether the healthy condition of the female. The depraved condition thus established cannot but be viewed with anxiety, for there is an increased tendency to the insidious development of many general and local diseases, consumption amongst the number, and I feel sure that the unfruitfulnoss so apparent in the young wives of to-day, is to be attributed in a great measure to these hurtful practices. It is, however, a difficult matter to convince them that their careless or wilful conduct is the immediate cause of their present distress or their future decimation and final extinction. To enumerate and classify the cases treated during the past year, I give the following figures and diseases in general terms, viz.:—Affections of the respiratory organs, 87 ; general causes, 72 ; functional, as above reported, 18 ; zymotic disease, 10 ; and injuries, 6. Total number of cases, 193. I have, (fee, The Under-Secretary, Native Department, Wellington. Robinson Spencer.

No. 4. Mr. W. S. Kinc, Waimate North, to the Under-Secretary, Native Department. No. 85/1540. Sir,— Waimate North, 6th May, 1885. In reply to your request through your Secretary, re the sanitary state of the Natives in my district, I have the honour to report, that at the present time there is no serious sickness, with the exception of an occasional case of low fever, which in the summer months was so prevalent in some parts, particularly Kaikohe. Medical returns to the end of March have been forwarded to the Native Office, Wellington. I have, &c., William S. King, The Hon. Native Minister, Wellington. Native Dispenser.

No. 5. Dr. Payne, Thames, to the Under-Secretary*, Native Department. Sir,— Thames, May 13th, 1885. In accordance with your Circular of April 20th, I now beg to report on the sanitary state of the Natives in this district. I may premise, however, that, in the absence of any special instructions as to any special point, I find some difficulty in doing so. Again, the population being to a considerable extent migratory, many of them coming from a considerable distance, it is difficult to give anything approaching to a percentage of the sick in the district. As a whole, the health of the Native population is fairly good, and there has been an entire absence of any epidemic disease during the past fifteen months, i.e., from January Ist, 1884, to March 31st, 1885. The great majority of cases that have come under my notice being tubercular and pulmonary ; and, while giving all due allowance to hereditary taint, a very prolific cause of these diseases may be found in their manner of living. Take an instance in point:—l visited lately a mother and baby at Te Kopata : the mother was suffering from bronchopneumonia, and was coughing so violently as to threaten the rupture of a blood vessel; the baby was suffering from acute bronchitis, and both were lying on a mat spread on the bare ground, in a small whare, some 6xß feet, the walls being so imperfect as to admit the wind freely in all directions—indeed, to my mind, most uncomfortably so. Again, I have found the opposite extreme, some cabins being so close and stuffy, and so full of smoke from a fire smouldering on the ground, that it required some practice to see at all. Some of the Maoris, again, are living in well-built houses, of a European type.

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But even among the better class of Natives, their habits as regards dress might, as it appears to me, be changed greatly for the better. 1 now refer more especially to the practice of turning out in heavy great coat, &c, &c, on a warm day, while on a cold and wet one the same persons may be met with apparently nothing on but a shirt and a well-worn blanket. In matters of diet, moreover, there remains much to be desired in some districts. For instance, in the Ngatihako settlement, they live principally, if not exclusively, on shell-fish and rotton corn, the odour of the latter being disccrnable at quite a long distance from their habitations. A large proportion of cases other than tubercular may, I think, bo traced to the above-mentioned causes. As you will perceive by the appendix sent herewith, the actual number of eases coming under my care during the last fifteen months was seventy-seven (77). Of those, there have died, 6 ; recovered, 51 ; and relieved (which includes those cases under treatment on March 31st), 19 ; while one, a case of cancer, refused treatment. These may be classified as follows :— Tubercular and Pulmonary ... ... ... ... 24 Pertussis ... ... ... ... ... ... 4 Ulcers ... ... ... ... ... ... 3 Eczema and Erysipelas ... ... ... ... 2 Syphilis and Syphilitic Sores ... ... ... ... 3 Piheumatism and Rheumatic Fever ... ... ... 4 Dysenteric Diarrhoea ... ... ... ... ... 2 Other Intestinal Cases ... ... ... ... 7 Dentition ... ... ... ... ... 1 Odontalgia and Otitis... ... ... ... ... 7 Conjunctivitis (4) and Cephalalgia (2) ... ... ... G Diseases incidental to the Puerperal state and Pregnancy ... ... 2 Mammary Abscess ... ... ... ... ... 1 ( Fractures ... ... ... ... 3 c ■-,_-, ml Contusions ... ... ... ... 1 Surgical Cases, 7< _, . .. , c „ , , -, D ' \ Penetrating wound from iisnook ... ... 1 \ Tumours ... ... ... ... 2 Malignant diseases ... ... ... ... ... 1 Kidney diseases ... ... ... ... ... 3 Total ... ... 77 Of the cases above enumerated, one case was treated bj* me in the Thames Hospital, viz., Peter Kuke, compound fracture of internal malleolus and fibula of right foot. On looking back, during the past eleven years, one cannot but be struck with the great progress of the Native population in the upward march of civilization. Some young men of the rising generation are bidding fair to become well educated, even after a European model; while in morals they might serve as examples to be copied with advantage by many of their white brethren. In matters of cleanliness, however, there yet remains very much to be desired. I think if they could be persuaded to live more on plain nourishing food, such as beef, mutton, eggs, and milk, and less on fish (more especially shell fish), and to abstain altogether from that native luxury —rotten corn, —and, at the same time, to pay more regard to clothing in respect to seasons, and less in respect to show; and if their dwelling places could bo rendered more healthy with a few other sanitary precautions, there would bo far less danger of the race becoming extinct than at present unfortunately exists. I have not yet alluded to the temperance aspect of the district, but a very marked change for the better has made itself manifest here during the past two or three years in this respect ; indeed, T believe that at present the great majority of the natives in this district have joined the Blue Ribbon movement, and intoxication is, in consequence, exceedingly rare. I have, <fee, Martin H. Patnk, M.R.C.S., L.R.C.P., Nativo Medical Officer, Thames District.

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Enclosure to No. 5. Report of Native Cases treated by me, from January 1st, 1884, to March 31 st, 1885.

Name. Age. SiResidence. Disease. Besult. Perimona Wateni Mauilma Ohepa Kapene... Tomati Walker Wira ... Arapati Bawiri Karaitiana Koke te Batene Buikana Karchio Polly Brown ... Maria Tabi Kuihaua Kawhero TeTai He Te ... Karaitiana Mary Ann Kaihote Wireimi Rhuriri Wiremu King .. Turuliuia Matin Hepi ... Hoani Ranapia Taipari W. H. Victoria Kohu Poti Taipari Mary ... Kiwi M aremana Konui... Henerika Hone to Opatito Tahuna Mere Kuru Wira i'oroa Turuhuia Matui Hippirime to Whctn Victoria Edward Matui Papana Willoughby Morriman ... Eruera Mare ... Mrs. Taipari ... Hona Peter Knke Emi Watene ... Joseph Kupene William Nathan Pone Hill Rakapa Watene Koku Watene ... Meta Watene ... W. H. Taipari Hanai 0. Rakita Edward Murray Brown Murray George Tamaki Mrs. Anderson Matui Bapana Henry Tio i'ira Hera Walker ... A. Wo Hori Tamaki ... Hemoao Kapi P.ana Nellie Keelan ... Tami... YaraMa Hcta Hori Timolm ... Herina Ranapia Hare Ranapia ... Mira Ranapia ... Keepa Victoria ' "Hemi Parani Em Anihana ... Taramana Meihana Pia Hana Kau Mary Tio ,__. - Mailiaue Rakau 20 10 40 80 25 35 85 60 70 18 .'5 70 Gmo. 85 86 24 20 4 50 4 50 70 40 19 14 25 1 30 00 40 4 40 35 7mo. 19 22 20 70 70 3 35 8 30 5 .:> 5 45 7 4mo. 3 35 35 4 3 21 50 22 7mo. 70 20 Gmo. 25 75 12 35 13mo. Owka. 45 50 20 20 8mo. 23 50 7mo. 25 GO M M M M M M M M M Kirikiri Para war < )hinemuri " Down the Coast" Esysipelas Tuberculosis-Retention Labial Ulcers ... Asthma Odontalgia Conjunctivitis ... Lumbago and Sciatica Otitis Small Tumour, causing irritation to eye Mammary abeess Scrophulous Sores and Abeess Acute Rheumatism ... Tuberculosis, (iastrio Irritation General (Edema, Ulcers on legs Conjunctivitis ... Cephalalgia Colic Enteritis Inflam'n of shoulder joint & Contusions Acute Phthisis ... Conjeetion of Kidneys Bronchitis Conjunctivitis ... ... .... Bronchitis Typhoid-Pneumonia Odontalgia Dysenteric Diarrhoea Bronchitis Colic Odontalgia Retention and Dysurea Stone in Bladder Bheumatie Fever Dyson try Typho i < 1-Pneumonia Febrile Catarrh Disorders attending pregnancy Phthisis Compound fracture of leg ... Worm Eever Ulcers Pertussis Ulcer Bronchitis Bronchitis Bronchitis Bronchitis Otitis Pertussis Pertus3i3 Phthisis Confinement (placental adhesion) Pertussis Debility—Tuberculosis Penetrating wound from iishook (cut out) Malignant disease (refused to submit to Tuberculosis .... Scrofula Conjunctivitis ... Spasms Congenital Syphilis Syphilitic Soros on breast ... Otitis Bronchitis Bronchocele Vomiting and Diarrhcea Colic* Cephalalgia Otitis Fractured clavicle Hemoptysis Diarrhcea-dentitio Tuberculosis Pleuritis Eczema Rheumatism ... Costal Fracture - Cured Pied Kelieved do. Cured do. do. do. Relieved do. Cured do. Relieved do. Cured do. do. do. do. Died Cured do. do. do. Died Cured do. do. do. do. do. Relieved Cured Pied Pied Cured Relieved Pied Cured Cured Believed Cured do. do. do. do. do. do. do. do. Relieved Cured Cured Believed Cured treatnien* Believed do. Cured do. Relieved do. Cured do. Believed Cured do. do. do. do. Believed Cured Believed F F Kirikiri Kirikiri Kirikiri Kirikiri Totara Totara Kirikiri M F M F Kirikiri M M F F Parawai Totora Kirikiri Parawai Parawai Came from distance j'arawai Totara, near llooms M M M F M M M M F Miranda M F I' 1 F F F Parawai M M Kirikiri I 'arawai Totara near Booms F Parawai Kirikiri M M M M M F Kirikiri Ohinemuri Parawai Miranda M M M M M M M F F F Kirikiri Kirikiri Kirikiri Kirikiri Parawai M M M M Kirikiri Tapu Creek Kirikiri M F F Kirikiri M Miranda Miranda F M M F F F Parawai . Parawai Parawai M F Parawai M M M M M Kirikiri F F "-'.

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No. 6. Dr. Moir, Tauranga, to the Under-Secretary, Native Department. (No. 85/1537.) Sir,— Tauranga, 2nd May, 1885. I am in receipt of your favour of 20th April, requesting a full report of the sanitary condition of Natives. Since becoming their Medical Officer, I have seen in all about eighty cases, a great many of which, have been children suffering from syphilis ; a good many of them also suffer from scabies (itch). The complaints most frequent amongst the adults are scrofula (three very severe cases), bronchitis, and phthisis ; the only two deaths which I was made aware of occurred from the last-named disease; one was a compositor in the Government Printing Office in Wellington, who came suffering from it in a very advanced stage, the other was a young married woman at Whareroa. On the whole, lam of opinion, were it not for syphilis, that the Natives in this district would be very healthy. I have, <fee, To the Under-Secretary, Native Department, Wellington. James Moir, M.B.C.M.

No. 7. Dr. Hooper, Galatea, to the Under-Secretary, Native Department. (No. 85/1845). Sir,— Galatea, Te Teko, Bay of Plenty, May 22nd, 1885. I have the honor to acknowledge the receipt of Circular No. 6 just to hand, and hasten to reply. We have no mail service as yet to this isolated place. In reply I would state that at the present time the Natives of this district are in a healthy state. About six weeks ago there was an epidemic raging, which attacked a great many—-a severe influenza, attended with a great deal of fever, from which all have recovered. All these people have good crops this year, so there is no scarcity of Maori food—consequently, the district is remarkably free from those skin diseases which arise from poverty. I have, <fee, R. R. Hooper, N. M. Officer. The Under Secretary, Native Department, Wellington.

No. 8. Dr. Cinders, Rotorua, to the Under-Secretary, Native Department. (No. 85/1563.) •Report on the Sanitary Condition of the Natives in the Rotorua and Surrounding Districts. On the western side of Lake Rotorua lie the Native settlements of Awahou, Waititi, Ngongotaha, Kawaha Point, and Te Koutu. Awahou Is situated on either side of the Awahou river, whence the Natives obtain an abundant supply of pure water. They number, all told, about 125 souls, and belong to the Ngatiarangiwewehi tribe. At the time of my visit there was no serious case of sickness amongst them. Their food consists chiefly of potatoes and the products of the lake, namely, crayfish (koura), fresh water mussels (kakahi), and a species of whitebait (inanga). They obtain an abundant supply of watercress from the river, which, greatly to their advantage, they cook and eat freely ; to their disadvantage, on the other hand, they have the usual Native liking for putrid potatoes (kotero), putrid corn (kaangawai), and stinking shark, when they can get it. At present food is abundant with them, but they frequently suffer from scarcity in the months of August, September, and October. This is entirely due to their lack of industry, as their land is excellent. They indulge in the evil common to all the Natives in this district of crowding together into heated whares to sleep (wharepuni), where they carefully stop up every crevice by which fresh air might enter. This, I believe, is the cause of their lack of energy, and one of the chief factors in the decadence of the race. Awahou Sclwolhouse. This is the best constructed schoolhouse in the whole district. It is well situated, lofty, and well lighted. The average attendance is 29, and the dimensions of the school, 28 xlBx 10 feet. There is a cubic air space of 180 feet per head (28 xlBx 10 -*- 29 = 180). In Great Britain 80 cubic feet is allowed as a minimum, but special appliances for ventilation are T'equired with so small a space. The latrines and lavatory are in perfect order, and the only improvement 1 can suggest is, that the usual appliances for gymnastic exercises should be supplied. There were 28 children in the school at the time of my visit, all in health, with the exception of the three who were suffering from scrofulous enlargement of the glands of the neck. Waititi. This is a small and exceptionally clean settlement, situated on either bank of the Waititi River. The natives number about 40, all told. They belong to the tribes Ngatingararanui and Ngatiihenga, and appear more active and industrious than their neighbours. They have no common wharepuni here as at Awahou ; they have more potatoes than they can consume, and have three or four hundred bushels for sale. With two exceptions, they were free from sickness of any kind. I found a woman suffering from chronic pulmonary disease, and a man who had dislocated his shoulder-joint a week previously, but who declined to have it touched, in spite of all the persuasion I could bring to bear upon him.

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Ngongotaha. Here the natives number, all told, about 100 ; many are now away gum-digging. Amongst those at home there is only one case of sickness—a woman, aged 35, with advanced pulmonary disease. The children look well. Food is plentiful with them all the year round. They belong to the Ngatitura tribe. Kawaha. There are a number of whares here, but just now deserted. It is a cultivation settlement of the Ngatiwhakaue Natives of Ohinemutu, and is only occupied during the planting and harvest seasons. Te Koutu. The Natives here belong to the Ngatiwhakaue, and number about thirty. All appear to be well, with the exception of one young man, who is dying of phthisis and scrofulous ulcers of the neck. Their mode of living is much the same as that of neighbouring settlements, except that, being within easy reach of the Ohinemutu township, the temptations offered by the hotels often prove too strong for them. Ohinemutu, District School. The construction of this schoolhouse is inferior in design to that at Awahou, the roof being too low. It is usual to estimate the air space in schools by measuring the interior of the building on the square, allowing the open roof-space as a set-off against the space occupied by furniture and the bodies of the children. With a roof of high pitch this gives a fair approximation ; but, in this case, these dimensions, divided by the average attendance (65), gives an air space per head of 101*7 cubic feet, thus : 35 x 21 x 9 -f- 65 = 101*7, which is in excess of the truth, owing to the low-pitched roof; deducting a foot from the height we get a close approximation, namely, 90*4 cubic feet per head. The attendance at this school has greatly increased of late, and the children generally are healthy. Ventilation is provided for by a fire-place and two tobin tubes, the lighting is sufficient, the latrines are in order, and the the playground supplied with gymnastic appliances. There is no lavatory, but this is not so essential here, as the children are constantly in hot water. On the whole, this school may be considered in a satisfactory sanitary condition. Ohinemutu. The Native population of this settlement is perhaps the most moveable one in the whole district, so that it is difficult to estimate the number of those who consider it their home. From careful enquiry, I find this number does not exceed 150. The greater number of them are frequently away on the coast for change, or attending distant Land Courts, tangis, or other gatherings ; and, on the other hand, the settlement is frequently inundated by Natives from other places bent on similar errands. They belong to the Ngatiwhakaue tribe. At present there is very little sickness amongst them. I have seen of late a few cases of chicken pox [varicella), and mumps (cynanche parotidea), in very young children, but neither ailment has attained anything like epidemic prevalence. There is always more or less venereal disease in Ohinemutu, but chiefly of a mild type. Intemperance is not so prevalent amongst them as might be expected from the facilities open to them for such indulgence. They rarely suffer from scarcity of food, and have the opportunity of procuring greater variety than most settlements in the district. A few of the old people suffer from chronic bronchitic asthma, and from a form of ophthalmia peculiar to the race. A few of the younger people are suffering from glandular swellings, and there have been two deaths recently from cancer of internal organs. The Utahina River, which runs through the village, affords them wholesome water. The sanitary condition of this settlement is not so satisfactory as it might be, and the practice of burying their dead in such close proximity to their dwellings is most objectionable; indeed, but for the disinfecting and deoderising power of the sulphur gases, very serious consequences must have ensued. Whakarewarewa, Three miles from Ohinemutu, is situated on the Puarenga River, whence the Natives obtain a pure supply of water. They belong to the Ngatewahiao tribe and number about 100 all told. The children are the healthiest in the district, and a school is greatly needed for them. . With one exception (an old chief suffering from heart disease), they are all in good health. They make a considerable amount of money by visitors to their hot springs, and food is abundant. The settlement is tolerably clean and its general sanitary condition fairly good. Owhatiura and Owhata. Two small settlements of Ngatiwhakaue, on the eastern side of Lake Rotorua, were deserted at the time of my visit, the Natives being away at a Land Court. Both settlements have not more than forty inhabitants, all told. I learn that there is neither want nor sickness among them. Matawera, Te Ngae, and Waiohewa Are small, widely-scattered settlements, also on the eastern side of Rotorua. They number about 70 natives, all told. At the time of my visit I found a good deal of native itch (ake-ake) amongst them, and one boy suffering from strumous inguinal abscess. Beyond this, they were free from serious sickness. Most of the whares are of weatherboard. They have excellent land, and cultivate potatoes, which, with the usual products of the lake and watercress, constitute their food. They belong to the tribes Ngatirangiteaorere and Ngatiuenukukopatio. Mokoia Island. The natives of the above three settlements move backwards and forwards to Mokoia. Not more than twenty make the island their permanent home. Those who do reside there are in excellent health, and are in no need of any of the necessaries of life.

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Settlements on Eotoiti. — Mourea. This settlement is pleasantly situated at the point where the Mourea River, connecting Rotorua with Rotoiti, joins the latter lake. There are well-grown blue gums and willow* trees about the place, and not a few fruit trees. The Natives number about fifty, and report themselves all well. Their cultivations are good, and food abundant. They grow maize, and use watercress as an article of food, to which they attribute their immunity from scrofula and scrofulous sores so common elsewhere. The only putrid food they indulge in is the rotten potato (kotero), to a limited extent. The cleanliness and general sanitary condition of this settlement is unusually good. They belong to the Ngatipikiao and sub-tribe Ngatititakinga. Taheke. The natives here number about eighty, and belong to the Ngatipikiao. I found a large gathering of Maoris here attending a Land Court. A few belonging to the place were suffering from simple ailments, but there was no serious disease amongst them. Food is at present abundant, and similar in character to that of the other lake tribes already described. The wharepuni is found in every settlement on Rotoiti. Being curious to know something of these hotbeds of disease, I entered one at seven o'clock a.m., before the occupants had turned out. I have no wish to repeat the experiment. This was quite a small family affair, fifteen feet long by ten wide. It contained twenty individuals, of both sexes and all ages, who had spent the night (say, ten hours) in it. The cubic air-space per head was about such as would be afforded by a comfortable full-sized coffin. How they can exist under such conditions is one of the mysteries of Maori nature. Fortunately for them, these sleeping places are built of pervious material, through which the outer air must filter, and all the more rapidly, from the fact of the great difference of temperature between the external and internal air. Tapuaehura. A small settlement near the saw mill on Rotoiti. Contains about thirty Natives all told, belonging to the Ngatirongomai tribe. They live in weatherboard whares and have some good bush cultivations. They were all in good health. Otaramarae. This small settlement on Rotoiti is charmingly situated. The Natives number about twenty, all told, are all well, and belong to the Ngatipikiao. They have abundance of food. Buato. Another small settlement on the same lake has about thirty inhabitants. They are suffering from Native itch (ake-ake). They live on the products of the lake, potatoes, pork, and pigeons. They belong to the Ngatitarawhai tribe. Tapuaeharuru. Another small settlement of Rotoiti numbers forty-five all told. They live much as their neighbours do, are all in fair health, and belong to the Ngatitamateatutahi tribe. Waiiti, On the same lake, has only twelve Natives, all well. They belong to the Ngatitarawhi. Pukearuhe. On Rotoiti also, has thirty-five Natives all told. They made no complaints of sickness or scarcity of food. They belong to the Ngatikawhiti. Tahehe School-house. This is the school for the whole Rotoiti district. It has been built 16 years, and is out of repair ; the piles are rotting, there is no special provision for ventilation, and in weather, when doors and windows must be closed, the ventilation must be very inefficient. There are no latrines and no lavatory. The accommodation for the master (Major Wood), is essentially bad and unwholesome. The average attendance is 35, two children only absent from ill health. The air space would be sufficient for the present attendance with proper ventilation (174 cubic feet per head). lam glad of this opportunity of expressing a most unqualified condemnation of this school-building from a sanitary standpoint. The district deserved better treatment at the hands of the Educational Department. Te Wairoa, and neighbourhood. On Lake Tikitopu, two and a-half miles from Wairoa. There is a small settlement of Ngatitu Natives, about twenty in number. They migrate between this place and one known as Kaitiriria, on Lake Rotokakahi. They are at present in good health, but lam informed that last winter they were so short of food that they had to subsist on fern-root and berries. Just now food is plentiful with them. The important settlement of Te Wairoa has long had the reputation of being the most unhealthy in the district. The Natives who belong to the Tuhourangi tribe number 120, all told, and have more than the average amount of Maori intelligence. They earn a large amount of money from tourists passing through to Rotomahana, and spend it recklessly. lam informed that this last season they have earned £1800. They are in a position to supply themselves with every necessary of life, yet, until very recently, the rule with them has been either a feast or a famine. The money they should have spent in proper clothing and food has been spent in drink, and I fear their intercouse with Europeans passing through has been anything but advantageous to their morality or physical well-being. lam happy to report that a «reat change for the better has taken place. In their own opinion, as well as in that of the Europeans who live amongst them, they are now in a better state of health than they have been for years past. Five months ago I found upwards of twenty cases of serious illness there. Yesterday, when I visited the settlement, one case only was brought to me for treatment, and that of the most trivial character. There

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is far less drinking amongst them, and a more general desire to improve their condition. It is to be hoped that the men in authority in this district will see the advantage of assisting this intelligent group of Natives in the good work of helping themselves. Te Wairoa School-house. This school has been built eleven years. The roof is out of repair, and the room too small for the attendance. There is no special provision for ventilation, no latrines, and no lavatory. The daily average attendance is sixty, and the dimensions of the school, 30 + 20 + 9 -*- 60 — 90 cubic feet per head. The children are unusually healthy. At a very small outlay this school might be put into a satisfactory condition. It is an important and well-conducted school, and deserves attention. Arild, Near Rotomahana. Here dwell some twenty-five of the Tnhourangi; they are abundantly supplied with food, and have no sick. Ilorohoro. This settlement is fifteen miles from Rotorua, at the foot of the Horohoro Mountain. The Natives belong to the tribes Ngatituara and Ngatikea, and number about sixty. They are in good health, In the way of food, they have plenty of pigs and potatoes, and obtain pigeons and kakas from the bush. They have some well cultivated land at Tarewa, close to Ohinemutu, where they are to be found in planting and harvest seasons. At present Tarewa is deserted. Summary. The diseases from which the Natives of this district chiefly suffer are :—(1) Pulmonary affections, which include bronchitis, bronchial catarrh, bronchial asthma, and phthisis of the pneumonic rather than the tubercular type. (2) Scrofulous disease, affecting the glands, the bones, and the skin. (3) Acute and chronic rheumatism. (4) Fever, of the typhoid type. (5) Chronic constipation. (6) Venereal diseases, including syphilis and gonorrhoea, but in a far less degree than they are generally credited with. (7) A form of ophthalmia peculiar to the Maoris. (8) A parasitic skin disease known as ake-ake, also peculiar to the race. In my opinion, the production, the severity, and the spread of these diseases are determined by two main factors : first, the influence of the wharepuni ; and secondly, the consumption of putrid food. Compared with these two gigantic evils, alcohol is nowhere. Were there no wharepunis, I believe the Maori would be a successful rival of his European neigh hour in sobriety and industry ; but with his blood vitiated by the foul air of these hot-beds of disease he has neither strength nor inclination to work, and it would be odd indeed if he had no craving for stimulants. lam inclined to credit the wharepuni with more than half the infant mortality. Not only is the child injured directly by this devitalizing influence, but indirectly through the mother, whose milk is diminished in quantity and impoverished in quality by the same cause. I believe the growing intelligence of the rising generation of Maoris has already checked the rapid decadence of the race. I believe, too, that these evils will gradually die out, and we shall find the Native population increasing pari passa. In the meantime, I think it useless to attempt to teach them elementary physiology and the laws of health from books, or viva voce only ; everything in this direction should be taught by experiment. I have found it impossible by any amount of talk to make a Maori understand that air is a substantial entity. They cannot see it, and so are unable to conceive of it; whereas, by a few simple experiments, its qualities and various relations to animal and vegetable life might be demonstrated to them. The consumption of putrid food, of course, tends to confirm and intensify the influence of the wharepuni. The Natives, fortunately, are beginning to discover, from their own observation, that much rotten potato and stinking corn means much pain and disfigurement from boils, skin disease, and strumous abscesses, and they are gradually discontinuing the habit. That it will die out long before the wharepuni I think certain. I have, &c, Alfred Cinders, The Sanatorium Rotura, 19th May, 1885.

No. 9. Mr. Thos. Lambert, Wairoa, Hawke's Bay, to the Hon. Native Minister. (No. 85/1646.) Sir, — Wairoa, Hawke's Bay, Ist May, 1885. In obedience to instructions contained in Circular No. 6, dated 20th April, I have the honour to transmit, through Captain Preece, E.M., Native Agent for the Hawke's Bay District, the following report on the sanitary state of the Natives in this part of the Provincial District. Though never defined, I presume my district comprises the County of Wairoa. During the year ended 31st March, I supplied medicines gratis to 178 Natives, many of whom were assisted more than once. The affections were varied, from simple catarrh to typhoid fever. Fourteen deaths have been reported to me, but I have reason to believe the actual mortality exceeded the number given. In all these cases, but one, typhoid of a very low type was the cause of death, the exception being a case of disease of the hip joint. Careful observation of the Natives during the last nine years leads me to conclude that the mortality rate is much higher than has ever been suspected, and is rapidly increasing, each succeeding generation being constitutionally inferior to the one precedimg it. In fact the majority of the younger Natives (up to 30 for instance), have quite lost the grand physique of the old men and women who may still be met with, full of vigour, and disease-resisting capabilities. The younger Natives are exceedingly subject to

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pulmonary complaints, low fevers, and scrofulous affections, and all these maladies seem likely to become aggravated in their offspring, who, even at the early age of twelve months, exhibit these diseases in their worst form. I can scarcely form a correct opinion as to the cause of this decay in a race once noted for the stamina of the men, at all events ; but I venture to surmise that it may be found in one or more of the following:—(1) Change of diet and mode of living, especially as regards drink and clothing. (2) Over- • crowded and ill-ventilated dwollings, taken especially in connection with the adoption of European modes of dress. (3) Early marriages and the inter-marriage of persons possessing the scrofulous or phthisical diathesis, or predisposition. This latter is, in my opinion, the chief cause of the present high rate of mortality among Maori children, the loss of whom in large numbers means, in fact, a rapid decay of the race. The restrictions on the sale of alcoholic liquors have produced a most beneficial effect, and it is a matter of regret that the brake was only applied at the eleventh hour. If a sj^stem of sanitation could be introduced among the Natives, the total extinction of the race might be prevented. But the last cause of decay which I have suggested seems beyond the reach of legislation. Drunkenness, immorality, dirt, and over-crowding may be altogether prevented, or, at least, reduced to a minimum; but the transmission of disease from parents to offspring can never be checked ; and as this prevails to an enormous extent among the Maoris, lam forced to the conclusion that extinction must occur. I think a system of registration of births, marriages, and deaths would be feasible, and would certainly prove valuable in -estimating the rate of decay (if such be conceded) —and I have not a doubt on the subject. I have, &c, Thomas Lambert, The Hon. the Native Minister. Native Medical Dispenser, Wairoa County.

No. 10. Mr. Matthew Scott, Napier, to the Under-Secretary, Native Department. •Sir, — Napier, May 17th, 1885. I have the honour to transmit report re sanitary state of Natives, vaccination, proceedings, medical returns, &c, for quarter ended April 30th, 1885. After the completion of the vaccination of the Taupo and vicinage "hapus," already described in previous quarterly return, I proceeded along the coast of the lake in a north-westerly direction to Tokanu, visiting ■en route the settlements of Waipehi, Te Rua Whaata, Hatepe, and others, finally arriving at Tokanu on the evening of the second day. The Natives of these villages, averaging probably about forty adults each, although living in very much the same manner as the Tapuaehariru inhabitants, have cultivated, as compared with their numbers, rather extensive patches and strips of land immediately bordering on the lake, and appear to be industrious communities. I found them free from many forms of disease prevalent among their friends and relatives living in the immediate vicinity of the European settlement. Some ot their locations are picturesquely situated, and the soil, although not of first-class character, evinces careful tillage, and contrasts very favourably with the somewhat sterile aspect of the neighbourhood. I found a good many interesting medical, and one surgical case, among these settlements, for details of which I respectfully refer to my medical return : otherwise this report will become too voluminous. On arrival at Tokanu, I found the people who profess " ITauhau " principles rather restive, inasmuch as a detachment of Constabulary (under Major Scannell) had recently taken up their residence among them uninvited. Notwithstanding, I vaccinated a good many, including ultimately some of the oppositionists. For this success I was mainly indebted to Captain Macdonnell, late N.C. Resident Natives here appear to fully estimate the fertility of the soil, and raise a good deal of wheat and other produce. When out of the numerous hot baths with which the locality abounds, they appear to be tolerably industrious and healthy ; but I found two cases of scrofulous leprosy, and a few of ophthalmia and skin disease among them. I could obtain but little communication with the former, who were under the treatment of a " Hauhau " " tohunga," or priest, although most ably seconded by Sergeant-Major Smith, A.C., stationed at Tokanu, who is usually very influential among the Maoris. Population, about 150. Passing on from Tokanu to Pootu, I first experienced absolute antagonism from the " Hauhau " element. We (i.e., my guide and self,) were unmistakeably warned off, and retired in consequence. Returning from Tokanu to Taupo proper, I picked up and completed the cases along the lake coast, and was gratified to find they had much benefitted by treatment. But I think comparative cleanliness and retirement from the influence of alcohol (they had been attending a Native Land Court) were very important factors in bringing about their improved condition. At Opepe I found a good many children ill with affection of the air passages —influenza, with bronchial symptoms. They all recovered. The comparatively few Natives at Opepe and its vicinity appear to have benefitted much by hard work, and, similarly to the Waimarama Maoris, who are assisted in their endeavours by Mr. Meinertnhagen, so Mr. Sam Crowther here supplies the incentive to labour. I have not seen any drunkenness at this place, and the migratory population, probably about thirty in number, are above the average healthy. From Opepe to Galatea (a long stretch), on arrival I found but one young man ill. This was (under the circumstances and locality) a hopeless case, "morbus coxce," for which I could adopt nothing but palliative measures. Natives here, numbering some sixty, probably, do not appear to do much work, and their plantations are of small extent. Probably, the arid and inhospitable surroundings of the Kaingaroa Plains act as deterrents to agricultural enterprize, and the difficulty of communication with anywhere makes the importation of goods from without a ruinously expensive transaction. A medical gentleman, Dr. Hooper, is located here as Native Medical Officer and Public Vaccinator. With him I proceeded to Ohupa, about seven miles from the schoolhouse (on the Rangitaiki), but we neither of us effected anything, the Kooti element being exceedingly strong. The doctor intends to persevere, but I doubt his success as to vaccination. Like Ahikerereu, Paeroa, Orakeikorako, and other places, the Hauhau

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superstition is entirely dominant, and few affairs of any moment are effected without previous communication with Te Kooti, at Waikato. I communicated by letter with all these settlements with a view to visit them, but received an intimation in reply that my services were not required. From Galatea, on arrival at Te Teko, I found a gratifying field of work. Although the Natives (probably about 200 adults), who inhabit the many settlements on the banks of the Rangitaiki and Tarawera-awa, are, with few exceptions, professed " Hauhaus," and rather turbulent amongst themselves, yet they quickly recognised the superiority of European practice over their own crude, superstitious, and empirical method of treating the sick. Several men and women here, who had been pronounced hopelessly bewitched (" whai whaia") recovered, to their own astonishment, in a few days, and one particularly bad case of lumbar abscess was nearly recovered when I left the district. Mr. W. McGarvey, who keeps a well-ordered hotel in the locality, is quite as much to be credited as myself for this fortunate eventuation, inasmuch as he supplied beef, mutton, -fee., without which my medicinal and surgical treatment alone would have been of little remedial value. Situated on the banks of the Rangitaiki, and intersected by many streams, some of which are highly charged with mineral or saline matter, the Teko district much surpasses any other on the plains ; Natives also decidedly improving in appearance, though rather indolent, as a rule. Umuhika is a settlement the inhabitants of which mostly migrate to Te Teko during planting season. One sad case here of a young woman who sustained some years ago a dislocation of the head of the femur. Of course, it is irriducible now, and the young person must remain deformed for life. Otherwise, little or no sickness here : Native physique still improving as one nears the coast. Matata. —There is here a very excellent and well-informed Native teacher, Mr. Thurston by name, who possesses a good knowledge of medicine, and has a fair assortment of drugs. I found little to dohere medically or surgically, though plenty of vaccination, including the half-caste children of the white settlers; but wish to remark, that " Hauhauism " has even found its way to this section of the Arawa tribe, formerly its most uncompromising opponents, Adam Clark himself having become a proselyte, and, I believe, acquired some eminence as to proficiency in the enactment of Te Kooti's peculiar rites and tenets. In conclusion of this, I fear, too prolix a report of my work, I have to state, that I find the coast Natives beyond measure healthier, and, as a rule, of better physique than the dwellers far inland. Also, that while psoriasis " haki haki," and an occasional epidemic of influenza, bronchial affections, or fever of mild type affect those who inhabit the coastal line, yet scrofulous disease of a serious character, culminating, I believe, occasionally in lepra scrofulosis (" ngerengere"), phthisis, and rheumatic affections more particularly prevail among the inland tribes ; also, a greater percentage of mortality among youngchildren. And lam of opinion that the tribes inhabiting the districts of Rotorua, Taupo, Ohinemutu, &c, much misuse the thermal springs to their own disadvantage, as a pure matter of gratification, and not in. any sense therapeutically. I have, &c, Matthew Scott. The Under-Secretary, Native Office, Wellington.

No. 11. Dr. Wilford, Hutt, to the Under-Secretary, Native Department. (No. 85/1622.) Sir,— Lower Hutt, 16th May, 1885. In reply to your Circular of 20th April, I have the honour to report as follows: — Of late years the sanitary condition of the Natives in the Hutt district has been very materially improved, more especially as to their dwelling-houses. Most of them now live in weatherboard houses, with floors raised from the ground, the same as Europeans. It is quite the exception to find them sleeping on the ground, that is, with nothing but mats between them and the bare ground, as was the universal custom a few years ago. Their food, too, is of much more a wholesome a character than it used to be ; putrid corn and half-putrid fish being very much things of the past. They are also much more alive to the advantage of carefully nursing the sick than they used to be, the consequence being that in the Hutt district the mortality is nothing compared with what it used to be. On the other hand, I must not omit to mention the (I think) increasing indulgence in drink, more especially amongst the young people. This, no doubt, is the rock that in course of time must surely wreck the Native race. I have, &c, The Hon. the Native Minister. J. G. F. Wilford.

No 12. Dr. Earle, Wanganui, to the Under-Secretary, Native Department. (No. 85/1344.) Sir, — Wanganui, April 25th, 1885. In answer to your Letter Circular No. 6, I have the honour to state, that at the present time, from my own personal observation, and from inquiries made from up-river Natives, that I consider the health of the Maoris to be more than usually good. Some months since they had a very severe epidemic of erysipelas, but that has now passed off. After each Native Land Court, I notice that, from the crowding together of so many in a limited space, and the assumption of some of the European habits and many of their vices, that severe illness and some deaths usually follow. I have, &c, Robt Earle, The Hon. the Native Minister, Wellington. Native Medical Officer, Wanganui.

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No. 13. Dr. O'Carroll, New Plymouth, to the Under-Secretary, Native Department. (No. 85/1515.) Sir,— New Plymouth, 26th April, 1885. I have the honour to acknowledge receipt of Circular No. 6, and in compliance with its request, beg to report that the sanitary condition of the Natives in my district has vastly improved, owing, no doubt, to the scare of our late erysipelas cases at Parihaka, and to your prompt circular, calling attention to the danger menacing the entire Native race in Parihaka pah, and indeed the whole district. I think that it would take hut little persuasion on our part to break up the old pah, and induce Te Whiti and Tohu to found a new one, further back in the bush on higher grounds, or on a fishing reserve nearer the sea. Perhaps if I give my reason for stating this, you will agree with me. Te Whiti has this day sent me Lyod, or Te Rangi, one of our chief Native prisoners of a few years ago (who up to this has held aloof from us), with this message : —"Go to the Doctor O'Carroll, and tell him to give you proper treatment. I recognise the fact that he prevented the spread of our late disease, and did more to prevent death than our own doctors. Do as he tells you, for he means well. I will now endeavour to follow his instructions." I judge from this message that we have now a chance of instilling our sanitary laws into the Maoris, and bringing them to see their good working on our own towns. Death has removed most of leading chiefs north of the town of New Plymouth, where once I could go to such men as Mahou, Ihaia, Tamiti, or Tamihana—none are left to take their places ; their mana has passed away, and for bad or good the Native surgeon has to rely now upon the individual afflicted with disease alone, and a little upon his relations, when it is remembered that the affection of relatives for the sick amongst the Natives is of a most slender type. Often have we to beg them to send a few miles for medicine, or to remove them to another whare, with the result that neither requests have been complied with. This fact, combined with these others—that the Natives distrust us, imagine we bring disease amongst them to exterminate the race, and their own doctors are jealous of our inteference. The gradual individualization of the land tends to split up the inhabitants of large pahs into small family kiangas, who settle upon and till their favourite spot of ground. The Maoris living near our large centres of European population are gradually imitating their ways, both bad and good; their food consisting of beef, potatoes, bread, and, lam sorry to say, waipiro. They are more prone to our European diseases than their more remote brethren, who, living upon a fish diet combined with potatoes, kumere tara. and such vegetables, are more afflicted with skin and consumptive diseases. Psoriasis is the most prevalent disease amongst the true fish-eating Maoris. More especially I have noticed, that so-called preserved shark renders the Natives more susceptible than others to this disease. It is at once followed (when freely partaken of by the Maoris) by a severe attack of urticaria, or nettle-rash, which at various times gives place to psoariasis, or lepra. I should be glad to hear if other Native Surgeons have noticed this fact. The Native water supply in my district is both abundant . and pure. The Natives are now beginning to build much larger houses—the old wharepuni and mimics are disappearing, much to my satisfaction. Pigs and fowls are kept in separate domiciles from the human beings, but I am sorry to say that the canines are not; and it is a matter of regret to see so many mangy and skin-diseased dogs sleeping in the Maori whares, no doubt occasioning and transmitting their numerous skin diseases to the human race. The clothing of the entire Maori race in my district has vastly improved, almost every Native having one or more suits of European clothes, but the inner clothing is not so frequently washed as we would wish, I am prepared to state. The subject of the liquor traffic is one which it would be well I should now treat once and for ever (if I might be permitted). Either the Maori should be permitted to be served at the public-houses the same as Europeans, or strictly forbidden, and the law enforced. A few years ago, I remember the law was enforced here, I think under the Hon. Mr. Wm. Fox's Government, and I must say, I seldom visited a pah where I did not see bottles of grog in nearly every whare, and the Natives took delight in asking us to have a glass. I once tried this grog—never will Ido so with my lips again; it must have come from a bush still. It will be remembered, that during the last four months of last year a severe contagious disease, viz., erysipelas, prevailed among the Parihaka Natives, caused, no doubt, by the defective sanitary condition of their pah. On receiving the Hon. Mr. Ballance's instructions I proceeded there. As I reported before, I need but recapitulate the facts that several deaths had taken place, that there were at least forty-five well-marked cases; that twenty-one more cases had the disease slightly, or were sickening previous to the formation of matter ; that the whares where the dead had been taken yet retained the putrid matter and smell of the disease. The able-bodied men suffered most. Owing to the kind co-operation of Major Goring, commanding A.C. Force at Parihaka, and Lieutenant-Colonel Roberts, N.Z.C., commanding A.C. Force, Taranaki, I was enabled to immediately place Sergeant Faike, the A.C. Hospital Surgeon, in charge ; but no sooner had I left than half the worse cases returned to their own doctors, mistrusting us. However, on my second visit I reasoned with them, and most of them returned to us, and on my third visit all were well. Generous diet, combined with the proper treatment, I must say, carried our European mode of combating with the disease in triumph against the prejudice and well known antipathy of the Maoris of Parihaka. All acknowledged we were most successful, and only last month I had the pleasure of bearing from most of the natives, who composed Titokowaru's peace party from Parihaka, visiting Pakearuhe, that they felt they owed Ballance a return for his good work in sending me and my medicine to their relief. While on this subject, let me state my opinion, based on my twenty-two years' service in the Native Medical Department, that is: —That these large raids of Natives, however well meant or good intentioned, serves only, like a flock of locusts, to deprive our little, struggling Native pahs of all their winter provisions—drives the Native lease land-holders to borrow and anticipate their rents in order to welcome

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and honorably entertain their numerous guests. Carts, horses, ploughs, and, above all, that which I felt most, the cows even in milk were sold in order to get money for the purpose I state above. I have taken a great deal of trouble to prevail on the Native fathers to provide cows in milk for the purpose of rearing their younger children. I am persuaded a great deal of the infant mortality amongst the Maoris is owing to this great want. I was much struck with the fewness of children accompanying their parents in the procession (Titokowaru's peace procession to Patea and Pukearuhe), which amounted in round numbers to two thousand people. I don't think there were more than fifty children. I asked if the little ones had been left at home, and was surprised to hear of the very few that had been so. I regret to have to come to the conclusion, that, owing to Parihaka being abandoned, the little ones have fared badly; and the rising generation amongst the Maoris is again on the decline. I remember, about two years ago, being very forcibly struck with the number of well-kept children to be seen daily in the Parihaka pah. However, now that most of the Natives have returned their new kiangas, let us hope that their parents will look better after them, and till the soil, giving up their feasting and wandering. lam sure that on this coast this winter will prove a severe famine, owing to this raiding buisness, and I only hope Government will not be called upon to supply provisions for the starving. In conclusion, I may sum up my own conclusions on the subject of the Maori sanitary conditions, and point out what I would suggest to ameliorate their defects. 1. That it is a matter for congratulation for us to notice the gradual decrease of large pahs and the formation of small Native settlements on individualised lands. In the whole Native district under my medical charge there does not exist a large pah, except Parihaka, worth mentioning. 2. The clothing, food, and mode of living is much improved. 3. The dwellings of the Natives are improving. 4. Sickness has decreased; syphilis, skin diseases, alcoholism, and their kindred diseases being the most noticeable. Whooping cough is now the prevailing disease amongst old and young. 5. The improvident expenditure occasioned by large numbers of Natives going round visiting and consuming the much-needed winter supply of food—driving their hosts to beg and borrow for the purpose of entertaining them —the ultimate result being probably a famine, or recourse to Government aid. 6. That dogs should be kept on when required, and not permitted to enter the'masters' dwellings. The dog tax should apply to Native dogs. 7. That Government should legislate once and for ever with regard to Native liquor traffic. (a) Assimilate it to our own European law, and do away with any previous Act in contradistinction ; or, (b) Let the Natives be prevented entering our public-houses on any pretext, fining both publican and sinner. I need not point out which law finds greater favour in my mind. I have, &c, P. J. O'Carroll, M.D., L.R.C.P., L, The Under-Secretary, Native Department, Wellington. Native Surgeon.

No. 14. Dr. Bedford, Kaikoura, to the Under-Secretary, Native Department. (No. 85/1712.) Sir, — Beach Road, Kaikdura, 15th May, 1885. I have the honour to enclose a sanitary report on the Natives of this district. I have, &c, Robert Bedford, The Under-Secretary, Native Office. Native Medical Officer. Sanitary Report on the Maoris in the Kaikoura District. Site of Houses, Cubic Capacity, Ventilation, <kc. The Maori inhabitants of this district are settled principally at the pah. A few families have houses near the town, and some members of the community pass a portion of the year on the Maori land near the boat harbour. The pah is about eight miles from the town of Kaikoura, on the north track, and seventeen miles further in the same direction are a few huts. The Boat Harbour Settlement is about twenty miles south ; and all are within a few hundred yards of the sea. The subsoil at each site is either sand or stone, covered with a varying quantity of alluvial drift. In the northern settlements, the huts are grouped together; at the southern, they are scattered. In both situations there is a general similarity in their structure. The walls are made of interlaced saplings plastered with clay ; the roofs, of manuka bark and rushes, either tied or weighted down ; the floor is of clay, and a short cobbed chimney carries off the smoke. With the assistance of natural ventilation only, 800 entire feet of air-space may be accepted as a medium allowance, which it is never prudent to diminish. This would require a change equal to three times an hour, to yield an atmosphere not injuriously impure. Accepting this as the standard for a healthy adult, the deficiency at the pah is apparent. In one hut the air space is only 200 feet for each occupant. Such an atmosphere would require changing at least fourteen times an hour. In two other huts that I measured, the air-space was on a similarly scanty scale. To renew the air in such limited spaces, so as to make an atmosphere that may be breathed with comparative safety, carefully applied methods of artificial ventilation would be required. There is no provision for systematic ventilation. The gaseous impurities of respiration are slowly removed by diffusion through chinks and crannies, and through the chimney. The huts are small, and it

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is only in warm weather that either window or door can be left open without great discomfort. There is, therefore, particularly in cold weather, a high degree of impurity in the respired air. And such is the paramount importance of a sufficient supply of pure air, that the blood will not long remain healthy without it. The gaseous products of respiration are a serious source of air contamination in these dwellings ; but, under commonly existing conditions, the heavier impurities from the lungs are not infrequently the occasion of still graver mischief. In an atmosphere kept constantly damp and heavy by the evaporation from a clay floor, suspended particles tarry a long way. Particles of cast-off lung material are thus breathed, and re-breathed by other breathers. In some instances the particles are given off by healthy lungs, in other instances by lungs that are diseased. It thus happens that when one member of a family suffers from lung catarrah, this ailment soon becomes general. Nearly all the middle aged, and all the old people, suffer from bronchitic troubles, propagated in a similar way. By constantly breathing an atmosphere injuriously charged with carbonic acid, there is caused a lowering in the standard of general health ; and lungs thus weakened are often injuriously influenced by deceased products cast off by unhealthy lungs. Catarrhal consumption is often caused in this way, and some victims of its destructive progress among the Natives of this district are now under my observation. The objections that are applicable to rough walls in general are applicable here. They remove from the slowly moving air, with which they are in contact, suspended impurities, which they, in a large measure, retain. These vary in their nature according to their source ; some are respiratory ; some from steaming dishes, pots, and pans ; and some carried upwards by evaporation from the floor, which, at Mangamanu, Waipapa, and the Boat Harbour, is of clay. The humidity of the atmosphere within doors is often excessive, and the floor in damp weather is moist. Last winter I had occasion to visit at the pah a lad who was dying of blood poisoning, the sequel of extensive disease of the bones of the left thigh and leg. A hole two inches deep, made with a riding cane, near the wall, contained half an inch of water at the end of ten minutes. Besides exhaling from its surface impurities that are dropped upon it, such a floor, in existing circumstances, and in the presence of a fire, will draw many impurities from without. The sanitary importance of this consideration is great when we remember that the floor is lower than the surrounding surface ; and the practice of throwing slops, and other refuse, within easy reach of the door is very* general. The surface around these dwellings is thus highly charged with organic matter, which, after decomposition, taints both the soil and the air. Water Supply. A sufficient supply of good water is a primary sanitary necessity. When the supply is deficient, or the quality impaired, influences injurious to public health exist, and evils often corresponding in degree, may safely be predicted. At Mangamanu, there is throughout the winter an abundant supply of water in the two creeks between which the pah is situated. In summer they gradually dry, and the inhabitants then draw their supplies from a water-hole, a few hundred yards to the north-west of the houses. At all times, however, the labour of carriage reduces the supply to an intermittent one ; and it thus happens there is a deficiency in the quantity of water used for domestic purposes. For cooking and drinking there is no stint; but for ablution, washing of cooking and other utensils. and house washing, the quantity used is too small. For laundry purposes the supply is unlimited, as the clothes are usually washed in the creeks. Pure at its source ; the impurities with which the water is here charged, are acquired during distribution. The creeks flow through flax, manuka, and a variety of scrub ; dead and decaying leaves fall in on every side. Weeds and sedges choke the banks. Impurities of vegetable origin exist, therefore, in large quantity. Pigs, cattle, and horses drink at the spots where the water is drawn for domestic purposes. They pass through from side to side ; and all parts of both streams are free to their use. There is thus, constant contamination of the water from animal sources; and in summer, it becomes excessive, as the beasts are concentrated at particular points, owing to the scarcity of water at other points of the streams. Food, Clothing, and General Remarhs. In summer the food supply of the Natives is usually quite adequate to the demand; in winter there is often great scarcity. Seasons of plenty alternate with periods of famine. A wild sheep, or pig, will supply meat for a few days ; and meat will then be eaten largely. When finished, want of powder, leisure, or inclination, may leave the settlement without meat for a long time. Potatoes, Indian corn, and opawas, are then the main constituents of their diet. Potatos have been very scarce of late, and Indian corn has not been much grown in this neighbourhood, a small supply being imported from the Boat Harbour. In sickness, the want of a suitable diet is always a difficulty, and has to be supplied invariably from friendly sources. Mr. Danaher, the schoolmaster at the pah, is always a good neighbour to the Natives at these seasons. When in funds, flour is procured, but the supply is liable to the same variations as the supply of meat. The old people and the young children at the pah are often insufficiently clad. The want of warm clothes, and a diet deficient in heat-forming food, are among the causes that lead to the habit of huddling around the fire within doors. This practice causes a higher degree of atmospheric impurity than the unaided powers of natural ventilation can remove in such small spaces. In conclusion, I regret to state that there is a general neglect of personal hygiene, due, I believe, to a want of knowledge of the most elementary sanitary laws. Among the children attending school some improvements in this particular are to be seen, and one is encouraged to hope for better things to come— a hope which will, I trust, be fully realized in our experience. I have, &c, Robert Bedford, Native Medical Officer.

4—G. 2a.

G.— 2a

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No. 15. Dr. Drysdale, Port Chalmers, to the Under-Secretary, Native Department. (No. 85/1599.) •Sir,— Port Chalmers, 12th May, 1885. I have the honour to acknowledge receipt of Circular Letter No. 6, under date 20th April, in which you ask me to report on the sanitary state of the Natives in my district; and, in reply, have to state generally that the health of the Natives at Otago Heads is at present, and has for some years past, been fair, and that no serious epidemic has prevailed ; but that, nevertheless, the Native population proper (i.e., the full-blooded Maori), is rapidly dying out, there being now only some three or four individuals left in this district. The diseases which have been most prevalent may be divided into two classes, viz. :—(1) Diseases induced by insufficient protection from changes of temperature, such as rheumatism and the various forms of chest disease ; and, (2) Diseases induced by disregard of sanitary laws, such as scabies and other skin diseases. I have, &c., John Drysdale, M.D., The Hon. the Native Minister. Native Medical Officer.

Authority: George Didsbury, Government Printer, Wellington.—lBBs.