COOK ISLANDS. [In continuation of Parliamentary Paper A.-3, 1936.]

Appendix to the Journals of the House of Representatives, 1937 Session I, A-03

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1937. NEW ZEALAND.

COOK ISLANDS. [In continuation of Parliamentary Paper A.-3, 1936.]

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

REPORT OF COOK ISLANDS ADMINISTRATION.

FINANCE. For the financial year ended 31st March, 1937, income amounted to £44,084 Is. 2d., and expenditure (including depreciation, £2,162 6s. 2d., and hurricane reparation, £69 3s. 3d.) to £42,712 16s. 5d In addition to this expenditure there was capital expenditure amounting to £3,614 7s 6d These figures show an excess of income over expenditure of £1,371 4s. 9d„ which'has been added to accumulated funds. Taking into account cash in hand at the beginning of the year (£1,468 lis. 3d.) and bringing all receipts (including £1 327 15s. 4d. from Fixed Deposits Accounts) and all payments into account tiie financial year ended with cash in hand amounting to £3,347 Bs. 6d. Subsidies from New Zealand Treasury on account of public health and education for the current year amounted to £13,216, and, in addition, subsidies of £500 for wireless services and £100 for census were received, making total subsidies of £13,816. The following table _ shows that the total expenditure on public health and education two essential services to which the New Zealand Government is committed, was £18 497 13s ' 10d N £ W Zea]and B' ranted £1 3> 2 16. The local Administration found the balance of £5,281 13s. lOd. Expenditure on all other services amounted to £29,559 14s. Bd., of which £600 was granted from New Zealand (Census and Wireless Services), and the balance of £28,959 14s. Bd. was found by the Administration. Total expenditure from local funds amounted therefore to £34.241 Bs. 6d.

Detailed statements of income and expenditure, and balance-sheet, are printed on pages 21 and 22, Appendix A. r & takes into account the value (after writing off depreciation amounting to £2,162 6s. 2d.) of all Administration assets as at 31st March, 1937, and all liabilities, and shows an excess of assets amounting to £73,975 15s. lid. TEADE. £° r * vear ended 31st December, 1936, the value of exports was £67,556, and of imports £72,576, showing an excess of imports of £5,020, For the previous year the corresponding figures were exports £53,599, and imports £61,676. 7 1S gUr6S Details are printed on pages 23-28, Appendix B.

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I " i Public Health. Education. 11 °. tller Total Services. -toiai. n £ s. d. £ s. d. £ s, d. £ a d Payments (including capital expendi- 9,179 4 1 9,318 9 9 29,559 14 8 48 057 8 6 ture) Grants received from New Zealand .. 6,979 0 0 6,237 0 0 600 0 0 13,816 0 0 Found by Cook Islands Administration 2,200 4 1 3,081 9 9 28,959 14 8 34 241 8 6

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The following table illustrates the trend of trade in the Cook Islands and how it dropped during the years of depression:- Total. Year. £ £ £ 1925 .. .. ..130,609 151,939 282,548 1930 .. .. 103,468 109,438 212,906 1931 " . .. 69,260 79,945 149,205 1932 •• 63,585 73,409 136,994 loqq " 76,716 73,983 150,699 Ī934 ;; ;; .. 61,449 59,307 120,756 1935 .. .. .. 61,676 53,599 115,275 1936 .. .. 72,576 67,556 140,132 The figures show an increase in trade for the year under review as a result of the general improvement in economic conditions. . Copra Trade —Although the price of copra showed a steady rise until January, 1937, it since gradually dropped, and at the present time the state of the market is uncertain. In 1932 and 1933 the Administration assisted producers by reducing the copra-tax to 10s. per ton, and from Ist April, 1934, to 31st December, no tax at all was collected. The copra-tax of £1 per ton was reimposed as from Ist January, 1937. . The following figures for the years 1928 to 1936 show how the value of the copra trade m the Cook Islands has fluctuated. ■ r ,, Vainp Year. Tons Total Value. Year. Tons Total Value. Exported. £ • Qnn 1928 1 770 33,071 1934 .. 963 4,899 1930 " 2,143 23,478 1935 .. 1,353 12,882 1932 .. 1,294 12,340 1936 .. 689 7,458 Of the total of 689 tons exported in 1936, 353 tons were shipped to the United States, 273f tons to the United Kingdom, and the balance, 62J tons, to New Zealand. , The small amount exported in 1936 was due to the fact that 664 tons of copra was delayed unti. January, 1937, owing to lack of shipping. Exports. The following table shows the quantities of main exports over the last seven years .

Crop Prospects. —For the coming season the prospects in Rarotonga are for a light orange crop. In the Lower Group Islands prospects are better and there should be an average to heavy crop. SHIPPING. Overseas shipping at the Port of Avarua, Rarotonga, for the year ended 31st December, 1936 comprised a total of thirty-four vessels, twenty-three being the San Francisco_ mail steamers, eight the Union Steamship Company's cargo vessels, one local schooner, a,nd two cruising vessels In December, 1936, the Union Steamship Co., Ltd., discontinued the Wellington - San Francisco mail-steamer service, with the result that Rarotonga is now dependent upon the regular monthly calls of m.v. " Matua " and occasional visits by trans-Pacific cargo vessels. MEDICAL AND PUBLIC HEALTH. A full survey of the work carried out in regard to health matters in the Cook Islands from the time of the annexation in 1900 to the present time is set out'in last year's annual report. The following are extracts from the annual report of the Chief Medical Officer: Rarotonga. On the whole the general health has not been good. _ . The number of deaths from tuberculosis has been high, attributable to the food deprivation following the hurricane of 1935. ~ , There were outbreaks of enteric, influenza, and of chicken-pox, and a few cases of summer diarrhcea o c curred Influenza occurred in May and June (mild), and in August, September, and January (severe). The more serious forms were introduced from Tahiti by the San Francisco mail steamers. Enteric. —Paratyphoid B : 11 cases from Ngatangiia. _ _ Typhoid.—Seven cases, mostly from Avarua, occurred in spite of the improved privies. Typhoid-anti-bacillus inoculation has been carried out extensively as a preventive measure. Leprosy One leper died in December, and one case'was discovered and isolated in January. Tuberculosis.—This is the scourge of the Island. Death-rate 36 per 10,000. In spite of these high figures there have been remarkable recoveries, which, bear out Dr. Lambert s figures showing a fair

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1930. 1931. 1932. 1933. 1934. 1935. 1936. Citrus fruit (Cases) 128,196 82,740 85,593 92,752 78,099 48,268* 75,390 Bananas 53 493 55,769 62,390 47,494 52,314 22,539* 49,431 :: ;; ».*» «.»$ "■«? 38 -»« Copra .. •• (Tons) 2,143 1,546 1,294 1,545 963 1,353 689 * Reduced exports due to the efiects of a heavy hurricane in February, 1935.

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immunity in the population ; in fact, it would indicate that the time is opportune to construct a tuberculosis sanatorium. Acute Rheumatism. This is common, and many cases are with cardiac complications, arising from habits of exposure and constant wettings. Filariasis.—This is common also. Many of the people have the microfilaria in their systems. Mosquito Pest— The gambusia, or mosquito-eating fish, is multiplying rapidly throughout the ower Group and is effective in reducing the mosquito pest, and will assist in preventing the spread of filariasis. or During this year gambusia were sent to Manihiki, Rakahanga, and Palmerston in the Northern Islands, and reports to date are very satisfactory. Microfilarial Count .-—Total examined, 100; total infected, 62 per cent.; microfilaria nocturna, ' microfilaria diurna, 19 per cent. ; microfilaria diurna and nocturna (mixed), 12 per cent. Skin-disease. Scabies is common. Ringworm and seborrhoea are also present. Chicken-pox again broke out this year. The only district which escaped was Takitumu, attributable perhaps to the fact that this is the only district which partakes widely of green food. Yaws. Gases are seldom seen in Rarotonga. A few in the tertiary stage appear. X-ray Plant.—The outfit is proving a boon to the Islands. Schools.—'The dental officer has made steady improvement in the condition of the teeth of children throughout the schools of the Island. The District Nurse has regularly and systematically visited all schools and completed the hygienic treatment of all children—i.e., heads, skin. Medical surveys have been made and all weakcfiested and anaamic children noted. Cod-liver oil and a mixture of iron is provided to the teachers and dispensed to those children whose names are provided. Already the results are noticeable, even by laymen As tuberculosis is the present scourge of the Island it is hoped by carefully attending to all up to school-leaving age to have a strong, healthy, and virile generation of future fathers and mothers Au-Vaine (or Women's Committee's).—This organization of leading women regularly inspect their respective villages and see that the general hygiene, is good. Their influence is exerted towards the upliit and general welfare of the community and in their encouragement and care of foodcrops. The Cup tor the best kept village was won by Ngatangiia. Bakeries.—These are regularly inspected. Child-welfare. Praiseworthy voluntary work continues to be done by the several committees. Ihe District Nurse gives them help, supervises their work, and lectures them. A sewing guild organized trom amongst themselves provided garments to the needy infants and small children during the colder months. Ihe child-welfare organization watch over the welfare of all children up to five years of age, and they personally attend to the smaller ailments. Innumerable lives have been saved by their earlv reporting of serious cases. The second baby show was held in December, during which the Cup this year was awarded to Nikao. lne infantile death-rate was 62T1 per 1,000. Pratique. Thirty-five overseas vessels were granted pratique, and the local schooners were inspected on their departure for the Outer and Northern Groups and on their arrival from the latter m ail nineteen times. During February only those having certificates from Medical Officers of Health (JNew Zealand) were allowed to land on account of infantile paralysis. . Dr. Muir, Assistant Medical Officer, arrived on the 16th May, and returned to New Zealand m December. He paid a short visit to the Islands of the Outer Group, with the exception of Mangaia and also assisted m Rarotonga. The Assistant Nursing Sister has been attending to outside cases in the districts and endeavours to examine all schools once a quarter and make house-to-house visits once in the same period. She superintends the child-welfare work of the several committees and delivers lectures irom time to time. Once m a fortnight she acts as sister in charge of the hospital. The Matron and her nursing staff deserve praise for their untiring zeal in the work. Scientific Investigations. A worm count was recently completed throughout the schools, with the loilowmg results :— Total examined .. .. .. ' , _ 870 Percentage infected .. .. .. .. " 57 per cent. Nature of infection— Ascaris .. .. .. .. .. _ 55 p er cent _ Trichuris .. .. .. 20 per cent. Hookworm 13 oenk yuns •. .. .. .. .. 3 p er cent. i m P rov ed ground sanitation has thus greatly reduced the hookworm infection. In 1926 it was 90 per cent. (Dr. Lambert, Rockefeller). Hospital— In-patients for the year .. . , .. _ _ 229 Major operations performed .. .. .. _ _ 24 Confinements (one instrumental delivery) .. .. .. _ [ Minor operations performed .. . . ~ _ _ " 4:2 Local anaesthetics .. .. ~ , _ 32 General anaesthetics .. .. .. .. 24 N.A.B. injections .. .... .. .. _ 32 Antitetanic serum injections .. .. > _ 29 Colloidal calcium injections .. .. .. _ 98 Sodium evipan anaesthesia .. .. .. .. _ j Widal reaction tests .. .. .. ~ _ _ 14 Tubercular cases (seven died) .. .. .. _ _ 29 X-rays .. .. .. .. .. .. " ..14

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Hospital —continued. Out-patients for the year .. ■ ■ ■■ •• Confinements . . . • • • • • • • • • • • Minor operations .. .. ■ • • • • • ■ • • ■ Local anaesthetics .. • • • • • • • • ' n General anaesthetics .. . • • • ■ ■ • • • • * N.A.B. injections .. .. • - • ■ • • • • " 09 Bicreol injections . . . . . • • ■ • • • ■ "99 Antitetanic serum injections .. ■ • • • ■ • ' 07 Asthma injections.. . - ■. • • • • ■ ■ • • Antityphoid injections (T.A.8.) .. . ■ • • • • ■ • Colloidal calcium injections .. . ■ • • • • 61 Sodium evipan anaesthesia .. .. • • • • • • • ■ £ Venereal disease .. . • ■ • ■ • ■ • • • 11a Worm treatments .. .. •• •• •• Le P ros y 1 Visits Mangaia. Mrs. McGruther, Resident Nurse, returned from furlough on the 27th May. Attendances at dispensary from April to September were as follows: April, 964; May, 409, June, 850 ; July, 1,332; August, 1,103; September, 612 ; total, 5,270. No reports have been received since September. _ . A Native medical practitioner visited Mangaia in April and remained until July. Mis work, especially amongst the men, and his scientific observations regarding filarial incidence were commendable. Filariasis Investigation. —656 cases were examined for microfilaria, and 30 per cent, of cases were found to be infected. Mass treatments were also given for the eradication of hookworm and ascaris. Influenza— A mild epidemic occurred in May and June. Schools. —Pupils were treated for hookworm and ascaris. Tuberculosis. —Three cases were reported. . Miscellaneous Figures (in addition to above).—N.A.B. injections, 602 ; minor operations, lb ; bicreol injections, 93; local anaesthetics, 16 ; adrenalin injections, 8; teeth extractions, 19 ; contramme injections, 7 ; visits, 29 ; worm treatments, 784. Atiu. A mild outbreak of influenza occurred in July, otherwise the general health of the Island has been satisfactory. Wireless services have been utilized for the purpose of obtaining medical advice. Yaws and skin-diseases remain the principal troubles. This Island is entirely under the care of the Resident Agent hence the absence of detailed statements regarding the mam diseases experienced. A Native medical practitioner visited the Island in November and remained there throughout the hurricane season. He paid particular attention to the treatment of yaws with N.A.B. injections. Matjke. This Island also falls entirely under the care of the Resident Agent, but from 23rd May to 25th August, and again from 25th September to 31st October, a Native medical practitioner was stationed there. He has reported as follows: — . . . Yaws. —Remains endemic. Sixty-one cases were treated with N.A.B. injections. Filariasis —Fevers from this have been common. In September and October abcesses of filarial nature were common. The mosquito-eating fish (gambusia) which abound in the majority of swamps and water-holes have no doubt, lessened the mosquito menace. Rheumatism. —Common among adults in August. A few cases amongst children, but with no cardiac complication. Infl/uenza. —A mild outbreak occurred in mid-July, but passed away with very few complications. Tuberculosis. —There are 11 active cases and 9 suspects. Water-supply. —-Several new tanks have been erected. Sanitation. —Regular inspections have been conducted. Child-welfare. —Every effort has been made to get the people to adopt this work. Schools.—Both schools (Government and Roman Catholic) were inspected and treated for hookworm and ascaris. . . Numerous wireless communications have been received containing medical advice. Statistics (attendances). —Adults: males, 560 ; females, 257 ; children males, 200 ; females, 210 . total, 1,227. Diseases: — Alimentary .. .. ..234 Skin .. .. •• • • 47 Respiratory .. .. ..74 Injuries .. .. • • 353 Special tropical .. • • 312 Nervous .. . ■ • ■ *8 Ear, eye, throat .. • • 38 Women's .. .. 47 Circulatory .. .. .. 80 Genito-urinary .. • • 14 Miscellaneous Figures (additional to above) : — Visits .. • • • • 238 General anaesthetics .. ■ • 1 Confinements .. .. ■ • 5 Local anaesthetics .. ■. 26 N.A.B. injections . . . . 291 Minor operations .. _ • - 54Worm treatments (mass) .. 148 Asthma injections (adrenalin) . . 7

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Aitutaki. The Resident Nurse has done a great deal of hard work in her general care of the Island, both in normal times and during epidemics. Her constant care of the school-children is to be highly commended. An epidemic of conjunctivitis occurred during April and May and of influenza in June. Radio communication has enabled advice to be given regarding serious cases—e.g., strangulated hernia, cross-birth, serious shark-bite, amputation of foot with axe, &c. A Native medical practitioner visited the Island from November to December, when he was relieved by a second one who remained throughout the hurricane season. During these periods the Resident Nurse was absent on furlough Tuberculosis.—Pulmonary, 38 ; manifestations, 367. Public-health Inspections.—Monthly inspections were conducted. Schools.—Children were examined monthly. Antenatal Clinic.—This is conducted monthly. Filariasis.—Fevers and abcesses of filarial nature were prevalent in November. 1 aws.—Twenty-two primary and secondary cases were treated in November. Chicken-pox. An outbreak of this occurred in November, necessitating restrictions in regard to attendance at school of infected children. Rheumatism. Common in November. There were three cardiac complications, all amongst the adolescent. Statistics :— Out-patients (from Ist April to 28th November) .. .. 9,494 In-patients (from Ist April to 28th November) . . .. . . .. '32 Visits .. .. • • 1,283 Confinements .. .. . . 54 N.A.B. injections .. .. 203 Bicreol injections .. . . 976 Local anaesthetics .. .. 57 Minor operations (including dental Worm treatments .. .. 27 extractions) . . .. . . 395 Asthma injections (adrenalin) . . 6 Antenatal examinations .. 21 Manihiki. The Resident Agent reports that there have been no epidemics and that the general health has been good. Radio communication has been maintained since early in March. Raeahanga. The general health has been good. The health committee established in 1926 attends to the general hygiene. The people were advised through their Resident Agent what steps should be taken to abate the fly nuisance, and at present improved privies are being erected at the back of the village and a campaign to improve the general hygiene is being carried out. One suspect leper was reported and isolated . 1 Penrhyn. The general health has been good. A leper concentration hospital is being erected on one of the local islets to receive all lepers and suspects from the Group, pending removal to Fiji. Pukapuka. The surgeon of the H.M.S. Wellington inspected the island and the Resident Agent reports that the general health has been good. VITAL STATISTICS. The following table shows the births and deaths in each island of the Lower Group for the year ended 31st March, 1937. and of the Northern Group for the year ended 30th September. 1936.

Statistical Return for Year ending 31st March, 1937 (Islands of Lower Group), and for Year ending 30th September, 1936 (Northern Group Islands).

Of the deaths recorded, 53 were under the age of one year, as compared with 61 for the previous year .

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Births. Deaths. Marriages. Islands. j ' — .— | European. Maori. European. j Maori. Euro " I Maori I pean. I Lower Group — m. f. m. p. m . f. m . f. Rarotonga .. • .. .. 3 80 76 .. 4 38 40 2 39 Aitutaki .. .... 1 46 43 .. 1 16 17 l ]7 Mangaia .. 37 29 . . .. 12 12 . . 14 Atiu ■ • 18 24 .. 8 15 4 Mauke .. 10 23 .. .. 5 6 .. 5 Mitiaro .. .... .. 8 6 1 2 1 Northern Islands— Manihiki .. 11 4 i ] ] 10 6 Rakahanga.. .... .. 4 5 .. .. 5 5 Penrhyn .. 7 9 .. .. 4 6 4 Pukapuka .. ...... 11 16 .. . . 3 5 4 4 232 235 1 5 103 118 3 94

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Analysis of Deaths as shown in above Return for Year ending 31st March, 1937 (Islands of Lower Group), and for Year ending 30th September, 1936 (Northern Group Islands).

MIGRATION. The following return shows the migration to and from Rarotonga for the period Ist April, 1936, to 31st March, 1937 : — Arrivals. —Europeans : 146 males, 102 females. Natives : 34 males, 38 females. Departures.—Europeans : 135 males, 109 females. Natives : 25 males, 30 females. EDUCATION. Reference should be made to last year's annual report for a review of educational work since 1900. Schools. There are eighteen schools under the Cook Islands Administration and six conducted by the Roman Catholic Mission. The following shows the schools, the roll numbers, and the staffing

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Under 1 I Under 5 Under 10 Under 15 Under 20 Over 20 Total Island. Year. Years. Years. Years. Years. Years. Lower Group — m. f. m. f. m. f. m. f. m. f. m. f. m. f. Rarotonga .. . . 6 3 7 5 1 2 . . . . 2 8 21 29 37 45 Aitutaki . . . . • • 3 3 2 . . 2 1 1 .. 10 12 16 18 Mangaia 5 6 . 7 6 12 12 Atiu 3 3 3 .... 1 •• 4 9 8 15 Mauke 2 3 1 .. .. 1 2 2 5 6 Mitiaro .. .. Northern Islands— _ „ , „ Manihiki 6 4 1 . 5 6 12 10 Rakahanga .. •• 1 2 1 1 1 1 5 Pen rli vn 1 .. 1 .. 1 4 3 4 6 Pukapuka.. .. •• 1 1 1 Totals .. 27 26 | 10 6 1 9 1 1 5 8 59 74 jl03 124

Island. I School. j Num b er _ Staff - — I i I Rarotonga.. .. Avarua (including Euro- | 494 | 14 pean school) Arorangi . . • • 210 5 i Ngatangiia . . .. 184 6 Titikaveka .. . ■ 153 5 Air (it a ki .. • • Araura .. ■ • 468 13 Atiu .. • • Atiu .. • ■ 239 7 Mangaia . . . . Oneroa . . • • 174 7 | Ivirua .. ■ • 101 3 Tamarua .. ■ ■ 57 2 Mauke .. • ■ Mauke .. ■ ■ 83 2 Mitiaro .. ■ • Mitiaro . . • ■ 36 1 Pukapuka . . . . Pukapuka . . . . 130 5 *Palmerston .. Palmerston . . , . . 34 .1 Penrhyn .. • • *Omoka . . • ■ 62 *Tetautua . . . ■ 51 1 Manihiki . . . • *Tauhunu . . • • 65 1 *Tukao .. • ■ 20 1 Rakahanga .. *Rakahanga .. •. 47 1 2,608 | 77 J . The schools marked * are subsidized L.M.S. Mission Schools.

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Roman Catholic Mission Schools.

for total r ber ° f 0l ! being educated tie Group is 2,979, and the average attendance 163 1S Per ' increase in school population, as compared with the previous year, is Seven schools have European Head Teachers, while the remaining Head Teachers are Native. Staff. European. With one exception, the staff remains as at 31st March, 1936. +1. !i' C^ enzle ' Educatlon Officer and Head Teacher, Avarua School, was transferred to Apia towards the end o f the year consequent on his appointment as Superintendent of Schools for Western Samoa He has been associated with education services m the Islands for the past thirteen years—Nine four years , Aitutaki, two years : Head Teacher, Avarua School and Education Officer. Cook Islands, seven years. 3 , f at j Ve '7~\T heS ®. teachers continue to do good work, and they are steadily improving. Their own standard of education handicaps them, but they are willing and intelligent and are always readv to incorporate ideas of method and class management, Special efforts are being made to improve their educational status by means of afternoon classes taken by the European Head Teachers. Work in this direction is well worth while, and will help to remove their disability. Medical. in »vZhn!T n A C^ S '7Ī h X ° hief Medical officer > nurses > and Nativ e assistants examined the pupils in all schools and indicated those requiring treatment. For special ailments treatment was given at the Avarua Hospital, while supplies of cod-liver oil and iron tonic have been maintained at the schools where daily doses have been given to children reauirinff them This has had a decidedly beneficial effect on the general health of the pupils q g Ihe usual first-aid supplies have been furnished to schools. the pupllf IStnCt NUrSe haS Pald ViSitS t0 aH schools ' attendin S particularly to the personal hygiene of Outer Islands.—'The health of the children in the outer islands has, in general, been very These schools have been visited by the medical staff as opportunity offered. Where Resident Nurses are stationed much good work has been accomplished in treating the children and, on the other islands the Resident Agents have rendered valuable medical assistance. Dental. Rarot.onga.~~The arrival of a new Dental Officer has facilitated the continuance of dental treatment n Rarotonga. All. schools have their allotted times, and regular attention has been given. Extractions and fillings are carried out, and this must have good results. The number requiring treatment is being steadily reduced and in the course of time, it is hoped that the Dental Officer will be able to cope with all new entrants as well as keep the mouths of the remainder in good condition time to t[if?/th7^ Win vf 0 / h f? S ?i ( ; 0f ? dentist ' extractions of teeth have had to be made from time to time, as the possibility of dental treatment is very remote. The Curriculum. Work has continued on the lines laid down in the new syllabus of instruction put into practice during last year. Although the syllabus is definite and couched in simple language, the Native teacher the S ir S / lts mter Pftation. European Head Teachers have spent much time on this with their Native assistants, who are beginning to realize its importance. due a E tte g nttn health ' tr ° Pi ° al agriculture are s P e cially emphasized, and the other subjects receive Agriculture. Cuttings of hibiscus, frangi-pani, and gardenia were struck in the garden plots of all schools in Rarotonga and the plants forwarded by the Agriculture Department to the Waitangi Estate,

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Island. School. st „« Number. j "tart. Raratonga . . . . St. Joseph's Convent .. 160 5 Atiu . . .. Atiu Catholic .. 49 2 Mauke .. .. Mauke Catholic .. 65 2 Mitiaro .. .. Mitiaro Catholic 26 2 Manihiki .. .. Manihiki Catholic .. 27 3 Rakahanga .. Rakahanga Catholic .. 44 2 371 15

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A letter of thanks was received from Mr. Vernon Reed, Honorary Secretary, Waitangi National Trust expressing appreciation and stating that great care was being taken of the plants, which so far seemed quite happy in their new surroundings. It is interesting to have this link between Rarotonga and done in school gardens in the growing of various crops., and benefit has been derived from the distribution among pupils of crops of green vegetables and of native foodstuffs. vegetables particularly seem to be a decided aid in combating sores and general debility. Citrus culture was given special attention. Seedlings were raised and cared for, and m due course ' n-unils learned budding in a practical way, in many cases with gratifying results. This subject is one of the most important in the curriculum, and with special emphasis will tend to cieate a lasting interest in work on the land, which is the main industry of these islands. Physical Education. The phvsical side of school life has received the attention it deserves. The introduction of a new manual, " Syllabus of Physical Training for Schools-Board of Education, London " will have the effect of unifying work in this direction. Carriage, especially among the girls is excellent, and well-cared-for children are, in general, robust, but systematic exercises can do much towards maintaining good health. Sports.—Games are played in all schools, and the cultivation of/' team spirit " and co-operation is encouraged —football, basketball, rounders, and cricket being the principal games indulged m. Interschool games have been conducted and good games have resulted. For the first time inter-island games were played. In October-November a team from Araura School, Aitutaki, visited Rarotonga and, although the combined Rarotongan side was too strong for them the games with individual schools were well contested and resulted in close scoring. The Aitutak bovs widened their knowledge, and many new experiences would be related by them on their return Talking pictures and community water-supply systems by means of pipes and taps, for example, wer nOVe Mo°st ll schools now have an annual athletic sports day. Competition is very keen, and marked improvement in form has been shown in the various events. Vernon Reed Shield.—This shield, awarded to the school showing the greatest proficiency in English, was again competed for, the winner for 1936 being Avarua School. Pomare Medals-These were again presented to the most outstanding pupil in each school controlled by a European Head Teacher. Qualities of leadership are especially considered m making the awards. Buildings, Very little alteration was made during the year, and the buildings are sufficient for requirements In reconstruction work after the hurricane provision was made for the natural increase 111 schoo population. The buildings have been kept in good repair by the Public Works Department and, wher necessary, new desks and school furniture have been provided. Visits. All schools in the Lower Group were visited by the New Zealand Parliamentary Party—Messrs Robertson Hunter, and Holland, who were accompanied by Mr. S. J. Smith, Secretary foi the Cook Islands. At each school a short programme was given, and the visitors were agreeably surprised at what is being accomplished in education throughout the Group. PUBLIC WORKS. Rarotonga. Roads. —The Main Road has been kept in good repair and widened at Avatiu, St. Joseph's Road, atld Tapere Rmds: These are roads maintained with voluntary labour supplied by the districts concerned. Work of levelling, widening, and metalling has been carried out on eighteen Tapere Roads, and also on the Ara Metua at Arorangi. Bridaes and Culverts.—Avatiu and Ruatonga bridges have been repaired and five new culverts (three at Arorangi, one at Ngatangiia, and one at Ruatonga) built. The following concrete bridges which were damaged during heavy floods in January,. 1937, were repaired : Hotel Bridge, Takuvame Bridge and two Ngatangiia Bridges. A groin was built in the Takuvame Stream, and a new channel made. Water-supply-—All supply systems to the various villages have been maintained in good order. Water is supplied from five different intakes, and is available to every house m the six villages around the Although the circumference of Rarotonga is only twenty-one miles there are thirty-one miles and a half of water mains, and the supply pipes to the various houses are additional. Buildings. —A new ward, with verandas back and front, was added to the hospital, and also a new laundry, with water laid on.

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Svtzrr "• * 20 "• - taiit - w " ik - i Titik "*' s ° h »»' * -»*~ for t£lr ProVMed f ° r the landin «-P laCe and bathing-places at Atiu, and a new tank supplied at Mangaia!° 110 * tankS f ° rWarded to Mitiaro ' and a new tank was provided for the radio-station Health sertirnf eSS " Stati ° n Mand ' and als ° a leper concentration hospital (see Pukapuka eIeSS ° ffiCe bUllt at Manihiki ' and mater ials for ā similar office were forwarded to f buildings throughout the entire Group were repaired and renovated as opportunity offered, and additional furniture was made and supplied where required. comp^V f 'oveA7u£i7 The Adrm,l,stratlon vehic,es were ke Pt in. good running order, four being AGRICULTURE. Citrus.—Citrus trees are still recovering from the hurricane experienced during February 1935 +V ta i i m han i d the F rUning ° f tlleil treeS ' removin g dead and cutting new woodS Vt, Ī been done the trees are showing good results in the production of new .voou. Nevertheless as so many of the trees are aged and worn out, it is apparent that they should b Z,™'£££* rouns " ees - Stops « **£•«» The crop prospects this season on Rarotonga itself are light, and it is anticipated that the export ī° m T* ISknd Wlll b6 ?TT ttan laSt 6ar - Re P° rts to lla » d fi'mii the o her isEs indicate that good average crops are likely. o n 16 total export of citrus fruits from the whole Group for the period under review was 75 671 casesa w (con g™B 29 ' 43 * oranges, 604 mandarins, 105 lemons, 3 limes, 18 grape-fruit, and 64 tangerines) from Rarotonga and 45,446 cases of oranges from the outer islands. at 4tiu Ind4°9o0 1 pi P Vm'\ " +T- ller , m^ d l en v °y a g e > approximately 5,100 cases of oranges tt'gTmts s;ts.:r not Bh,pp6d • " tl,ongh !> " oM - d 1 *» In addition, 249 cases of oranges were short-shipped at the Island of Atiu by m.v " Hauraki " loading there m June last. J Bananas. The planting of bananas remains about normal. Better-quality fruit, with a fuller stage of maturity, is being shipped since the advent of refrigerated zmgszxzr*- " d m ™° faT °™ bk —— -^ 10« «XV™ th 6 !>eriod ™ s 49 ' 964 *" from ™™ » f "» Tomatoes — The tomato crop was about normal, many growers, however, neglected givino- full attention to their plantations particularly m the way of spraying to prevent disease attacks. I lie total export of tomatoes for the year was 39,541 boxes. Coconuts.—Coconut plantations generally are thriving well. The total export of coconuts has amounted to a total of 1,003 sacks. In addition a small auantitv of loose nuts was exported through the Parcels Post Branch quantity Copra prices have firmed considerably this year, but there is a general shortage of nuts on Rarotonga and copra-making has not been very extensive. The total quantity of copra exported from the whole Group during the twelve months was 1,184 tons, much below normal. Domestic Crops.—The planting of products for local consumption, such as taro, kumeras, melons, &c., has been normal, and sufficient to supply requirements. Planting Statistics, Rarotonga, for year ending 31st March, 1937,-Citrus, 945 ; bananas, 201,600 • tomatoes, 1,008,000 , pineapples, 4,740 ; taro, 420,650 ; kumeras, 221,800 ; yams, 7,390 ; breadfruit, 153^ Noxious Weeds. During the latter part of the year special attention has been given to the question of clearing noxious weeds, which m some instances are rather prevalent. A thorough inspection has been made, and some 398 warning notices were issued to occupiers of property. Clearing is now well m hand and a follow-up inspection at an early date should find considerable improvement Failing satisfactory work being undertaken it will be necessary to bring delinquents before the Court for not complying with the requirements of the regulations. Rat Menace —Poison baits have been given a good trial in dealing with the rat pest during the past baft touse 8 y results - Red Sc L mll powder appears to be the most satisfactory form of poison

2—-A. 3.

9

A.—3.

Manure Levy —The levy of 3d. per case on oranges and bananas exported and 2d. per box on tomatoes has been SleoS on shipments made throughout the year. Fertilizer was procured as funds became available, and some 150 tons of manure have been distributed to growers during the course of t y . . Packing-sheds.—The packing-sheds have been kept in good order and utilized to their capacity with the various kinds of fruit in season. Registration of Fruitgrowers.-Nine hundred and sixty-five fruitgrowers are registered on the Island of Rarotonga and 100 on the Island of Mauke. Steps are being taken to complete the registration on the Islands of Aitutaki, Atiu, and Mangaia. Marketing of Fruit.—During the vear a thorough investigation was made into all branches of the fruit industry of the islands by a special parliamentary Committee as the outcome of petitions to Parliament by the fruitgrowers for improved conditions in the system of marketing of fruit from As a result thereof the Government has recently announced its intention of taking over the control of and marketing the fruit produced in the Cook Islands. The change-over is ikely to take place almost immediately, and will involve a considerable amount of work and responsibility. Exvort of Fruit—During the twelve months the exports to New Zealand from the whole Group have amounted to a grand total of 166,556 packages, (Rarotonga 120,903 and other islands 45,653 packages), an increase of approximately 32,000 packages on last year S figures. Inspection has been carried out generally in a satisfactory manner. The system of changing the Inspectors from shed to shed has been continued and is operating satisfactorily as far as the qualifications of Native Inspectors will allow. A general tightening-up of the grading and inspection work has been effected, with apparently satisfactory results. . . . The advent of the new motor - vessel " Matua," with refrigerated space for fruit-carrying, is proving to be advantageous, and fruit may now be shipped at a fuller stage of maturity, thereby ensuring that a better-quality fruit reaches the market. Trouble may always be expected, however with overmature fruit and considerable losses experienced locally, until some modern facilities for holding the fruit cool-storage while awaiting shipment are provided. The present system of holding the fruit on the trees until vessels are available to transport it amounts to the picking of the fruit to ship s time-tab l6 instead of o ite proper stage of maturity, which is entirely contrary to all the principles involved m the transport of fruit intended for export, and would not apply even to fruit intended for local and immediate use in other countries. Experimental Farm and Nursery.—The position regarding the Experimental Farm and Nursery shows no improvement. Flood-water again completely inundated the whole section recently as the result of a he P avy rainfall which took place on the 3rd March last. All the young plants being raised in the shadehouse were washed away, few of them being recovered when the water subsided. The main drain was cleared out and deepened not long before the flood took place, but this rapidly bee.™ fS With mbtte and debris «shed down by stopping the flooding of the whole farm area, the water being as high as 4 ft. m the mam citrus area, which is decidedly detrimental to the trees growing there. The citrus trees on the testing area were given a thorough pruning during the off-season and show a decided improvement this season. In addition, a dressing of fertilizers was applied to all the trees, from which beneficial results may also be expected. The Ngatipa and Tutakimea sections planted under citrus during 1933 for trial purposes are making pood nro»ress but are suffering from lack of cultivation m the same manner as the mam areas. The bananas planted between the trees at Ngatipa have been thinned out, as the citrus trees now require more nutriment for their development. Foreshore Planting.-The trees planted on the foreshore after the 1935 hurricane have been given attention from time to time and appear to be establishing themselves fairly well. A few replacements have been necessary, and these have received attention. 4 quantity of ornamental plants and trees have been planted recently at the weless-stationi m addition to those already there. These are all showing signs of becoming well established and should enhance fc be.nty of 4, property, • well „ replying, in cows, ol time, the ehelte, wlneh w» S demolished at the time of the hurricane. Vegetation for the Northern Islands.-Supplies of young trees plants, and seeds have been forwarded to the northern islands of the Group, as opportunity offered, by the schooners trading there. Quantities of soil were also forwarded with the plants to assist in their establishment Reports to hand indicate that satisfactory results may be expected in course of time, although the lack of soil appears great handicap in establishing plant-life on those islands. Outer Islands. —Advantage was taken of the call of m.v. " Hauraki " to visit the Islands of Atiu and Mauke at the end of June last to observe loading operations at these two islands and some data collected'regarding costs, &c„ that proved useful in compiling information required regarding those matters. . . . Later during the visit of the parliamentary delegation in the month of August, Aitutaki Atiu, Mauke and Mangaia were visited, where evidence was taken by the Committee relative to conditions pertaining to the fruit industry in these islands. -

10

A.—3.

HIGH COURT. Rarotonga. Criminal Jurisdiction. —For the twelve months the Court dealt with 1,1.31 oases for criminal offences and breaches of Regulations and Local Ordinances, as follows :— High Court.—Criminal Jurisdiction. Analysis of cases heard during the YEAR ended 31st March, 1937. Burglary .. .. .. . . .. .. .. .. 6 Theft .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. 42 Receiving stolen property .. .. .. .. .. .. 5 Causing actual bodily harm . . . . . . .. .. .. 1 Carnal knowledge—girl under fifteen years . . .. .. .. 1 Indecent assault .. . . . . .. . . .. . . 2 Attempted rape . . . . . . .. .. .. . . 1 Assault .. . . .. .. .. .. .. .. 18 Adultery (by married persons) .. . . .. .. . . 14 False pretences .. .. .. . . .. .. . . 1 Cruelty to an animal .. . . .. .. .... 2 Wilful mischief to property . . . . .. .. .. .. 8 Disorderly conduct in public place .. .. . . .. . . 7 Obstructing the police . . . . . . .. . . .. 1 Animal trespass . . . . .. . . .. . . .. 101 Drunkenness .. .. .. . . .. .. .. 4 Prostitution .. . . . . .. .. . . .. 6 Soliciting prostitution . . . . .. .. .. .. 3 Brothel .. .. .. . . . . ~ .. .. 1 Wilful trespass .. . . .. .. .. .. .. 8 Contempt of Court . . . . .. .. .. .. . . 1 Appeal from decision of Commissioner . . . . .. .. . . 1 Manufacturing intoxicating liquor . . .. .. .. . . 16 Consuming intoxicating liquor (Natives) .. . . .. . . 697 Giving intoxicating liquor to Natives . . . . . . .. .. 5 Driving a motor-car in a state of intoxication . . .. . . . . 2 Attempt to defraud grantee of instrument . . .. . . .. 1 Deceiving a Medical Officer .. .. . . .. . . . . 1 Uttering counterfeit coin .. . . .. .. . . . . 3 Unlawful conversion to own use of motor-car . . .. . . . . 1 Escaping from lawful custody . . . . .. .. .. 27 Breaches of Local Ordinances and Regulations, as follows :— Cohabiting .. .. . . . . .. . . . . 6 Failing to register dog .. . . . . . . .. . . 44 Loitering at night after 10 p.m. in public place .. .. . . 42 Riding bicycle at night without a light .. .. .. .. 29 Breach of Fruit Regulations .. .. . . . . .. 9 Breach of Rarotonga Motor-vehicles Ordinances .. .. .. 9 Keeping open a teashop .. .. .. .. .. .. 2 Keeping pig in settlement .. . . .. .. .. 1 Breach of Section 4, Rarotonga Ordinances, 1932 . . .. .. 2 Total .. .. .. .. .. .. 1,131 How dealt with :— Convicted and sentenced to imprisonment .. .. . . .. 42 Convicted and fined .. .. .. .. . . .. 965 Convicted and discharged .. .. .. .. .. 37 Convicted and ordered to come up for sentence if called upon . . 16 Convicted to be thrashed .. .. . . . . . . 1 Cases withdrawn . . . . . . .. . . .. 33 Cases dismissed .. .. .. .. .. , . 19 Cases adjourned sine die . . .. . . . , . . 10 Cases adjourned to next month .. . . .. . . .. 8 Total . . . . . . . . . . .. 1,131 The work of the High Court in Group Islands is not incorporated in the above, but is shown in the reports, set out later, relating to the various islands. Civil Jurisdiction.—Fifty-eight cases were heard at Rarotonga for the period under review, including 20 actions for debt, involving the sum of £596 7s. Id., and 14 for divorce. Outer Group. During the year the Chief Judge periodically visited all Lower Group Islands and dealt with the more serious cases on the criminal side which were reserved for hearing by him, and also all civil cases and applications for divorce.

11

A.—3.

In September the Chief Judge visited the Northern Group and dealt with all criminal cases and civil cases pending at Manihiki, Rakahanga, and Penrhyn. In Rarotonga and in both the Lower and Northern Groups all criminal and civil work is up to date. NATIVE LAND COURT. Sittings. —During the year two sittings were held at Rarotonga, the first in April and May, 1936, the second commencing on 22nd March, 1937, and being expected to occupy some six weeks. Over three hundred cases, amongst them some keenly contested ones, were disposed of. Whilst at Penrhyn, Manihiki, and Rakahanga, in September and October, the Chief Judge heard some of the more pressing cases. Records. —The Registrar, together with a special officer from the Land Court in New Zealand, is busily engaged in checking all records of the Court and rewriting the Titles Registers. As this is a work of some magnitude it is estimated that these officers will be engaged on it for about twelve months. POST OFFICE. Mail Services. With the departure of R.M.S. " Makura " on the Ist December, 1936, for New Zealand, the San Francisco contract service was discontinued. Following the termination of this service, the Cook Islands has been served by m.v. I Matua," operating monthly from New Zealand. During certain months of the year the vessel's itinerary includes calls at Nukualofa, Apia, and Suva en route to New Zealand, and advantage is taken to prepare mails for the places mentioned. In addition, a mail is made up for the Royal mail steamers Vancouver-bound via Suva. The preparation of the latter despatch provides a quick service to Canada, the United States of America, Japan, China, the United Kingdom, and the continent, as the present schedule provides for " Matua's " arrival at Suva a few days prior to the arrival of the Vancouver contract-service steamers at that port. A mail for Papeete is despatched via Suva, where it is picked up by trading-vessels of the Union Steam Ship Co. operating between Australia and the Pacific Coast via Fiji. Mails have been exchanged with all Group offices as opportunity offered, and no delay of mailmatter for a lengthy period has occurred. With the closing of Apia as the port of entry for Pukapuka correspondence for that Island will now be despatched by trading schooner from Rarotonga. Post Office Savings-bank. The summary of transactions in this branch is as follows: Deposits, ordinary, £24,015 12s. lOd. ; withdrawals, ordinary, £22,128 3s. 5d.; excess of deposits over withdrawals, £1,887 9s. 5d.; savingsbank accounts opened during the year, 215 ; savings-bank accounts closed during the year, 90 ; total number of accounts open, 1,541, an increase of 125 over last year; amount at credit of depositors, £28,778 13s. 2d., compared with £26,128 2s. Bd. last year. The amount at credit of depositors for the financial year just ended is the highest on record for the Cook Islands. Postal Notes. Number of notes issued, 1692 ; value of notes issued, £677 17s. 6d. (1,590 and £585 13s. for the previous year.) Money-orders. Paid: Number of orders, 343 ; amount, £7,382 lis. Id. (277 and £2,598 17s. 6d. for the previous year.) Issued : Number of orders, 961 ; amount, £11,017 15s. 7d. ; commission, £237 13s. 9d. (812, £9,330 Is. 3d. and £84 7s. sd. for the previous year). Cook Islands Postage and Revenue Stamps. Total sales (all sources), £5,572 ss. 2d. This figure shows an increase of £2,404 12s. 4d. over the total sales for the year ended 31st March, 1936 (Jubilee year). New Zealand stamps of the denominations 25., 2s. 6d., 35., 55., 10s., and £1, which, were overprinted " Rarotonga," were withdrawn from sale on the 14th July last and replaced on the 15th idem by similar stamps overprinted " Cook Islands." It is gratifying to note that the change has been favourably commented upon in several of the more prominent stamp magazines. The Cook Islands series is now complete from the |d. value to the £5 value. Telephone Services. Lines.—The telephone lines to the outer villages and to the wireless-station are still in first-class condition. Several heavy gales have been experienced during the past year, and it is satisfactory to report that the wire used for the reconstruction of the wireless-station line after the hurricane experienced in February, 1935, has remained free from faults since that time. Wireless. During the year a continuous and efficient service has been maintained by all radio-stations under the control of this Administration. Sub-stations in the Lower Group. —No major faults have occurred at any of the four sub-stations, and all schedules have been kept. All sub-stations are operated by Native cadets, who are also employed in other branches of the Administration. Radio Rarotonga. —Deterioration of the positive plates in the main storage battery in use at Radio Rarotonga has been rapid during the last twelve months. An order was placed for new plates, and these arrived in December.

12

A.—3.

9 An e^j- ra li raffiC schedu]e Wltt Wellington-Radio was commenced in July. The schedule is at jtiZSZSTg * M ' ys '" llls ™-' Radio-Rarotonga during the financial year. Revenue on account of merges 2 recXed and rf £477° iTM. " g °" °' tW " 8 "' M " "**»« "» £875 2i <™ <*> f re ? V aT Se Tr e to f e L ° Wer GroU P stations accounted for 38,860 words, and free press received of press 601 information totalled 441,479 words, making a grand total of 480,339 words wr,rdy e a t?+> i rePOrtS fr °-n Aitutaki a l nd Rar °tonga transmitted to New Zealand amounted to 3,990 tl ! SemCe ! of the Northern Group stations has been completed, ree Naval messages handled totalled 586 words, and miscellaneous services totalled 14,504 words • l qqq , n J service to Resident Agents and nurses in the Lower Group was instituted over 10 000 , / r0 1?* K Tlle ° alls taVe increased ' and du ™g the year under review telephoned to The MVP fnffi tks Nation Messages requesting advice have to be received and waiting station ' telephones his reply, and this is then transmitted to the Northern Group. In 1930 the Post and Telegraph Department was asked to recommend a scheme whereby wireless communication could be established with islands of the Northern Cook Group. A scheme was proposed fl'j ab eyance until such time as more simplified and less costly apparatus could be supplied' modified scheme was submitted m May of last year and approved. The latter scheme provided foi wind-driven units as the source of power supply for low-power sets at Penrhyn Island and Pukapuka and a motor-driven unit with batteries for Manihiki, which would be of higher power. Pukapuka and Penrhyn Islands would communicate with Manihiki, and the latter station would act as the clearmg-station for the Northern Group, and would also communicate direct with Radio-Rarotonga and Ksifrt 7 ° ™ sts " d aelials ™ f ™ ried <>'™e at aetom»la a S mt Zl w « s delayed and tie Penrhyn low-power (out was ereoted rtp It Ī station. Although of very low power, regular communication has been maintained since go Api "" tus "" M " ihilti wi ""™ f "" and trials for Penrhyn-Radio are now being erected on that island, and it is understood been COmplet6d - AU — for iis\ C s ho aeri r air il ii e r a e i] Eal ' otonga !°ī Puka Pf a in Jl ™ oi ' is intended to send material that visit'. equipment to complete installation of apparatus at Pukapuka during Trainees. At present 5 Natives are being trained as wireless cadets at Radio-Rarotonga. Ut these, 4 are pupil teachers and 1 is a Native medical practitioner. When necessary their services as wireless cadets, in addition to teaching and medical duties, will be utilized. POLICE. The strength of the Cook Islands Police Force remains unchanged from the 31st March 1936 the forty-four members being distributed as under tlle

Minor changes have taken place in the personnel of the Force throughout the Group ■rnrl n V ta ® be / n vel 7 g ood I but a t Rarotonga one member was dismissed and another suspended for a short period, for neglect of duty. The number of police cases dealt with in the High Court at Rarotonga during the year was 1 130 W1 * i the previous year. Of these cases,. 1,061 convictions resulted, 18 cases were were adjourned. 33 were withdrawn, and 18 dismissed.

13

Island ' Inspectors. Sergeants. Constables. All Ranks. SS'aH 5 " .'I 1 (European) 2 6 9 Atfa •• - :: :: ! S I Mitiaro .. i o Mauke .. " '" ! Z 3 Mangaia .. .. .. " j * Penrhyn / ° ? Pukapuka .. .. ,, '' „ 3 Manihiki and Rakahanga .. .. ' ' j' 4 g Totals 1 8 35 U n/r- , _ ™~

A.—3.

Fines amounting to £825 13s. were imposed and £215 ss. collected during the year, as against £719 19s. 6d. imposed and £262 17s. collected for the previous year. The police have exerted themselves in the endeavour to collect fines, but it would appear that the majority of offenders prefer to work out their fines. x. ■ a Crimes and offences involving dishonesty have decreased, the number of theft cases having dropped from 69 to 42 ; but there were 6 cases of burglary, against 4 for last year.^ During the first six months of the year the number of sexual cases increased, there having been 9 Native girls and 4 Native men convicted of offences relating to prostitution ; but for the las six months of the past year there has not been a single case of this kind. Prison. —At the present time there are 12 prisoners in the gaol at Rarotonga. On week-days the prisoners are handed over to the Public Works Department to assist on road-works and various other public activities, where they are employed until 4 p.m. and then returned to the gao . Registration and Licensing of Motor-vehicles.—Seven motor-vehicles, 4 motor-cars, and 3 motorcycles were registered. Thirty-six drivers' licenses were issued. During the annual licensing period ending 31st March, 1937, 96 annual road licenses (46 motortrucks 44 motor-cars, and 6 motor-cycles) were issued, and £186 ss. 2d. m fees collected. Twenty-six annual passenger licenses were issued and £36 2s. 6d. collected in connection therewith. The total amount collected under the provisions of the Motor-vehicles Ordinances m force at Rarotonga for the past year was £238 17s. 8d„ as against £230 16d. Bd. collected during the previous yeaX Owing to the discontinuance of the mail-boat service between Sydney and San Francisco, it is anticipated that there will be a marked decrease in the number of passenger licenses issued this year Registration of Dogs.-During the year ended on 31st March, 1937, 120 dogs were registered at BM Films Censorship.—Ninety-one films were censored during the year, and of these, 2 were rejected as being unsuitable for Native audiences, cuts were made m 3 others, and 1 was passed as being suitable for exhibition to adults only. Films are now exhibited at the Royal Hall, Avarua only, usually two evenings each week. Ihis building is maintained in fairly good order, and ample fire-escapes are provided , Bailiff— As Bailiff of the High Court, 33 civil summonses were served and 4 writs of sale executed. dUrl feeri-The conduct of both the Native and European population has been very good during the past year, but that of some of the visitors (European men) was not all that could be desired. METEOROLOGICAL. The total rainfall at Avarua, Rarotonga, for the year ended 31st March 1937 was 95-49 in. The heaviest rainfall in twenty-four hours was 9-63 in. on 10th December, 1936. The previous heaviest rainfall registered was 9-46 in. on 9th November, 1927. „ , The highest reading of the Fahrenheit thermometer m the shade was 88 degrees on the 17th be biuary, 1937, the lowest, 55-5 degrees on the 22nd August, 1936. The mean of the maximum thermometer was 79-68, and the mean of the minimum thermomete 70-16 degrees. . The lowest reading of the barometer was 29-642 m. on 25th February, 1937.

SOUTHERN COOK GROUP. AITUTAKI. Trade. Trade generally has improved somewhat owing chiefly to increased output of fruit this season. The fruit crop during the year has been good, and a total of 22,651 cases was exported Owing to serious lack of rain during the period March to September a considerable amount ot frmt was lost through falling and splitting, the loss being estimated at not less than 7 000 cases. The prospects for the coming season are very bright and it is estimated that the output will be approximately 30,000 cases. . m High Court. —Criminal cases for the year 1936 totalled 200, as against 342 for 1935. lherc were no cases of a serious nature. . , , . T , , . , , Medical and Public Health,.—An influenza epidemic occurred during July and August,l936 ofa gastric-bronchial type, some deaths following on relapses. Otherwise the general health of the people has been satisfactory. i -n u a Seven new cases of leprosy, all males, were discovered. Six of the cases were children between the age of seven and twelve years, the other being an adult aged seventeen years. All were segregated and treated with Moogul oil. Five responded so well to the treatment that they were liberated, but still receive treatment each week. Pulmonary Tuberculosis is still pronounced amongst inhabitants ot all ages. Children affected with yaws have been given injections of Bicreol and N.A.L. The school has received a complete inspection monthly, and all children have improved genera ly. Daily issues as prescribed of cod-liver oil, tonic, cough mixture, and magnesium sulphur have been given. Daily sea-bathing has been carried out under supervision by all school-children to aid with skm-diseases.

14

A.—3.

Inspections of villages have been carried out weekly. The general sanitation is satisfactory. Skins : There has been a complete inspection of each village during the year and all diseases have been treated. Accidents : One child badly scalded ; made good recovery. One male adult, badly bitten by shark in right forearm. Patient being transferred to Rarotonga for attention at hospital under Chief Medical Officer. Vital Statistics.—Births —Males, 45 ; females, 45 ; total, 90. Deaths—Males, 16 ; females, 18 : total, 34. Marriages, 18. Wireless. —Radio traffic for the year was as follows—lnwards : Messages, 350 ; words, 5,854. Outwards : Messages, 344 ; words, 5,025. Total gross receipts, £283 ss. 5-|-d. The station has worked smoothly throughout the period. Press news as sent out by RadioRarotonga has been posted up thrice weekly. Weather reports were sent out daily. Meteorological.—Summarized, the 9 a.m. readings for the calendar year 1936 are as follows : — Barometer— Highest for the year, 30-084 in July. Lowest for the year, 29-623 in December. Mean for the year, 29-912. Temperatures— Highest maximum, 94-0 in March. Lowest minimum, 58-0 in October. Mean maximum, 84-2. Mean minimum, 72-1. Range humidity, 74-2. Total rainfall for the year, 71-34 in. Average monthly rainfall, 5-94 in. Maximum rainfall on any one day, 5-90 in. on 7th. January, 1936. The hurricane season passed off without any serious blow. Observations of weather conditions were taken twice daily throughout the year, and monthly reports and returns were rendered to the Director, Meteorological Office, Wellington, with copies to Resident Commissioner, Rarotonga. Full weather reports were sent out twice daily by radio to Rarotonga and Wellington for purpose of the scheme of weather reports and storm warnings to shipping in the South Pacific Ocean. Public Works.—Owing to present financial stringency, only repair work of an urgent nature has been undertaken. All main roads have been maintained and kept in good order, and all drains reformed and cleaned out. All wells have been cleaned out and pumps overhauled. Four new beacons were erected in concrete, replacing those destroyed by hurricane. The three boats were maintained in good order and painted. School: The present roll at Araura School shows —Boys, 243 ; Girls, 226 ; Total, 469. The health of the children has been very good, except for a mild outbreak of influenza in June last. Teachers' Classes have been held regularly throughout the year, usually five hours a week being spent on them. A good deal of school method—revision of schemes of work, drawing, painting, comprehension, and reading—has been taken. Planting of Lands. —All natives have been planting steadily during the year, Personal inspections of all plantations were carried out during May last and again in March of this year. Also regular inspections of each Native's work have been regularly made by the Members of Council and Police of each village. MANGAIA. Health.—No epidemics have visited the Island, and the general health of the people has been good. The dispensary has been kept busy, but the greater number of cases consist of school-children with minor ailments. General treatments, 11,210; injections, 217. Hospital.—During the year a two-roomed Native building has been erected and furnished. This is to meet a need that has been felt in the past. Occasionally a patient has been brought in from an outer village, and it has been found that special nursing was needed. Vital Statistics.—Births—Male, 33; female, 29: total, 62. Deaths—Males 13- females li • total, 24. Marriages, 13. High Court.—Criminal jurisdiction, 529 cases ; civil jurisdiction, 9 cases. There have been only three serious cases, these being of a sexual nature. There have been the usual breaches of Island ordinances. Bush-beer drinking has been less prevalent. Trade.—Owing to the majority of growers refusing to sell at the prices offered, very little fruit was exported. As a result of the visit of the parliamentary delegation and the decision of the Government to take control of the fruit marketing, the coming season, it is hoped, will see more settled conditions and the whole of the Island's output exported. Fortunately, copra prices rose towards the end of the year, and every available nut was turned into copra. Exports.—Oranges, 1,000 cases ; Copra, 126 tons ; Coffee, 3 tons. Schools.—Roll numbers—Oneroa : Boys, 107 ; girls, 94: total, 201. Ivirua: Boys, 62 ■ girls, 70: total, 132. Tamarua: Boys, 36 ; girls, 32: total, 68. Teachers' Classes are held twice weekly, and the teachers have carried out their duties to the best of their ability. The head teachers of the outer villages deserve great credit for their organizing abilities, their civil activities, and the pride they take in their school grounds.

15

A.—3.

Public Works. —Roads have been maintained in good repair and metalled where possible and needed. A new bridge has been built on the round-the-Island road at Tamarna. This road is now practically an all-weather one. A two-roomed Native house has been built on London Missionary Society land at the back of the dispensary, by kind permission of the London Missionary Society authorities, for use as a hospital. Two large ovens of lime were burnt. Much lime is required in the course of the year to keep Administration buildings and walls in repair and clean. All this work has been done at very little expense, beyond food supplied. Planting. —Considerably more planting is being carried out than for many years past. The parliamentary delegation's visit and the prospects for better times and better prices have given the people the necessary incentive. It remains for the Administration to give them every encouragement by providing the means for the export of their produce at remunerative prices. There is a scarcity of banana-plants, and there will not be sufficient bananas this year to warrant a call. Next year should see this Island in a position to ship bananas, kumeras, and pines, in addition to oranges. General. —In September of last year a cricket and tennis team paid the Island a visit, Mangaia proving superior in both contests. The visit was greatly enjoyed by both sides. The behaviour of the visiting teams was exemplary. On 19th February H.M.S. " Dunedin " paid a visit to the Island. ATIU. Health. —The general health was good. There have been no epidemics and very few deaths. The Native medical practitioner, who has been here since November, has had a busy time treating yaws and filarial abscesses. He has also been of great help in child-welfare work. The usual skin ailments and summer sicknesses of the babies have been much milder than in previous summers. Mosquito-eating fish are now in all the swampy parts on the island. Village Inspection. —In addition to the weekly inspection of villages, a general inspection was held at Christmas. The general standard of cleanliness of the Island is very high. Trade. —Oranges : The season proved one of the best the Island has enjoyed from the point of view of quantity. Fifteen thousand oases of oranges were passed for export, but on account of the mishap to " Matua " at Aitutaki only 9,700 eases were shipped. Copra : 200 tons were made during the year. The price to the growers increased considerably towards the end of the period. Seventeen tons were also made at the Island of Takutea. Public Worhs. —The main problem is that of trying to keep the main road in a good state of repair. This is difficult on account of the steep hills, as a heavy downpour of rain is sufficient to remove nearly all the metal. Apart from that on the main road, the chief work has been the widening, straightening, and heavy metalling of the Taunganui-lotua Ika Road. As this road is flat it does not suffer in heavy rain. Further, a new landing-place is being made at the Ika Landing, and much work has been done already. A skidway for launching boats has been made at Taunganui, and some blasting was done at the edge of the reef to remove jagged out-crops of coral. Agriculture. —The main food crop of these people is taro, although they plant quantities of yam and kumera. High Court. —In general there were no serious offences, and all work, including cases reserved for the Judge, have been disposed of. Education. —The roll at the school is 250, which is an increase of 80 over the figures of two years ago. Agriculture has been made a feature of the work, including training in citrus planting. Island Council.—This body meets regularly during the year, and the members give good service in the governing of their people. Meteorological. —The weather from April to September was cold and unseasonable. Many high winds were recorded, and the main landing was often unworkable. From October to March the weather was very settled and, except for March, there was an absence of rain and strong winds. In mid-February, at the time of the hurricane in Tonga, the barometer remained for about five days at 294, with high winds. It is pertinent to remark here that Atiu is well protected from damage by hurricanes by the height of the makatea. In this respect it is perhaps the most fortunate island in the group. Rainfall for the year ending 31st December, 1936 was 79-65 in. Visits. —On the 4th August last the parliamentary Committee set up by the Government to inquire into the Cook Islands fruit industry visited Atiu in m.v. " Matua." On the following day, H.M.S. " Wellington " paid a visit to the Island. Vital Statistics. —Births —Males, 18 ; females, 24 : total, 42. Deaths —Males, 8 ; females 16 : total, 24. Marriages, 4. General. —These people appear happy in their partial isolation, spending the greater part of the day on their land. Tennis has proved popular, and good courts are now to be found in most of the villages, matches being played regularly. MITIARO. Mitiaro, with an area of 2,500 acres and a population of 230, lies 140 miles north-east of Rarotonga. There are considerable areas of makatea, or coral rock, and swamps, so that the area of cultivable land is not large. At present the only export is copra, and although the Island grows good oranges the quantity is not sufficient to warrant calls of the cargo-steamer.

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The Island is administered by the Resident Agent of Mauke, which is some twenty-five miles distant. Transport is now available by a good seaworthy boat, recently built in New Zealand. An Island Council has recently been constituted, and that body takes charge of affairs during the absence of the Resident Agent. NORTHERN COOK GROUP. PENRHYN. Health. —Health conditions have been good throughout the year. At the end of October a number of children and adults were attacked with influenza. Good care was taken of all patients, and in about two weeks all had recovered from their illness. At the dispensary patients have been treated from time to time for ailments such as fevers, colds, boils, wounds, stomach trouble, &c. The dispensary throughout the year has been well supplied with medicines. Leprosy : Two patients are receiving attention. Vital Statistics.—Births—Males, 8 ; females, 8 : total, 16. Deaths —Males, 2 ; females, 1 : total, 3. Marriages, 4. Population. —Census taken 30th April, 1936. Males, 244 ; females, 223 ; total, 467. Trade. —The local trading schooners called five times at the Island. These two auxiliary schooners keep the Island well supplied with provisions, &c., and also transport produce to Rarotonga. Copra shipped during the past five years was as follows : 1932, 173 tons ; 1933, 164 tons ; 1934, 71 tons ; 1935, 35 tons ; and 1936, 99 tons.An increased quantity of copra has been shipped this year, and over 50 tons are on hand ready to be shipped. The 150 tons of copra made during the year is approximately one-third of the coconut crop, most of the balance being used as food and the remainder fed to the pigs, &c. Now that the price of copra has improved there will not be the same amount of waste as formerly. The coconut-trees are bearing well, and from now on there should be good shipments of copra. The people have taken good care of their lands. Proceeds from exports were as follows : — £ 8 . a. Copra .. .. .. .. .. .. .. 249 10 9 Pipi pearls sold in London .. . . .. .. 1,100 0 0 Locally made hats and mats sold to visitors .. .. .. 30 0 0 Total .. .. .. .. .. .. £1,379 10 9 Pi-pi Pearls. —The pipi shell is growing in abundance on the rocks, but the demand for the pearls is still poor. Planting of Lands. —Considerable attention has been paid throughout the year to the planting of young coconut-trees where necessary, and most of the outer islands have been well cleaned. Most of the islands are now clear of the rat pest. There is a large lizard that destroys many of the very young coconuts and is really more destructive than the rat. As soon as possible some easy method of exterminating this " Ngarara," as it is called by the Natives, must be found. Public Works.—Throughout the year attention has been paid to keeping the roads in good repair. The two villages are clean and tidy, and each habitation is well disinfected with Jeyes' fluid. To prevent the cross seas from repeatedly washing down the breakwater in front of the residency, 20 tons of large rocks were boated and dumped along the outer edge. This has made a great improvement. One large lime-kiln was made, the lime being required for the erection of the new court-house and public buildings. The Administration buildings have been painted throughout. Care has been taken to keep the water-supply in good order. New guttering has been attached to the north side of the Omoka Church, and that on the south side has been repaired and should last another two years. High Court.—Twenty criminal cases were heard during the year, all being for minor offences involving breaches of regulations and Local Ordinances. Island Council. —There were four Council meetings held during the year. The most important matters discussed were the working of the rahuis (close season for picking coconuts), diving in the lagoon, and the selection of a suitable Island for a segregation camp where the lepers will receive treatment prior to their removal to Fiji. No new Ordinances were made during the year. Schools. —At the London Missionary Society's subsidized schools at Omoka and Te Tautua work and attendance throughout the year were satisfactory. Rolls.—Omoka : 39 males, 29 females (68 pupils) ; Te Tautua : 27 males, 36 females (63 pupils) : total, 131. The two schools have been supplied with extra forms during the year and are at present properly equipped with desks, cupboards, blackboards, and other requisites. On hand is a plentiful stock of ordinary school supplies. General. —There has been a fair amount of rain during the year, and as a result the coconut-trees have borne well.

3—-A. 3.

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On the 24th August, 1936, H.M.S. | Wellington " anchored in the lagoon. On the followingday the Captain, doctor, Bishop Kempthorne, and several of the crew paid a visit ashore. Mr. Templeton Crocker, owner of the auxiliary yacht " Zaca," paid a call on the 18th September, sailing again on the Ist October for Samoa. Dr. Miner, with members of the staff of the American Museum of Natural History, New York, were aboard. Two other auxiliary yachts " Director " and " Hurricane " paid calls while on their way around the world. On 27th September, 1936, " Tiare Taporo " arrived at the Island, bringing the Resident Commissioner on a visit to the Northern Group. A number of important matters were attended to by the Commissioner before sailing again on the 6th October for Manihiki, &c. During his brief stay the two villages and the two schools were inspected. A sitting of the High Court and an Island Council meeting were held. He also selected sites for the wireless station and the new public building, and on the Island of Te Souma a site was marked out for the proposed leper-segregation hospital. On the 28th November a very successful tutaka (inspection) was held in the Village of Te Tautua. Each household was well cleaned and tidy, with new mats spread out on the floors. Food was also prepared for the occasion ; fifty-three pigs were killed and forty bags of flour, chickens, puraka, utoes, breadfruit, &c., were used to make the feast. Throughout the year the people have been well behaved, contented, and industrious. PUKAPUKA. Owing to lack of communication the following comments are in respect of the year ended 30th September, 1936. Health. —Health conditions have remained very satisfactory, but there are still a few cases of yaws to clean up. The Native nurse attended the dispensary regularly. H.M.S. " Wellington " visited the Island on Bth September, when the ship's surgeon attended to urgent cases. Trade. —The auxiliary schooner " Makoa " has made two visits to the island during the year. One hundred and fourteen tons of copra were exported. As a result of the increased price of copra the people have made a larger quantity this last year than in the preceding year. Vital Statistics. —The population is now 653 according to the census taken during the year. Births—Males, 10 ; females, 16 : total, 26. Deaths—Males, 4 ; females, 4 : total, 8. Marriages, 4. Planting. —All taro beds on the Island are planted to their full capacity. During the past year bananas have been planted in large quantities, and it has been found that they will grow on soil which was hitherto thought unfitted for them. High Court. —There has been ten sittings of the High Court during the period and eighty cases were heard. Island Council. —Tamuta, of Roto Village, was appointed to the Island Council to replace Beni, transferred to the police. Four meetings of the Island Council were held during the year. During the absence of the Resident Agent between the 19th August and the 14th October the Island Council was given authority to attend to Government business, and this they did satisfactorily. School. —School attendance and the progress of the children have been satisfactory. The difficulty in obtaining clothes for the school-children, reported last year, has now to a greatextent been overcome as a result of the improved price of copra,. General. —There have been no violent storms during the year. The Island has been visited by the auxiliary schooner " Makoa " and H.M.S. " Wellington." The villages have been kept remarkably clean due to the vigilance of Mrs. Henry and her committee women. At regular intervals the people are required to clean their grounds and their houses. At such times the entire population inspects the island. The Resident Commissioner has sent a supply of new roofing iron, spouting, and paint, &c., for the courthouse. Ample medical supplies have been received during the past year. MANIHIKI AND RAKAHANGA. These two Islands, which are only twenty miles apart, are under the control of one Resident Agent, whose headquarters are at Manihiki. Consequent upon the death of Captain J. McCulloch, Mr. L. H. Trenn was appointed Resident Agent in October last. He is a fully qualified wireless operator and has charge of the wireless station at Manihiki, which is the parent station for the new stations in the Northern Group. Under the Superintendent of Radio-Rarotonga he will exercise supervision over these stations. Health. —The health of the people generally has been good. No health officer visited the Islands during the year, and a visit is needed to clean up cases requiring expert treatment. Both Islands have received at each visit of the local trading schooners plentiful supplies of drugs for the treatment of minor complaints. Shortly after the " Tiare Taporo " called in October a severe epidemic of fever broke out among the children, nearly every child on the two Islands being affected. On Manihiki a suspected leper, a boy of twelve, was isolated until his case could be diagnosed by a visiting doctor ; while on Rakahanga another youth, definitely diagnosed as a leper, was isolated until an opportunity occurred of transferring him to the leper station at Penrhyn. In October some gambusia, a fish which eats the mosquito larv®, were brought from Rarotonga by the Resident Commissioner and placed in the lake at Manihiki and in the extensive puraka swamps of Rakahanga. They are multiplying rapidly and will soon be distributed throughout both Islands to assist in stamping out the mosquito. Great attention is paid to keeping the villages clear

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of breeding-places for mosquitoes and of rubbish that will attract flies. Fortnightly inspections of the villages are carried out —on Manihiki by the Resident Agent, the Island Council, and the police ; and 011 Rakahanga by the Island Council, the police, and two representatives of the health committee. Trade. —-During the year copra shipped totalled 287 tons and 206 tons for Manihiki and Rakahanga respectively, as compared with 102 tons and 117 tons for the previous year. The increases are due partly to the higher prices being paid and partly to the recovery of the trees from a drought of two years ago. The imports for the year also show an increase, being £1,638 for Rakahanga and £910 for Manihiki. The high totals are due, however, to the arrival of schooners on the first and last days of the year. Vital Statistics. —-Manihiki : Births —Male, 8 ; female, 3. Deaths —Male, 5 ; female, 5. Marriages, 10. According to the official census taken on the 30th April, 1936, the population of Manihiki at that date was : Natives —Male, 237, female 249 ; European—Male 1 ; Totals —Male 238, female 249 : Grand total, 487. At the same date the adherents of the various missions operating on the Island totalled : London Missionary Society, 353; Roman Catholic, 117 ; Seventh Day Adventist, 17. Rakahanga : Births —Male, 5, female, 7. Deaths —Male, 3 ; female, 2. Marriages, 2. The total population according to the official census taken on the 30th April, 1936, was : Natives —Male 145, female 143 ; European —Male 2 ; Totals —-Male 147, female 143 : Grand total, 290. The adherents of the various missions totalled : London Missionary Society, 173 ; Roman Catholic, 103 ; Seventh Day Adventist, 14-. Planting. —Good attention is being paid to the planting of the land. New coconut-trees are being continually planted to replace old ones. Since experience has proved that most foodstuffs of the Lower Group can with care be grown on atolls, the people are increasing their plantings of bananas, breadfruit, kumeras, arrowroot, taro, &c. A good supply of these is received from Rarotonga by every schooner. On Manihiki the people have given the Resident Agent two large pieces of land within the village of Tauhunu to make into nurseries for reserve supplies of plants and trees and to test out the suitability of new varieties. Public Works. —All public buildings, water-tanks, and roads are in good order. On Manihiki a new well was made near the Residency in December. To-improve the appearance of the village by systematic work the people voluntarily formed themselves into eight ga'ngs, the leaders of which, with the Resident Agent, making up a committee to direct the work. Already, working only one morning a week, a vast improvement is manifest. Hedges are being planted along the roads, coconut stumps are being cleaned out, and all old buildings and useless structures are being demolished. On Rakahanga the people are at present working voluntarily on the construction of a new road through the coconut lands to the lagoon. The proposed road is about a mile in length and will be of great assistance in bringing produce to the village. Within a stone's throw of the village, at the edge of the lagoon, is a medicinal spring. This has been walled in and fitted with a pump, and is proving a great help to the people. Next year the Government will be sending two more pumps for wells inland. Meteorological.—An out-station of the Meteorological Branch of the Department of Scientific and Industrial Research has been established at Manihiki. There have been no storms during the year, but in the months of November and December exceptionally heavy rains fell, the best, it is said, that the Island has experienced for five or six years. As a result of these rains it is expected that the coconut crop next year will be a heavy one, and with the increased prices being paid for copra 1937 should be a prosperous year for the people. Wireless.—Early in 1937 a network of wireless stations will be installed in the Northern Cook Group, with Manihiki as the parent station and the link with Rarotonga. On the outer islands will be installed small 6 volt transmitters and receivers with windmill generators. The installation at Manihiki will consist of a generator driven by a 1J h.p. petrol-engine, the latest type of two-tube, 60 watt transmitter, and a four-tube receiver. Already the labour gangs have erected at Manihiki the two 60 ft. masts, and have partitioned off one end of the courthouse, preparatory to the arrival of the apparatus. A nightly schedule will be kept with the outer islands of the Northern Group and with Rarotonga. This will put an end to the complete isolation of the Northern Group during the hurricane season, when for a period of four months there is no schooner communication with the outside world. High Court. —Manihiki: Criminal cases, 78 ; divorce cases, 3. Rakahanga ; Criminal cases, 33 ; divorce case, 1. There is an entire absence of serious crime on the two Islands. Most offences are trivial, and law and order are being well maintained. Island Councils. —Manihiki : After the death of the former Resident Agent the Island Council took charge of the Island and governed it satisfactorily until the arrival of the new Resident Agent in October. Since then three meetings of the Council have been held and all matters affecting the welfare of the Island discussed. Munakao Ngari, an original member of the Council and one who has given good service to the Island, resigned on account of old age. Rakahanga : On. this Island also the Island Council took control until the arrival of the new Resident Agent. In October the Resident Commissioner visited the Island and a Council meeting was held. Further meetings were held when the Resident Agent visited the Island for ten days in November. At these sittings all outstanding matters affecting the welfare of the Island were discussed. In the absence of the Resident Agent the Island Council assists the local Sergeant of Police in governing the Island.

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Recreation —In December the two villages of Manihiki held an all-day sports meeting to compete for the Avson Cup, presented by Judge Ayson on his last visit. The programme was made up mostly of Manihiki events, such as sinnet plaiting, basket-making, under-water swimming, fish-spearing, canoe races, &c. Tauhunu Village won the cup by 49 points to 27. This was the first sports meeting to be held on the Island and it proved so popular that plans are being formed to hold four or five a jeAV Pearl Shell.—Owing to the low price of pearl shell there has been little diving, only 2| tons of shell being exported, as compared with 9 tons the previous year. This shell was taken by naked divers, the diving-machines, owing to the bad market, not having been operated for five years. In view of the small amount of shell being taken, the Island Council decided not to close the season. Visits —The Resident Commissioner visited both Islands at the beginning of October. He made inspections of the villages, settled all outstanding disputes, held Council meetings, and introduced the new Resident Agent to the people. Schools —Manihiki: The average attendances at the schools areLondon Missionary Society . . • • • • • • • • "9« Roman Catholic .. • • • • ■ • • • • • The schools are well equipped with all necessary furniture and supplies. Rakahanga : Attendances — London Missionary Society .. • • • • • • ■ • 19 Roman Catholic Some years ago the people of this Island raised several hundred pounds for the purpose of building a schoolhouse. In October last the material arrived, and in November the school was erected Every person on the Island assisted in the work—some fishing and procuring food, some preparing the food, cooking and serving it, and the rest doing the actual work. The building was erected m ten days and is now occupied by the London Missionary Society School. PALMERSTON. This Island (which consists of a number of motus of a total area of about 1,000 acres) lies 270 miles to the north-west of Rarotonga. It is inhabited by about ninety descendants of William Marsters, the elder, who went to I almerston in 1862 to manage the' Island for one Brander, a trader. As Brander did not return Marsters remained on in occupation of the Island, but without a title. _ At the time Marsters, the elder, went to Palmerston he was legally married to a Native woman of Penrhyn. He also took his wife's sister with him, and lived with both women. Later he took a third woman from Penrhyn. By these three women there are three separate families, each having a head. William Marsters, the elder, was granted a lease of Palmerston by the Crown in 1892. He died in 1899. Subsequently a lease was granted in favour of all his issue. The head of the family from the first or legal wife is William Marsters, the second, who is still He is an old man of seventy-three, and is the recognized head of the Island. The present lease of the Island is to the three heads of the families in trust for all the descendants of William Marsters, the elder. There is practically no inbreeding, in spite of the fact that all three families have been brought up together. Marriages are all with people from other Islands, principally Penrhyn, Manihiki, Rakahanga, and Aitutaki. The present inhabitants are strong and healthy. Palmerston is an unfortunate Island so far as hurricanes are concerned. In 1914 there was a hurricane. At the end of March, 1926, the Island was completely devastated. Heavy gales damaged the Island again in February, 1931. The hurricane of February, 1935, again completely wiped out all coconuts and ground crops, and left the inhabitants dependent almost entirely upon fish. The Island is slowly recovering, but the people are still very poor. The London Missionary Society (subsidized by the Government) maintains a school on the Island. A large concrete tank erected by the Administration provides an adequate water-supply. SUW ARROW. This Island over which British sovereignty was proclaimed on the 22nd April, 1889, contains an estimated area of 600 acres. It was first occupied by Messrs. Lever Bros, who carried on operations in pearl-shell diving and experimented in the planting of gold-lipped shell from Torres Straits, but without success. , , The hurricane of 1914 completely spoiled the Island so far as pearl-shell was concerned, and a great deal of damage was also done to coconut plantations on several of the motus. The Island, which is 513 miles north-west of Rarotonga, is still under lease, but produces very little copra at the present time. . Owing to the fact that there is a safe passage through the reef, a portion of the Island was many years ago declared an Admiralty reserve. . , ~ The Island is a sanctuary for sea-birds, which are very numerous, and there is also good fishing 111 the lagoon and round the coast. NASSAU. Nassau lies about forty-five miles south of Pukapuka, and contains an area of a little over 300 acres. It is owned by the Samoa Shipping and Trading Co., Ltd., and is well planted with coconuts. ■

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APPENDICES.

APPENDIX A. COOK ISLANDS ADMINISTRATION. Income and Expenditure Account foe the Year ended 31st March, .937. Expenditure. Income. Dr. £ s. d. £ s. d. Local Grants from Total Agriculture— Revenue. N.Z. Government. Income. Experimental farm 172 18 2 . . ~ ' r ' £ s. d. £ s. d. £ s. d. Fruit Inspection De- Agriculturepartment .. 2,770 1 7 Experimental farm . 18 0 7 2 942 19 9 rm t Inspection Department.. 2,463 10 9 Aitutaki salaries .. .. .. 758 12 9 ... ~. wu c 777 7 7 *• 2,481 11 4 Aitutaki Wharf 115 4 6 Aitutaki Wharf .. .. 229 0 6 .. 229 0 6 Ammunition 54 18 6 Ammunition 68 <-» 3 •• 68 0 3 Atiu salaries 79 5 0 ® enzme 9 13 7 • • 9 13 7 Audit fees 316 13 0 £ ensus „ 100 0 0 100 0 0 Census 100 0 0 Cinema licenses .. .. .. 10 0 0 c tg , 308 o 4 Copra export duty .. .. 664 13 9 .. 664 13 9 Customs and Treasury !! " '984 2 1 Court fees and fines .. . 367 10 0 .. 367 10 0 Education .. .. .. 8,91116 10 Customs duties .. ..11,263 11 6 .. 11,263 11 6 Film-censorship 16 9 6 ta ; x 60 9 2 " 60 0 0 Freezer.. 2,058 0 2 Education .. .. 217 16 6 6,237 0 0 6,454 16 6 Furniture, repairs, &c 33 1 6 Mm-censorship fees .. 16 17 0 .. 16 17 0 Government Buildings .. .. 616 16 3 " oa a " 2,117 8 5 Hospital and Medical £ s. d. Hall licenses .. 20 0 20 0 Services 5 °12 16 11 Hospital and medical services .. 197 710 6,979 0 0 7,176 710 Dental Department' '247 5 8 *fl uor , '> 999 7 » •• !> 999 7 5 Lepers (maintenance) 1,949 19 9 mscXneous fees " " 0 0 " ' Lunatics (mainten- miscellaneous tees . . .. o l/o .. 017 0 ance) .. 156 18 6 Motor few .. 238 17 8 .. 238 17 8 r, ran ,v in JNative Land Court iees .. 33 6 3 .. 33 6 3 Liquor 1 >44 15 10 fees .. . 11 4 0 .. 11 4 0 Mangaia salaries 143 18 9 P° st ; offic ® •• " 9 •• !> 3Bl 6 9 Manihiki and Rakahanga salaries .. 255 5 2 P rmtm S Department .. .. 105 18 9 • • 105 18 9 Mauke salaries .... . . 501 5 2 Prisoners 415 0 .. 415 0 Miscellaneous expenses .. .. 406 11 6 |( en 7 '' ~ _ •• 10 0 Mitiaro salaries 49 10 0 oad rate s 10 on ' 105 13 6 Penrhyn salaries 305 0 0 gapping fees .. .. 2 17 0 .. 2 17 0 Police'DeDartment 1 160 0 1 Stam P dutles •• •• 7 17 3 .. 7 17 3 Post office " " 1 748 16 2 Stamp sales 5,572 5 2 .. 5,572 5 2 Printine Derartment 103 3 5 Stock (Public Works Department) 7 11 4 .. 7 11 4 SSatace) " " «Pi»» 150 16 10 .. 150 16 10 Public works expenses " " 634 14 6 Tradin S licenses '' " 529 0 6 .. 529 0 6 Pukapuka salaries " " 326 18 6 Water rates 443 19 6 443 19 6 Radiograms 291 7 9 Wireless services .. .. 1,753 15 7 500 0 0 2,253 15 7 Resident Commissioner's Department 2,227 1 5 ™~. „„ , . ~ Roads, bridges, culverts, and fore- Total income .. .. 30,268 1 2 13,816 0 0 44,084 1 2 shore .. .. 1,419 8 5 Stamps : Cost of production, &c. .. 359 311 Superannuation subsidy .. . . 292 3 3 Subsidy, destruction flying-foxes .. 29 14 9 Telephones .. .. . . 132 1 10 Travelling-expenses .. .. 140 I 2 Trucks (maintenance) .. . . 266 0 11 Water expenses .. .. . . 222 0 5 Wireless services .. .. 1,722 16 9 Total normal expenditure ..40,481 7 0 Hurricane reparation . . .. 69 3 3 Depreciation .. .. .. 2,162 6 2 42,712 16 5 Excess of income over expenditure for the year ending 31st March, 1937 .. ' .. .. .. 1,371 4 9 £44,084 1 2 £44,084 1 2

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APPENDIX A—continued. COOK ISLANDS ADMINISTRATION —continued. Balance-sheet as at 31st March, 1937. Liabilities. Assets. £ s. d. £ s. d. £ s. d. £ s. d. Accumulated funds, Ist April, 1936.. 72,604 11 2 Lands .. .. .. .. 9,846 5 0 Excess of income over expenditure Additions .. .. .. 67 0 0 for the year ending 31st March, ~ 9,913 a IQQ7 ' .. 1,371 4 9 Buildings .. .. .. 42,788 4 0 73,975 15 11 Additions .. .. .. 2,298 18 5 Storm Reparation Fund, Ist April, ~ ~ 1936 4,930 17 7 45,087 2 5 Interest for year ending 31st March, Less depreciation .. .. 1,072 7 1937 .. .. .. 44 7 9 — 44,014 15 2 Waterworks, Rarotonga .. .. 6,045 13 2 Storm Reparation Fund, 31st March, Less depreciation .. .. 241 16 6 "■ 1937 .. .. .. .. .. 4,975 5 4 t>,«o3 16 8 Fruit Development Reserve Fund .. .. 2,126 18 6 Water-tanks, Outer Islands .. 1,342 13 0 Sundry creditors 1,290 4 3 Additions .. .. 92 18 6 1,435 11 6 Less depreciation .. .. 34 0 10 1,401 10 8 Telephone system .. .. 603 15 5 Less depreciation .. .. 30 3 8 573 11 9 Plant and tools .. .. .. 4,491 2 4 Additions .. .. .. 293 11 0 4,784 13 4 Less depreciation .. .. 339 0 4 4,445 13 0 Office furniture and fittings .. 624 4 4 Additions .. .. . 87 19 6 712 3 10 Less depreciation .. .. 31 14 0 680 9 10 Furniture, household .. . . 3,527 8 3 Additions .. .. .. 164 7 2 3,691 15 5 Less depreciation .. .. 264 12 7 • 3,427 2 10 Boats .. .. .. .. 174 17 4 Additions .. .. .. 375 1 8 549 19 0 Less depreciation .. .. 25 13 10 524 5 2 Motor-vehicles .. .. .. 731 14 6 Additions .. .. .. 229 11 3 961 5 9 . Less depreciation .. .. 122 17 2 838 8 7 Stocks on hand .. .. . . .. 2,483 6 10 Sundry debtors .. .. .. .. 3,891 7 9 Fixed deposits .. .. .. .. 1,022100 Interest accrued .. .. .. .. 0 12 3 Cash in hand, Resident Agents .. .. 298 17 9 Cash in bank, Wellington —Administration Account 1,387 16 0 Cash in bank, Wellington—Treasury Account 148 14 4 Cash in hand, Rarotonga .. .. .. 1,51205 £82,368 4 0 £82,368 4 0 Note. —These accounts are subject to audit.

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APPENDIX B. COOK ISLANDS ADMINISTRATION. Return of Imports for the Year ended 31st December, 1936.

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Article. Whence imported. Value. £ £ Agricultural produce . . . . .. New Zealand .. .. . . 464 United States of America .. 77 Australia .. .. .. 7 Tahitij • ■ • • • • 5 553 Apparel ,. , . . . . . .. New Zealand .. .. • • 2,343 United States of America .. 25 Japan .. .. .. 351 United Kingdom .. . . 84 France .. .. .. 10 Australia .. .. .. 19 Other .. .. .. 9 2 342 Articles of textile .. .. .. .. New Zealand .. .. .. 352 United Kingdom .. .. 370 Japan .. .. .. 87 Australia .. .. .. g United States of America .. 1 Bacon and hams .. .. .. .. New Zealand . . .. .. .. 246 Bags and sacks .. .. . . .. New Zealand .. .. . . 404 United States of America .. 194 Other .. .. . . 37 635 Beverages, alcoholic .. ., . , New Zealand .. .. .. igo United Kingdom .. . . 189 Australia .. .. .. 128 France .. ,. ,. 126 West Indies .. .. .. 210 Other . . .. .. 30 843 Bicycles .. .. .. .. ,. New Zealand .. .. .. 894 United States of America .. 57 United Kingdom .. .. 1,048 Canada .. .. .. 100 Australia .. .. .. 37 - 2 ] 36 Biscuits .. .. ,, .. New Zealand .. .. .. 1,38] Australia .. .. .. 4 Boots and shoes .. .. .. ., New Zealand . . .. .. 455 Australia .. .. .. 63 United States of America . . 3 Japan .. .. .. 153 United Kingdom . . .. 40 Tahiti .. . . ., 4 Other .. .. .. 4 792 Building-material, n.e.i. .. .. .. New Zealand .. .. .. 147 Australia . . .. .. 205 352 Butter .. .. ,. ., _ _ New Zealand .. ., .. .. 1 434 Cement .. .. .. ., ... New Zealand .. .. . . 595 United States of America .. 8 Confectionery .. . . .. . . New Zealand . . .. . . 537 United States of America .. 2 n j 539 Cordage .. , . ,. .. .. New Zealand .. .. . . 592 United States of America . . 185 777

A.—3.

Return of Imports for the Year ended 31st December, 1936—continued.

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Article, Whence imported Value. I £ £ Cotton piece-goods 5S&. " " M33 Australia .. • • • • 1 United States of America .. 255 Japan . • • • • • H3 3,920 n _ .. New Zealand .. .. 1,437 r P ' United Kingdom .. ■ • 241 Australia .. • • • • 2 1,680 T -. .. New Zealand . . .. •• 1,100 DrUgS '• ' Tahiti 2 United Kingdom .. • ■ 10 United States of America .. Ill Australia .. ■ • • • 1 1,224 Earthenware, glassware, and lampware .. New Zealand .. .. • • 764 United States of America, .. 41 United Kingdom .. • • 55 Germany .. • • • • 25 Australia . . • • • • 80 Japan .. • • • • 7 France . • • • • ■ 1 Other .. • • • • 22 1,001 TTnnpv (mods .. .. • • • ■ New Zealand . . .. • • 360 ® " United States of America .. 11 United Kingdom .. ■ • 40 Japan .. • • • • 20 Australia .. • • • • 0 France . • • • ■ ■ 7 Germany .. • • • • 1 Other .. • • • • 28 472 -c, 0 .. .. .. New Zealand . . .. •• 1,347 Fish preserved " • • • • • • New Zealand .. .. • • 294 Fish, preserved .. United States of America .. 21 Canada .. • • • • 170 Japan .. • • • • 10 Australia .. • • • • I 3 United Kingdom .. • • 2 500 .. . . New Zealand .. • • 25 Fl0Ur Australia 3,829 3,854 Furniture £ew Zealand 391 United Kingdom .. • ■ 0 Germany . . • • • • ,r ' United States of America .. 12 Tahiti . • • • ■ ■ 6 419 5S5& :: :: l 'S? Australia . . ■ • • • 22 Germany .. • • • • 27 United States of America .. 92 Tahiti .. •• •• 6 Other • • • ■ • • 13 — 1,604 Instruments, musical . ■ • • • • New Zealand . . . • ■ ■ 99 United States of America .. 4Z Australia .. • • • • 37 Germany . . • • • ■ 23 United Kingdom . . ■ ■ 55 256

A—3.

Return of Imports for the Year ended 31st December, 1936—continued.

4—A. 3.

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Article. Whence imported. Value. £ £ Iron, galvanized .. .. .. .. New Zealand .. .. . . 377 United States of America .. 28 United Kingdom .. .. 86 491 Machinery, n.e.i. .. .. .. .. New Zealand .. .. . . 848 United States of America .. 73 United Kingdom .. . . 14 Australia .. . . .. 1 936 Machinery, electrical .. .. .. New Zealand .. .. .. 221 United States of America . . 346 Australia .. .. .. 53 United Kingdom .. .. 3 Other .. .. .. 4 627 Matches .. .. .. .. .. New Zealand .. .. .. 337 United Kingdom .. .. 162 — 499 Meat, preserved .. .. .. .. New Zealand .. .. .. 8,363 United States of America . . 10 Australia .. .. .. 56 United Kingdom .. . . 1 8,430 Meat, salted .. .. .. .. New Zealand .. .. . . . . 275 Meat, frozen .. .. . . .. New Zealand .. .. . . .. 566 Milk, preserved .. .. . . . . New Zealand .. .. .. 449 United States of America .. 7 456 Nails .. .. .. .. .. New Zealand .. .. .. 504 Australia .. .. .. 14 United Kingdom .. .. 7 United States of America .. 1 526 Oil, kerosene, &c. .. ,. .. .. New Zealand .. .. .. 147 United States of America .. 1,446 Australia .. .. . . 1 Other .. .. .. 62 — — 1,656 Oil, n.e.i. .. .. .. .. .. New Zealand .. .. .. 223 United States of America .. 269 United Kingdom .. . . 168 France .. .. .. 2 662 Paints .. .. .. .. . . New Zealand .. .. .. 542 United States of America .. 76 United Kingdom .. .. 182 800 Paper, wrapping .. .. . . .. New Zealand .. .. .. 618 France .. .. .. 19 Australia .. .. .. 57 Other .. .. . . Ill 805 Provisions, n.e.i. .. .. .. .. j New Zealand .. ■ .. .. 2,391 United States of America .. 94 United Kingdom .. . . 39 Australia .. .. . . 133 Other 1 "22L-. 2,658 .. .. .. ,. .. New Zealand .. .. . . 64 . 1-1 Australia .. .. .. 548 Other .. .. .. 30 642 Silk • ■ . • . ■ . . .. New Zealand .. .. .. 789 Japan .. .. .. 308 United Kingdom .. .. 102 United States of America .. 1 Other .. .. .. 2 1,202

A. —3.

Return of Imports for the Year ended 31st December, 1936 —continued.

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Article ; Whence imported. Value. f £ Soap .. .. .. .,. ... New Zealand . . .. 1,549 Australia .. .. ■ • 5 Tahiti .. .. • • 2 United Kingdom .. . . 1 1,557 Stationery.. .. •• ■■ New Zealand .. .. .. 867 Australia .. .. . • 40 United States of America .. 24 United Kingdom .. .. 22 France .. . • • • 2 Tahiti .. .. • • 3 958 Sugar .. .. •• -• New Zealand .. .. .. .. 2,732 Tea, cofiee, and cocoa . - ■ ■ • ■ New Zealand .. .. .. 337 Other .. .. . • 53 390 Timber, sawn .. .. • • • • New Zealand . . . .. 486 United States of America .. 265 Australia . . . • • • 12 Canada . . .. ■• 394 1,157 Timber, shooks .. • ■ • • • • s New Zealand . . .. .. .. 8,310 Tobacco .. .. •• •• •• i New Zealand . . .. .. 2,546 I Tahiti . . .. • • 5 | United States of America .. 268 United Kingdom .. . . 171 Australia .. .. .. 1 France .. . • • • 8 2,999 Toilet preparations .. ■ • New Zealand .. .. 140 Australia .. .. . . 8 United Kingdom .. .. 65 France .. .. • • 23 United States of America • .. 1 237 Tools .. • • • - • ■ ■ • New Zealand .. .. .. 156 United States of America .. 5 United Kingdom .. .. 170 Germany .. .. . ■ 46 Australia .. .. .. 1 378 Woodenware .. • • ■ ■ ■ ■ New Zealand .. .. .. 528 Australia .. .. .. 46 United States of America .. 18 Other .. . • ■ ■ 1 • 593 Miscellaneous .. .. •• New Zealand .. . .. 1,389 United States of America .. 101 United Kingdom .. .. 157 Australia .. .. .. 94 Tahiti .. .. . • 67 Germany .. .. .. 4 Canada .. .. .. 1 | Japan .. .. .. 1 ! France . . . ■ • ■ 1 Other . . .. .. 10 1,825 Total ... .. £72,576

A.—3.

Summary. £ £ New Zealand .. .. .. 53,913 France .. .. .. .. 199 United Kingdom .. .. .. 6,196 Germany .. .. .. .. 131 Australia .. .. .. .. 5,519 Tahiti .. .. .. .. ioo United States of America .. .. 4,176 Other .. .. .. .. 417 Japan .. .. .. .. 1,050 . Canada .. .. .. . . 665 £72,576 British West Indies .. . . 210

Return of Exports for the Year ended 31st December, 1936.

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Article. Exported to Quantity. Value. £ Oranges .. .. .. New Zealand .. .. 74,330 cases .. 25,721 Bananas .. .. .. New Zealand .. .. 49,431 cases .. 19,092 Tomatoes .. .. .. New Zealand .. .. 38,542 boxes .. 12,998 Tahiti .. .. . . 4 boxes .. 2 38,546 boxes .. 13,000 Mandarines .. .. New Zealand .. .. 897 cases .. 383 Lemons and limes .. .. New Zealand .. .. 136 cases .. 74 Grapefruit .. .. . . New Zealand .. .. 27 cases .. 16 Pineapples .. .. .. New Zealand .. .. 38 cases . . 10 Pawpaws .. .. .. New Zealand .. .. 3 cases . . 1 Mixed fruit .. .. .. New Zealand .. .. 29 cases . . 7 Coconuts .. .. .. New Zealand .. .. 1,049 sacks .. 348 Kumaras .. .. .. New Zealand .. .. 125 packages 23 Taro .. .. .. New Zealand .. .. 3 cases .. 1 Orange-juice .. .. .. New Zealand .. .. 541 packages 695 Orange-peel .. .. .. New Zealand .. .. 8 packages 4 Tons cwt. qrs. lb. Arrowroot .. .. .. New Zealand .. .. 2 0 0 0 60 Copra .. .. .. United States of America .. 353 5 0 0 3,861 United Kingdom .. 273 9 0 12 2,846 New Zealand .. .. 62 11 1 0 751 689 5 1 12 7,458 M.O.P. shell .. .. .. United Kingdom .. 7 17 2 0 158 Pearl .. .. .. United Kingdom .. 505 Total .. .. .. £67,556

A.—3.

Summary. £ New Zealand .. •• •• •• •• •• •• 60,182 United States of America .. .. •• •• •• •• 3,861 United Kingdom .. .. •• •• •• •• 3,509 Tahiti .. ■ • • • • • • • • • • ■ • • Total .. .. •• •• ■■ £67,556 Group Cargo Tonnages. Total Group cargo tonnage inward : 4,279£ tons (by measurement). Total Group cargo tonnage, outward : 7,965£ tons (by measurement) ; 699J tons (by weight, copra, &c.).

Approximate Cost of Paper.—Preparation, not given ; printing (600 copies), £33.

Authority: E. Y. Paul, Government Printer, Wellington. —1937.

Price 9d.]

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