DEPARTMENT OF INTERNAL AFFAIRS (ANNUAL REPORT OF THE) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31st MARCH, 1938.

Appendix to the Journals of the House of Representatives, 1938 Session I, H-22

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1938. NEW ZEALAND.

DEPARTMENT OF INTERNAL AFFAIRS (ANNUAL REPORT OF THE) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31st MARCH, 1938.

Laid on the Table of the House of Representatives by Leave.

Sir, — Department of Internal Affairs, Wellington, 2nd August, 1938. I have the honour to submit herewith the annual report of the Department for the year ended 31st March, 1938. I have, &c., The Hon. W. E. Parry, J. W. Heenan, Under-Secretary. Minister of Internal Affairs.

REPORT.

General. During the year under review the established work of the Department, as will be seen in the various sectional reports, has expanded to a remarkable degree. In addition, various new activities have been undertaken, some of a temporary or occasional nature, others that promise to become permanent. King George Y National Memorial Fund. In the last annual report brief reference was made to the inauguration of this fund by means of a public appeal by the Right Hon. the Prime Minister on 22nd. March. After the close of the financial year the organization of the machinery for furthering the appeal was developed in this Department. The Prime Minister having already thanked the people of New Zealand and all those individuals and organizations who actively helped, it is not necessary in this report to mention particular names. This Department is deeply indebted to all who met its varying requests for help and information from time to time so willingly. The object aimed at in accordance with the Prime Minister's appeal was a total of £50,000 from the people of New Zealand between 22nd March and 3rd June (the formal closing-date of the appeal). It was realized in the beginning that even the short period of two months and a half from opening to closing would not wholly be available for the work. Easter intervened at the end of March. Local authorities, on whom we were so dependent for furthering the appeal, would not meet again until the middle of April, and then approximately the first half of May would be devoted to organizing Coronation Celebrations. Notwithstanding this, contributions came in satisfactorily from the beginning, but naturally it was not until after the period of preliminary organization throughout New Zealand that the total began to mount. From time to time the Department had occasion to request local bodies, newspapers, and others who established subsidiary funds to furnish interim returns. It is desired to pay whole-hearted tribute to the manner in which these requests were met on all sides. It was evident some days before the closing-date that the objective of £50,000 would be more than reached. On 22nd May the total accounted for was £44,000 ; on 29th May it had reached £54,000 ; and telegraphed advice received from all over the Dominion on the night of 3rd June showed that £74,000 was then in hand. Money continued to come in freely for some weeks after 3rd June, and, indeed, throughout the year now under review. On 31st March last the total in hand, apart from Government contributions, was £88,813 9s. 3d. Pending legislation, which is being prepared for

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introduction during the final session of the present Parliament, the whole of the funds received both from the Government and from the people of New Zealand have been invested in inscribed stock, bearing interest at the rate of 3 per cent, per annum. By the time the fund comes to be administered the corpus of the fund will be over £180,000. It safe to say that the response of the people on this occasion has never been surpassed. It is a tribute to the affectionate reverence in which the memory of His late Majesty is held by the people and their complete endorsement of the object of the fund. All sections of the community, in various forms of organization and as individuals, contributed in noble manner. It is estimated that through various channels at least half a million individual contributions were made. In conclusion, it is the duty of this Department to place on record once more its indebtedness to Mayors and Chairmen of local bodies throughout New Zealand, to organizations of all kinds, including social bodies, organizations of employers and workers, sports bodies, Government Departments, the Broadcasting Services, and the press of the Dominion. Without their whole-hearted co-operation and enthusiasm the task of the Department would have been an impossible one. New Zealand's Centennial, 1940. The past year, apart from the activities of the National Historical Committee, which are dealt with separately, has been a period of quiet consolidation of work done during the previous year and preparation for the intensive period from now on until the beginning of the Centennial year. Throughout New Zealand there has been gratifying evidence of the desire of the people generally to celebrate the Centennial period in fitting manner. The provincial organizations set up in 1936 have been functioning well. An effort has been made from time to time to keep them in touch with each other's doings. Considerable interest has been shown throughout the Dominion in the question of Centennial memorials, and it is gratifying to note that tree-planting in various forms promises to take a prominent place in memorial ideas. A special branch of this Department has been established to deal with the Centennial, and during the last session of the present Parliament a Bill dealing with it will be introduced. This Bill, incidentally, will provide retrospective authority for local bodies throughout the Dominion to expend moneys for Centennial purposes. National Centennial Historical Committee. It was stated in the last annual report of the Department that steps were then being taken to set up a National Historical Committee to advise the Government on matters of historical interest in connection with the Centennial. At the first meeting of the Committee held on the 10th June, 1937, its functions were outlined in an address forwarded by the Minister of Internal Affairs. The Committee, it was explained, had been entrusted with the work of supervising the historical, as distinct from the administrative and organizing, sides of the Centennial celebrations. More specifically it was asked :— (1) To prepare for the Government's consideration proposals for a series of historical surveys—" written by the most competent authorities in New Zealand on all phases of our national life, and written, moreover, for general reading as well as for the purposes -of historical record." (2) To supervise the writing and publication of approved surveys. (3) To confirm relevant historical dates and to evaluate their importance relatively one to another for the purpose of Centennial celebrations. The Minister also mentioned the important service the Committee might perform in preserving records of historical value, and suggested the extension of the Committee's organization into the provinces, thereby " awakening interest in district and local history." In considering the_ proposed series of surveys, the Committee agreed to adopt four general principles for guidance in drawing up proposals for the Government :— (1) That the surveys be national in scope ; (2) That they be authoritative, yet suitable for general reading ; (3) That they be moderate in length, not, in general, exceeding 30,000 words ; (4) That they comprise a uniform series. In addition to the series of surveys, it was suggested that the Committee might consider other commemorative publications, including an Historical Atlas and Gazetteer, a Dictionary of National Biography, a revised National Bibliography, and volumes of select historical documents. Following a general discussion of the whole field to be covered by the Committee in the course of its_ work, suitable persons were appointed to convene Provincial Historical Committees, subcommittees were set up to consider proposals introduced at the meeting, and a group of Wellington members was authorized to act as an Executive or Standing Committee. Since the date of the Committee's first meeting an organization has gradually been built up under the supervision of the Standing Committee. Representative Historical Committees have been formed in each provincial centre, and in certain districts affiliated local committees have been set up in smaller centres. The sub-committees of the National Committee itself have carried on their discussions either at meetings or, where membership is scattered, by means of correspondence. The Standing Committee has met frequently to transact routine business, to discuss questions of policy as they

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have arisen, and to consider the reports of sub-committees. Finally, a small stafl has been formed by the Department of Internal Affairs to handle preparatory and research work connected with publications, to carry out secretarial duties, and to provide historical data required by other parts of the Centennial organization. Of these activities several may be singled out for special mention. Realizing that part of its work consisted in creating an appreciation of the historical background of the Centennial, in September, 1937, the Committee issued the first of a series of monthly articles designed to commemorate events of the previous century and to trace the steps leading to the colonization of New Zealand and the assumption of British sovereignty. Eight articles were issued during the year and, thanks to the co-operation of the press, were widely published throughout the country. The assistance of the press, both in the Dominion and in Great Britain, was also enlisted in the issuing of an appeal for manuscripts and other material of historical interest. Particularly abroad, this appeal has been productive of excellent results, and has resulted in the acquisition of important records bearing on the early history of the country. A survey of records and sources likely to be of use in the production of Centennial publications was undertaken by the research stafl and resulted notably in the compilation of a select list of University theses and a card index of the pictorial material available in the principal New Zealand collections. At the end of six months the Committee's deliberations had reached the stage when it was considered necessary to obtain the Government's general approval to certain proposals. These were for the production of historical publications including an atlas to contain both an historical and a modern section, a Dictionary of National Biography, a series of short historical surveys, and a supplementary series of pictorial surveys. Recommendations were also made concerning the issue of special Centennial coins and stamps and the holding of literary competitions. Finally, it was recommended that an Editor should be appointed to take charge of the planning and production of Centennial publications. These recommendations received the Government's approval, and at the close of the year with the appointment of the Editor of Centennial publications the Committee was in a position to proceed with the more urgent section of its programme. During the coming year it is expected that publications will be well in hand so that they will be ready for publication at regularly spaced intervals throughout 1940. The Committee will also continue its advisory and research work, which is likely to increase in bulk and importance with the growth of the Centennial organization as a whole. Coronation Celebrations. This Department was charged with the work of organizing the national celebrations of the Coronation in Wellington, and of enlisting the co-operation of local bodies throughout the Dominion. It is most gratifying to record that from one end of New Zealand to the other the Coronation was celebrated in fitting manner. An inter-departmental committee of Post and Telegraph, Railways, Public Works, and Internal Affairs Departments arranged for the decoration and illumination of Government Buildings throughout the Dominion. Very extensive use was made of flood lighting, and the special equipment obtained for this purpose will be available during the Centennial period. The whole-hearted co-operation of the three other Departments mentioned is gratefully acknowledged. A permanent souvenir of the Coronation, for distribution to all schools, was designed and will shortly be forwarded to them. A Loyal Address from New Zealand to Their Majesties was specially illuminated and bound in covers of inlaid New Zealand woods. Work was excellently done in regard to the illumination by the Publicity Branch of the Railways Department and the inlaid wood covers were done through the Soldiers' Civil Re-establishment League. The Address was presented to Their Majesties by the Right Hon. the Prime Minister. Coronation Memorial Tree-planting. A request was received from the Coronation Planting Committee in England, through the High Commissioner, for particulars of all commemorative planting and amenity schemes organized in New Zealand, for inclusion in the special Empire section of the royal record which is to be presented to His Majesty the King. An appeal was made to the public through the press and also to all local authorities. As a result, details of some three hundred commemorative plantings have been forwarded to England, and further forms are daily coming to hand. The plantings vary from, in many cases, a single tree to extensive shrubberies and avenues. A particularly pleasing feature is the number of schools throughout the country which have used this form of memorial of the event, and the choosing in most cases of longliving trees as the kauri, totara, rimu, and oak. The popularity of this method of commemoration on this occasion must result in enhanced beauty of the localities so treated, and augurs well for Centennial memorial plantings in 1940. Physical Welfare and Recreation. In August, 1937, a conference of representatives of sports and social organizations was held in Wellington to discuss ways and means to co-ordinate the efforts being made for the physical welfare of the community and to judiciously guide the people in the wiser use of the increased leisure time at their disposal. The following resolution was carried unanimously by the Conference (a) " That this Conference agrees that national action is necessary to inculcate a wider realization that physical fitness and physical recreation have a vital part to play in promoting a healthy mind and human happiness.

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(b) "... this Conference is of opinion that, because of the wide scope of its activities the national character of any Council of sport ancl recreation can best be secured by direct appointment of the same by the Government as an advisory body and not by elective representation of sectional national interests, and recommends the Government accordingly. (c) " That this Conference considers the whole question of sport and physical recreation generally of such national importance in connection with the rational use of increased leisure as to warrant the immediate attention of the Government and the people generally." Following on this Conference, steps were immediately taken to draft an Act to carry into effect the wishes of the representatives of the meeting. The Act, which is framed largely on the lines of a similar Act passed by the British House of Commons but with certain differences to meet the Dominion's requirements, was passed by the New Zealand Parliament and brought into law in November, 1937. The Act provides a means for putting into effective operation the Government's scheme for the national development of facilities for and the encouragement of physical training, exercise, sport, and recreation, and facilitates the establishment of centres for social activities. Provision is made for the establishment of a National Council of Physical Welfare and. Recreation, the general functions of which are to advise the Government on matters relating to the maintenance and improvement of the physical well-being of the people by means of physical training, exercise, sport, recreation, and social activities. District Committees may be appointed for the purpose of co-operating with the National Council in regard to the provision of facilities for defined areas. Authority is given to make grants out of moneys appropriated by Parliament for the purpose towards the expenses of local authorities and voluntary organizations in providing facilities for the promotion of physical welfare. Local authorities are authorized to expend moneys from their ordinary revenues and to raise loans, without taking a poll of ratepayers, for the provision of facilities for recreation and physical training. Owing to certain preliminary work which is necessary to the successful formation of the scheme, and partly due to the Hon. the Minister's absence in Australia for a period of six weeks, the National Council was not appointed until after the close of the year under review. The further steps necessary to implement the legislation are well under way. Australia's 150 th Anniversary Celebrations. The Minister of Internal Affairs represented New Zealand at these celebrations. As a result of his visit much information of value to the Department in connection with our own Centennial celebrations of 1940 has been gained. The Department is also indebted to the Premier's Department of New South Wales for very full information concerning the organization of the Australian celebrations. A New Zealand Ensign and a special message from the Prime Minister were forwarded to Australia. The Government having decided to pay the internal cost of transport to and from Wellington of all members of the Anzac Contingent to Australia's 150 th Anniversary Celebrations, this Department, in co-operation with the Railways Department and the Returned Soldiers' Association, helped to organize the gathering of the men in Wellington. Bush Preservation and Amenity Tree-planting. As indicated in last year's Annual Report, a Dominion Conference, presided over by His Excellency the Governor-General, of interested organizations, Government Departments, and private individuals was held on the 2nd April, 1937. Representatives from one end of the Dominion to the other were present, thus showing the widespread interest in this work. An enthusiastic discussion took place on a number of subjects, amongst which may be mentioned : The future of existing areas of bush-clad land ; amenity planting in general; the future of Arbor Day ; and the powers of local authorities and public bodies, both with respect to planting and the welfare of trees. As the result of the work of the inter-departmental committee a proposal was placed before the Conference and an outline submitted for the formation of a comprehensive national organization to co-ordinate the work of the many interested organizations and to carry out much-needed propaganda and educative work. A remit was passed recommending that the Government set up an interim committee to obtain the views, and any suggested improvements to the outline submitted, of all interested, and bring the national organization with its district and local committees into being. Many suggestions and views have since been received and considered. They have been collated in readiness for the interim committee on its appointment. Local Government. Counties. —Three County Councils passed special orders under the authority of the Counties Amendment Act, 1931, abolishing the system of separate riding finance. This made a total of fiftyfive County Councils to avail themselves of that legislation. The boundaries of four counties were altered by the transfer of land from one county to another. Three County Councils passed special orders altering riding boundaries. Certain powers of Borough Councils with respect to water-supply, drainage, and sanitation were conferred on five County Councils. An irregularity in connection with the annual meeting of the Patea County Council was validated by Order in Council.

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Counties Conference. —The Counties Conference was held in Wellington on the 25th. and 26th August, 1937, under the presidency of Mr. C. J. Talbot. The Conference was opened by the Minister of Internal Affairs, the Hon. W. E. Parry, with an address in which he dealt mainly with the question of the development of the present system of rural local government over the past sixty years, and gave a detailed explanation of the provisions of the Local Government (Almagamation Schemes) Bill. The Conference then dealt with, a variety of subjects relating to local government and passed various resolutions thereon which resolutions were later transmitted to the Government for consideration. Two of the most important subjects discussed by the Conference in any detail were local government reform and Native rating. The Department was represented throughout the whole of the proceedings of the Conference. Mr. Talbot was re-elected as President for the ensuing two years. Matakaoa County: The question of the control of Matakaoa County again occupied a very prominent place in the Department's activities during the year. Section 10 of the Local Legislation Act, 1932-33, as amended by section 2 of the Local Legislation Act, 1934, provided, among other things, for the expiry of the period of Commissioner control of Matakaoa County in May, 1938. As, however, from the Department's close association with the administration of the county during the preceding few years it appeared that the time was not ripe for its return to normal control, careful consideration was given to the question of future arrangements. In order to afford the settlers an opportunity of stating fully their views on the question, the Minister of Internal Affairs, the Hon. W. E. Parry, visited the county on the 4th and sth August, 1937. On the night of the 4th August a public meetingwas held at Te Araroa, where the whole question was fully discussed, and the settlers very clearly stated their views. Those views, together with the information gained during the course of the visit, were very fully reviewed in conjunction with the whole of the information at the disposal of the Government concerning this county, and it was ultimately decided that it would not be in the best interests of the county as a whole if normal control of the county were resumed in May, 1938. Consequently it was decided to extend the period of Commissioner control for a further term of three years so as to expire in May, 1941, and this was effected by section 11 of the Local Legislation Act, 1937. Whilst this decision was not, at the time, received favourably in certain quarters of the county, nevertheless there was distinct evidence that a large proportion of those settlers who are deeply concerned with the welfare of the county regarded an extension of Commissioner control as the right and proper course to take. Furthermore, it must be stated that the decision was arrived at only after very careful consideration of the whole facts of the case and with the sole desire to improve the lot of the settlers of the county. The Commissioner furnished to the Department regular reports of his activities throughout the year, and it is gratifying to be able to record the continued progress he made towards restoring the county to normal conditions. His work in this direction has been made more possible by the response which the ratepayers generally have made to their rating obligations. In order to illustrate this fact I would mention that 82 per cent, of the rates levied for the year were collected, as against 74 per cent, for the previous year. The collection from European lands was 95 per cent, and from Native lands 64 per cent., as against 91 per cent, and 56 per cent, respectively. In addition, a substantial sum by way of arrears of rates was collected, principally on account of Native rates. The administrative difficulties were increased during the year by exceptional flood damage. Boroughs. —Four new boroughs were constituted and the usual action taken for the elections of Mayors and Councillors. Each of these boroughs was formerly a town district. Alterations of boundaries of four boroughs and one city were made involving the inclusion of lands previously under County Council control. The boundaries of four boroughs were altered by the inclusion of reclaimed lands and lands in respect of which there were no electors. Consequent on these alterations the boundaries of the local government districts affected were redefined as required by law. The Wellington City Council was authorized to expend the sum of £750 from the balance of the compensation-moneys held under the Thorndon Reclamation Act, 1921-22, for the purpose of erecting a bathing pavilion at Evans Bay. The annual Municipal Conference was held at New Plymouth from the Ist to 3rd March, 1938, under the presidency of Mr. T. Jordan, Mayor of Masterton. The Conference was opened by the Hon. P. C. Webb on behalf of the Minister of Internal Affairs (Hon. W. E. Parry), whose absence in Australia prevented his attendance at the Conference. A lengthy address covering various phases of current local government administration was delivered by the Under-Secretary for Internal Affairs (Mr. J. W. A. Heenan) on behalf of the Hon. Mr. Parry. As usual, the Department was represented throughout the whole of the proceedings of the Conference. In accordance with the arrangement made with the Municipal Association last year a statement was supplied by the Department indicating the action taken and the decisions of the Government on all remits passed at the 1937 Conference. Mr. Jordan was re-elected as President for the ensuing year. Thames Borough : As usual the Department kept in close contact with the Thames Borough Commissioner in regard to the administration of the Borough of Thames. Four quarterly reports were received from him, and necessary action taken thereon. The time was extended on two occasions preventing persons from applying for a receiver in respect of the Thames Harbour Board debentures. Mr. C. J. Garland resigned his position as a member of the Thames Borough Advisory Committee. Mr. Garland had been on that Committee since its inception in 1932, and had rendered valuable assistance. The appreciation of the Government for the services he had rendered was appropriately conveyed to Mr. Garland. Mr. J. Morley was appointed to the vacancy on the Committee. A further step was taken in connection with the plan for the ultimate rehabiliation of Thames. With the prospective expiry in May, 1938, of the legislation providing for the Commissioner control of Thames, and in April and July, 1938, of the special arrangements for reduced interest and sinkingfund payments on Thames Borough and Thames Harbour Board debentures, it became necessary

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to review the whole position. For this purpose a conference of interested parties was convened by the Minister of Internal Affairs and held in Wellington on the 22nd and 23rd November, 1937. This conference, over which the Minister presided, was attended by the member of Parliament for the district (Mr. J . Thorn), representatives of the Internal Affairs and Marine Departments, the Thames Borough Commissioner, representatives of the Thames Borough Advisory Committee, Thames Chamber of Commerce, Thames Borough debenture-holders (both Australian and New Zealand interests), and Thames Harbour Board debenture-holders. After two days' discussion of the best ways and means of providing for the future of Thames the following resolution was accepted generally by the representatives of the organizations present at the conference, but not unanimously : — " That the Representatives at this conference recommend to their principals to agree to the adoption of the following arrangements : — " (1) That the control of the Thames Borough by a Commissioner be continued for a period of three years from the termination of the present arrangement. " (2) That the reduced rates of interest payable to the borough debenture-holders and the reduced contributions to the sinking funds be continued for a further period of three years from the termination of the present arrangement. " (3) That for a period of three years from the Ist April, 1938, the rate of interest payable to debenture-holders of the harbour loan and the instalments to harbour loan sinking funds be reduced by one-third so as to be in accordance with the reductions in respect of interest rates and sinking-fund instalments on the borough loans. " (4) That the present basis of valuation for rating purposes in Thames be extended for a further period of three years from the termination of the present arrangement." This resolution was transmitted to the Government. The Government agreed to the extension for three years of Commissioner control of Thames and the special basis of valuation for rating purposes, but did not agree to the proposals to reduce the rates of interest for a period of three years. The Government's opinion was that early steps should be taken to try to reach some permanent basis as to the value of Thames debentures and the interest and sinking fund to be payable on those debentures ; and with this object in view it contemplated the appointment of a Commission of inquiry to investigate the matter fully and make recommendations on which a permanent settlement of those questions could be made. It then became necessary, in order to give time for this to be done, for some further provision to be made respecting the interest and sinking-fund payments, and it was finally decided, in this respect, to carry on the then existing arrangements for one year. The Government's decisions are embodied in the Thames Borough Commissioner Amendment Act, 1937, which— (а) Further extends for three years the period of Commissioner control of Thames. (б) Continues for a further period of three years the use of the special valuation roll for rating purposes in Thames. (c) Continues for a further period of one year from July, .1938, the payment of interest and sinking fund on Thames Borough debentures at two-thirds of the normal rates. (d) Continues for a further period of one year from April, 1938, the payment of interest on Thames Harbour debentures at 4J per cent. The general purpose of these provisions, thus, was simply to carry on the existing arrangements for Thames for further periods. The extension of the period of Commissioner control automatically postponed for a further period, until May, 1941, the general elections of Mayor and Councillors for Thames. The further steps towards the appointment of the Commission referred to are under way. Auckland Metropolitan Drainage. —For some years past the question of more adequate drainage facilities for the Auckland metropolitan area has been under consideration. The fact that the metropolitan area is divided by the waters of the Waitemata Harbour prevented the drawing-up of one comprehensive scheme for the whole area, and consequently a scheme prepared by the engineer to the Auckland and Suburban Drainage Board made separate provision for the drainage of the North Shore and the Isthmus areas. The Engineer's proposals were, some years ago, closely examined by two Committees of inquiry—the first beng composed of two highly qualified drainage engineers and the second of departmental officers ; both Committees endorsed the Engineer's proposals. After mature consideration the Board decided to proceed with the scheme for that part of the metropolitan area on the isthmus. Briefly, the scheme as proposed by the engineer involves the discontinuance of the present works and outfall at Orakei; the continuation of the main intercepting sewer from Orakei to Tamaki Point; the construction of a new main drain from Henderson along the shores of the Manukau Harbour and through Mount Wellington Road District to Tamaki Point ; a branch sewer from Papatoetoe to join the main intercepting sewer which runs along the shores of the Manukau Harbour, and from the point of junction of the two main intercepting sewers at Tamaki Point a submarine sewer will be constructed to Browns Island (for the acquisition of which the necessary arrangements have been made by the Drainage Board) where treatment-works are to be established. The scheme, of course, provides for the closing-down of all present outfalls into the Waitemata and Manukau Harbours, and the concentration on Browns Island of the whole of the sewage from the metropolitan area south of the Waitemata Harbour. The local districts at present included in the Auckland and Suburban Drainage District are the City of Auckland, the Boroughs of Mount Eden, Newmarket, Mount Albert, and One Tree Hill (part only), and part of the Mount Roskill Road District. The other local districts have their own drainage, and it is generally admitted not only that the drainage facilities in these districts are inadequate in terms

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of present-day standards, but that the numerous discharges, particularly into the Manukau Harbour, are resulting in serious pollution of the harbour-waters. With the increasing population of the present Auckland and Suburban Drainage District, and the resultant increase in the volume of discharge at Orakei, there have from time to time been complaints not only as to the pollution of the Waitemata Harbour therefrom, but as to obnoxious smells in the vicinity of the Orakei outfall. It has been apparent, therefore, for some years that a more comprehensive and more satisfactory system for the disposal of the sewage of the Auckland Isthmus is imperative not only to prevent the pollution of the waters of the harbours, but also in the general interests of the health of the district. The fact that the proposed scheme covered the areas of local districts at present outside the district of the Auckland and Suburban Drainage Board necessitated the creation of a new administrative authority to carry out the works. The Board, having approved of the scheme, requested the Government to set up a Commission to define the boundaries of the new district, to determine its form of administration, and to provide a scheme for the allocation of capital and revenue costs over the constituent districts. A Commission of inquiry, consisting of the Hon. Sir Francis Vernon Frazer (Chairman), Mr. J. W. A. Heenan, C.8.E., and Dr. M. H. Watt, C.8.E., sat in Auckland for the purpose of hearing evidence on the 22nd, 23rd, 24th, and 25th November, 1937. At its hearings evidence was heard from all the local authorities in the area. The hearing was marked by an evident desire on the part of all interested to co-operate in the solution of an urgent metropolitan problem. The Commission's findings may be summarized as follows : At an early stage in the proceedings it became evident that the extension of the main intercepting sewer to the west so as to serve New Lynn, Glen Eden, and Henderson was, for several reasons, not justified at the present time. Consequently, the area to be immediately served by the Drainage Board was defined so as to include the whole of the present Auckland and Suburban Drainage District, plus the Boroughs of Onehunga, Otahuhu, and One Tree Hill (part not included in present drainage district), the town districts of Ellerslie and Papatoetoe, and the road districts of Mount Wellington and Mount Roskill (part not included in present drainage district). This area is to be known as the " inner area." Beyond the " inner area "an " outer area," to include the Borough of New Lynn, the Town Districts of Glen Eden and Henderson, the portion of the Waitemata County within a radius of nine miles of the chief post-office, Auckland, the portion of the Manukau County within a radius of fourteen miles of the chief post-office, Auckland, and the Panmure Township Road District, was suggested in which no new drainage system shall be instituted and no change in any drainage system at present in operation shall be made, except by the suggested Metropolitan Drainage Board. When such works are undertaken by the Drainage Board in any part of the area that portion shall immediately become part of the " inner area." Beyond the " inner area " there is a considerable expanse of country, the natural drainage of which is into the Waitemata and Manukau Harbours. As one of the objects of the proposed scheme is to prevent the pollution of the harbours, the Commission suggested that the Drainage Board should have a general supervision over all sewerage works, the effluent from which drains into either of these harbours. It suggested that, although the Drainage Board should at present be given no authority to construct sewers in the area, it should be defined as within the " sphere of influence of the Drainage Board." On the question of the constitution of the new Drainage Board, the Commission suggested that the Board should consist of persons appointed by the constituent local authorities —the Auckland City Council to appoint eight members and the other local authorities seven members. The Commission made detailed recommendations as to the allocation of the capital costs for the works. Its recommendations as to the method of apportioning the Board's levies for annual revenue as between the constituent local authorities breaks new ground. To assess the proportion payable by each local authority on the basis of rateable capital value alone would press unduly on the City of Auckland, and it was generally agreed by the representatives of the local bodies that the mean between the percentage of the rateable capital value of each local body district to the total rateable capital value of the drainage district and the percentage of the population of each local-body district to the total population of the drainage district would provide a fair basis for the allocation of costs. This method, which is definitely empirical, was recommended by the Commission. Although it was suggested that the total levy on a local body district should be calculated by the above formula, no change in the method of levying on the individual ratepayer was recommended —each local authority to continue to levy on the system of rating for the time being in force in its district. In view of the fact that large areas in some local authorities are at present unreticulated and are likely to remain so, it was suggested that, in so far as concerns the drainage rate, each local authority should be given power to introduce a system of differential rating in terms of the benefits derived from the drainage system. An interesting recommendation of the Commission was that which suggested that the Board should be given power to issue drainage and plumbing by-laws for the whole district, including the " outer area." These by-laws would override existing by-laws and would provide a uniform code for the whole district. The actual administration of the by-laws is to be left to the local authorities. The Auckland and Suburban Drainage Board has accepted the report of the Commission and proposes to incorporate the findings in a local Bill for submission to Parliament during next session. Town Districts. —The Turua Town District was merged in the Hauraki Plains County. Authority to fix water charges according to the quantity consumed was conferred on the Manurewa Town Board. Road Districts.—The Longbeach and Wakanui Road Districts in the County of Ashburton were abolished. This leaves only fourteen road districts in the .Dominion, nine of which are situated in counties where the Counties Act is inoperative. Certain powers in regard to waterworks and the fixing of water charges were conferred on the Panmure Township Road Board. River Districts. —A petition of ratepayers was presented praying for the abolition of the Waikiwi River District in the Southland County. The usual notice calling for objections to the proposal was

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published and an objection was lodged by the Southland County Council on certain grounds. In view of the issues involved, the Department suggested to the parties concerned that a conference should be held to discuss the question of the future control of river-protection in the river district area. The conference was duly convened and was attended by representatives of the County Council and the River Board. The petitioners were not represented. The County Council subsequently advised the Department that it could not see its way to acquiesce in the abolition of the district. The matter is being given further consideration. Land Drainage Districts. —In terms of section 6 of the Land Drainage Amendment Act, 1913, the Sluggish River Drainage Board presented a petition praying for the inclusion of certain additional lands in its district. Following on the publication of the usual notice calling for objections, a number of objections were lodged against the proposal. A Commission set up to report on the proposal reported that in its opinion the area in question did not, and would not in the future, derive any benefit from the operations of the Drainage Board and accordingly should not be included in the drainage district. No further action was taken on the petition. The boundaries of three drainage districts were altered by the inclusion therein of certain areas of land. A special order was passed by the Ngaroto Drainage Board altering the boundaries of subdivisions and fixing representation therefor. The results of the election of members of several Drainage Boards were gazetted in accordance with law. The time for the preparation of ratepayers' lists was extended in the case of two Drainage Boards. The membership of the Lower Mangapiko Drainage Board was decreased from seven members to five members. In terms of section 13 of the Water-supply Act, 1908, the public office of the Hauraki United Drainage Board at Turua was appointed as the place for the deposit of any plan required to be prepared and deposited by the Hauraki Plains County Council with respect to the East Water-supply District constituted by that Council. Rating Act.—The time for the preparation of the mining valuation roll for the County of Grey was extended by Order in Council. Ashburton Borough Rating.—A case involving some unusual features was that of the Ashburton Borough Council. This Council levies its rates on the annual value, and accordingly a valuation roll is prepared for that purpose each year. When the valuation list was prepared in January, 1938, preparatory to its becoming the valuation roll for the borough for the purpose of the succeeding financial year's rates, for the first time in many years some very material alterations were made in the individual valuations appearing on the list. A statutory right of objection to those valuations is given to the local authority of the district and to any owner, occupier, or ratepayer affected. As, however, the established custom was not to exercise the right of objection, on account of the fact that material changes from year to year were not usually made, the Ashburton Borough Council and others affected did not at first appreciate the full significance of the changes contemplated in the aforesaid valuation list. Accordingly, they did not, within the prescribed statutory period, avail themselves of their rights to object. When the true position became known the Ashburton Borough Council, as well as a large number of owners, occupiers, and ratepayers, desired the opportunity to object. The help of the Department was sought in an endeavour to find a way out of the difficulty. To this end an Order in Council was issued under the Rating Act, 1925, extending the time within which the Ashburton Borough Council could give notice of its objection to the whole of the valuation list. The lodging of such objection, which was subsequently done, achieves the desired end in that all the valuations on the list now come before an Assessment Court for review. Urban Farm-land Rating.—One Assessment Court was set up, and. changes were made in the membership of two Assessment Courts. Local Elections and, Polls. —The time for closing polls was extended in two cases. By-laws of Local Bodies.—The by-laws of three local authorities were confirmed under the By-laws Act, 1910. Public Bodies' Leases. —Three local authorities were declared to be leasing authorities under the Public Bodies Leases Act, 1908. Designation of Districts. —The name of Ivioreroa Harbour, in the County of Whangarei, was changed to Port Whangarei. The change in name becomes effective as on and from Ist July, 1938. An application by the Raglan County Council for a change of name of Tikorangi Hill to Mount Maunsell was not granted. Petitions to Parliament.—Four petitions presented to Parliament were referred to the Department for report, and the Department was represented at the proceedings before the appropriate parliamentary Committees. Local Government Reform. The subject of local government reform was again amongst the most prominent of the Department's activities, and a great degree of public attention was focussed on it. The Minister of Internal Affairs (Hon. W. E. Parry) continued with his campaign of meeting in their own districts the various County Councils and other local authorities affected by the tentative plan of redistribution of local districts. In the course of so doing he addressed a considerable number of meetings which were largely attended by representatives of local authorities. Much valuable information was obtained during the course of this campaign, and every effort was made to show clearly the manner in which it was intended to pursue the scheme of reform. In many instances the local authorities followed up the meetings with the Minister by holding further meetings amongst themselves and generally investigating the proposals in more detail. The Department gave a great deal of assistance to the local authorities in this connection, and representatives of the Department attended some of those meetings when invited to do so.

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When all the meetings it was possible to hold had been concluded the Minister again introduced a Local Government (Amalgamation Schemes) Bill into Parliament. This Bill followed very closely the lines of the one introduced during the 1936 session of Parliament, so does not call for any detailed explanation on this occasion. Tn view of the important nature of the Bill and of the fact that the Minister's meetings with the local authorities had evidenced a good deal of opposition to some of the proposals, the Government decided to afford every opportunity for local authorities and others interested to represent their case fully to Parliament before the Bill was passed into law. For this purpose a Select Committee of the House of Representatives was appointed to take evidence on the Bill and report to the House. The Hon. W. E. Barnard, Speaker of the House, was appointed Chairman of that Committee. The Committee heard a good deal of evidence on the Bill, but, as there was a large volume of evidence forthcoming, it was not possible within the time at its disposal for the Committee to hear it all before the session closed. Thus the Committee was not able to make any final recommendations on the Bill, and reported back to the House with advice to that effect. The work in connection with this matter was very heavy. A large volume of correspondence arose out of the whole of the proceedings, in addition to which a number of meetings were held and personal discussions took place for the purpose of exploring the general proposals and particular proposals for individual localities. Town-planning . The year has been one of increased activity for the Department, and there is definite evidence of a revival of interest in town-planning as shown by the number of requests received from local authorities for the help and advice of the Town-planning Officer. In this way Mr. Mawson was able to make personal contact with three County Councils, nineteen Borough Councils, and one Town Board, all of whom have schemes in course of preparation or contemplation. It is worthy of note that during the year four County Councils have sought advice in the preparation of extra-urban planning schemes for seven rural townships. Before a County Council can exercise the powers under the Town-planning Act, 1926, an, Order in Council has to be issued defining the area to which the scheme applies. One such Order in Council has already been issued for the Town of Pembroke in the Lake County. The Timaru Borough Town-planning Scheme No. 1 was finally approved by the Town-planning Board. The Dannevirke Borough Town-planning Scheme No. 1 was provisionally approved by the Townplanning Board and advertised for the receipt of objections. Schemes for the New Lynn Borough and for the Marewa Area in the Borough of Napier were submitted to the Board for provisional approval and referred to Committees for investigation and report. The latter scheme embraces an area of 475 acres belonging to the Napier Harbour Board, which was reclaimed by the earthquake in 1931, and has since been included in the borough. The area has been laid out by experts and is to be developed under the protection of a statutory town-planning scheme as a residential suburb of Napier. Sixty acres of the area have been acquired and are in course of development by the Housing Construction Department, and over one hundred building leases have already been granted to private individuals. Only one meeting of the Town-planning Board was held, but the various committees of the Board have been active, including a special Committee set up to report on any town-planning matters in dispute between local authorities and the Housing Construction Department which might be referred to the Town-planning Board as arbitrator. Two such disputes were dealt with. The risk of such disputes, however, has been lessened by the policy of active co-operation which is being pursued between this Department and the Housing Construction Department. It is satisfactory to note that in addition to the Housing Construction Department there has been active co-operation between this Department and other Departments directly or indirectly concerned with urban land development in its various phases. Further progress was made in connection with the preparation of model town-planning clauses, and it is anticipated that the new code should be available for the use of local authorities during the coming year. Legislation. Sovereign's Birthday Observance Act, 1937. —This Act makes the necessary legislative adjustments arising out of the celebration of His Majesty's birthday, in so far as New Zealand is concerned, on the 9th day of June, 1937, and on the first Monday in June in each succeeding year of the reign of the present Sovereign. Dogs Registration Amendment Act, 1937. —This Act provides an organized national scheme for effecting a reduction in the prevalence of hydatid disease. On the registration of a dog the owner shall be supplied with a sufficient amount of an approved remedy to enable that person to treat the dog until the first day of January next following the date of registration. An additional fee may be prescribed by Order in Council, and in this event, until the fee has been paid, the dog is deemed not to be registered. The necessary action for the initiation of the scheme, which comes into force on the Ist January, 1939, is being taken by the Department in collaboration with the Health Department. Physical Welfare and Recreation Act, 1937. —This Act is explained in more detail under the appropriate heading in another part of this report.

2—H. 22.

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Finance Act, 1937. —Section 46 makes provision for the variation of the prices payable under contracts entered into by local authorities for the supply of goods and materials with a view to granting some relief to contractors from the additional costs involved in the performance of contracts, by reason of increased wages, shorter working-hours, and increased cost of materials. Section 47 authorizes any local authority to expend moneys in the preparation and passing of Bills through Parliament or in assisting or opposing the passage of any Bill in cases where the interests of that local authority or the inhabitants of its district are concerned. Section 51 validates payments made by local authorities in connection with the visit of the Australian Squadron. Section 52 validates payments made by local authorities in connection with the flight of Miss Jean Batten during October, 1936. Municipal Corporations Amendment Bill. —A Municipal Corporations Amendment Bill was introduced containing thirty-eight clauses and a schedule. Most of these clauses are for the purpose of giving effect to remits passed at municipal conferences. This is in accordance with the Government's policy of giving early legislative effect to such of those remits as meet with its approval. The Bill was introduced for circulation purposes only, so that its provisions could be examined by the local authorities and others concerned during the recess, and it is intended that it be again introduced next session. Local Legislation Act, 1937. —The consideration of applications made by local authorities for the inclusion of clauses in the Local Legislation Bill and the subsequent preparation of the Bill occasioned a good deal of correspondence, investigation, and discussions. Eighty-eight applications were considered during the year, and of these, fifty were included in the Bill as finally passed. The Bill dealt with a wide range of local government matters and, as usual, local authorities of practically every class availed themselves of the opportunity to apply for special legislation as affecting their individual activities. Local Acts. —Twenty-three Local Bills were submitted to the Department by the Local Bills Committee for examination and report. Representatives of the Department appeared before the Committee and gave evidence on several of these Bills. Nineteen of the Bills were passed into law, several being amended. Animals Protection and Game Act, 1921-22. Shooting Seasons. —Open game-shooting seasons have been declared in all acclimatization districts. An important decision was to exclude Stewart Island from the operations of the open shooting season in the Southland Acclimatization District. Sanctuaries. —During the year an area of 9 acres in the Waimarino Acclimatization District was added to the list of sanctuaries. In some cases where lands were recommended as sanctuaries it was found that through the carrying-on of farming operations the provisions of the Act could not be complied with, and these areas were excluded from the operations of the game-shooting seasons. Scenic reserves are automatically sanctuaries under the Animals Protection and Game Act. Acclimatization Districts.—The amalgamation of the Feilding and District and the Wellington Acclimatization Districts was the only progress made towards bringing about a reduction in the number of acclimatization districts throughout the Dominion. Importations. —As in past years, many applications were received for permission to import birds, principally for aviaries. The ban on the importation of parrots and members of the parrot family is still in force. All applications for permission to import birds and animals are the subject of very special scrutiny, and the list of birds for which permission for importation will not in any circumstances be granted is being constantly added to. Bird-life. —A very pleasing feature is the ever-growing public interest in our bird-life. All sections of the community are realizing that, apart from the pleasure to be derived from observations of birds and their songs, the birds are of great economic value in keeping down insect pests. The work carried out by various organizations and private persons in impressing on the public the necessity for conservation and encouragement of bird-life is to be commended, and is much appreciated. Opossums. —Open trapping seasons were declared in twenty-one acclimatization districts. The number of opossum-skins stamped was 138,729. Stoats, Ferrets, &r„—With a view to testing the possibility of establishing markets, the Marlborough Acclimatization Society obtained a quantity of the skins of these animals, and these have been sent to England. The result of this is being awaited with particular interest, and if attractive prices are forthcoming there will be an added inducement for persons to wage war on the animals, which are undoubtedly making a heavy toll on bird-life. Reports clearly indicate that the animals have spread at an alarming rate high up into bush country, where the principal food available can only be birds and their eggs. Another enemy with which birds have to contend is the wild cat. An earnest appeal is made to the public to refrain from allowing cats to run wild or to desert the animals, leaving them to forage for themselves. As an illustration of the lengths to which stoats will go in their search for food, a report received discloses that an employee of the Department observed a stoat near the Capells River with what appeared to be a fish in its mouth. The animal was pursued, and the fish was found to be a native trout about 8 in. long. Fire, Gouland Downs Sanctuary.—ln February information was received that a fire on a wide front was raging in this sanctuary. An officer of this Department was immediately sent to investigate and by the willing co-operation of the Lands and Survey Department an officer of that Department

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accompanied him. Unfortunately, 2,500 acres of bush and tussock country was burnt, and had not the fire been extinguished by heavy rain there is no doubt that the damage to the 16,200 acres of sanctuary, specially set aside for the protection of birds, including one comparatively rare species, would have been much greater. It has not so far been possible to obtain any definite information as to the origin of the fire. Rotorua Acclimatization District. Fisheries.—The fishing season opened on Ist November, 1937. During the latter part of December and in January and February there were large congregations of fish around the mouths of the Waitete, Awahou, and Hamurana Streams, Lake Rotorua. During this time very high temperatures prevailed, causing the fish to seek the cooler waters, and anglers took large numbers of fish. With the exception of Lakes Rotorua and Waikaremoana, fishing was generally rather difficult until March. The rivers in the Bay of Plenty were again subjected to heavy floods. Throughout the whole district the condition of the fish was very good, and a noticeable feature was the large number of young well-conditioned fish. The following are particulars of some of the large fish taken during the season and coming under the notice of the departmental officers : — ROTORUA FISHING DISTRICT. TAUPO FISHING DISTRICT. Weight. Locality in which taken. Weight. Locality in which taken. 14 lb. . . .. Lake Okataina. 10 lb. . . . . Mine Bay. 10 lb. .. • ■ Lake Tarawera. 10$ lb. .. Whakaipo Bay. 101b. .. .. Lake Okataina. 11$ lb. .. Whangamata Bay. 11 lb „ Wlb . „ 12 lb. . . . . Lake Tarawera. 10 lb. . . .. Whakaipo Bay. 91b... .. Lakeßotoiti. Hi lb. .. Tongariro River (delta). 11J lb. .. Ngongotaha. 121b. (brown) .. Waitahanui River. 101b. .. .. Waikato River. 121b. (brown) .. 10 lb. . . . . Lake Okataina. 10$ lb. .. Tongariro River (mouth). 9$ lb. (brown) .. Utuhina Stream. 10$ lb. .. _ ~ (delta.) 12$ lb. .. Te Reinga, Waikaremoana. 10 lb. . . .. Acacia Bay. 12-1- lb. .. Ngongotaha. 131b. .. .. Waitahanui River (outlet). 10 lb. . . „ 14 lb. (brown) . . „ 12 lb (brown) .. Awahou. Hi lb. • • Tauranga-Taupo River. 14 lb. . . .. Utuhina Stream. 101b. .. .. Tongariro River. 101b. .. .. Lake Otakaina. 12$ lb. .. Waitahanui River. 91b. .. .. Waimana River. 10$ lb. .. Waipehibi. 10$ lb. (brown) . . Ngongotaha. 10$ lb . (brown) . . Waitahanui River. 11 lb. . . .. Lake Okataina. 101b. .. .. ~ 10$ lb. . . Tongariro River. 121b. .. 11$ lb. (brown) .. ~ 11 lb. (brown) .. Waitahanui River. 101b. .. 10 lb. .. .. Whakaipo Bay. 10 lb. .. .. Waihora River. 11$ lb. .. „ 11$ lb. .. Tongariro River. 12$ lb. . . Tauranga-Taupo River. 12 lb. (brown) . . Waitahanui River. Fish-hatcheries.—A. new fish-hatchery has been erected at Ngongotaha, Rotorua, and will have about three times the holding-capacity of the previous one. There is an assured and excellent watersupply at the new site. To meet the position in the Waikaremoana district, a larger fish-hatchery has been built and will enable about double the number of fry to be handled there. Fry and Ova. —Stripping operations were confined to the Waihukahuka Stream, a tributary ol the Tongariro River. The number of eggs collected was 6,996,000. An exchange of 250,000 rainbow ova for the same quantity of brown ova was arranged with the North Canterbury Acclimatization Society. Eyed ova amounting to 2,740,000 was sold to various acclimatization societies, also 55,000 fry. The following are particulars of liberations of fry in the various waters in the Rotorua Acclimatization District: — Rotorua District: Lakes Rotorua, 626,000; Rotoiti, 610,000; Okataina, 90,000; Rotoma, 50,000 ; Tarawera, 200,000 ; Okareka, 60,000 ; Rerewhakaitu, 30,000 ; Okaro, 22,500 ; Rotokakahi, 50'000: and Rotoehu, 50,000. Waikato River. 144,000; Taahunaatara and Waipunga Streams, 195,000 and 45,000 respectively. . l „ T . , ~n Ann Bay of Plenty Rivers : Pakahi and Wai-iti, 30,000; Waioeka, 194,000; Waimana, 100,000 ; Whakatane, 140,000 ; Tarawera, 20,000 ; and Whirinaki, 100,000. Wairoa Area: Waikaremoana, 202,500; Ruakituri, 60,000; Waikaretaheke, 55,000; and Waihau, 50,000. In Waikareiti 35,000 ova was planted. Taupo District: Tongariro, 238,000 ; Waitahanui, 147,000 ; Waikato, 165,500 ; lauranga-laupo, 165,000 ; Hatepe, 65,000 : Waipehi, 54,000 ; Waimarino, 67,000 ; Waiotaka, 15,000 ; and Waihi, 18,000. '

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Tagging of Trout—During stripping operations 437 rainbow fish were tagged. The following is a table of tagged fish which were either rehandled at the hatchery stream or caught and reported by anglers : —

Record of Fish tagged and retaken.

Culling of Fish. —The only culling carried out was at the hatchery stream, Tongariro River, where 182 males and 138 females were destroyed. Facilities for Anglers. The Information Bureau, Taupo, which had been closed for several seasons, was reopened, an officer being in attendance each day during part of the morning and evening. Tracks were cleared in places. A booklet giving information as to the best times likely to give best results when fishing different parts of the district was issued and has been very favourably received not only by overseas anglers, but also by many in New Zealand. Trout-food Supplies.—Further consignments of smelts and koura have been liberated in Lake Taupo in various places between Acacia and Motuopa Bays. Smelts from last year's plantings have been observed. A few smelts were also liberated in Lake Okaro, and several were observed some six months later. Black Shags and Hawks.—The bonus being paid on shags not protected under the Animals Protection and Game Act, 1921-22, and shot within the Rotorua Acclimatization District is now 2s. The fact of the shag being the host of the nematode worm in trout weighs heavily with the Department in endeavouring to keep the black shag frequenting the various waters to reasonable numbers. A bonus of 6d. for hawks destroyed within the district is also being paid. Private persons were paid for 957 shags and 58 hawks. In addition, the Department's rangers accounted for 255 shags and 163 hawks. Scientific Operations. The past policy of collecting data under various headings has been continued. Examinations of trout caught disclosed that with the exception of specimens taken from Lake Rotoehu the presence of the nematode worm was negligible. The mortality amongst the toi-toi (bully) was very great in most of the lakes, during February. The following table shows the result of the examination of the stomach contents of black shags shot at different times by a departmental ranger in the Bay of Plenty district: —

12

Tagged. Keturned. Tag No. Weight. | Length. Date. Weight. Length. Locality. Date. lb. oz. In. lb. oz. In. 4 13/9/37 5 0 .. Rangatira Point 1/1/38 E' '' + 2 22} 23/8/37 6 8 23 Amoho Stream 21/2/38 2588 F. . . 3 12 21} 23/8/37 .. . . Delta .. 11/3/38 2187 F. .. 4 8 23} 5/8/37 5 8 24 ,, .. 8/3/38 2263 F. .. 5 10 25} 5/8/37 6 4 25J Birch Pool .. 3/3/38 2604 F. .. 5 ,5 22} 13/9/37 4 8 .. 4-Mile Bay .. 23/12/37 2211 M. .. 2 8 18} 5/8/37 3 0 .. „ 13ai/37 1837 F. .. 5 5 22\ 14/10/36 7 4 24 Hatchery .. 4/10/37 2031 F. .. 4 2 21} 21/10/36 5 8 23 „ .. 26/10/37 1823 F. .. 3 1 19J 19/10/36 8 21 „ .. 26/10/37 2079 F. .. 5 4 22£ 22/10/36 6 9 24 26/10/37 1630 F. .. 4 6 22§ 17/9/36 6 0 .. „ .. 27/8/37 1649 F. .. 4 11 22J 17/9/36 5 11} 23 .. 27/8/37 1670 F. .. 4 1 22 17/9/36 5 7 23} „ .. 17/9/37 1860 F. .. 3 0 20 14/10/36 5 9 21} 22/9/37 2083 F. .. 4 7 23 22/10/36 6 5 24 „ " 22/9/37 2255 M. .. 4 0 23 5/8/37 4 0 23 Waitahanui .. 27/12/37 2291 F. .. 3 0 20} 5/8/37 No particulars .. .. /11/37 2534 I. .. 3 10 22} 23/8/37 3 8 23 Waitahanui .. 21/2/38

Wnmher Number ' Number' ' Nuiiiber Number Number Number Hiver, containing containing containing containing Wl T w] tn Other Shot - Trout. Carp. Eels. Bully. Intestinal umer ' ' Stomachs. Worms. . ; [ ' ■ Rangitaiki .. .. 2 1 (a 14 in. .. .. . . 1 trout) Waioeka .. 2" ... 1 (two 17 in. 1 (two .. .. and 10 in.) bully) Whakatane .. ... 3 .. 2 3 (five 7 in. .. .. .. to 12 in. long) Waima,na ... .. 5 .... .. .2 .(four 6 in. 2 1 to -10 in. long) Tarawera .. .. 9 2 ((1)14 in. 6 (one 1 (two 10 in. .. .. 1 trout; ease and 12 in. (2) bones Jjones of trout) only} ■ Ohiwa Harbour .. 1 C'' ... . . .. .. /. Salt-water- ' fist remains. 22 3 (containing 8 7 (containing 3 .2 1 . . .1 3 trout) ' ' . ' 13 'eels ' • '' 6 in. to 17 I in. long) :

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Fish Specimens.—Arrangements are in train to obtain from various parts of the district suitable specimens for mounting and supply to the Department of Industries and Commerce, Tourist and Publicity, for display overseas. Game-farm. —At the close of the year under review various additions to the holding-pens, &c., were under construction. An additional large holding-pen was necessary to allow the ground in the original pen to be spelled. By the very willing co-operation of the Rotorua County Council it has been arranged that subject to buildings, &c., not being placed in positions likely to interfere with the watersupply pipes the Department will have the use of an additional area of land. Any suggestion of the Game-farm being moved from Ngongotaha is now disposed of, and the action of the Rotorua County Council in meeting the Department is very much appreciated. The number of pheasants reared was 1,144. It had been hoped to have raised a larger number this year. In one storm alone about seventy young birds were lost. A very pleasing addition to the birds at the farm was a gift of pheasants by Major G. L. Ashley Dodd, England, who had previously paid a visit to the Dominion and was so impressed with the suitability of our country for pheasants that he desired to give some practical support to the attempt which was being made to rear game for sporting purposes. In spite of the long sea voyage, thirty pheasants were landed alive. One died later, but twenty-nine of the birds are now at the Game-farm and will be retained for breeding purposes. Fifty mallard ducks are being held at the farm, and holding-pens are being constructed and arrangements made to breed from the birds. Game Liberations. —For the two seasons since the State Game-farm has been established the policy has been to liberate some only of the pheasants before the shooting season, retaining the balance until after the shooting season. The total number of pheasants liberated between Ist April, 1937, and 31st March, 1938, was 1,291. On the latter date there were 704 on hand, from which part of the stock for next breeding season will be selected and the balance liberated. To improve the Californian quail coveys sixty birds were purchased from the Otago Acclimatization Society and liberated in suitable localities in the Taupo district. Bird-life generally. —Reports from the departmental rangers indicate an increase in the tui and bittern in various places. Stilts were observed in large numbers on shallows in the lakes. The birds nested late, young a few days old and even eggs being seen at the end of February. Godwits were in fair numbers on the Ohiwa Harbour. Black swan were more numerous at Hamurana than in past years, and in the Wairoa area have done well. Black teal do not seem to have increased. The native pigeon and other protected birds are holding their own. In some localities pukeko, where previously reported to be numerous, are now scarce. No shooting season for these birds was declared in the Rotorua Acclimatization District. During the past few years goldfinches were comparatively scarce in the vicinity of Rotorua, but in January and February they were to be observed in large numbers. Reports indicate that the past summer was most suitable to the natural breeding of game-birds and that there has been a good natural increase. It is evident that there have been two hatches of pheasants and quail in many instances. Opossums. —Only nine licenses and three occupiers' permits were taken out for the trapping of opossums during the 1937 open season. The number of skins stamped in the district was 1,556. Ranging.—The Department has rangers stationed at Rotorua, Whakatane, Taupo, Turangi, and Tuai. During the year the ranging was strengthened by the appointment of an additional officer to relieve or give assistance as required. Special attention has been and is being devoted to the poaching of protected birds and of trout out of season. During the year under review fines amounting to £110 10s. were imposed for breaches of the Animals Protection and Game and Fisheries laws in the Rotorua Acclimatization District. Deeb, Goats, etc. Numerical Results. During the financial year a total of 39,897 animals were killed, comprising 96 chamois, 22,248 deer, 17,338 goats, and 215 pigs ; and 10,007 deer-skins and 2,473 goat-skins were recovered. At the stage of preparation of this report it is possible to give separately the numerical results for the year Ist June, 1937, to 31st May, 1938, which embraces the winter " season " (June to October) and the main " season " (November to May), and as each of these " seasons " is strategically and tactically a complete and separate campaign it is desirable that they be considered in their entirety. The numerical results for the " season," as above, were a total of 37,969 animals killed and 10,089 deer-skins and 2,473 goat-skins recovered. The deer killed were of five different species, the numbers of each being : Red deer (Cervus elaphus), 19,949 ; Fallow deer (Mamma dama), 440 ; Virginian deer (Cervus virginianus), 60 ; Japanese deer (Cervus sika), 26 ; Wapiti deer (Cervus canadensis), 100. A geographical analysis of the whole " season's " results is as follows : — NORTH ISLAND. Lake Waikaremoana area . . .. .. .. 791 deer killed. National Park, Kaimanawa, Ahimanawa, and Kaweka Mountains area .. . . .. .. .. .. 9,819 deer killed. SOUTH ISLAND. f 1,159 deer killed. . Marlborough-Canterbury area .. .. .. .. <[ 16,480 goats killed. [_ 215 pigs killed. Fiordland National Park - Lake Wakatipu area .. .. 8,400 deer killed. Stewart Island .. .. .. .. .. .. 406 deer killed. Kermadec Islands .. .. .. .. .. 699 goats killed.

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Climatic Conditions. The weather throughout the season was unusually good and, while this facilitated the inclusion within the scope of the operations of a great deal of previously unexplored and exceedingly difficult country, the heat and dry conditions actually became such as to militate against the best results, owing to deer keeping in the bush instead of adhering to their normal round of seasonal migrations. Sphere of Operations and Tactics employed. It will, of course, be realized that each locality possesses individual characteristics which impose the necessity for adopting a general strategical plan and local tactics most applicable thereto, and for this reason it is necessary to deal with the various areas separately under this heading. Lake Waikaremoana Area. —It having become apparent that the forest of the large and valuable reserve surrounding this beautiful lake was rapidly reaching a very serious stage of damage by deer, and it having been decided that action on a sufficiently comprehensive scale to ensure a material and lasting abatement of the menace was essential, a party was established there in November and operated for the remainder of the season. Operations were conducted there about seven years ago, but during the intervening time the influx of further deer into the reserve, and the absence of any further operations, has resulted in the damage to the bush reaching an alarming stage, the difference apparent being far greater than is usually considered possible in so brief a period. There can be no doubt that, had the existing state of affairs been allowed to continue for even a few more years, the forest of the shores of this lake, which makes it a scenic gem, would have been damaged beyond recovery. The area is not one that lends itself to the employment of a large number of men, as the most effective tactics are, owing to the large areas of bush and very limited open spaces, to alternately shoot, and then leave undisturbed the open spaces, to which deer are attracted by the feed. It soon became obvious that the deer population of the actual lakeside is constantly augmented by inward migrations from large concentrations of deer to the south and west, and to deal with these the operations were extended outwards. The numbers accounted for represent a large proportion of the actual deer population of the reserve, and at present very few deer remain in the near vicinity of the lake, but it has been found that a very much more extensive area must be dealt with to protect even the reserve. Much valuable knowledge of the extent and degree of infestation in the area from Hawke's Bay to the Bay of Plenty and from Lake Waikaremoana to the Waikato River has now been obtained, and this season's operations have formed a valuable beginning to a more comprehensive and continuous plan for dealing with the whole region. Tongariro National Park, Kaimanawa, Ahimanawa, and Kaweka Mountains Area. —This vast area, which includes many thousands of acres of forest and is the watershed of all the most important of the North Island rivers—e.g., Waikato, Wanganui, Rangitikei, Rangitaiki, Mohaka, Ngaruroro, and Tutaekuri —forms a triangle, each side of which is approximately one hundred miles long, bounded on the south by the Taihape-Napier Road, on the north and east by the Napier-Taupo Road, and on the west by the Main Trunk Railway line. In considering the large number of deer killed in this region, it is worthy of note that the rivers that rise therein played such an important part in the recent devastating floods in Hawke's Bay, as there can be no doubt that, in conjunction with other factors, the damage done to the forests by the deer infesting the region contributed in no small degree to the rapid run-off of water, which accentuated the severity of the flood. The country lent itself admirably to " enveloping " tactics, in pursuance of which parties operated simultaneously from various points along the Napier-Taihape Road, the Napier-Taiipo Road, and the Taupo-Waiouru Road, and worked systematically and progressively inwards to the point of contact in the centre, which is the top of the Kaimanawa Ranges. Starting from the level lands, the parties advanced through the foothills to the high country and then repeated the operation, the season closing with all parties concentrating on the country above the timber-line, which is most frequented by deer at that season. The operations just concluded mark the inauguration of a comprehensive North Island campaign which is now on a basis which permits of its full inclusion in the general long-range plan to cover the whole Dominion. Marlborough-Canterbury Area.—These operations come under two headings, viz. : —• (a) Deer Destruction : With a view to taking full advantage of the fact that the previous season's operations in the back-country of Marlborough and North Canterbury had resulted in some deer moving down on to lower country, parties operated thereon, and the opportunity was taken to, at the same time, destroy the goats inhabiting the same country. It is indicative of the success of the previous season's operations, and of similar tactic's on a previous occasion, that comparatively few deer were found to remain there, and their destruction was, in spite of the small numbers, a valuable step towards the termination of the deer menace in this region. (b) Goat Destruction : As the result of representations by runholders in Marlborough and the completion of an arrangement whereby they contributed, on a per capita basis, towards the cost, the Department agreed to allow a section of its expert organization to undertake purely goat-destruction operations in this region, and there can be no doubt that the numbers killed resulted in greatly increasing the stock-carrying capacity of a large portion of this province. Fiordland National Park and Lake Wakatipu Area.—The scope of the operations in this area was increased, as compared with that covered three years earlier, to enable the essential principle of delivering the attack simultaneously from both sides of a main divide, by having parties operate from Preservation Inlet and Dusky Sound, in addition to those from the Lillburn Valley, Lake Hauroko, Lake Monowai, and Lake Manapouri. "

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Large tracts of new country, much of which was previously unexplored, was thus brought within the scope of surveillance and operations where necessary, and it can be accepted that the whole of this vast region of fiords, lakes, rugged mountains, rivers, and forests is now known to members of the staff and included in the general plan of campaign. With the exception of the " new " country, this area was subjected to operations during the season 1934-35, and it was most gratifying to note on this ocasion that on all areas previously worked the degree or intensity of infestation was very materially less than in 1934-35. Although the numbers killed during the season just ended were as high as in 1934-35, this result was achieved by improved methods and the inclusion of " new " country, and there can be no doubt that such inroads have now been made into the " capital " stock of deer that very material progress has been made towards the saving of this National Park from the danger that has threatened it. In the Lake Wakatipu region, which is separated from the National Park by a non-infested area, improved technique and the greater skill of the personnel engaged resulted in a marked decrease in the numbers of fallow deer, which do so much damage there while the already small numbers of red deer were further greatly reduced. Wapiti: The separate campaign against this species in the country extending from the western shores of the northern half of Lake Te Anau to the west coast from Caswell Sound to Bligh Sound is worthy of special mention. These animals, the progenitors of which were liberated at the head of George Sound in 1905, have increased very considerably in numbers and now inhabit the whole of the region mentioned above, and their ultimate spread throughout the whole of the National Park was inevitable had preventive action not been taken. In addition to accounting for one hundred wapiti and one red deer, the party explored much country which was previously either unexplored or had been visited by only a very few individuals and the area and degree of infestation was ascertained. The time at the disposal of the party was, unfortunately, very limited, but much information which will prove of value in future operations was obtained. It. was ascertained that only a very few wandering red deer have penetrated to this region, and are accountable for the few red-wapiti hybrids to be found there, and there is good reason to hope that the operations in the red-desr-infested country near Lake Manapouri will frustrate the previously threatened infestation of the large portion of the National Park lying between Lake Manapouri and the northern boundary of the park to the north of Milford Sound. Stewart Island. —Early in the season a series of experiments were conducted with a view to discovering, if possible, some more efficacious method of dealing with the wary bush-dwelling Virginian deer than shooting, or, if no such method could be discovered, of investigating all possible means whereby the technique and tactics of the shooting method could be improved. The attempt to discover an alternative method to shooting ended in failure as far as Stewart Island is concerned, but some data which it is anticipated will be of value in other localities were obtained. In the latter field of investigation a considerable degree of success was achieved by discovering — (1) The strategical value of tracks and permanent base-camps ; (2) that specially trained dogs could be employed with advantage ; (3) improved tactical methods. These lessons are now being applied : some tracks have been cut and others will be cut as required, permanent hut and camp sites have been selected, dogs are being obtained, and a plan has been put into operation that, although results will not be spectacular, gives every promise of producing ultimate control. Kermadec Islands. —In connection with the establishment by the Government of a radio-station on Sunday (or Raoull) Island, in the Kermadec Group, this Department sent a field officer with the expedition to investigate means of dealing with the goats, cats, and rats which almost nullify attempts at growing fruit, vegetables, and grain, and are inimical to the welfare of the bush and bird-life. A very wide range of experiments were carried out by this officer. The good work thus started by this Department's officer has been carried on by an officer of the Lands and Survey Department, and a further one hundred and fifty goats were killed by the end of May. General Progress and Results. Reference has already been made to the fact that, in the case of the Fiordland National Park, there was abundant evidence to show that earlier operations there had proved very successful, in that the natural increase during the whole of the intervening period had fallen considerably short of overtaking the reduction then effected. The further, and even greater on a percentage basis, reduction effected this season means that the back of the job has been broken in this region, and the establishment of a more permanent and easily conducted method of control is now possible. In the case of Stewart Island it was found that the red deer had, in spite of the long period since the previous operations —1930-31—never recovered from the reduction in their numbers then effected. The campaign against the Virginian deer can be regarded as having just started this season, and it is too early to forecast its result. It has, however, been definitely established that this species is not present in such numbers as is often represented, as they inhabit the coastal strip only, and, although thinly scattered along almost all the coast-line, are not in any large concentrations in any locality. In the case of the Lake Wailcaremoana area, although the small-scale winter operations of seven years ago abated the menace for some time, the lapse of such a long period without a resumption of this undertaking means that the more comprehensive campaign of this season can be regarded as a new beginning. The other North Island campaign conducted this season was entirely on country not previously subjected to operations. Personnel. It was again found that, although there was an abundance of men applying for employment on deer-destruction work, it was difficult to obtain a full supply of men of the skill, stamina, and energy essential in this undertaking. It is pleasing to be again able to report the absence of any fatal accident or any other than a very few injuries of the most minor nature.

15

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It is impossible to too highly eulogize the conduct and devotion to duty of all officers of the Department's field staff. These officers worked very long hours, endured great privations, and carried out most difficult exploratory duties under the most arduous conditions with a willingness that indicated that they were animated by a determination to achieve the maximum possible measure of success in spite of all obstacles and without consideration for themselves. Deer-skins. Deer-skins to the number of 11,436 were sold during the year. Private commercial deer-hunters have continued to save skins, and under the scheme of accepting deer-skins from this source 4,770, mostly from the South Island, came to hand. Foreign Consuls. The matter of recognition and notification of consular appointments is one where the necessary steps are taken by the Department. During the year the Japanese Government decided to establish a Consulate-General in New Zealand, and there is now a Consul-General de carriere stationed in Wellington. The Government of Switzerland, which had closed the Auckland Consulate in 1936, reopened an office in Wellington in charge of a Vice-Consul de carriere. Four representatives of foreign countries died during the year, one resigned, and one was unable to accept appointment. There are now thirty-one foreign countries represented in New Zealand. Six Gazette notices were published notifying the issue of His Majesty's Exequatur in favour of . different consuls. Notifications were aiso gazetted in twelve cases of new appointments and temporary appointments. Naturalization. During the year 233 certificates of naturalization were granted, including four to persons who had been naturalized under the provisions of previous Acts in New Zealand and who obtained certificates under the Act of 1928, conferring upon them the more complete status of a British subject throughout the world. One certificate was granted in Western Samoa. Four women who were British subjects at the time of marrying aliens, and thereby lost British nationality, were readmitted to British nationality. The wives of seventy-two men who had been granted certificates of naturalization during the year made declarations of desire to acquire British nationality, consequent upon the naturalization of their husbands. Under the provisions of the British Nationality and Status of Aliens (in New Zealand) Amendment Act, 1934-35, thirteen women who had married aliens and lost their British nationality by reason of marriage made declarations of desire to retain while in New Zealand the rights of a British subject. A declaration of this nature confers the rights, but not the status, of a British subject, and is limited to New Zealand only. It was not found necessary to institute any prosecutions. In one case an inquiry was conducted in the Supreme Court, as provided by the Act, where a man naturalized in New Zealand had been long living in his native land. As a result, an order was made revoking his letters of naturalization. Passports. During the year 4,765 new passports were issued, as compared with 4,457 during the previous year and with 3,640 for the year ended 31st March, 1936. Passport renewals for varying periods were granted for 620 passports, compared with 681 last year and 724 for the year ended 31st March, 1936. The comparatively heavy increase in the issue of new passports represents the heaviest year's work on record with the exception of the year 1930, when 4,909 passports were granted. It is also to be noted that more passports were issued during the year than in Coronation year, when there was a large exodus to England for the celebrations. This fact may be taken as an indication of he buoyant state of the finances of the Dominion during the period under review. " Passport visas were granted in favour of forty-two aliens leaving New Zealand, so as to facilitate their landing in other parts of the British Commonwealth. Land-agents. Six hundred and ninety-four licenses were issued and 10 transfers granted, as compared with 694 licenses and 11 transfers for the previous year. One case of a defaulting land-agent was dealt with, and arrangements were made with the appropriate Insurance company for payment to be made in settlement of amounts owing to creditors. Auctioneers. Four hundred and forty-four licenses were issued and 326 changes of endorsement of seller made, as compared with 426 licenses and 300 changes of endorsement for the previous year. Chartered Clubs. The number of chartered clubs still stands at forty-six, no fresh club charter having been issued since the year 1908. Several applications were received from various clubs whose objects are of a social nature, but favourable consideration could not be given thereto. Beports furnished by Inspectors of Chartered Clubs throughout New Zealand indicate that they are being conducted in a proper manner and in accordance with the conditions upon which the charters were granted.

16

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Maori Antiquities Act, 1908. Nine warrants were granted authorizing the export of genuine Maori antiquities made according to ancient Maori methods. Authority was also granted in four oases authorizing the export of various articles of modern make and of the souvenir type which, therefore, did not come within the scope of the Act. Advertising Office. The work in this branch of the Department has been fairly heavy during the year, and it was found necessary to make an addition to the staff to meet the increasing pressure. Details are as follows : — Accounts. —Advertising accounts recorded, checked, and certified in the office during the year approximated 13,281, an increase on the vouchers handled for the previous year. Yearly Expenditure.—The total expenditure for Government advertising for all Departments during the year under review amounted to £32,518 3s. 3d., as compared with £28,105 3s. sd. for the financial year ended 31st March, 1937. Cuttings. —Press clippings supplied to Ministers and Departments approximated 2,000 to 2,300 weekly. Distinguished Visitors. Many distinguished people are continuing to visit New Zealand from all parts of the workL There arrived here during the year a cruiser from America, the " Louisville " ; two French sloops, the " Jeanne d'Arc " and the " Rigault de Genouilly " ; and the Royal Australian Squadron. The smaller vessels visited in some cases Auckland, and in other cases Wellington, but units of the Australian Squadron visited all the principal ports. Amongst those who discussed official matters with the Government were the members of an Australian Trade and Customs Delegation, several Ministers from the Commonwealth and States of Australia, including the Hon. R. G. Casey, Commonwealth Treasurer; Senator the Hon. A. J. McLachla'n, Commonwealth Postmaster-General; Hon. A. G. Ogilvie, Premier of Tasmania, and the Hon. J. F. Gaha, Minister of Health, Tasmania ; Hon. A. A. Dunstan, Premier of Victoria, and the Hon. F. E. Old, Deputy Premier ; Hon. E. J. Mackrell, Minister of Labour, Victoria ; Hon. H. J. T. Hyland, Minister of Agriculture, Victoria ; Hon. H. S. Bailey, Victoria ; and Hon. H. Millington, Minister of Works and Water-supply, Western Australia. Several Ministers and also members'of both Houses of the Australian Parliament spent some time here in a more or less private capacity. Other prominent people who paid us a visit were : Sir Henry Brackenbury, a member of the Advisory Committee of the British Ministry of Health ; The Right Hon. Sir Basil Brooke, Minister of Agriculture in Northern Ireland ; Brigadier-General Sir Joseph Byrne, Governor of Kenya ; Mr. J. B. Clarke, Director of the Empire Service of the British Broadcasting Corporation ; Dr. Hugh Dalton, Member of the House of Commons, England; Sir Howard d'Egville, Secretary of the Empire Parliamentary Association, England ; Mr. L. de Gielgud, Representative of the League of Red Cross Societies, Paris ; Lieut.-Colonel A. R. Gordon, Financial Secretary to the Ministry of Finance, Northern Ireland ;' The Countess Haig ; Mr. Arthur Henderson, Member of the British House of Commons ; Mr. G. P. Steyn, member of Parliament, South Africa. The departure from, or return to New Zealand, of sporting representatives was marked by the Government in the form of official receptions at Parliament House. Under this heading came the New Zealand Hockey Team, the New Zealand Surf Life-saving Team, and the Empire Games athletes, all of which visited Australia, and the New Zealand Cricket Team which visited England, whilst sporting representatives from overseas who visited us included the English Association Football Team and the Trinidad representatives to the Empire Games. ;j At Christmas-time the captain and crew of the Imperial Airways Flying Boat Centaurus were accepted by the Government as distinguished guests. As formerly, local authorities co-operated whole-heartedly with the Department in carrying out the Government's policy of entertaining distinguished people, and the various organizations who concerned themselves with the reception of naval visitors left nothing undone in their attempt to make the stay of both officers and ratings as enjoyable as possible. War Graves. New Zealand.—The number of notifications of deaths of returned soldiers received by the Department was 682, of which 142 were accepted as war graves —i.e., the cause of death in these cases was attributable to disabilities sustained on or aggravated by war service. The total number of war graves in New Zealand at the close of the year was 3,350. ° Temporary crosses to mark the graves until such time as the soldiers' headstones are erected were placed on 341 graves, and headstones to the number of 144 were ordered. Additional constructional work was carried out in the soldiers' cemeteries at Bromley (Christchurch), Taruheru (Gisborne), Kelvin Grove (Palmerston North), Hokitika, and Rotorua. All'soldiers' cemeteries continue to be suitably maintained under arrangements made through the local controlling authorities. Veterans' graves have continued to be attended to, and during the year extensive renovations were carried out in the following cemeteries containing the graves of Old Settlers and Veterans of the Maori Wars : Otahuhu, Ngaruawahia, Orakau, St. John's churchyard (Te Awamutu), St. Stephen's Zealand graves and memorials overseas have been maintained by the Imperial War Graves Commission out of the income derived from the Endowment Fund of £5,000,000, established for that purpose, and to which the Imperial and Dominion Governments contributed in proportion to the number of graves of their dead.

3—H. 22.

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War Funds. There has been no decrease in the number of registered war funds during the twelve months ended 31st March, 1938, their activities, in the main, having been of a fixed character for a number of years. Ihe fifty-four societies, together with the National War Funds Council, hold assets as shown in their latest annual «tatements amounting to £671,030 Is. Id., summarized as follows : — £ s. d. 27 Incorporated societies .. .. .. .. .. 387,954 14 9 7 Red Cross societies .. .. .. .. .. 91,346 12 4 3 Blind soldiers and veterans' homes funds* . . . . . . 69,925 310 12 Unincorporated societies . . . . . . . . . . 7,830 11 10 6 Returned soldiers' clubs .. .. .. .. .. 25,786 10 4 S5 582,843 13 1 National War Funds Council .. .. .. .. 88,186 BOf £671,030 1 1 Of this, total advances to soldiers represent 13 per cent., land and buildings 15 per cent., and the remaining 72 per cent, consists of readily convertible assets. The annual reports of the majority of societies reveal little decrease in the calls made upon them by the beneficiaries, and the indications are that war funds will be needed for some years to come. Totalizator Inspection. A representative of the Department was present at all race meetings at which the totalizator was in operation. A new electric totalizator is now in use at meetings of the New Zealand Metropolitan and Canterbury Park Trotting Clubs. Raffles. Seven hundred and eight licenses under authority of section 42 of the Gaming Act, 1908, were issued during the year. Of these, 428 were for works of art, 270 for small amounts of alluvial gold, and 10 for alluvial gold of the value of £5,000. The following table shows the results of the £5,000 gold art unions :—

Of the net profits, £45,000 was distributed to the various Mayoral or other recognized central funds established for the relief of distress, making a total of £280,000 made available for this purpose during the past few years, whilst £18,500 was allotted to other philanthropic and charitable organizations and £10,280 set aside for children's health camps. Fire Brigades Act, 1926. There were no new Fire Boards constituted during the year. Applications were received from two local bodies for Orders in Council to declare their districts to be fire districts for the purposes of the Act. It was decided, however, to allow these cases to remain in abeyance until Parliament decides the result of the Government proposals for the amalgamation of local authorities, which proposals include provisions for fire-protection services. The number of Fire Boards operating still remains at fifty-five. The annual report of the Inspector of Fire Brigades will be published as a separate statement, as in previous years. Explosives and Dangerous Goods. Licenses.—lmportation licenses in respect of the following quantities of explosives were issued during the year : Gelignite, 102,5001b. ; Polar gelignite, 1,055,000 lb. ; blasting-gelatine, nil; Polar blasting-gelatine, nil : gelatine dynamite, nil ; Polar gelatine dynamite, 8,750 lb. ; samsonite, nil ; Polar samsonite, 168,350 lb. ; A2 monobel, 174,300 lb. ; quarry monobel, 34,550 lb. ; ligdynite' 1,0001b.; blasting-powder, 42,2501b.; blasting-pellets, 31,2501b.; sporting powder, 27,484 lb. ; detonators, 2,125,000 ; E.D. fuses, 566,000 lb. ; safety fuse, 7,754,400 ft. ; fireworks, 90,467 lb.

* One (home) under control of an incorporated society. f Estimate, final figures not available.

18

Licence No. and Name. Gross Sales. | on Expenses. Prizes. Net Proceeds. Lottery Duty. Net Profit. £ s - d. £ s. d. £ s. d. £ £ s. d. £ s. d. £ s. d 60. Try Your Luck .. 19,908 5 0 2,986 4 9 2,913 9 4 5,000 9,008 10 11 1,990 16 6 7,017 14 5 61. Golden Gleam .. 19,066 5 0 2,859 18 9 2,848 13 9 5,000 8,357 12 6 1,906 12 6 6,451 0 0 62. All for Me .. 19,459 7 6 2,918 18 2 2,892 10 8 5,000 8,647 18 8 1,945 18 9 6,701 19 11 63. Money from Home 19,363 10 0 2,904 10 6 2,909 8 4 5,000 8,549 11 2 1,936 7 0 6,613 4 2 64. Sporting Luck .. 20,329 10 0 3,049 8 6 2,990 9 5 5,000 9,289 12 1 2,032 19 0 13 1 65. My Black Cat .. 20,760 17 6 3,114 2 8 2,910 2 1 5,000 9,736 12 9 2,076 1 9 7,660 11 0 66. My Lucky Spin .. 24,242 5 0 3,636 6 9 2,901 12 6 5,000 12,704 5 9 2,424 4 6 10,280 1 3 67. JoyforMe .. 22,333 5 0 3,349 19 9 2,918 2 11 5,000 11,065 2 4 2,233 6 6 15 10 68. Lucky Venture .. 20,226 5 0 3,033 18 9 2,986 7 1 5,000 9,205 19 2 2,022 12 6 7,183 6 8 69. It's Mine .. 21,774 15 0 3,266 4 3 2,966 7 5 5,000 10,542 3 4 2,177 9 6 8',364 13 10 Totals .. 207,464 5 0 31,119 12 10 29,237 3 6 50,000 97,107 8 8 20,746 8 6 76,361 0 2

H.—22.

Other licenses were (corresponding figures for previous year in parentheses) : Conveyance, 213 (221) ; sale, 637 (601) ; storage, 385 (382). Examination of Explosives. —Every shipment of explosives arriving from overseas is subjected to the usual routine examination and testing. No trouble has been experienced this year with any of the explosives imported from Australia or Great Britain, and it would appear that the improved hold conditions in shipments carried from Great Britain are having the desired effect in eliminating much at least of the trouble which has been experienced on occasions in past years and which has involved the agents in considerable expense by way of reconditioning of explosives. The shipping company which has the contract for carriage of explosives from Great Britain to New Zealand has instituted a system of special control of temperature and humidity conditions in the ships' holds. Copies of the records of conditions in the explosive magazine during the voyage out are obtained and recorded in this Office. Fifty-per-cent. Gelignite. —Owing to the world-wide rearmament programme, supplies of glycerine became exceedingly short, and prices for this commodity soared very considerably. In view of these difficulties, the suppliers of exjfiosives to the New Zealand market indicated that every effort would have to be made to conserve supplies of glycerine and that it was proposed either to replace the standard 60-per-cent. gelignite with 50-per-cent. gelignite, or, alternatively, to place on the market in New Zealand ammonia gelignites in which a portion of the nitro-glycerine is replaced by ammonium nitrate. The Department intimated that, owing to the hygroscopicity of ammonium nitrate, explosives containing this compound would not be acceptable in New Zealand, since the experience of the Department in past years with similar types of explosives has been markedly unsatisfactory. It was therefore decided to adopt the former alternative and substitute 50-per-cent. gelignite for the 60-per-cent. brand. The fact that the change-over was effected without any friction and that no complaints have been received would indicate that the Department's opinion that this explosive would be just as satisfactory for all ordinary purposes as the 60-per-cent. strength was correct. Accidents. —No accidents occurred in connection with the manufacture or storage of explosives, and the number due to other causes was comparatively few this year. Reports on the departmental files do not show any fatalities occurring with the handling or use of explosives, but several cases of serious injury are noted. Misfires and smoking and employment of naked lights in the vicinity of explosives accounted for most of the accidents which were reported. All such mishaps can be traced to carelessness or ignorance amounting almost in some instances to positive stupidity. The number of accidents due to the finding of stray detonators was very much lower this year than last, and it is hoped that the warning charts which were circulated during the year to all schools have had some effect in reducing the injuries due to this cause. There is, however, one type of accident which is becoming increasingly common and concerning which it is felt a special note of warning should be struck. There has been noted recently a very prevalent tendency amongst schoolboys to indulge in the dangerous practice of mixing firework compositions, either at home or in the school laboratory. The ingredients for these mixtures are easily obtained either from the school laboratory or from any dispensing chemist, and the natural reaction of the pupil after having imbibed a smattering of chemical knowledge is to try his hand at the preparation of these explosive mixtures. Information as to the composition of these mixtures is usually drawn from elementary text-books, which frequently do not give adequate warning against the dangers of preparing them. Chlorate mixtures, which are particularly sensitive, appear to be much favoured by boys, and many accidents might be avoided if chemistry masters and dispensing chemists would use their best endeavours to discourage this practice amongst boys. It is perhaps not generally known that many of these mixtures are so sensitive that even the act of mixing the components is attended with grave hazards if carried out by inexperienced persons, and the use of these powders by laymen is, of course, hazardous in the extreme. Sodium, Chlorate. — It is regretted that, in spite of the very extensive publicity which has been given both in these reports and in the newspapers to the dangers of this material, the accident record still shows no appreciable falling off. No fatalities have been reported during the year under review, but there still comes to hand from year to year a number of cases of accidents causing severe burns. To mention in detail the causes of the various accidents would be but to reiterate what has already been published time and again in these reports, and this information, together with that disseminated by the press from time to time, should have served to ensure that all persons handling this chemical would be aware of its hazards and of the precautions which should be taken in its use. Prosecutions. —During the year a prosecution was taken against a firm for illegal storage of explosives. A consignment of blasting-powder had become wet during transport, and the firm had purchased it from the agents under the impression that it was harmless. The powder was discovered stored in a strong-room, and included were four cases in good condition. The firm was convicted and a nominal penalty imposed, it being considered that the defendants had been misled by the vendors. Dangerous Goods. Local-authority Administrations. —The number of local authorities who are licensing authorities under the Explosive and Dangerous Goods Amendment Act, 1920, still stands at 163, no new licensing authorities having been appointed during the year. As far as practicable the inspection visits to localbody licensing authorities have been maintained at the same standard as in previous years. Departmental Administration. —With the limited inspection staff available and the augmentation of the duties of the inspectors, it is becoming increasingly difficult, if not impossible, to maintain at its previous standard of thoroughness inspections of districts under the control of the Department. During the year 2,247 licenses were issued, as compared with 2,191 for the preceding year.

19

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Legislation. —No new legislation was passed during the year, but under the Industrial Efficiency Act, 1936, to which brief reference was made in the last report, regulations were gazetted requiring that all persons selling motor-spirit should hold a license as from the Ist April, 1938. At the request of the Bureau of Industry this office agreed to undertake the issue of licenses and the inspection work in connection with the new regulations. This has naturally thrown a very heavy burden on both the inspection and office staffs, and expansion of the present personnel is an urgent necessity if the work is to be carried out in a proper manner. Arrangements were also made for those local bodies which are licensing authorities under the Explosive and Dangerous Goods Amendment Act, 1920, to undertake the issue of the necessary licenses in their districts. The effect of the new regulations is, of course, to introduce a dual system of licensing, since all those persons who must now hold a license under the Industrial Efficiency Act are also still required to hold a license under the Explosive and Dangerous Goods Amendment Act, 1920. It will be quite evident that the licensing of one industry by two separate authorities may quite easily result in confusion and irritation, and the arrangements outlined above are designed with the object of causing the system to function smoothly and without friction. Accidents. —In sharp contrast to the record of the previous year, which was happily free from any really serious accidents, the record this year contains an exceptionally large number of fatalities due to fires and explosions in the use of inflammable liquids. Several deaths occurred in operations connected with the repair or cutting of containers which had held inflammable spirits, and many people still appear to be ignorant of the clangers. One of these accidents is particularly worth recording, in that it illustrates the existence of a hazard which is little recognized even by people who have occasion frequently to handle or use dangerous goods. The accident referred to was the explosion of a4O gallon drum containing a few gallons of crank-case oil drained from an aeroplane. After the used oil had been placed in the drum the bung was screwed home and the drum left standing in the sun for some little time. Later one of the engineers proceeded to cut open the end with an acetylene torch, wlien an explosion immediately occurred, ripping off the whole head of the drum and killing the operator instantly. It is a well-known fact that drainings from the crank-case of an internal-combustion engine may contain a certain amount of the lighter fractions of petroleum, the percentage naturally depending on a number of factors such as the length of time for which the oil has been in use, the amount of wear in the cylinders, &c. There is no doubt that the used oil contained in this drum was sufficiently diluted with petrol to permit the formation of an explosive vapour-air mixture inside the drum and that immediately the torch was applied an explosion occurred. On examination of the drum after the accident it was found that the torch had not actually cut through the metal, but had merely formed a hot spot at the point of application when the explosion occurred. Samples of unused lubricating-oil and of crank-case drainings from aeroplane engines were obtained and the flash-points determined. The result showed that even a very small percentage of petrol in the oil would cause a very marked lowering of the flashpoint ; and in one experiment it was found that an unused lubricating-oil which had a normal flash-point of nearly 500° F. gave, when diluted with only 3 per cent, by volume of petrol, a flash-point of 115° F. It is quite a usual practice in garages and other premises to regard these crank-case drainings as being innocuous, but this accident shows that the presence of a small amount of petrol in these drainings is always possible, and precautions should be taken in exactly the same manner as would ordinarily be done in the case of petrol or other inflammable liquids. In another instance reported during the year a man was killed whilst carrying out welding repairs to a tank which was being altered to serve as a fuelcontainer for a Diesel engine. The tank had previously been repaired by one workman, who tested his repairs with petrol but did not pass on this information. Subsequently further alterations to the tank, including a certain amount of welding, were found necessary, and another workman was deputed to carry out the task. Unaware that the tank had contained petrol, he had no reason to take the usual precaution of steaming it out first. As soon as the welding-apparatus was put into use an explosion occurred which knocked down the workman, fracturing his skull. It is prescribed in the Dangerous Goods Regulations that no operations involving the use of flames or lights, &c., shall be carried out on any container which has contained dangerous goods unless such container lias first been cleaned by steaming out or another approved process. The neglect of this elementary precaution has been the cause of a considerable number of deaths and injuries in the past few years. Very few people appear to realize that too great care cannot be exercised in the handling of containers which have held inflammable spirits, and that unless precautions are taken to free the container from any suspected fumes the use of a naked flame or light on or near the container is an operation fraught with grave danger. It must be stressed that merely filling such a container with water or even passing running water through it is not a satisfactory method of removing the vapours and traces of remaining inflammable liquids. The Department has on record cases where accidents have taken place when welding or cutting operations have been commenced on containers through which water has been run for a number of hours. The most satisfactory method of cleaning these containers is undoubtedly by prolonged steaming out. The domestic use of inflammable spirits such as petrol, kerosene, and methylated spirits has always been a fruitful source of accidents, and during the present year there have been reported no less than four deaths under this heading. It is possible that the toll is even greater, since on some occasions accidents are not reported to this Office, and thus may not come under notice until some time after, if at all. In one case a boy aged twelve was killed when some methylated spirit which was being poured from a can into a heater cup of a blow-lamp exploded, whilst in another instance a man was killed by an explosion of petrol fumes which were liberated in the room when he dropped a bottle of benzine which he had been using to refill his cigarette-lighter. The fumes ignited almost immediately at an adjacent stove. Another accident involved the use of a primus stove caused the death of a woman. The primus had been filled with petrol instead of kerosene, and exploded shortly after being lit. The most tragic feature of all these accidents, and, indeed, of the very great majority of accidents with inflammable

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liquids, is that they need never have occurred save for ignorance or negligence on the part of the victims. The replenishing of lamps or stoves with inflammable liquids should never be done in the vicinity of naked lights or flames, and the container from which the liquid is drawn should be securely closed and removed before any attempt is made to light the apparatus. A further fatal accident which caused the death of a boy of four years occurred during the refuelling of the tank of a motor-lorry at a petrol-pump. The fuel-tank of the lorry was situated underneath the seat of the cab, close to the battery. When the metal nozzle of the pump-hose was inserted in the opening to the fuel-tank contact was accidentally made with the positive terminal of the battery and a spark produced which ignited the vapour. The hose was hastily pulled out of the tank by the operator, and the burning petrol splashed over the child, who was playing by the lorry. An investigation into the cause of the accident did not disclose that there had been any breach of the regulations, and the ignition was a purely fortuitous occurrence which is seldom likely to be experienced. The action of the operator in jerking the nozzle out of the fuel-tank directly the fire occurred was, however, most ill-considered, and he did not appear to realize that under the circumstances the fire could very easily have been subdued by jamming the nozzle into the opening of the tank and smothering out the flames by sealing with sack or heavy cloth any annular space between the nozzle and the side of the filling opening. An unusual accident and one which is rare in New Zealand was the explosion of a cloud of sulphur dust at one of the big chemical-works. While such industries do not come within the control of the regulations administered by this Department, the explosion was of interest, and the circumstances were investigated at the request of the parties concerned. In the portion of the works reserved for the handling of sulphur, this element was unloaded from railway-trucks into a boot below ground-level and was thence conveyed to the store-room by means of an endless chain of bucket? driven by a winch situated in a penthouse at the top of the building and actuated by an electric mouor. The conveyor had slipped off the pulley at the top, and several workmen were sent up to replace it. The belt had actually been replaced when, for some reason or other, the conveyer commenced to run backwards, and almost at once the sulphur was noticed to be on fire. The fire flashed down the elevator shaft, and several of the men were trapped in the penthouse before they could escape. One man was killed, and several others were partially asphyxiated and received more or less severe burns. Whilst the cause of the ignition of the sulphur dust was not determined with certainty, it appears most probable that when the conveyer commenced to run backwards one of the men threw over a pawl which normally would engage a cog wheel on the same shaft as the pulley and would serve to check the backward movement. The action of throwing over this pawl to engage in the teeth of the wheel which was already moving would no doubt cause some sparking, probably of sufficient intensity to ignite the cloud of sulphur dust raised by the action of the conveyer in slipping backwards. In addition to the above, reports were received as usual of a number of minor accidents in the handling and use of inflammable liquids. Every year brings forth a certain number of accidents in connection with refuelling of motor-vehicles, but in the reports this year there is nothing worthy of special mention. Cinematograph Films Act. Licenses. —The following licenses were issued during the year ended 30th September, 1937, corresponding figures for the previous year being given in parentheses : Exhibitors, 427 (424) ; circuit exhibitors, 42 (38) ; renters, 18 (16) ; storage 12 (13) ; miscellaneous, 36 (54). Legislation. —During the year the Board of Trade (Cinematograph Films) Regulations, 1935, were revoked and the Cinematograph Films (Issue of Exhibitors' Licenses) Regulations 1937, substituted. The new regulations not only removed anomalies existing in the original ones, but also gave the licensing officer wider powers in the matter of requiring that licensed exhibitors should provide a satisfactory standard of entertainment and reasonable theatre amenities. It is generally recognized that, where there is in force a licensing system which has the effect of restricting the number of licenses held in any locality, certain safeguards are necessary to ensure that licensees do not take unfair advantage of the virtual monopoly created and that they also provide a standard of service which is adequate for the requirements of the district. The new regulations are designed to give the licensing officer power to see that these conditions are complied with. Representations were made during the year by the motion-picture projectionists for the enactment of legislation providing for the licensing of all operators. Since both the Motion Picture Exhibitors' Association and the Film Exchanges' Association signified that they were in accord with this principle, it is now proposed to bring down regulations requiring that all projectionists be licensed. Accidents. —In the year under review eight fires occurred during the projection of cinematograph film. This represents a considerable increase over the average number of fires in previous years. Some increase in the number of fires was to be expected since, owing to the era of prosperity which the country is at present experiencing, many theatres are now screening on a greater number of days per week than heretofore, and, in addition, a number of new picture-halls have been opened up at Public Works camps throughout the country. It is, however, pleasing to record that in only one case was more than one reel of film involved in the fire. The view of the Department is that if the operator acts correctly in the event of a fire then the damage should be ordinarily confined to the burning of one reel. However, where there are two machines in the projection-room, as is the case in the majority of New Zealand theatres, there is a particular danger period existing during the change-over from one machine to the other. Should an outbreak of fire occur at this critical period there is always a possibility of the reel of film on the second machine being involved, but, even so, if the operator follows out the instructions given by the Department the loss should not exceed the two reels. It is to be noted that the one fire recorded in which two reels of film were destroyed occurred at the change-over period. The operator promptly switched off his machines and removed the programme box from the projection-room, thus preventing the destruction of any further film.

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Film Censorship. During the year 2,164 films of all classes, of a total length of 5,249,950 ft., were examined by the Censors. Of this number 6 were rejected in the first instance, 32 were passed subject to excisions, 203 were passed with recommendations that they were more suitable for adult audiences, and 5 were passed with the caution that they were not suitable for exhibition to children. For the third year in succession there has been no appeal lodged against the Censors' decisions. An analysis of the work shows : —

Quota Films.—The countries of origin of the quota films were as follows : Great Britain, 93 '> Australia, 3 ; Canada, 1 ; United States of America, 408. No quota films were made in New Zealand during the year under review. Rejections. —Of the six films rejected, all were " quota " or long films, three of them originating in Great Britain and three in the U.S.A. General. —During the year under review, as compared with the previous year, the number of rejections was 6 as against 5, the number of films requiring amendment dropped from 38 to 32, and the number of films recommended as more suitable for adult audiences further increased from 178 to 203, while the number considered to be definitely unsuitable for exhibition to young people was 5, the same as in the previous year. Alexander Turnbull Library. (1) Holdings and Acquisitions. The number of books increased during the year by nearly 1,000 volumes, and the total number now catalogued is 52,000. Great progress has been made in the sorting and cataloguing of the Kinsey collection, for this was much facilitated by considerable additions to our shelving-accommodation. The process of rearranging several large sections in the library is still in progress, but will make for more convenient working when completed. It was not possible to achieve the full binding programme, and only about two hundred volumes were bound. A full file of " Oceania," the Australian anthropological journal, was added to the anthropology section, thus filling a much-felt need. The bibliographical resources of the library, already very strong, were enriched by completing our series of the publications of the English Bibliographical Society, the John Rylands Library, Manchester, and the Huntington Library, San Marino, California. At the same time the final part was added to the only set in the Southern Hemisphere of Sabin's " Dictionary of Americana " —a most useful reference work, especially for early voyaging, &c. Another important and curious literary work was the first German edition of the book from which Defoe probably drew his ideas for " Robinson Crusoe." The library copy appeared at Leipzig in 1721, but the Dutch version was printed in 1708—eleven years before Defoe's book. The first five editions of the latter are in the library, with many other important volumes on the same subject. The securing of a copy of the first edition of " Tenure of Kings and Magistrates," 1649, filled a serious gap in the Milton collection. This was one of the most crucial of Milton's publications, justifying, as it did, the execution of Charles I, and identifying the author as an open supporter of the Cromwellian party. Possibly as a result he was appointed " Latin Secretary "to the Commonwealth. Since the greater of rare books are now beyond the library's resources, facsimiles are sometimes secured, and a fine group of English books of the sixteenth and seventeenth centuries was recently acquired. In the same field was a complete set of the quarto plays of Shakespeare in facsimile. This was the form in which the plays originally appeared, from as early as 1591. The first folio gathers most of them in the edition of 1623, but the quartos are the true originals. Other facsimiles are in the field of printing history, being reproductions of German incunabula (fifteenth century printing) in the British Museum, and another work on early book-printing in Italy. One of the most important critical editions of Shakespeare is that of Edmund Malone, whose reputation as a Shakespearean scholar was very high. A set of his edition published in 1821 in twentyone volumes was a notable addition to the Shakespearean section, already extremely strong. A set of one of the many great series of colour-illustrated books of the last century was also procured —the " Tours of Dr. Syntax," illustrated by Rowlandson, and coloured by hand. " Grangerizing " was a peculiar form that the hobby of book-collecting took last century. Granger's " Biographical History of England," 1804, lent itself to " extra-illustration " with prints from other sources, and the practice became a craze that had serious effects upon libraries all over England, for collectors were little troubled by scruples as to the whence of their illustrations. A set of this work in six volumes, duly extra-illustrated or Grangerized, was added to the collection during the year.

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Quota or Long Films. Non-quota or Short Films. Origin. • Number. Length. Number. Length. Ft. Ft. British .. .. .. 97 721,220 463 428,410 Foreign .. .. .. 408 2,889,510 1,198 1,210,810 505 3,610,730 j 1,661 1,639,220

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(2) Use of the Library. Again the number of readers has shown a decided increase. It is now found best to discriminate amongst readers, so that only where they are drawing upon rare or manuscript material are readers' privilege tickets insisted upon, and the surveillance of such material has been made more strict. Thus readers' tickets issued have numbered only fifty-six, but the reading attendance has risen to over 3,000. The call for the copying of rare material here still continues, and about five hundred pages of photostat and three hundred pages of typescript have been supplied both in New Zealand and abroad. The supply of our unit cards was extended during the year on an exchange basis to the Library of Congress, Washington, United States of America, and the Commonwealth Library, Canberra, Australia. Both are advantageous exchanges. (3) Exhibitions. The periodical exhibitions in the library are becoming an attractive feature, especially for educational groups, and the wide range of topics treated has brought to the library people of diverse interests. The subjects to which exhibitions have been devoted are —British Royalty and Coronation (in May, 1937), Ancient Maps and Atlases, Algernon Charles Swinburne, Henry Irving, First Explorations in New Zealand, Early New Zealand Pictures, The Maori in Early Art, Review of Treasures (over Christmas holidays), Book Illustration of Eight Centuries. This method of using rarities is apparently effective, and acknowledgment is here accorded to the ready co-operation of the press, to which numbers of articles have been contributed. The benefit is mutual, but their courtesy is much appreciated. (4) Copying of Manuscript, &c. During the year the typing of the missionary letters has been completed. These volumes provide an exceptionally fine body of material, dealing in an intimate and personal manner with the formation of new stations and settlements in the bush, and the evolution of New Zealand from its early state. The missionaries had splendid opportunities for studying customs and rituals which were soon afterwards to be abandoned, and for meeting the most famous men of the century, both Native and pakeha. The journals are particularly valuable for the conversations they record, in which the Maori point of view is shown, particularly with regard to land. Most of the missionaries were still alive during the period of the Maori wars, and their observations upon the causes and the progress of the struggle are given with considerable insight. It, is also interesting to see the extent of their influence not only in religious, but in political, questions. Few countries owe so much to early ecclesiastical influences as New Zealand ; and these journals and letters provide an invaluable source of original material for research. Those already done have been mentioned in earlier reports ; this year saw the completion of the journals of Spencer, missionary at Rotorua ; Samuel Williams, member of the famous family of New Zealand clergymen ; Ronaldson ; and Baker, of Gisborne. In addition, each volume of letters has been completely indexed, and is now available for reference. Copying has also proceeded on the letters of the famous Judge Maning, probably the best authority on Maori lore ever to set down his experiences. It will be remembered that in his youth Maning was admitted as a member of a Maori tribe, that he married a Maori woman, and that throughout his life, though he often criticized the race with considerable freedom, he was yet one of its firmest friends. His letters reveal a man of intellect and humour, and cast a searching light upon political and Native Land Court intrigues of the seventies. Two volumes of standard reference in New Zealand history have been greatly increased in usefulness by indexes being compiled from them during the year. These are Jerningham Wakefield's " Adventure in New Zealand " and the Journal of the Wellington Early Settlers and Historical Association ; and the indexes are available for use by students at the Library. (5) Donations. The library is fortunate in having not only a large number of people interested enough to make donations, but in having many who make a habit of it. To Mr. P. J. Marks, of Sydney, we are under a continual debt of gratitude for historical pamphlets, &c., while Brother George, of the Catholic Mission Press of Guadalcanal, in the Solomon Islands, sees that the Pacific languages section expands. The Methodist Mission Press of Fiji interests itself in the same field to the library's advantage. Dr. F. A. Bett, of Nelson, Mr. J. A. Ferguson, of Sydney, and Mr. T. W. Brown, of Wellington, all work for the development of the collections, and full appreciation is extended to them. The collection of works by Katherine Mansfield is growing steadily, thanks to the interest of Sir Harold Beauchamp, through whose generosity the library is securing copies of her works in first editions sumptuously bound or cased by Zaehnsdorf, of London. The latest evidence of this interest was the presentation of an exquisite miniature of his daughter, done in Canada. In the realm of pictures an especially pleasing gift was that of Mrs. Worsley, of England, of a water-colour scene of Wellington, done by the well-known artist, C. N. Worsley. From David Low, the famous New- Zealand-born cartoonist, was received a full set of his publications, all autographed by the artist. These came as a result of Mr. Andersen's (formerly Librarian) meeting with Low in London. Mr. A. J. Heighway presented a book of early adventure fiction called " The Hermit, or the Adventures of Philip Quarll in the South Seas," 1805. This first appeared in 1727, in imitation of " Robinson Crusoe," issued eight years earlier, and is one of the most famous of fictitious travel books.

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Two fine specimens of the Breeches Bible were received, one dated 1607 from Mr. G. R. Thompson, of Wellington, and another 1599 from Mrs. B. V. Cooksley, of Taita. The latter was especially interesting, having been the property of the Rev. James Buller, the first Wesleyan missionary in New Zealand. Miss Nias, of England, a daughter of the Captain Nias who brought Captain Hobson to New Zealand, donated three fine prints of early Wellington in 1840, done by Charles Heaphy, draughtsman of the New Zealand Co. Mr. Win, Nicoll, an old miner, presented a manuscript of his experiences in gold-mining in Waihi, Fiji, and the Klondyke. Unfortunately, the old pioneer died a few weeks after his kindly gift was received. Another manuscript related to early Wainui-o-mata, being a minute book of the old Road Board of that district in the fifties. This was from Mr. Sinclair, of Plimmerton. People in England having New Zealand material frequently realize its importance to this country, and a notable instance occurred when Miss Hamley sent out a large collection of water-colour sketches depicting scenes of military life in New Zealand during the Maori wars, very finely executed by her father, Major Hamley. Lieut. - Colonel Bulkeley likewise sent from England a fine group of early letters and other documents. Other donations of importance were received from the following, and our best thanks are accorded for the courtesy and interest thus evinced: Mr. Fowlds, Auckland; E. Furley, New South Wales ; Mrs. Owen, Wellington ; the Librarian, Colchester, Essex ; Mrs. Ella Dwyer, Sydney ; the Secretary, Otago Harbour Board ; Archdeacon H. Ensor, Christchurch ; Mr. V. G. Chapman, Wellington ; Mr. J. H. L. Waterhouse, New South Wales ; Mr. R. B. Castle, Wellington ; the New Zealand Lighting Service Bureau, Wellington ; Mr. C. R. Johns, Surrey, England ; Mrs. C. Wilson, Wellington ; Mr. J. E. Chard, Hobart; Mr. A. I. Isdale, Hastings ; Mr. J. A. Ferguson, Sydney ; Mr. E. J. Riches, Geneva ; the Health Education and Research Council, London; Mr. J. C. Andersen, Wellington; Mr. A. H. Abel ; Mr. M. G. Maxwell, Tauranga ; Mr. A. H. Scotney, Wellington ; the Director, Cawthron Institute, Nelson ; Mr. T. W. Brown, Wellington ; Mrs. S. Huffam, Wellington ; Mr. A. J. Heighway, Wellington; Mr. G. R. Thompson, Wellington; Mr. H. B. Jacobs, Ngaio ; Mr. J. B. Monteath, Napier : Mrs. T. Fielden Taylor, Wellington ; Mr. G. Miller, Palmerston North ; Societe de l'Histoire du Protestantisme Francais, Paris; Mr. W. S. Sargent, London; Bascands Ltd., Christchurch; Mrs. B. V. Cooksley, Taita ; the First Church of Christ Scientist, Wellington ; Mr. W. Nicoll, Wellington ; the Island Bay Surf Club, Wellington ; Miss Mestayer, Wellington ; the Curator, Canterbury Museum ; Mr. Sinclair, Wellington ; Mr. G. E. Hunter, Wellington ; Mrs. Halcombe, New Plymouth ; Rev. W. West Knowles ; Mr. McKinley, Wellington ; Rev. G. Kendrick, Upper Hutt ; the Secretary, Numismatic Society, Wellington ; Mr. H. W. White, Wellington ; Mr. Porter, Petone ; Mr. W. J. Huxtable, Wellington ; Rev. C. G. Scrimgeour, Wellington ; Mrs. West, Wellington ; Hon. F. Langstone ; Clark University Library, Worcester, Mass., United States of America ; the Secretary, Corriedale Sheep Society; Mr. E. W. Maclean; Mr. T. L. Buick; the Headmaster, Auckland Grammar School; the Librarian, Auckland Public Library; the Town Clerk, Riverton; the Curator, Mariners' Museum, Newport News, Ya., United States of America ; Mrs. J. F. O'Leary; Mr. J. M. Murray, Wellington; Lady Maclean ; Mr. Kearney, Wellington; Mr. J. W. Mitchell, Christchurch ; Mr. M. A. Jamieson, Wellington; Mr. F. H. Porter, Petone; Mrs. Patterson, York Bay; Miss G. A. Glanville, Christchurch ; Mrs. Moore, Wellington ; Mi'. P. J. Garvey, England ; Mrs. S. L. Crump, French Pass ; Mr. V. Phelips, Capetown, South Africa ; P. P. Cahill, S.M., Palmerston North ; Mr. A. W. Seaven, Christchurch ; Mr. F. W. Sims, Wellington ; Mr. D. R. Menzies, Wellington ; Mr. A. H. Carman, Wellington. A donation of much interest was received from Her Majesty Queen Mary, who forwarded to the New Zealand Government several books relating to New Zealand from her library, including two published accounts of her visit to the colonies in 1901. Each volume is autographed. It was decided by the Government to deposit them in the Turnbull Library, where they will be carefully preserved. Conclusion. I have to express my appreciation of the willing and efficient service rendered to me by officers of the Department at all times under conditions calling for sustained effort and frequently under extreme pressure of urgency. I desire also to acknowledge with gratitude the valuable assistance rendered by other Government Departments throughout the year.

Approximate, Coat of Paper.—Preparation, not given ; printing (545 copies), £30.

By Authority : E. V. Paul, Government Printer, Wellington.—l93B.

Price 9d.]

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