NATIVE DEPARTMENT THE DEVELOPMENT AND SETTLEMENT OF NATIVE LANDS AND THE PROVISION OF HOUSES FOR MAORIS (STATEMENT UPON THE PROGRESS OF, BY THE RIGHT HON. P. FRASER, MINISTER OF NATIVE AFFAIRS AND CHAIRMAN OF THE BOARD OF NATIVE AFFAIRS)

Appendix to the Journals of the House of Representatives, 1947 Session I, G-10

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1947 NEW ZEALAND

NATIVE DEPARTMENT THE DEVELOPMENT AND SETTLEMENT OF NATIVE LANDS AND THE PROVISION OF HOUSES FOR MAORIS (STATEMENT UPON THE PROGRESS OF, BY THE RIGHT HON. P. FRASER, MINISTER OF NATIVE AFFAIRS AND CHAIRMAN OF THE BOARD OF NATIVE AFFAIRS)

Presented to both Houses of the General Assembly by Leave

CONTENTS

PAGE Report by Minister of Native Affairs .. .. .. .. 1 Part I. —State Development Schemes .. .. .. .. 4 Part ll.—Maori Land Board Undertakings .. .. .. .. 12 Part lll.—Native Trust Activities .. .. .. .. 13 Part IY. —Maori Housing Operations .. .. .. .. 14 Part V.—Maori Rehabilitation Finance Committee .. .. .. 20 Part Vl.—East Coast Native Trust Lands .. .. .. .. 25 Statistical Tables .. . .. .. .. .. .. .. 28

GENERAL REPORT In presenting its report for the financial year ended 31st March, 1947, the Board of Native Affairs furnishes a resume of the varied activities connected with the development, settlement, and farming of Maori lands ; housing construction under the Maori housing .scheme ; the rehabilitation of Maori ex-servicemen ; and other operations financed by State and Trust funds for the advancement of the Maori people. Matters that continue to receive the earnest cohsideration of the Board are the settlement of the Maori upon his own lands under such conditions that will ensure for him and his dependants economic self-sufficiency, the amelioration of his living conditions, and his absorption and establishment in the national life of the community. Previous reports have recorded the attitude of the Administration in regard to the conservation of the ancestral lands now remaining in the possession of the Maori race. The past few years have shown a consolidation and intensification of the Maori landdevelopment policy. There has also been a keener appreciation by the Legislature and

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the Maori people alike of the benefits which, would accrue both to the nation and to the Maori race from a planned programme of development in land, industry, and economic advancement. In recent years a fuller recognition has been given to parity in citizenship by the settlement of various long-outstanding claims, by the adoption of a policy which aims at the general advancement in life of the Maori people as an integral part of the social and economic structure of New Zealand, and by the association of the human aspect of Maori problems concerned with the activities of State Departments. It can be said that the policy of advancing the interests of the Maori race has been more sympathetically broadened to give assistance to the people not only in land-develop-ment, but also in the physical, economic, educational, social, and moral well-being. This is being done in co-operation with the Maori people as a whole. The policy has also helped to revive, preserve, and maintain the arts and crafts of the Maori, to apply and maintain the highest efficiency and sense of civic responsibility in their life and undertakings, and to maintain self-reliance, thrift, and pride of race. There are ninety-nine Maori land-development schemes in the North Island and three in the South Island, and these cover an area of 624,958 acres in various stages of development and production. The gross expenditure of public moneys for the year on all agricultural and pastoral schemes controlled by the Department was £775,733 (compared with £795,565 for the previous year), while the Department's proportion of the receipts from farming operations amounted to £663,386 (compared with £707,920 for the previous year). £71,892 was paid to Consolidated Fund in interest charges. Cash collections under each heading compared with the previous year were — Butterfat: a decrease of 3 per cent.; whilst the Department's share of wool proceeds showed a drop from £120,947 to £82.742, but this is accounted for by the cancellation of some of the late-season sales, with the result that the proceeds are not included in the accounts for 1946-47. Sales of live-stock also dropped in value by 5 per cent., but the returns from miscellaneous items (including crops) grouped under the heading " Sundries " rose by 45 per cent. The actual revenue collected was : butterfat (representing the Department's proportion, which averaged 44 per cent.), £178,971, compared with £185,389 for the previous season ; live-stock sales, £354,043, in comparison with £375,559 for the previous year ; and sundry receipts (crops and farm produce), £47,630, the previous year's receipts being £32,657. On the schemes the volume of dairy-produce dropped from 4,920,435 lb. to 4,861,773 lb., while the wool-clip of 6,349 bales showed an increase of 330 bales over the 1945-46 season. A total of 833 men were employed on the general development blocks and stations. This figure excludes the farm-managers and foremen directly engaged by the Public Service Commission and also excludes the 1,889 farmers settled on their own holdings. A further 238 men were employed on Maori housing construction. Grants from the Consolidated Fund to the Land for Settlements Account amounted to £140,000 for the year. This money is utilized in developing marginal land owned and occupied by local or resident Maoris which otherwise could not be economically brought to a stage where it could be settled with any hope of success. The twenty-two. stations financed by the Maori Land Boards and the Native Trustee produced a total of 2,400 bales of wool, as compared with 1,966 for the preceding year. On the Bast Coast Native Trust stations, 4,558 bales were shorn, as against the previous year's clip of 3,331 bales. The live-stock returns at 31st March, 1947, again show an increase in the number of dairy cows carried and a further increase in the number of breeding-ewes.

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The stock tallies (with the previous year's figures shown in parentheses) on the farms financed by the Department were : cows milked during the season, 40,093 (39,044); other dairy stock, 21,117 (23,808); run cattle, 30,935 (31,256); breeding-ewes, 173,363 (169,279); and 101,783 (121,979) dry sheep. Horticulture Practical assistance in the growing and marketing of vegetables has been given to Maoris, and approximately 15,000 bushels of maize and over 240 tons of kumara, onions, potatoes, and other vegetables have been marketed on growers' accounts in addition to the quantities sold direct by the growers. The new tomato-growing project in Northern Hawke's Bay has been an unqualified success, and the factory pay-out of £2,500 in the Wairoa area, in addition to considerable sums from open-market sales, gives some indication of the value of this effort to a small community. When it is realized that practically all of these growers are new to tomato culture, the value of the effort can be more fully appreciated. New asparagus plantations now being grown for canning purposes are making phenomenal progress, and success is assured. A special effort in maize production has resulted in the sowing of an additional 2,000 acres, approximately, of new or deteriorated land. The Department's tree nurseries have been satisfactorily maintained and extended. Two and a half million trees were bedded out in the nurseries this year, and a quantity approaching this number was utilized last year for shelter-belts and farm plantations. From the fruit-tree nursery, 1,500 pip, stone, and citrus trees were supplied last year to Maori homes. Special attention is being given to citrus culture, which, besides being of commercial value, will, it is hoped, help to offset any deficiency in average Maori dietary range. Utilization of waste land by afforestation for the prevention of erosion and the reclamation of sand-dune areas continues, and the development of the existing plantations demonstrates the potentialities of this form of attack on these problems. Ahuwhenua Trophy The annual competition for Viscount Bledisloe's trophy for the most progressive Maori farmer was this year won by Wiremu Matene Naera, of Waiotemarama (who was placed third in last year's competition). The second prize was won by John Savage, of Opoutere. The Right Hon. Viscount Bledisloe, the donor of the trophy, very kindly undertook the presentation on 25th March last of the trophy and medal won in the previous year's competition by Henare Paraone, of Clevedon. Maori Land Boards and Native Trust Office The seven Maori Land Boards and the Native Trust Office remain in a sound financial position. Details of the funds held, investments, and office reserves are shown in Table Aof G-.-9 (Report of the Native Department). The Board of Native Affairs controls the investments of these bodies, which total £1,460,658, comprising mortgages, £552,668 ; Government securities, £701,167 ; and advances to farming and primary production undertakings carried on by those bodies, £206,823. The total funds held for beneficiaries was £1,000,764. In conclusion, the Board desires to express its appreciation of the loyal support and co-operation of officers of the Native Department, who, in spite of heavy demands, have willingly devoted their best energies to furthering the work of the Board.

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Attached to this statement are reports on Maori land-development schemes on Maori Land Board and Native Trust farming operations, on activities under the Maori housing schemes, and upon the work of the Maori Rehabilitation Finance Committee and the enterprises of the East Coast Commissioner. Chairman.

PART I.—STATE DEVELOPMENT SCHEMES This section includes reports upon lands subject to the provisions of Part I of the .Native Land Amendment Act, 1936, which authorized the Board of Native Affairs to advance State funds for the purpose of developing and settling the lands of the Maori people and for general assistance in farming and allied enterprises. Further particulars are included in Table 1 (see statistical tables). The lands mentioned in this section include individual farms which are in the ultimate stage of development where it has been possible to settle a farmer with the necessary buildings and farm implements on a fully stocked holding. Also included in the total are the development schemes, which have for their object the breaking-in or development of compact areas of Maori-owned lands ; base farms, which have been established for demonstration purposes and breeding, assembling, holding, or distributing live-stock; and bulk schemes, which are facilities for holding and distributing bulk purchases of farm requirements. TOKERAU NATIVE LAND COURT DISTRICT This district embraces the whole of the North Auckland Peninsula. In the main the Maori-owned lands of the North are of poor to medium quality only, and soil types vary greatly. The Maori farmers of the district are engaged mainly in dairying, but, in view of the poor class of soil in some areas, many properties are unsuitable for this type of farming. Within the boundaries of the Tokerau District the Maori population is 25,345 and forms a very considerable proportion of the total population of 70,000 in the North Auckland district. The Maoris own, in this district, nearly 500,000 acres of ancestral land, but a large percentage of this area is unsuitable for economic development. A large part could, however, be planted in trees and become an asset to its owners and to the nation. Much of the remaining Maori land is in very remote and isolated areas and lacks adequate roading and other transport facilities. In some cases the Native Department assists in the provision of roading requirements by subsidizing the Qounty Councils and the Public Works Department to keep roads in repair and for the construction of new roads. The Government's ten-year plan for the North Auckland region envisages a considerable programme of work in improving, draining, planting, building, subdividing, and roading Maori lands. It has been suggested that an area of 5,000 acres of dune country be planted to consolidate the surface and to prevent the spread of the sand over productive country. Other areas suitable for afforestation purposes are being considered.

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Scheme Supervision (Sixteen Schemes) Supervision of ten of the schemes is under the control of one Supervisor, stationed at Kaikohe. On these general schemes the Department has put into permanent grass 13,629 acres, whilst 1,213 acres are under cultivation. Seven wool-sheds, 83 cottages and workers' hutments, and 29 other farm buildings have been erected. On the unit properties, to date, 437 dwellings and 670 cow-sheds have been built. The live-stock carried on the schemes includes 391 dairy cows, 282 other dairy stock, 3,736 run cattle, and 16,437 sheep. Three hundred and seventy-six bales of wool were produced and 52,899 lb. of butterfat. The total butterfat produced on both schemes properties and individual holdings was 1,705,311 lb. This is a slight increase on the previous year's figures. A summary of the main capital works carried out by the Department during the year is as under : Bush felling and clearing .. .. .. 1,978 acres. Grassing .. .. .. .. .. 440 acres. Cultivation .. .. .. .. .. 399 acres. Fences erected .. .. .. .. .. 1,597 chains. Drains cut .. .. .. .. 1,468 chains. Roading .. .. .. .. .. 221 chains. Installation of water-supplies .. .. .. 29 Numerous bridges have been constructed on different properties. The Maori Young Farmers' Club at Whirinaki is being fostered to the utmost. Periodic lectures and demonstrations by specialists in appropriate subjects are arranged, a,nd a wider appreciation of all that farming entails is evident. The gazetted areas shown in past years' reports have been somewhat misleading, as practically the total area of Maori land in the Tokerau District was gazetted under a " blanket" Proclamation at the commencement of the land-development enterprise The gazetted area shown this year has been reduced to 85,500 acres and represents the active total acreage of the individual farms occupied by settlers (apart from general schemes). Ngataki Scheme.—This scheme, comprising Crown land and situated in the Far North between Te Kao and Houhora, is populated by the Te Hapua Maoris, who voluntarily went there some years ago to develop and occupy the land. Four dairyfarms have been established, and 27,233 lb. of butterfat were produced from 150 cows during the year. On this scheme 1,100 acres have been planted in various species of trees raised on the property. These plantations are doing well and showing plenty of growth. Opapaki Scheme. —Located near Otiria, this scheme comprises an area of approximately 1,000 acres. Part of the area is being leased for limestone-quarrying purposes. Oturei Scheme.—Lying towards the coast from Te Kopuru, in the Dargaville district, this scheme comprises 1,803 acres. Three Maori ex-servicemen have recently been settled on individual holdings here, and the necessary work in connection with their settlement is being pushed forward at present. Cow-sheds have been erected and dwellings are nearing completion. Electricity will shortly be available to the cottages and cow-sheds, a temporary water scheme has been installed, and the main water-supply scheme will be commenced in the near future. When adequate water is available, the whole of the coast portion of the scheme to the west of the homestead will be subdivided and probably another three farms established. Oturu Scheme.—This property is situated near the Kaitaia-Kaingaroa Main Highway. The area was originally European-owned, and was purchased by the Department in 1939. Three ex-servicemen selected by ballot have been established as dairy-farmers. Three new houses and cow-sheds were erected during the year.

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Waiomio Scheme.—This scheme is situated about two miles from the Kawakawa Post-office and Bailway-station. The land varies considerably from raupo swamp to limestone and fair to poor gum land. The property is a difficult one. No sheep are carried at the present time, the intention being to stock up with store cattle to build up the pastures. Waireia Scheme. —Situated in the Hokianga County on the northern side of the Hokianga Harbour and distant about two miles from the west coast, this scheme comprises an area of 4,640 acres purchased by the Crown from Europeans. A large-scale development programme was undertaken during the year. Three hundred and seventyfive chains of fences have been either extensively renovated or completely renewed, 560 acres have been cleared of scrub, 200 chains of drains completed, 1,100 posts and 22,000 battens split, and 12 new bridges erected. As a result of an inadequate supply of fertilizer during the past years, deterioration has occurred' in the quality of some of the pastures. Live-stock carried on the property includes 641 run cattle and 2,809 sheep. The season's wool-clip was 59 bales. WAIKATO-MANIAPOTO NATIVE LAND COURT DISTRICT This district extends south of Auckland from the Tamaki Isthmus to Taumarunui and comprises roughly the whole of the Waikato district, the Coromandel and Hauraki areas, and the King-country. No new large-scale development has been carried out during the year and only five new units were established. As soon as fertilizer, farm requisites, and suitable labour become available, it is confidently anticipated that further large areas of Maori land could be successfully developed. In order to assist in overcoming the present shortage of maize, an area of 50 acres was planted at Whangamata by way of trial". Present indications point to a good crop being harvested. During the year the undermentioned main items of work were performed on the unit and scheme properties : Bush felling and clearing .. .. 1,040 acres. Grassing .. .. .. .. .. 762 acres. Fences.. .. .. .. .. 1,364 chains. Drains .. .. .. .. .. 535 chains. New Boading .. .. .. .. .. 220 chains. Installation of water-supplies .. .. .. 10 Attention during the year has again been devoted to the improvement of the dairy herds and consequent increase of butterfat-production by the use of pedigree bulls with good butterfat backing. Kopua Scheme. —Situated near Pirongia, on the main Te Awamutu-Kawhia Highway, this property comprises an area of 566 acres. A portion of the area, 371 acres, was acquired from the Native Trustee in 1937. The balance of the area was purchased from a European some years later. (Eighty acres of gorse and blackberry have been cleared by tractor during the year.) This property, when fully developed, will subdivide into three farms. Ngahape Scheme. —This scheme, containing 794 acres, is situated approximately eight miles north of Otorohanga, with access to the main highway. It was practically all in permanent grass, but the ravages of the grass-grub caused an area of over 100 acres to be ploughed and resown. Ngutunui Scheme.—This property comprises 527 acres, situated near Pirongia. The policy of sowing temporary grass on the badly infested gorse areas and then ploughing a section each year for swedes prior to putting down into permanent grass

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has proved the most satisfactory method of dealing with the gorse. The grass-grub affected approximately 190 acres of this property, reducing the carrying-capacity temporarily. The Department of Agriculture has joined with this Department in an endeavour to combat the pest. Pukemoremore Scheme. —Settlers have been established as dairy-farmers on this scheme, and it is thought that further areas will be settled when sufficient wire and fertilizer becomes available. The question of reticulation of electricity to this scheme is at present under consideration. Grass-grub has been evident in parts of the scheme and it was found necessary to plough up about 15 acres. This area was sown in turnips preparatory to regrassing. Ranui Scheme. —This scheme, comprising 3,769 acres between Te Uku and Ohautira, is about twenty-five miles from Hamilton and is a part of the old Ranui Station, which under European management, was well known in the Raglan district many years ago. A meeting of the owners of the blocks included in the scheme was held at Ngaruawhia in March last, and after discussion the owners agreed to allow the farming profits to remain in the Department's accounts for debt-reduction rather than have them distributed by way of dividend. Tunaelce Scheme. —This scheme, comprising an area of 406 acres, is situated approximately three miles from Whatawhata and is near the main Frankton-Raglan Road. Subdivision has taken place and four Maori dairy-farmers have been successfully established on the area. Waimiha Scheme. —Situated one mile and a half from Waimiha Railway-station on the Main Trunk line, about forty miles south of Te Kuiti, this property comprises an area of 4,299 acres and is one of the earlier development projects. The country is on the outskirts of the region affected by the Taupo pumice showers. The use of cobaltized superphosphate has overcome the deficiencies in the soil. Considerable progress has been made in the control of ragwort, mainly by allocating sufficient sheep for the purpose to each dairy-farmer. There is an ample supply of winter feed on hand and all the stock are at present in excellent condition. On this scheme the maintenance of fences is a problem, on account of the scarcity of the supply of suitable fencing-posts at a reasonable price. The Pinus radiata plantations, mostly on the Crown areas included in the scheme, have made very good growth and in time will prove a valuable asset to the Department. There has been some subdivision of the lands in this scheme, and several of the settlers have made sound farming and economic progress. Whangamata Scheme. —This scheme, situated approximately eleven miles from Waihi on the east coast, comprises approximately 5,000 acres of Crown land, of which 1,500 acres is considered capable of being economically developed. This scheme commenced soon after war was declared, and, with general shortages of materials, no extensive planning ahead was possible. What development has been carried out was done mainly on heavily timbered river flats. To help relieve the grain shortage, 50 acres of river flats have been planted in maize by way of trial. WAIARIKI NATIVE LAND COURT DISTRICT Weather conditions, limitation of fertilizer-supplies, and the difficulty in obtaining farm labour during the past year are reflected in the butterfat-production for the year, which is 180,0001b. below last season's figure, which was also below that of 1944-45. The average butterfat-production per cow is 1401b. It is now almost general practice in this district for dairy-farmers to have from 50 to 100 ewes for ragwort control. The revenue from these ewes has, in many cases, been of very great financial assistance to the unit accounts, besides effectively controlling the ragwort.

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Against the decline in butterfat-production there can be offset the increase in wool and sheep production. This season's wool receipts, included in the year's financial figuresat £31,000, is £15,000 below that shown in last year's accounts, while the year's total of bales at 2,602 is 500 more than last year's. The weight of the bales has been reduced, but the apparent contradiction is explained by the cancellation of the January wool sales, so that the number of bales sold and proceeds included in the accounts as at 31st March, 1947, is very much lower than usual. There are 420 bales still to be sold, which should produce approximately £B,OOO (432 bales sold in May, valued at about £8,300, will bring the season's wool-clip up to £54,000 —i.e., £9,000 above last year). This increase has partly been due to increased prices realized and also to the improved " get up " and classing of the wool following instruction and advice given by the recently appointed departmental Wool Instructor. The year's returns from sheep and lambs have also increased, due in part to increased prices and also to the extra sheep now being run by the dairy-farmers. The decrease in cattle sales is due to the serious drought during the 1946 summer. The dry weather forced extra sales early in 1946, and these are reflected in last year'a high total of receipts. In addition to the undeveloped areas in older schemes, an area of 30,000 acres adjacent to Maraetai hydro-electric scheme has been gazetted under Part I of the Native Land Amendment Act, 1936, and approval has now been given to the commencement of the preliminary surveys preparatory to active development. A concerted effort to improve the standard of farm housing is being made and the machinery of the Housing Branch of the Department is being utilized to carry out the work on new houses and also on urgent additions and alterations. During the past twelve months nine jobs have been completed, while at present eleven are in course of completion; £15,100 has been approved for the erection of new houses, of which £4,000 has been provided for alterations and additions to existing dwellings. Of these approvals, the sum of £11,700 had been expended at the 31st March. TAIRAWHITI NATIVE LAND COURT DISTRICT In the Wharekahika Valley and about Hicks Bay twenty-six Maoris are farming within the Wharekahika Scheme, while the Matakaoa Station, adjoining, comprises 2,400 acres mainly of easy country sloping down to some seven miles of coast-line. Development work in this area had been retarded for lack of suitable roading, but happily this has now been provided. Several farmers suffered badly through a fire which swept over a number of properties in the summer of 1946. This necessitated some resowing, resulting in improved pastures on the affected areas. The Te Araroa Scheme, immediately south of Hicks Bay, comprises two sheepstations, three dairying schemes, and twenty-five unit farms, while on another farm of 136 acres situated on the banks of the Awatere River a returned serviceman has been established in dairying. Several unit farms on the coast between Te Araroa and Rangiata Station, at East Cape, are capable of further development, which will be possible when the Orutua River is bridged in the near future. At Punaruku, which lies at the foot of the Hicks Bay Hill, the Department has established a lime-quarry and crushing-plant, which was officially opened on 2nd November. In this new venture there was much to be learnt and many obstacles to be overcome. A small portable crusher was installed which could handle only rock spalled to a small size. Despite setbacks, some 1,200 tons of high-percentage calcium-carbonate rock has been ground and spread throughout the neighbouring scheme lands as well as supplied to a few private farmers. A primary crusher is now on hand ready for installation, which will reduce the manual effort.

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The farmers appear to be appreciative of this effort made on their behalf, but it is hoped that the beneficial results of the lime already sown will increase their interest in the use of lime for pasture-improvement. Tikitiki, which is located some twenty miles from Te Araroa Scheme, is the centre •of the very fertile and compact Waiapu Scheme. Here sixty settlers on the Tikitiki side, and twelve across the river at Tikapa are engaged in dairying, with a few sheep or mixed farms on the hills. For special food-production an intensive effort to grow maize was made, and in spite of a late start nearly 300 acres were successfully planted, most of it promising a good yield. The major part of the area was planted with Pfister seed, Motiti seed being used only for lighter land. This maize was grown only on areas of indifferent pasture or on waste land previously unfenced. During the year a major water-supply scheme was installed to serve eleven unit farms and houses in the Tikapa area. The dam, pumphouse, 6,000-gallon reservoir, and main pipe-lines are completed, and water is now available for all farms, and reticulation of each farm is now being undertaken. It is of interest to note the receipt of a number of applications from interested owners to bring further lands under development. Some 6,000 acres of Marangairoa blocks are affected, but completion of the action is delayed owing to the necessity for consolidation of titles and construction of access roading. The Poroporo scheme is located at the junction of the Mangaoporo and Waiapu Rivers. Here, on 500 acres admirably situated for dairying or cropping, six units are carrying on farming. Uruahi Station, of 2,100 acres, with its account in credit, continues to produce excellent returns and pays substantial dividends to the owners. The Poverty Bay Catchment Board has been consulted in regard to erosion, examples of which occur to an alarming extent. By an annual programme of gully planting it is expected that further slipping will be controlled. Across the Waiapu River from the Poroporo scheme is Hoata Station, on the outskirts of Ruatoria, the administration centre of the Tuparoa scheme and surrounding districts. There are four other stations within the scheme, and interspersed with these are a number of holdings (1,524 acres) which have been brought under development during the year. These have been joined with Whinau Station to comprise a new station called " Koura," of 2,955 acres. Under the same ownership a further block of 68 acres at Kaharau, a mile south of Ruatoria, has been gazetted. This block has been drained, and the bulk of it is now being ploughed with a view to maize-growing next season. Akuaku Blocks and Waipiro A 23b, run as schemes, are both developed to such a state that the work is now of a routine nature, the latter farm, being in credit financially, but badly requires a new dwelling. Ninety-eight acres of maize were sown on previously wiwi-infested land for special food-production. Two dairy-farms and one leased block comprise the Nuhaka scheme, forty miles south of Grisborne. One of these units has so progressed that it has been possible to obtain a Native Land Court recommendation that the main farming area be leased to him for a long term. The Mahia Peninsula and isthmus provide Maori land on which eighteen settlers are -farming under fair to good conditions. Maize-growing on the isthmus has shown that it is not profitable on this class of soil, although storms and a tidal wave detracted from the best results being obtained from the crop. On Nukutaurua Block, at Table Cape, work has been facilitated by the bridging of the Whangawehi Stream by the County Council, thus improving the access. Twelve miles south of Wairoa and eight miles inland from the main road and railway the Ngamahanga Station, comprising the Waihua scheme, is situated, 3,614 sheep and 274 dry run cattle being held.

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The Mohaka-Kahungunu scheme extends from Waihua along the main road and railway to Raupunga, near the Mohaka Viaduct, and thence inland to Putere. Here there are thirty-four dairying units and nineteen farms where sheep and run cattle are farmed. With a ready sale for surplus stock in Hawke's Bay and at Wairoa, good ruling prices brought record cash receipts. Throughout the Mohaka and Kahungunu schemes there are ten accounts in credit or with balances of less than £lOO. Of these, leases have been recommended by the Native Land Court to issue. The incidence of drought effect was predicted in last year's report in the northern area (and the actual results are shown in the accompanying table). The southern area has nearly regained the production level of the 1944-45 season, but the northern total, 240,2881b. butterfat, is only slightly over last year's. 1944-45. 1945-46. 1946-47. Southern — lb. lb. lb. Mohaka-Kahungunu .. 96,101 57,502 83,852 Mahia .. .. 43,604 40,816 48,864 139,705 98,318 132,716 Northern— Tuparoa .. .. 39,517 22,743 28,580 Poroporo .. .. 17,679 13,288 18,069 TeAraroa .. .. 60,385 45,360 45,957 Wharekahika .. 34,723 27,444 . 26,940 Waiapu .. .. 190,567 127,033 120,742 342,871 235,868 240,288 AOTEA NATIVE LAND COURT DISTRICT Taranaki Area. —One additional unit near Opunake with an area of 52 acres was brought under development during the year. A total of nineteen Maoris are now farming an aggregate area of 1,850 acres. The total butterfat-production was 125,008 lb., compared with 123,655 lb. for the previous year, and 34 bales of wool were produced from three farms. The chief problem experienced in bringing lands in Taranaki into full production is the clearing and subsequent control of gorse and ragwort growth. The successful control of noxious-weed growth will require a sustained effort by the Taranaki farmers for some years to come, as in a number of cases the areas are too small to permit sheep to be grazed and at the same time to carry a dairy herd which would provide a reasonable living for the occupier. Wanganui Central Area.—During the year the number of units increased from forty-one to forty-four by the addition of a property of 137 acres at Ohingaiti, a small dairy unit of 20 acres at Wangaehu, and a sheep unit of 430 acres at Utiku. The total area farmed by the forty-four units is 4,571 acres. The aggregate butterfat-production was 157,552 lb. and the wool-clip from these units totalled 82 bales. Wangaehu. —The general area at Wangaehu consists of 196 acres, and operations have been confined to maintaining the 120 acres in grass and controlling second-growth gorse by careful attention to rotational grazing. The remainder of the block largely consists of heavily infested gorse country. Rangataua Bush. —On the expiration of the licence to split birch fencing-timber at Rangataua, arrangements were made for the Department to continue its operations under direct licence from the State Forest Service, and deliveries will be resumed as soon as certain roading is completed.

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Ngati-Tuwharetoa Area.—The total area available for development is 98,440 acres, of which 6,598 acres is occupied by twenty-two established farmers, fifteen of whom are engaged in dairying and the remainder grazing sheep and cattle. Manunui. —The Manunui scheme is situated on both sides of the TaumarunuiTokaanu Highway, and settlers and workers have now the advantage of daily passenger and goods services past their gates. The general area consists of 18,539 acres, of which 4,386 acres are in pasture. Whangaijpeke.—A commencement was made with the development of the Whangaipeke blocks, which comprise an area of 1,070 acres. This land adjoins the southern portion of the Manunui scheme, and will ultimately be provided with access from the Taumarunui-Tokaanu Highway and also by a proposed road from Kakahi through the Taurewa blocks, on the opposite bank of the Wanganui River. Waituhi-Kuratau.—The Waituhi-Kuratau scheme, of 7,238 acres, lies on the western shores of Lake Taupo north of the road from Taumarunui at the point where the road turns south through the Waihi-Pukawa scheme to Tokaanu Township. A small workers' camp has been established. Waihi-Pulcawa. —South of the Kuratau Stream, the Waihi-Pukawa scheme, of over 12,000 acres, extends to the outskirts of Tokaanu Township. An area of 540 acres has been sown in grass and ring fenced, and a dwelling belonging to one owner is being shifted to his section. Korohe.—Two further areas of 420 acres and 72 acres respectively were added to the Korohe scheme during the year, and progress was made towards the inclusion of several other small areas surrounded by scheme lands. A further 7,000 trees were planted. IKAROA NATIVE LAND COURT DISTRICT This district is situated in the southern portion of the North Island with the northern boundary north of Napier. The Heretaunga scheme comprises unit properties only and is mainly in the Hastings district and southern Hawke's Bay. A number of these farmers are town-milk suppliers who are giving a satisfactory revenue from their holdings. The Hastings units have land suitable for fat-lamb raising and grass-seed growing, and this year both these aspects of farming were attended with successful results. The Porangahau Scheme comprises 1,036 acres and is suitable for fattening stock. The Romney flock on this property is improving under careful management and flock replacement is provided from the natural increase. The Polled Angus breeding-cows have increased and the hill country shows a decided improvement. Inland from Norse wood and close to the Ruahine Range is Rakautatahi scheme, of 1,500 acres, and, in addition, three Maoris are carrying on mixed farming on the scheme lands. A policy of bringing in approximately 80 acres of new ground each year has been followed during the last few years with excellent results. Near Newman, in the Wairarapa, one Maori ex-serviceman is mixed farming on 146 acres. His holding is a good one, but ragwort is prevalent and will require careful handling. Manawatu Scheme (Matakarapa) is solely dairying, two share-milkers occupying 200 acres of flat land across the Manawatu River from Foxton Railway-station. This area is part of an island formed by a cut put through to straighten the course of the Manawatu River. This cut has eliminated the bad flooding which used to occur on this property. It is hoped to increase the dairy herds this coming season. A nursery is being established here and it is intended to plant at least 5,000 trees as shelter for the property against the severe westerly gales experienced. The units of the Manawatu scheme are spread from Foxton to Waikanae and are all dairying. In this case, also,

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some of the more suitable units are now on town-milk supply and their revenue returns show a marked increase. All the units run pigs, which in some cases yield a considerable return. In the Himatangi-Otaki and Te Horo areas the units are working under a disadvantage, as they have to take their supply up to five miles to the cream-collecting point. At Himatangi, especially, a bad road has to be contended with, but it is hoped this will be remedied in the near future. All these units are reasonably well housed. There is one exception, and in this case additions and alterations are authorized. SOUTH ISLAND NATIVE LAND COURT DISTRICT Development in the South Island consists of three schemes, at Wairau, Kaiwhare, and Southland. The Wairau scheme is situated at Spring Creek, some four miles from Blenheim, and is utilized solely for grassland farming owing to the risk of flood damage, which caused losses when cropping was fairly extensively tried. The whole of the land is subject to flooding, but the clearing of a drain by drag-line will, it is hoped, be of considerable benefit in the drainage of surrounding flats. The Southland scheme, situated in the Far South at Colac Bay and Whakapatu, consists of scheme land and five unit properties, two of these units having leases. Extensive clearing of scheme lands by bulldozers was commenced towards the end of March, and excellent work has been carried out at a relatively low cost. It is intended to extend this work to unit properties after the completion of the scheme lands, which should enable additional dairy cows to be carried with a consequent increase in the farming revenues. PART lI.—MAORI LAND BOARD UNDERTAKINGS Until the beginning of this year two stations have been farmed by the Tairawhiti District Maori Land Board under the statutory powers conferred on it. Anaura Station, of 5,865 acres, extending between the main Coast Road and Anaura Bay, continues to earn substantial profits and, as well as reducing the debt to the Board, permitted the annual meeting to vote the dividend of £1,394. Waiorongomai Station is between Ruatoria and mountainous country inland. The accidental fire which swept over several thousands of acres last year required the resowing of approximately 1,400 acres, and the results of a good take have been so beneficial that extra sheep have been bought to cope with the flush of feed. Rather than benefit from a profit earned last year, the annual meeting decided to withhold the payment of a dividend to enable further expenses of development to be met without increasing the debt. During the year the Tairawhiti Board, at the request of the Maori owners, bought the leasehold interest in several leasehold blocks comprising Ohuia Station, which extend from the outskirts of Wairoa along the coast towards Mahia and have a total area of 2,403 acres divided in a convenient proportion between hill and flats. One problem on the station is the disposal of flood-waters, and engineering work will be required to create a satisfactory outlet through to the sea. Control of the land was assumed in April, and an extensive programme now lies ahead to reinstate and reorganize the improvements. The Tairawhiti Board has made advances in seventy-eight cases by way of mortgage, mainly for farming, creating a commitment of £48,778. Morikau Station is vested in the Aotea District Maori Land Board, and this, in common with other sheep-stations in the district, experienced a satisfactory season. The lands (11,806 acres) have been vested in the Aotea Board since 1910 and the Board has since then farmed the lands on behalf of the beneficial owners. The investments of the farm in war loans and national savings total £10,390. For a number of years dividends

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have been paid from annual profits to the beneficial owners, an amount of £2,050 being distributed for the year ended 30th June, 1946. During the past year arrangements were made to vary the previous policy in respect of live-stock carried, and in future more dry stock will be grazed. Although, as a result of this, there may be some decrease in profits during the next few years, it is considered that the course taken will be justified by the resultant improvement in the pastures. All the Maori Land Boards have continued to make advances on freehold and collateral security to assist Maoris in their farming, housing, and other activities, or to enable them to discharge existing liabilities and charges. Repayments on account of interest and redemption of loan liability were generally satisfactory. One particular advance was made to two persons in Taranaki to purchase machines to enable them to enter into business as farming and earth-moving contractors.

DISTRICT MAORI LAND BOARDS: ADVANCES TO MAORI SETTLERS The following table indicates the measures of assistance granted to individual Maori farmers for the purpose of developing their lands as at 31st March, 1947 :

PART lII.—NATIVE TRUST ACTIVITIES In July, 1946, the administration of the Native Trustee's mortgage securities and charging orders was decentralized to the various districts in order to ensure closer contact with the owners, mortgagors, or lessees of the lands concerned.' Further decentralization is projected, and in the near future estates in charge of the Native Trustee will be transferred to the Maori Land Board Offices for administration. So far the number of mortgages and securities transferred for administration are : Auckland district, 19 ; Rotorua district, 10 ; Gisborne district, 48 ; Wanganui district, 112. The administration of Native reserves covering 94,000 acres (including the West Coast Settlement Reserves) with an annual income of approximately £42,000 was previously transferred to the Aotea District Maori Land Board at Wanganui and the Maori Land Boards at Wellington. The Tairawhiti District Maori Land Board administers 13 sheep-stations on behalf of the Native Trustee. One is administered by the Waikato-Maniapoto District Maori Land Board and 3 controlled from the Head Office of the Native Department. Hoia Station, located in the Wharekahika Valley four miles from Hicks Bay, contains 6,514 acres, of which 2,000 acres are of poor type upon which clearing will not" be done.

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Maori Land Board. Total Advances to Maori Settlers under Mortgage. Number of Mortgages. Farming Purposes. Other Purposes. Tokerau Waikato-Maniapoto Waiariki Tairawhiti Aotea Ikaroa ... South Island Totals £ 2,419 2,814 6,476 48,778 25,435 18,627 3,126 1 8 15 60 14 20 3 1 9 18 54 14 4 107,675 121 100

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Within two miles of Te Araroa and extending back to the Awatere River is the 3,796-acre station, Pohutu, which enjoys an easy contour and good fertile soil unusual in stations of this size in the district. Taken over in 1942 in derelict condition, it has been refenced, 2 houses and a wool-shed have been erected, and several hundred acres of new pasture have replaced scrub and rubbish. It is now fully stocked with goodquality sheep and cattle and the debt to the Native Trustee has been reduced by some £3,000. Marangairoa, Opapa, Hurakia, and Mokonui are four small stations totalling a further 3,500 acres lying on or near the main road south of the Awatere River. The first two are producing well and the cash returns reflect in reduced mortgages. The latter two are small stations not in a good financial position, and since they were taken over the Department has required to exercise the greatest prevision so as to reinstate financial stability. Two miles south of Ruatoria is the Kahuitara Station, of 792 acres, which was taken over in 1942. The 168 acres of flats are fairly well developed, but additional subdivisional fencing on the hill is needed before reasonable farming practice is possible and before the farm can be put on a good financial basis. Overlooking Waipiro Bay and extending back to the Main Road is Hakurenga Station, of 2,786 acres. This property reflects good management, and the 250 acres of English pastures, top-dressed to the limit available, contributed to the fattening of some 500 sheep. Dams made during the drought of the previous year enabled distribution of cattle to much better advantage when streams dried up during the rainless period of June, 1946, to January, 1947. This station shares with Waiorongomai the honour of receiving the highest price for wool in the district, this being for hogget fleece. Tawhiti Station embraces 4,021 acres of mainly poor scrub hills of rugged and broken contour at the northern end of Tokomaru Bay. The good average season has permitted increased receipts, but even under good management it is doubtful if a financial success can be achieved with such a poor property. Hereheretau Station, farmed on behalf of the East Coast Maori Soldiers' Fund, some twelve miles on the Gisborne side of Wairoa and six miles inland from the Main Road, embraces 3,873 acres of fairly easy hills interspersed by small flats. Steady returns from first-class stock have enabled the debt to the Native Trustee to be reduced further to approximately the present-day value of the stock. The old dwelling used as shepherds' quarters was destroyed by fire and is being replaced by a suitable new building. Further development on the flats and easy hills will be possible when essential roadformation is completed. Tawanui Scheme. —This property, comprising 916 acres of Crown leasehold-in-perpetuity, was acquired by the Native Trustee in 1931. It is situated near Ngapaenga, approximately thirty miles from the Township of Te Kuiti. Fences are in good order and the position generally is very satisfactory, but it is found necessary to supply the stock with cobalt and salt, as this country is minerally deficient. Prior to the restrictions on manure, about 100 tons of cobaltized super, were used on this block, but now that the allocation is down to 20 tons the system has been to shift the stock through paddocks in rotation so that they obtain the benefit of the cobalt through the pasture in these paddocks. PART IV.—MAORI HOUSING OPERATIONS The erection and improvement of houses for Maoris has been maintained on a progressive basis over the past year, in spite of supply and labour difficulties. The year's operations showed a steady increase in completed works, while the works in progress at the 31st March, 1947, are a substantial increase over the number for the same period in 1946.

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The number of departmental workmen employed on these operations, as at the 31st March, 1947, was 238, comprising 78 working units engaged on carpentry, painting, plumbing, bricklaying, and plastering. Departmental employees include 31 Maori youths. The maximum number of workmen employed at any one period during the year was 271, as compared with the peak figure of 198 during the previous year. In addition to work undertaken by the Department's own employees, a considerable amount of special trade work has been carried out by private contractors, who have also erected and renovated several houses. One major difficulty with which the Department is confronted is the non-availability of skilled tradesmen to undertake or take charge of work in country areas, where the greatest volume of activities lies. There is at present an unbalanced distribution of key tradesmen between town and country places, and rural areas are at a disadvantage in having their housing requirements fulfilled on a pro rata basis with urban areas. This is a matter which requires some adjustment in order that a more even distribution of skilled labour can be arranged to the benefit of rural communities. Until this problem can be solved in so far as departmental activities are concerned, full use cannot be made of available unskilled Maori labour, on which the progress of Maori housing is so largely dependent under present circumstances. If housing costs are to be maintained at a reasonable economic level, there must be a proper balance between skilled and unskilled labour. Operations have been seriously affected by limited transport facilities and the slow delivery of key building-materials, notably roofing, wallboard, timber, and certain sanitary fittings, particularly baths. Under these conditions it is difficult to maintain full-time employment of workers on scattered rural works. The material position has delayed the completion of a large number of dwellings. During the year it was possible to facilitate bulk-purchasing arrangements for material by the institution of a system of contracts for supply with various manufacturers and merchants throughout New Zealand. In these negotiations the utmost co-operation was received from suppliers and supply authorities, who have assisted to the best of their ability in the delivery of materials consistent with production and transport difficulties. A considerable quantity of fittings and materials was purchased from War Assets surplus stores. The rate of timber-supplies has fluctuated extensively, the position in the central and North Auckland districts, Hawke's Bay, and parts of the east coast being most acute. In this direction, endeavours are being made for a more equitable distribution by arrangements with milling interests operating on Maori-owned timber blocks. An annual supply of not less than 4,000,000 ft. to 5,000,000 ft. of timber is required to maintain a progressive rate of house-construction. The development of works and stores depots has been extended for the purpose of providing improved facilities for field operations, store-sheds having been erected at Kotorua, Manunui, and Levin. Negotiations are also in hand for permanent stores and plant depots at Auckland, Kaikohe, and Hastings, the last-named centre until now having been established on a tenancy basis, which has not proved satisfactory. Arrangements are almost completed with the Public Works Department for the operation of a joint departmental workshop scheme at Gisborne, where the Native Department will function as a separate unit in the manufacture of joinery and timber working for Maori housing on the east coast. The centre will also be used for the trade training of Maori youths employed with the building organization. At Rotorua the departmental works-centre project has been gradually developed, first attention being given to the timber-yard and machining requirements. Plans are well iri hand for the development of this centre as a major function of the district's building activities in the matter of pre-cutting, joinery-manufacture, and trade training wherein the requirements of adjoining districts will also be met.

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Until these centres are in operation the trade-training proposals for Maori youths cannot be fully implemented. Plan types for Maori houses have been extended and existing plans subjected to revision in order to improve the standard of accommodation and appointments and to meet varying personal and local requirements. The provision of adequate housing for applicants from the large-family group still remains a difficult problem owing to the limited financial circumstances of such applicants and their inability to meet the costs of large-family homes. Construction standards have been dictated by the availability of materials, but here again the use of alternatives is restricted by the cost factor in relation to available finances and by the lack of specialist tradesmen for undertaking other than standard forms of construction. In the Rotorua, Hawke's Bay, and Taranaki districts a number of houses have been constructed with plaster exteriors, while in Hawke's Bay some houses have been provided with bituminous fabric roofs. Maintenance, repair, and improvement of existing securities has not yet been undertaken on a large-scale basis owing to the urgency of new construction work. Plans for the regular review of all properties for maintenance have been prepared,.but limitations of staff and transport facilities has not permitted the scheme to be carried out on the scale desired. Consideration of applications for housing loans has been expedited by the Board of Native Affairs delegating to the Under-Secretary the power to give provisional approval of advances within the Board's financial authority. The provision of rental houses for Maoris employed in industrial and town areas is a matter receiving serious consideration by the Government, and the possibility of joint action by the Housing Construction and Native Departments is being investigated. A group housing scheme to be established on a Native reserve at Hiruharama, under the control of trustees, is being arranged in collaboration with the Town-planning Division of the Ministry of Works. This provides a new departure from previous forms of housing assistance, and its development will be watched with interest as a guide for future schemes of a similar nature that might arise. Although special items were taken on last year's estimates for tools-of-trade advances and experiments in building construction and materials, it has not been possible to take advantage of either item owing to the pressure of duties in other directions which have absorbed the full time and attention of the present staff and works facilities. With the establishment of the works centres at Rotorua and Gisborne, it will be possible to give more attention to matters of research. The financial provisions made for assisting Maori youths to purchase tools of trade has not been taken advantage of, as in the majority of cases the parents have themselves equipped these boys with their requirements. While the year's operations still fall short of the rate of progress necessary to overtake the heavy programme of Maori housing, there has been a steady development of the field organization which will permit an expansion of activities as conditions relating to materials, man-power, and transport improve. Additional activities to be undertaken by the building organization in the coming year will include the erection of Native schools, which require urgent attention on the east coast. TOKERAU NATIVE LAND COURT DISTRICT Now that the Building and Construction Branch of the Department has become established, Maoris are showing increased interest in the Maori housing scheme, and during the past year there has been satisfactory expansion in the activities.

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In the past, difficulties were experienced regarding labour and materials, but these were ■overcome to some extent when bulk stores were established at Kaitaia, Kaikohe, and Whangarei and a system of monthly bulk purchases of materials was put into operation early in the year. This step was essential, as the housing programme almost came to a standstill owing to lack of materials, but the supply position is still far from satisfactory. An improvement will result when the main store contemplated at Auckland is established. Trade trainees from the Kaikohe School are being taken up by the Department. Maintenance is also being carried out in conjunction with the construction programme. It is very encouraging to find that in 80 per cent, of houses built, the Maori owners are conscious of their improved living conditions and a greater sense of responsibility is evident. In spite of vigorous effort on the part of office and field staffs, however, the demand for improved housing conditions appears as an ever-increasing factor and it will take time to overtake requirements in the Auckland Province. Title difficulties are experienced with nearly every application, it being necessary to apply to the Native Land Court for one or more orders to be made before the applicant's title to the house-site is clarified. WAIKATO-MANIAPOTO NATIVE LAND COURT DISTRICT An increasing number of Maoris are showing considerable interest in the Maori housing scheme since the Department's Building and Construction Branch commenced operations last year. The Waikato-Maniapoto and Tokerau Districts are administered from the Auckland office, and the work of organizing the Building and Construction Branch for both districts has been considerable. A bulk store with a storeman in charge was established in Hamilton, and a system of monthly bulk purchase of materials was put into operation early in the year. The supply position generally, however, has occasioned considerable difficulty and has not yet been completely overcome. Maintenance is also being carried out in conjunction with the construction programme, and the absorption of trade trainees is being kept in view. Progress in the Hauraki area has been made with difficulty as no carpenters are available in this area, and men have not been found who are willing to transfer to that locality. However, some buildings have been erected by contract, this being the only present means of providing houses in the district. A considerable number of Maoris have migrated from the country to the cities, and these cases present greater difficulty, each requiring more attention and time on the part of the office staff. A scheme is now being devised for the expeditious handling of houses to be erected in the environs of Auckland. WAIARIKI NATIVE LAND COURT DISTRICT A practical approach by the Maori people themselves towards securing better living conditions has never been more evident in this district than during the past year. One indication of this is that applicants have accumulated deposits on houses to the extent of approximately £lB,OOO, and this sum is held by the Waiariki District Maori Land Board on their behalf. But, apart from these deposits, large amounts aggregating £16,000 are also held by the Board under section 281 of the Native Land Act, 1931, on behalf of individual applicants for houses. All of these moneys are earning interest for the respective depositors until required.

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In the main the supply of labour has been satisfactory. In most cases, Maori carpenter trainees are rising to the occasion and the work produced by them is of a good standard. With the co-operation of the local Rehabilitation Department, the Department's building organization is endeavouring to place as many Maori trainees as possible. This district's building organization has five heavy trucks at its disposal. Apart from deliveries to jobs, the greater portion of timber from the various sawmills throughout the district is carried by them to the central housing depot at Rotorua. All the vehicles are under central control for operation and maintenance. Despite every effort to obtain various lines, 48 houses are held up for wallboard, 36 for joinery, and 58 for baths. In several cases people are occupying houses without baths in the meantime. This district has now a set of standard designs, the layouts of which have crystalized from the actual needs of Maori families of varying sizes. The strictest economy, combined with the maximum room areas and amenities, has been aimed at. All these plans provide for a 9 ft. stud, a minimum area of 100 square feet for any one room, fanlights, and adequate ventilation. It is well known that fumes from the Rotorua thermal areas have a deleterious effect upon painted exteriors. Much housing work lies within this area, and to avoid high maintenance costs the Department is building many houses with plaster exteriors upon diagonal sarkings. Eight houses in a row now being built very near the Whakarewarewa thermal area will be in plaster. This style of finish suits well in another respect, as timber deliveries to the run of the log leave a considerable supply of rough wood which can economically be used only as sarking. As an increasing number of new dwellings is occupied it is gratifying to see almost all the families taking a pride in their new homes, and in many cases they have laid out the house surrounds in pleasing garden and landscape effects. It will take a long period of unremitting work before the housing conditions of the Maori people in this district are raised to the proper standard, and it is hoped in the immediate future to reach a goal of 120 new houses a year. During the year a commencement was made with a centre for the housing operations of the district. The Department purchased 3| acres of suitable land in the town industrial area, and an up-to-date layout has been prepared for the necessary stores, workshops, garage, and administration buildings. This will be made a central depot of supply for all constructional activities in the district. The machinery and facilities available will also provide an opportunity, under competent instruction, to train young members of the Maori race in a number of trades and useful occupations in addition to timber-yard work and joinery-manufacture. TAIRAWHITI NATIVE LAND COURT DISTRICT The housing operations during the past year have increased when compared with those of the previous year. A total number of 40 Maori carpenters, together with 7 painters and 2 plumbers, are now operating on Maori housing. From time to time trainee's under the rehabilitation scheme are absorbed into a housing team as they become qualified. Some difficulty is being experienced with regard to transport of workers to the various jobs, and until this is overcome further progress in Maori housing will be retarded. The Tairawhiti area is covered by three zones —viz., Wairoa, Gisborne, and East Coast —and in each of the zones approximately 16 workers are engaged on housing activities.

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A further 117 applications have been received during the year, making a grand total of 1,077. Of these, 323 have been approved by the Board of Native Affairs, and have been dealt with as follows: erected, 148; purchased, 24; repaired, 15; awaiting to be built, 136. Five houses have now been erected for returned servicemen and 4 of them were completed during the last year. In addition, 2 dwellings have been renovated, 3 purchased (which afterwards had certain alterations effected), and there are 3 new dwellings in the course of erection for ex-servicemen of the last war. The East Coast Commissioner is now supplying timber for Maori housing from his mill at Te Reinga. Of all the applicants in this district for an advance under the Native Housing Act for the erection of a dwelling, approximately 40 per cent, are already in occupation of their new homes or the house is in course of erection for the applicant. AOTEA NATIVE LAND COURT DISTRICT The establishment of bulk stores and consequent ability to handle bulk purchases from both surplus war assets and manufacturers has greatly increased the efficient operation of the Maori housing scheme. Improvements in the living conditions of twenty-nine families have been effected during the year, and of the 10 new homes erected the majority were based on the standard-type plans. There are distinct advantages in the use of this plan service, and the increasing demand for its use is encouraging. The growing consciousness of the Maori people for improved housing accommodation is becoming more pronounced as time goes on. In addition to the 10 new homes erected, 14 major addition and alteration projects were completed, and maintenance work was carried out on several securities. The requirements of three families have also been satisfied by the purchase of existing houses. The heaviest concentration of work was carried out in the Taranaki district, where the compactness of the district allows closer supervision. The bulk store and timberyard in Hawera has given greater scope for the handling of bulk stores in that district, and with another store at Manunui nearing completion the Tuwharetoa district will benefit. In addition to the work carried out under the Native Housing Act, the building construction organization in this district has covered the erection of various buildings on Maori Land Board, land-development, and Native Trust securities. One new house has been erected ; repairs and additions have been carried out in respect of 3 dwellings, and 4 more are in progress. One cow-shed has been erected, and the building of another is under way, while additions and alterations have been carried out to the cookhouse at Morikau Station. The appointment of a number of Welfare Officers will form a valuable link between applicants and the building organization, and their work will assist in concentrating services towards the betterment of the living conditions of those cases most urgently requiring assistance. Much has yet to be accomplished to bridge the gap between the provision of accommodation for large families and their ability to repay advances made to them for housing. However, a review of the year's activities shows that the cost per square foot of accommodation provided by this organization is considerably lower than at present undertaken by private contractors.

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IKAROA AND SOUTH ISLAND NATIVE LAND COURT DISTRICTS . There has been a great increase in the volume of work during the past year, the number of applications received being 164, as compared with 93 in the previous year. Ninety-five loans have been approved, and 47 jobs have been completed, as compared with 24 in the previous year. In the Ikaroa District there are 6 more workmen employed than there were last year, and in the South Island an additional 8 men have been engaged. To cope with the increase in the volume of work, a store for the storage of buildingmaterials in bulk has been erected at Levin, while space has been hired at Hastings, Picton, and Kaiapoi. The position in the Wairarapa district is not satisfactory and consideration is being given to the establishment of a store at Masterton. With the present position of building-materials, it is essential that delivery be taken when supplies are available. In several areas where building teams are not operating it has been necessary to have work done by private contract, and in the Wellington City area, where several jobs are awaiting action, the services of a firm which includes a returned serviceman have been obtained. In Takapau one contractor has been engaged on Maori housing for some time and has several other jobs in prospect, while 2 houses in Plimmerton are at present under construction by private contract. Every encouragement is given to applicants who are qualified tradesmen and who wish to build their own houses. At present 2 houses are under construction, 1 at Paraparaumu and 1 at Stokes Valley. The provision of housing-sites, particularly in the Wellington City area, is becoming increasingly difficult, and it is becoming necessary to purchase sections, as applicants have no suitable land of their own. As building sections in Wellington are at a premium, applicants are going farther afield, and houses are becoming scattered over a wide area from Island Bay in the south, to Stokes Valley and Paraparaumu in the north. This factor, together with the numerous inspections of houses and sections required for prospective purchasers, is making large calls upon the Building Supervisor's time. In other districts some applicants have interests in suitable building sections, but delays are being experienced in obtaining consents to partition where numerous owners are involved. Care is taken to guard against haphazard building,in one block by seeing that owners agree to a suitable scheme of partition. The activities in the South Island have been extended by the undertaking of several jobs at Takaka and the establishment of a building team at Kaiapoi. In this latter district 1 house is almost completed and another is under .Construction. A steady supply of work for this team seems assured for some considerable time to come. Another new departure was the erection of a house at Chatham Islands, which involved many difficulties, particularly as regards supervision and transport of materials. PART V.—MAORI REHABILITATION FINANCE COMMITTEE The year 1946 saw the repatriation and discharge of most of the Maori personnel from overseas, and as a consequence departmental activity in this sphere was considerably accelerated. The Committee held eight meetings during the year and authorized the expenditure of approximately £140,000. Although this figure is slightly smaller than the amount approved for the previous year, it represents assistance on a much wider scope. It is the policy of the Department to ensure that Maori ex-servicemen who seek establishment on the land are placed on properties which are self-supporting. Some difficulty has been experienced in finding areas which, when developed, would provide the ex-serviceman with an economic single-unit holding, and consequently the amount expended upon land-settlement during the past year has been somewhat less than that

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of the previous year. Most of the properties offered for rehabilitation purposes were found to be unsuitable, and the Committee, on the advice of the Lands Department and Native Department, was reluctantly compelled to decline these offers. It should be pointed out, however, that the Department has been active in the field of landsettlement and that during the year a number of men graded "A" by the Farming Sub-committees were established on properties which had been purchased and partially developed in previous years. Further, the Department, under the provisions of Part I of the Native Land Amendment Act, 1936, has settled 25 Maori ex-servicemen on its development schemes. These men, who, in the main, have taken over family lands, have been advanced a total of £22,000 for the purchase of stock and general development. The Maori people are showing an increased interest in the housing situation generally and ex-servicemen have availed themselves of the concessions under the rehabilitation housing scheme. Eighty-eight applications for loans to erect new houses were approved during the year, at a total cost of £84,773. Most of these houses will be built by the Department's own building organization, which accords a 50 per cent, preference to ex-servicemen. Already a number of ex-servicemen trained in the carpentry schools under the rehabilitation trade training scheme have accepted employment with the Department and are now engaged on the construction of houses for the Maori people. Despite the irregularity of supply of building-materials, 35 houses were completed during the year, whilst a further 37 are at present in the course of construction. Supplementary interest-free loans equalling the difference between the acutal cost and the estimated 1939 costs have already been granted in 5 cases. Loans for the purpose of establishing businesses have advanced in numbers during the past year from 1 to 10, whilst the total amount involved has increased from £1,300 to £7,822. Applications of this kind are scrutinized with care so as to avoid placing an applicant in a business which might very well be beyond his capabilities or which might prove to be an uneconomic proposition. TOKERAU NATIVE LAND COURT DISTRICT In this district returned servicemen are showing a keen appreciation of the various avenues of assistance offered under rehabilitation, and so far the Native Department has received over 200 applications for assistance of varying kinds which have been referred for attention by the Rehabilitation Department. An analysis of approved cases is:— Farming (on own land, on properties purchased by the Department, or as units on development schemes) .. .. 30 Housing . .. . - -. .. .. .. 24 Tools of trade .. .. .. .. .. 2 Businesses .. .. .. .. .. 6 Furniture .. .. .. .. ..' .. 25 Farming.—During the year a further 5 properties have been purchased for settlement, and, in addition, portions of both the Oturu and Oturei Native Land Development Schemes have been made available to ex-servicemen. Housing.—ln spite of material shortages, rehabilitation housing has shown very favourable progress to date. So far, 9 houses have been completed (6 of these in the last twelve months), 11 are in progress, and 4 more will be commenced as soon as material becomes available. Furniture and Tools of Trade. —There has been a keen demand for furniture loans, and to date 25 have been approved and the furniture has been supplied. The position of repayments of loans is very fair and in only two or three instances are repayments in arrears.

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Business Loans.—The Department lias assisted returned Maori ex-servicemen to establish themselves in the following businesses:— £ (a) Restaurant .. .. .. .. .. 1,450 (b) Purchase of fishing launch and gear .. .. .. 700 (o) Taxi-cab and licence .. .. .. .. 600 (d) Cartage businesses (3) .. .. .. .. 2,240 WAIKATO-MANIAPOTO NATIVE LAND COURT DISTRICT Three areas have been purchased by the Department with the object of development and subsequent settlement by Maori ex-servicemen. These are blocks of 99 acres at Waimamaku, 627 acres at Whitianga, and 120 acres at Clevedon. Mataitai Rehabilitation Scheme.—This is a block of 255 acres situated near Clevedon. It is anticipated that when 130 acres of hill country and 31 acres of flat land have been developed, the property will be capable of supporting a loan account of approximately £4,600. MamaJcumara Returned Soldiers' Settlement.—This is an area of 905 acres situated across the Kihikihi-Arapuni Highway about ten miles west of Arapuni and is at the moment in the initial stages of development. Maori ex-servicemen of the Ngatihaua Tribe, who were the owners of the area, will be settled here, and members of this tribe will be employed as labourers in the meantime. Te Kuiti 2b 20b.—An area of 109 acres near the Hangatiki Base Farm has been obtained by the Department for the possible settlement of ex-servicemen. At present it is in its natural state and considerable development will be necessary before a settler can be established. Purchases for individuals total 368 acres, and 2 properties are in full production with the occupiers showing distinct promise. The purchase has been arranged of a third property, and at the moment the transaction is being considered by the Land Sales Court. To date approval has been given to 3 loans for housing and all 3 dwellings will be commenced shortly. Twelve furniture loans have been granted, and the furniture has been installed in the respective dwellings. WAIARIKI DISTRICT NATIVE LAND COURT During the past year no new properties have been purchased for rehabilitation of Maori ex-servicemen. Three settlers are on Miller's property at Waimana, and it is hoped to settle at least two of these on their own account before the next dairy season. Two brothers are settled on Davies' property, near Te Teko, and these men also should be settled permanently for next dairy season. Arrangements are under way for the purchase of several blocks at Rotoiti adjoining the present scheme, and it is proposed to settle returned servicemen of the Ngatipikiao Tribe there. Four blocks have been offered for rehabilitation around Te Teko, and these are being inspected and valued prior to consideration being given to purchase. In addition to these settlers, many of the older units have made way for their returned-soldier sons and enabled them to be resettled on the family lands. As soon as fencing-wire and other general fencing-material becomes plentiful it will be possible to subdivide some of the existing schemes to provide either sheep or dairy farms, and these would be available for ex-servicemen.

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TAIRAWHITI NATIVE LAND COURT DISTRICT During the year under review, applications for loans for the erection of houses totalled 27, of which 18 were approved, 3 were deferred, and 6 are awaiting approval. Building construction for the same period resulted in 5 new houses being completed, 3 house properties purchased, and 3 buildings in progress. Furniture loans totalled 21, tools of trade 14, and business loans 4. In the main, repayments of the loans are highly satisfactory, and of all the loans granted to date only three can be considered as unsatisfactory. Farm training has not been lost sight of and a number of men have either completed or are at present undergoing a course of farm training which will fit them to take over properties as they become available for settlement. Huramua Soldiers' Settlement. —The year's activities have been considerably extended by the acquisition in May, 1946, of Knapp's property (363 acres), and in November, 1946, of Awamate Station (1,433 acres), both properties adjoining Huramua. There is considerable fencing and much development work to be done before these properties will be ready for utilization for rehabilitation purposes. During the year 7 trainees were granted their A Grade certificates and are now awaiting settlement. Two trainees proved to be unsuitable and their training was terminated on the advice of the local Rehabilitation Officer, while there are at present 15 trainees in residence, 5 being graded C and the remaining 10 graded B. All the trainees are a good type. AOTEA NATIVE LAND COURT DISTRICT There have been few applications for rehabilitation assistance in this district. Three returned ex-servicemen have been settled as dairy-farmers on their own properties and are being financed by the Maori Rehabilitation Finance Committee. In addition to this, 2 returned servicemen and 2 men and 1 woman who served in the Armed Forces in New Zealand have been settled as units on land gazetted under Part I of the Native Land Amendment Act, 1936. Five rehabilitation loans for the erection of new houses and 1 loan for repairs and additions to an existing dwelling were approved during the year, and it is anticipated that a commencement will be made on the construction at an early date. A further 5 furniture loans were approved and delivery taken of the furniture by the respective applicants. IKAROA AND SOUTH ISLAND NATIVE LAND COURT DISTRICTS Seven housing loans were approved during the year, while 6 applications are still under consideration. Two houses have been erected during the year and 1 building section has been purchased. Three buildings are nearing completion, 1 is about to commence, 5 are ready for building, while in 2 cases loans have been approved and titles to the house-sites are being arranged. Ten applications for furniture loans were received, 8 being approved and 2 still being under action. Two tools of trade loans were approved for carpenters. Four business-loan applications were dealt with, 1 being declined because the business was not suitable. Another applicant has failed to reply to correspondence and has apparently left the district, a third has been deferred by the Committee, and the fourth is still under action. Two farming applications were received, and in 1 case a loan was approved for the purchase of a rotary hoe for the applicant, who is a farming contractor. The other application is still under investigation.

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The following is a summary of rehabilitation applications dealt with in the Wellington District from the inception up to the present time :

MAORI REHABILITATION FINANCE COMMITTEE: RETURN OF PROPERTIES (FREEHOLD AND LEASEHOLD) PURCHASED FROM 1st APRIL, 1946, to 31st MARCH, 1947

ASSISTANCE GRANTED TO EX-SERVICEMEN TO 31st MARCH, 1947: MAORI REHABILITATION FINANCE COMMITTEE AND BOARD OF NATIVE AFFAIRS*

* Assistance granted by Board of Native Affairs is under Part I, Native Land Amendment Act, 1936, or Native Housing Act, 1935. + Item £39,270 includes cost of equipping Huramua Soldiers' Settlement for reception of rehabilitation farm trainees. Facilities now complete and cost per capita will be reduced as more trainees are put through the course. % Included in totals were 2 supplementary loans (£419) granted during year, making 5 (£684) to date.

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G—10 24 The following is a summary of rehabilitation applications dealt with in the Wellington District from the inception up to the present time :— Applications lodged. Loans approved. Lapsed or withdrawn Declined. Under Action. Housing 33 19 8 6 Furniture 13 11 2 Farming 11 3 3 4 1 Business 4 1 I •> Tools of trade .. 2 2 Miscellaneotis 3 3 MAORI REHABILITATION FINANCE COMMITTEE : RETURN OF PROPERTIES (FREEHOLD AND LEASEHOLD) PURCHASED FROM 1st APRIL, 1946, to 31st MARCH, 1947 Property. Location. Area. | Amount. A. Tt. P. £ Kohatutaka 6g 1 Hokianga 143 2 0 1,005 Section 14, Block XIV, Waoku Survey District Waimamaku . . 99 1 37-8 1,668 Kaiti 313, Section lc Gisborne 35 0 20 810 Nukumaru 1b 2a 2 and 1b 2a 3 .. Waitotara 36 2 39 552 Opouteke-Ruataewao No. 1 Pakotai 134 2 0 2,132 Lots 1, 2, and 3, D.P. 10719, part Section 1, Block V, Taheke 140 0 0 1,380 Punakitere Survey District Block IV, Opoe Survey District, Sections 1, 5, 6, 10, Awanui 211 3 14-5 1,655 16, 30, 31, and 32 Seetion 3, Block IV, Mangaoporo Survey District Whakaangiangi 503 1 6 2,750 Rawhiti 2a 7 Russell 203 1 28 900 Seetion 1, Block V, Whitianga Survey District, Whitianga 627 0 0 4,878 Ngananganaia No. 1 Mataitai 1a 2b 5a 1 Clevedon 120 0 32 2,800 Totals 2 ,255 0 17-3 20,530 ASSISTANCE GRANTED TO EX-SERVICEMEN TO 31st MARCH, 1947 : MAORI REHABILITATION FINANCE COMMITTEE AND BOARD OF NATIVE AFFAIRS* Overseas Servicemen. Home Servicemen. Totals. Loans or Advances Year 1946-47. To Date. Year 1946-47. To Date. Year 1946-47. To Date. approved for — No. Amount. No. Amount. No. i Amount. No. Amount No. Amount. No. Amount. £ £ £ £ £ £ Purchase of farms 9 14,079 21 91,240 9 14,079 21 91,240 Settlement on farms 36 30,677 54 59,111 36 30,677 54 59,111 Expenditure on farms .. 7,223 39,270 7,223 39,270t Purchase of houses "l 5,860 ie 10,870 '7 5,860 16 10,870 Erection of houses 88 84,773 182 158,775 '2 1^550 88 84,773 184 160,325 Repairs to houses 1 225 10 2,742 1 225 10 2,742 Additions to houses 1 500 2 876 1 500 2 876 Purchase of tools of trade 18 385 26 1,099 "\ "l9 i "l9 19 404 27 1,118 Purchase of furniture .. 101 8,764 154 13,525 1 100 4 398 102 8,864 158 13,923 Miscellaneous 2 265 3 615 1 700 2 1,700 3 965 5 2,315 Purchase of businesses .. 9 6,522 10 7,822 9 6,522 10 7,822 Totals 272 159,273 478 385,945 3 819 9 3,667 275 160,092 487 389,612? * Assistance granted by Board of Native Affairs is under Part I, Native Land Amendment Act, 1936, or Native Housing Act, 1935. t Item £39,270 includes cost of equipping Huramua Soldiers' Settlement for reception of rehabilitation farm trainees. Facilities now complete and cost per capita will be reduced as more trainees are put through the course. % Inclu led in totals we re l SI ipplement ar f loai is (£419) grant ed during year, making 5 £684 ) to date.

G—10 24 The following is a summary of rehabilitation applications dealt with in the Wellington District from the inception up to the present time :— Applications lodged. Loans approved. Lapsed or withdrawn Declined. Under Action. Housing 33 19 8 6 Furniture 13 11 2 Farming 11 3 3 4 1 Business 4 1 I •> Tools of trade .. 2 2 Miscellaneotis 3 3 MAORI REHABILITATION FINANCE COMMITTEE : RETURN OF PROPERTIES (FREEHOLD AND LEASEHOLD) PURCHASED FROM 1st APRIL, 1946, to 31st MARCH, 1947 Property. Location. Area. | Amount. A. Tt. P. £ Kohatutaka 6g 1 Hokianga 143 2 0 1,005 Section 14, Block XIV, Waoku Survey District Waimamaku . . 99 1 37-8 1,668 Kaiti 313, Section lc Gisborne 35 0 20 810 Nukumaru 1b 2a 2 and 1b 2a 3 .. Waitotara 36 2 39 552 Opouteke-Ruataewao No. 1 Pakotai 134 2 0 2,132 Lots 1, 2, and 3, D.P. 10719, part Section 1, Block V, Taheke 140 0 0 1,380 Punakitere Survey District Block IV, Opoe Survey District, Sections 1, 5, 6, 10, Awanui 211 3 14-5 1,655 16, 30, 31, and 32 Seetion 3, Block IV, Mangaoporo Survey District Whakaangiangi 503 1 6 2,750 Rawhiti 2a 7 Russell 203 1 28 900 Seetion 1, Block V, Whitianga Survey District, Whitianga 627 0 0 4,878 Ngananganaia No. 1 Mataitai 1a 2b 5a 1 Clevedon 120 0 32 2,800 Totals 2 ,255 0 17-3 20,530 ASSISTANCE GRANTED TO EX-SERVICEMEN TO 31st MARCH, 1947 : MAORI REHABILITATION FINANCE COMMITTEE AND BOARD OF NATIVE AFFAIRS* Overseas Servicemen. Home Servicemen. Totals. Loans or Advances Year 1946-47. To Date. Year 1946-47. To Date. Year 1946-47. To Date. approved for — No. Amount. No. Amount. No. i Amount. No. Amount No. Amount. No. Amount. £ £ £ £ £ £ Purchase of farms 9 14,079 21 91,240 9 14,079 21 91,240 Settlement on farms 36 30,677 54 59,111 36 30,677 54 59,111 Expenditure on farms .. 7,223 39,270 7,223 39,270t Purchase of houses "l 5,860 ie 10,870 '7 5,860 16 10,870 Erection of houses 88 84,773 182 158,775 '2 1^550 88 84,773 184 160,325 Repairs to houses 1 225 10 2,742 1 225 10 2,742 Additions to houses 1 500 2 876 1 500 2 876 Purchase of tools of trade 18 385 26 1,099 "\ "l9 i "l9 19 404 27 1,118 Purchase of furniture .. 101 8,764 154 13,525 1 100 4 398 102 8,864 158 13,923 Miscellaneous 2 265 3 615 1 700 2 1,700 3 965 5 2,315 Purchase of businesses .. 9 6,522 10 7,822 9 6,522 10 7,822 Totals 272 159,273 478 385,945 3 819 9 3,667 275 160,092 487 389,612? * Assistance granted by Board of Native Affairs is under Part I, Native Land Amendment Act, 1936, or Native Housing Act, 1935. t Item £39,270 includes cost of equipping Huramua Soldiers' Settlement for reception of rehabilitation farm trainees. Facilities now complete and cost per capita will be reduced as more trainees are put through the course. % Inclu led in totals we re l SI ipplement ar f loai is (£419) grant ed during year, making 5 £684 ) to date.

Overseas Servicemen. Home Servicemen. Totals. Loans or Advances Year 1946-47. To Date. Year 1946-47. To Date. Year 1946-47. To Date. approved for— No. Amount. No. Amount. No. Amount. No. Amount. No. Amount. No. Amount. £ £ £ £ £ £ Purchase of farms 9 14,079 21 91,240 9 14,079 21 91,240 Settlement on farms 36 30,677 54 59,111 36 30,677 54 59,111 Expenditure on farms .. 7,223 39,270 7,223 39,270t Purchase of houses 7 5,860 16 10,870 7 5,860 ili 10,870 Erection of houses 88 84,773 182 158,775 2 1 550 88 84,773 184 160,325 Repairs to houses 1 225 10 2,742 1 225 10 2,742 Additions to houses 1 500 2 876 1 500 2 876 Purchase of tools of trade 18 385 26 1,099 1 19 1 19 19 404 27 1,118 Purchase of furniture .. 101 8,764 154 13,525 1 100 4 398 102 8,864 158 13,923 Miscellaneous 2 265 3 615 1 700 2 1,700 3 965 5 2,315 Purchase of businesses .. 9 6,522 10 7,822 9 6,522 10 7,822 Totals 272 159,273 478 385,945 3 819 9 3,667 275 160,092 487 389,012?

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PART VI.—EAST COAST NATIVE TRUST LANDS During the year under review a number of the leased portions of East Coast Trust blocks have reverted to the Commissioner upon the expiry of leases and are now being farmed on behalf of the beneficial owners. These blocks are — Parts Mangaheia 2d Block Acres. Farmed in conjunction with Paroa Station .. .. 246 Waipuna Station .. .. .. .. .. 1,091 Set aside for Maori rehabilitation lease .. .. 936 2,273 Mangapoike blocks — Mangapoike A .. .. .. .. .. 16,338 Mangapoike B .. .. .. .. .. 302 Mangapoike 2d .. .. .. .. .. 4,101 Mangapoike 2e .. .. .. .. .. 2,980 Total .. .. .. .. .. 23,721 This area is divided and farmed as Paparatu Station, 11,815 acres, and Tukemokihi Station, 11,906 acres. By the reversion of these lands to the direct control of the Commissioner his farming operations have been enlarged to embrace an additional area of 25,994 acres. During the year further developmental work on manuka country has been carried out both on Tawapata South No. 1 Block (Onenui Station) and on the Mangatu No. 1 Block. By the use of tractors and giant disks a further area of 800 acres to 900 acres of previously non-productive land is now carrying crops of turnips and chou moellier for winter feeding. SUMMARY East Coast and Mangatu Trusts as at 31st March, 1947 1. Number of stations .. .. .. .. .. 31 Number of farms on leased lands .. .. .. .. 12 43 2. Area — East Coast Trust — Acres. Acres. Stations .. .. .. .. .. .. 94,964 Leased .. .. .. .. .. .. 19,917 Occupied by owners .. .. .. .. 355 Undeveloped .. .. .. .. .. 1,770 — 117,006 Mangatu No. 1 Trust — Stations .. .. .. .. .. .. 85,068 Leased .. .. .. .. .. .. 2,884 Occupied by owners .. .. .. .. 409 Undeveloped .. .. .. .. .. 14,554 102,915 Mangatu No. 3 : Area, 3,680 acres, now farmed by Mangatu No. 1 .. .. .. .. .. Mangatu No. 4 : Undeveloped .. .. .. .. .. 5,994 225,915

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3. Number of permanent employees on stations— East Coast Trust .. .. .. .. • • 70 Mangatu No, 1 .. .. .. .. .. 67 137 4. Number of beneficial owners : East Coast Trust .. . • •. • • • • 6,976 Mangatu No. 1 .. .. .. .. • • 981 7,957 5. Live-stock carried at 30th June, 1946 Sheep. Cattle. Horses. East Coast Trust .. .. .. .. 53,917 7,667 284 Mangatu No. 1 .. .. .. .. 85,000 10,685 351 138,917 18,352 635 6. Wool, 1946-47 season — Bales. Bales. East Coast Trust .. .. .. • • • • • • 1 > 849 Mangatu No. 1 .. .. .. .. •• •• 2,709 4,558

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East Coast Trust Stations

Mangatu Trust Stations

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Station. Area. Live-stock at 30th June, 1946. Wool, 1946-47 Season. Permanent Employees. Sheep. Cattle. Horses. Acres. Bales. Iwinui 1,455 2,426 554 9 60 2 Kopua 3,442 3,750 501 18 106 4 Mahurangi 5,675 7,880 825 45 197 6 Mangaotane 13,608 4,140 622 27 122 5 Onenui 4,959 6,494 773 51 . 211 5 Pakowhai. 392 531 43 1 22 3 Papuni 8,827 7,137 1,263 55 250 6 Patemaru 1,944 3,503 439 11 128 2 Paroa 5,378 r 5,479 (flock) \ 124 (stud) 487 (flock) 136 (stud) } 13 133 5 Pohaturoa 7,238 3,943 798 17 92 3 Paparatu* 11,815 13 Tahora 2c 3, Section 2 2,295 146 Titirangi 2,380 3,562 177 "6 io2 '*2 Tukemokihi| 11,906 4,189 269 8 Waimaha 12,100 759 759 31 157 5 Waipunai 1,140 1 Whaitiri 410 144 Totals 94,964 53,917 7,667 284 1,849 70 * Taken over 19th March, 1947. 1947 (includes Mangaheia 2e). t Taken over 17th July, 1946. t Taken over 26th February,

Station. Area. Live-stoc Sheep. k at 30th June, 19 Cattle. >46. Horses. Wool, 1946-47 Season. Permanent Employees. Acres. Bales. Dome 5,387 5,800 873 11 167 6 Komihana 5,885 7,224 933 20 231 5 Mangatahu 4,019 6,939 755 10 216 6 Maia 3,967 6,070 603 25 169 5 Maungahaumi 11,394 10,619 1,104 14 323 5 Omapere 3,597 / 4,478 (flock) \ 347 (stud) 448 (flock) 228 (stud) } 21 140 6 Okaih.au 3,230 2,458 365 11 73 2 Tarewa Stud 1,167 782 393 10 29 3 Tarndale 8,575 5,060 532 17 150 4 Te Hua 7.694 9,932 998 37 368 4 Te Apiti 4,234 3,394 639 12 110 4 Wairere 9,880 12,678 1,507 54 389 7 Waitangirua 11,911 3,715 718 41 96 4 Waikakariki 4,128 5,504 589 68 248 6 Totals 85,068 85,000 10,685 351 2,709 67

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STATISTICAL TABLES Table 1. —Combined Statistical Data on Departmental Development Schemes (all Districts)

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Particulars. Tokerau. WaikatoManiapoto. Waiariki. Tairawhiti. Aotea. Ikaroa. South Island. Totals. 1. Area (acres) 118,561 63,602 1217,837 93,169 114,585 12,561 4,643 624,958 2. Area not suitable for develop6,396 8,073 65,867 28,218 3,853 750 350 113,507 ment (acres) 3. Number of settlers (number) .. 811 243 466 241 86 37 5 1,889 4. Number of workersPermanent (number) 30 31 41 63 44 209 Casual (number) 64 112 227 38 114 "43 "26 624 5. Development to datePermanent grass (acres) .. 66,063 34,621 77,370 57,747 21,662 5,195 1,907 264,565 Under cultivation (acres) 3,315 1,438 3,728 1,149 829 421 105 11,085 Undeveloped (acres) 42,787 19,227 26,616 6,055 88,341 6,945 2,159 192,130 Dwellings (number) 520 194 545 169 113 54 11 1,606 Wool-sheds (number) 7 36 45 9 10 4 2 123 Cow-sheds (number) 679 167 465 158 83 47 12 1,611 Other farm buildings 29 81 560 126 154 52 22 1,024 (number) 6. Live-stock— Stock carried at 31st March, 1947— Dairy cows (number) .. 15,437 5,528 11,443 4,006 2,523 1,040 116 40,093 Other dairy stock 9,103 2,884 4,645 2,353 1,601 492 39 21,117 (number) Run cattle (number) .. 3,947 4,589 12,583 5,927 2,972 544 373 30,935 Sheep— Breeding-ewes (number) 10,610 31,834 58,585 42,211 16,517 10,564 3,042 173,363 Other sheep (number) 6,612 15,089 43,965 21,417 11,213 2,575 912 101,783 Sheep : Sales and transfers 10,492 38,302 103,131 43,297 29,469 12,620 4,686 241,997 to other schemes during year (number) Cattle : Sales and transfers 2,526 1,812 3,963 2,276 1,427 348 115 12,467 to other schemes during year (number) Sheep: Purchases and 3,200 16,971 66,334 11,943 15,240 5,103 1,955 120,746 transfers from other schemes during year / T»nTY»T\ivn\ ) Cattle: Purchases and 1,292 908 3,376 726 581 144 112 7,139 transfers from other schemes during year (number) 7. Produce for year— Butterfat (lb.) 1,705,311 767,179 1,452,110 401,084 380,206 135,602 20,281 4,861,773 Wool (bales) 392 992 2,566 1,255 726 324 94 6,349 8. Net liability to date (£) 459,089 328,878 794,418 372,807 316,364 81,692 32,790 2,386,038 9. Subsidies received during year (£) 9,596 5,092 2,332 5,767 6,236 465 3,116 32,604

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Table 2. —Analysis of Cash Receipts for the Year 1946-47

Note. —Butterfat receipts for State schemes denote only that proportion of cream cheques which is assigned to the Department in repayment of advances and interest due thereon. On settled schemes the policy is to accept an assignment of a percentage of the farmers' monthly cream cheque, leaving the balance for maintenance and living expenses. On those dairying schemes which have not yet been individualized, the full amount received for butterfat is retained, the workers being paid wages, but in the majority of cases a proportion only of the cream returns is actually paid to the Department. Wool sales were later than usual and the greater part of proceeds were received subsequent to 31st March, 1947.

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— Butterfat. Wool. Live-stock. Sundries. Totals. Approximate Cash Receipts (Department's and Settlers' Proportions). 1. Districts — Tokerau Waikato-Maniapoto Waiariki Tairawhiti Aotea Ikaroa South Island £ 54,258 25,234 59,553 14,906 18,077 6,343 600 £ 5,645 15,023 30,974 18,939 4,116 6,692 1,353 £ 27,750 55,838 160,576 49,683 33,946 18,246 8,004 £ 9,812 5,993 13,833 9.837 3,805 2,816 1,484 £ 97,465 102,088 264,986 93,365 59,944 34,097 11,441 £ 178,850 139,950 336,100 112,460 74,699 44,200 13,470 Sub-totals 2. Maori Land Boards 3. Native Trustee 178,971 82,742 11,629 40,696 354,043 20,335 61,106 47,630 904 4,307 663,386 32,868 106,109 899,729 32,868 106,109 Totals 178,971 135,067 435,484 52,841 802,363 1,038,706

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Note.—(a) Total houses erected, purchased, or renovated from (b) Total farm buildings erected from inception to 31st March, inception to 31st March, 1947 : 1947 (approximate):— Under development schemes .. 1,939 Cow-sheds .. .. .. .. 1,577 Under Native Housing Act— Wool-sheds .. .. .. .. .. 56 Ordinary .. .. 557 Sheep-yards, &c. .. .. .. .. 43 Special .. .. 476 Implement and store sheds .. .. .. 355 1,033 Total .. .. 2,972 (c) Other works completed during the year included— (1) Departmental: New bulk stores (Levin and Rotorua); lime-works cottage and store (Te Araroa); Dairy Instructor's residence (Huramua); alterations and improvements to stores (Hawera and Hastings) and Supervisor's dwelling (Ruatoria); timber-yard improvements (Rotorua). (2) Native Trust: New house; repairs to 2 houses ; new cow-shed and new implement-shed. (3) Maori Land Boards : New dwellings (1); miscellaneous new buildings (3); alterations and repairs (4).

Table 3.—Buildings Erected, Renovated, and Purchased during Year ended 31st March, 1947

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(Native Housing and Native Land-development) Districts. Under Native Housing Act, 1935. Under Native Land-development. Totals. Dwellings purchased. Farm Improvements (other than Housing). Ordinary. Special. New Houses. Additions and Renovations. New Houses. Additions and Renovations. New Houses. Additions and Renovations. New Houses. Additions. and Renovations. Cow-sheds. Woolsheds. Storesheds. Tokerau Waikato-Maniapoto Waiariki Tairawhiti Aotea Ikaroa South Island Totals Number. 8 7 22 14 6 14 2 Number. 2 2 3 5 11 16 Number. 11 5 8 8 3 2 1 Number. 4 3 1 1 *8 Number. 14 2 5 9 1 1 Number. 13 6 9 6 2 2 Number. 33 14 35 31 10 17 3 Number. 19 11 .13 12 13 26 Number. 2 3 7 3 3 2 Number. 14 5 i Number. 1 1 Number. 2 3 4 1 73 39 38 17 32 38 1 143 94 20 20 2 10

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Note.—Other works in progress include— (1) Departmental: Capital improvements to works centre (Rotorua) ; bulk store (Manunui). (2) Maori Land Boards : New dwelling; repairs and alterations to house (1); removal and re-erection of workers' cottages.

Table 4.—Buildings in Course of Erection and under Renovation at 31st March, 1947

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(Native Housing and Native Land-development) Districts. Under Native Housing Act, 1935. Under Native Land-development. Totals. Farm Improvements. Ordinary. Special. Cow-sheds. Wool-sheds. Store-sheds. New Buildings. Repairs and Alterations. New Buildings. Repairs and Alterations. New Buildings. Repairs and Alterations. New Buildings. Repairs and Alterations. Tokerau Waikato-Maniapoto .. Waiariki Tairawhiti Aotea Ikaroa South. Island Totals Number. 5 6 37 8 3 14 9 Number. 2 4 i 5 9 3 Number. 6 2 5 4 2 3 Number. 1 i Number. 16 5 2 6 Number. 25 5 4 1 1 Number. 27 8 47 14 11 17 9 Number. 28 9 4 2 6 10 3 Number. 7 2 Number. i Number. 2 82 24 22 2 29 36 133 62 9 I 2

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By Authority: E. Y. Paul, Government Printer, Wellington.— 1947. , Price 9d.]

Table 5.—Native Housing Act, 1935: Financial Return of Operations to 31st March, 1947

V Approximate Cost of Paper.—Preparation, not given; printing (1,183 copies), £6B.

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Ordinary. Special. Totals. Districts. Authorized. Expended. Authorized. Expended. Authorized. Expended. Number of Advances. Amount. Number of Advances. Amount. Number of Advances. Amount. Tokerau Waikato-Maniapoto Waiariki Tairawhiti Aotea Ikaroa South Island 77 123 158 185 207 246 59 £ 39,584 49,202 129,350 108,260 87,041 172,166 48,177 £ 16,020 18,781 61,406 51,798 58,900 124,419 30,738 238 123 91 137 77 83 32 £ 85,497 - 55,677 63,084 68,982 42,909 41,017 17,000 £ 57,673 41,330 26,448 26,529 14,497 18,707 8,303 315 246 249 322 284329 91 £ 125,081 104,879 192,434 177,242 129,950 213,183 65,177 £ 73,693 . 60,111 87,854 78,327 73,397 143,126 39,041 Totals 1,055 633,780 362,062 781 374,166 193,487 1,836 1,007,946 555,549