7

G.—2c

decrease is caused entirely by deaths, attributable in a great measure to the introduction of European complaints and the evils of a transition state. The fact cannot be disguised that the Natives are gradually passing away : and, even if no cause should arise to accelerate their decease, the rate at which they are now disappearing points to their extinction in an exceedingly brief period. I have, &c, Alexandeb Mackay, The Under Secretary, Native Department, Wellington. Commissioner.

A.—CENSUS of the NATIVE POPULATION in the SOUTH and STEWART'S ISLAND, inclusive of RUAPUKE, JUNE 1874.

B.—CENSUS of NATIVE POPULATION in the SOUTH ISLAND, including HALF-CASTES, JUNE 1874.

Ma: ma. Fem. ,ES. Districts. Total Males. Total Females. Totals. Under 15. Over 15. Under 15. Over 15. ilarlborough kelson Vestland Canterbury )tago luapuke itewart's Island 56 68 18 s:s 67 10 5 147 156 39 154 184 14 4 203 219 52 237 251 24 9 60 68 LI 92 47 L4 1 100 130 26 105 138 17 9 1G0 193 40 197 185 31 10 363 412 92 434 43G 55 19 Totals 297 698 995 291 525 816 1,811

Total Population, Half-cast: INCLUDING 18. DlSTEICTS. Males. Females. Totals. Mules. Females. Totals. larlborough felson Vestland ianterbury ... )tago, including Euapuke and Stewart's Island 252 243 55 300 200 197 41 258 452 440 96 558 49 24 3 63 40 4 1 Gl 89 28 4 124 567 495 1,062 283 269 552 Totals 1,417 1,191 2,608 422 375 797 By Authority: Geobge Didsbuey, Government Printer, Wellington.—1871. 'rice 6cl]