H.—ls.

22

Building Bridges and Culverts. —The AVaipuwerawera Bridge was repaired in November; and four men aud two horses were employed in April, for three days, iv procuring timber for further repairs; the value of the labour being estimated at £6 12s. 6d. At Opepe Station 6,850 feet of timber have been sawn, 240 posts, 738 rails, 4,000 shingles, and 50 house-blocks have been split, during the yea?. Building Houses, Sfc. —At head-quarters a stable and forage store have been completed, and an addition to the commanding officer's house built. At Opepe a mess kitchen has been finished. Fencing Paddocks, Laying Down in Grass, Sfc. —At Opepe 33 chains of 3-rail fence have been erected, and the old fences there and at head-quarters have been kept in repair. Soldiers' Graves. —The graves at Opepe have been kept fenced and free from fern, &c. Eemabks. During the past year the district has remained undisturbed. In July the Armed Constabulary Office at Napier was given up, and the duties formerly performed by the sergeant stationed there are now intrusted to the Napier police. The following casualties have occurred: —1 second class sergeant, 1 second class constable, and 2 third class constables have been discharged ; 1 first class sergeant and 3 third class constables have been dismissed for misconduct, and one third class constable has died ; 1 superintendent, 2 first class sergeants, 1 second class sergeant, and 40 third class constables have been transferred to, and 1 superintendent, 1 first class sergeant, and 10 third class constables from, other districts, and 1 third class constable was enrolled to be employed as saddler. One third class constable has been promoted to the rank of second class sergeant. One horse has died, and 8 have been transferred to, and 1 from, other districts. In conclusion, I would beg to report most favourably of the force under my command, and to state that all members have been diligent in the discharge of their respective duties during the past twelve months. I have, &c, Wm. C. Eton, Lieut.-Col., Commanding Eeserve Divisions, A. C.

By Authority : Geoege Didsbuey, Government Printer, Wellington. —1879. Price Is.]