a—v

14

pressing cases of this kind at present, at least in localities where it would be prudent to adopt this course. Offica-^Norlt. —During the year, in connection with the Land Transfer branch, 26 plans have been examined and passed. These plans embraced 41 original sections, which were subdivided into 570 allotments, comprising 2,798 acres. The certificates of title prepared during the year were 294 in number, involving 588 plans. The certificates prepared in lieu of Crown grants were 146 in number, involving 438 plans. The applications to bring land under the Land Transfer Act were 50 in number. These, of course, required, in some cases, careful examination by this office ere the District Land Kegistrar could act upon them. The number of leases dealt with, the diagrams and descriptions of most of which required examination by the Land Transfer Draughtsman, was 138. It would be difficult, if not impossible, to enumerate the various general items of work done by the office. These comprise, amongst other things, the preparation and working of the record-maps, the recording of fresh surveys on the various maps, the placing of plans on perpetual leases and deferred-payment licenses, and the usual routine of work which it would be needless to specify. The preparation of maps and schedules for property-tax purposes is a work which, when added to the usual pressure of current work, taxes all the time of the officers. I need hardly say that the recent extension of the land district entailed upon the office a large amount of extra work in getting up the various plans and books connected with the district that was added on. The chief items of work done for other departments, &c, will be found in the tabular return sent up along with this report. I have every reason to be satisfied with the various officers under me. They have done their duty ably, willingly, and conscientiously, and it lias been a pleasure to work with them. John Spenok, Chief Surveyor.