Minutes of Annual Meeting of the Board of Governors, 26th January, 1928.

Transactions and Proceedings of the Royal Society of New Zealand, Volume 59, 1928, Page 1

Minutes of Annual Meeting of the Board of Governors, 26th January, 1928. The Annual Meeting of the Board of Governors of the New Zealand Institute was held in Victoria University College, Wellington, at 10 a.m. on Thursday, 26th January, 1928. Present.—Representing the Government: Mr. B. C. Aston (President); Dr. C. Chilton, Dr. L. Cockayne, and Dr. J. A. Thomson. Representing Auckland Institute: Professor H. W. Segar and Professor F. P. Worley. Representing Wellington Philosophical Society: Mr. G. V. Hudson. Representing Philosophical Institute of Canterbury: Professor C. Coleridge Farr, and Mr. A. M. Wright. Representing Otago Institute: Professor J. Park and Hon. G. M. Thomson, M.L.C. Representing Nelson Institute: Professor Easterfield. Representing Hawke's Bay Philosophical Institute: Mr. H. Hill. Representing Manawatu Philosophical Society: Mr. M. A. Eliott, Hon. Treasurer. The Hon. Editor, Mr. J. C. Anderson, and the Hon. Secretary, Dr. P. Marshall, were also present. Apologies for absence.—Apologies were received from His Excellency the Governor-General, and from Professor Kirk. Later apologies were also received from the Right Hon. the Prime Minister, and from the Acting Hon. Minister of Internal Affairs. Presidential Address.—The President read his address, the meeting standing while he read the names of the Members and Honorary Members who had died during the year. Professor Farr moved and Mr. Hudson seconded that the President be thanked for his address, and that he allow it to be printed in the Transactions of the New Zealand Institute. Fellowship Election and so on.—The election of two Fellows was then proceeded with and the President announced that Dr. H. H. Allan, of Feilding, and Professor J. A. Bartrum, of Auckland, had been duly elected.

Number of Fellows to be elected in 1929.—On the motion of Dr. Cockayne seconded by Mr. Hill it was resolved that two Fellows be elected in 1929. Hector Award.—The President announced that the report of the Hector Award Committee was not available, and moved that the receipt of the report and action on the same be delegated to the Standing Committee. This was seconded by Mr. Eliott and carried. Amount of Prize.—On the motion of Dr. Cockayne seconded by Mr. Hudson it was resolved that the amount of the Hector Prize for 1928 be £50. Election of Honorary Members.—The Returning Officer reported that the following had been elected: Dr. J. S. Haldane, Dr. A. W. Hill, Sir David Orme Masson, Sir John Russell, Professor A. C. Seward, Professor J. Arthur Thomson. Vacancies in Honorary Membership.—It was announced that Professor Sars and Professor Liversidge had died during the year, and two vacancies were thus created. Reports of Incorporated Societies.—The reports and balance sheets of the following societies were laid on the table and referred to the Hon. Treasurer for inspection and report:— Auckland Institute for year ending 8th February, 1927. Wellington Philosophical Society for year ending 31st October, 1927. Philosophical Institute of Canterbury for year ending 31st October, 1927. Otago Institute for year ending 30th November, 1927. Nelson Institute for year ending 31st October, 1927. Hawke's Bay Institute for year ending 31st December, 1927. Report of Standing Committee For the Year Ending 31st December, 1927. Meetings.—During the year seven ordinary meetings and one special meeting of the Standing Committee have been held, the attendance being as follows:—Mr. B. C. Aston, Wellington, 8; Mr. G. V. Hudson, Wellington, 8; Professor Kirk, Wellington, 5; Hon. G. M. Thomson, Dunedin, 4; Dr. Thomson, Wellington, 4; Dr. Cockayne, Ngaio, 3; Mr. A. M. Wright, Christchurch, 2: Mr. M. A. Eliott, Palmerston North, 2; Professor Segar, Auckland, 1; Professor Easterfield, Nelson, 1; Professor Farr, Christchurch, 1; Professor Park, Dunedin. 1; Mr. H. Hill, Napier, 1; Hon. Secretary, Wellington, 6; Hon. Editor, Wellington, 5. Publications.—The year has been an exceptionally heavy one as far as publications are concerned. Volume 57 (the largest volume of Transactions yet published, having 1,133 pages of type and 80 pages of plates) was issued on the 10th March, 1927. It was laid on the tables of the House of Representatives and of the Legislative Council on the 15th July, 1927. The fifth part of Dixon's Bulletin on the Bryology of New Zealand was issued on the 7th July, 1927. The Reference List of Scientific Periodicals compiled for the New Zealand Institute by Mr. Gilbert Archey, of Auckland Museum, was issued on the 10th August. The 1st and 2nd part of the 58th volume of the Transactions was issued on the 17th August, the 3rd part on the 15th November, and the 4th part is in the press and will be ready in February. In addition a four-page circular, advertising the publications of the New Zealand Institute and the Philosophical Institute of Canterbury was printed.

Two thousand five hundred copies of this circular are being distributed by our London Agents, and it is hoped will be productive in increasing the sales of publications on hand. Printing Matters.—Taking into consideration the fact that Volume 57 was the initial volume for the new printers, Messrs. Ferguson and Osborn, Ltd., that it was considerably larger than any previous volume, and that many papers required special hand-setting, the publication of this volume reflects very creditably indeed on the printers. In one or two instances the plates produced were not of a very high order, and this matter was taken up with Mr. Osborn who showed himself very ready to go thoroughly into the matter and to give entire satisfaction in every way, with the result that in the subsequent volume little fault is to be found. In Volume 57 the printers had some difficulty, owing to indistinct MSS. and they have stipulated that in future all copy must be typewritten if required. A revised contract for a term of three years for the printing of the Transactions was entered into with Messrs. Ferguson and Osborn, Ltd. A progressive step has this year been taken in that the Transactions are now issued quarterly. The Hon. Editor in his report has pointed out the advantages of this step, which apparently is meeting with general approval. The price of the quarterly parts has been fixed at 10/- each, the double part Volume 58, Parts 1 and 2 at 15/-. Author's Corrections—Before their papers were accepted for publication in Volume 57 authors were informed by the Hon. Editor that in future they were liable for all corrections over and above 2 per cent. of lines. A good deal of objection has been raised by some authors in regard to this charge, but the Standing Committee at a meeting on the 22nd April passed a resolution: “That any author who failed to pay for his corrections will not have any further paper accepted by the Institute for publication.” Advertisements.—A suggestion was made that approved advertisements might be accepted for insertion on the spare pages and inside cover of the Transactions. An agent was seen regarding the matter, but owing to the small New Zealand circulation and limited scope of the advertisements it was not considered a payable proposition. Government Printer's Charges—At last Annual Meeting a resolution was passed: “That in view of the fact that the price charged by the Government Printing Office for printing the Transactions has been greatly in excess of that now charged by a private printing firm, the Minister be asked to look into the amount debited to the Institute by the Government.” This resolution and a copy of the detailed account for Volume 57 was sent to the Minister, who replied by pointing out that the work could have been done better and cheaper in the Government Printing Office, and he gave an estimate as to what the volume would cost if printed there. A comparative analysis of this estimate and the prices charged for previous volumes of Transactions was made out and forwarded to the Minister in support of the foregoing resolution, but no reply has been received. Levy.—At a meeting of the Standing Committee, held on the 22nd April, it was resolved that the levy for incorporated societies for Volume 57 be 5/- each volume. The levy for Volume 58 has not yet been fixed. Contributions.—As the result of an appeal for assistance in publishing in the Transactions papers of officers of their Departments, the Scientific and Industrial Research Department contributed £36, and the Cawthron Institute £15. Reference List of Periodicals.—On the 1st March it was resolved to proceed with the printing of the Reference List. The printing was done by Messrs. Ferguson and Osborn, Ltd., and the list was issued in August. Already it has proved useful to Librarians and research workers and members generally, and 124 copies have been sold. As the list was some time in the course of preparation, it was felt that it would be wise to bring it

up to date and publish a supplementary list of additions and corrections to the publications already listed and also include some small departmental libraries which were not in the original list. A good deal of matter is already in hand and will be published at an early date. Sales.—Over £53 has been raised during the year by the sale of Transactions. The sale of Maori Art has fallen off, and very few Bulletins have been sold. It is hoped that the advertising circular distributed by Wheldon and Wosley will have a marked effect on this source of revenue. Partial Sets.—Donations of partial sets of Transactions have been made to the Martinborough Public Library, the Teachers' Library, Wanganui, the Training College, Wellington, the School of Maori Arts. Rotorua, and the Wellington Branch of the New Zealand Educational Institute Exchange List.—The following have been added to the Exchange List:— Musei di Zoologia e Anatomia Comparata della R. Universita di Geneva. Société Entomologique de Russie, Leningrad. State University, Voronesh. Ichthyological Laboratory, Kerch. University of Central Asia. Society of Naturalists, Kiev. Science Society of China. Library.—The Library is expanding rapidly—not only are new exchanges coming in, but back numbers of sets are being received from some of these and an endeavour is being made preparatory to binding to obtain missing numbers in certain series. The Library is beng used a great deal more than formerly, and the staff and certain students of Victoria College are finding it extremely useful in their work. The Reports of the British Association for the Advancement of Science have not been received since 1918 when the Association ceased sending its Report on exchanges. It is very desirable that the New Zealand Institute Library should have a complete set of these Reports, and the gift from any members would be greatly appreciated. Incorporated Societies.—The following reports and balance sheets have been received, and are now laid on the table:— Philosophical Institute of Canterbury year ending 31st October, 1927. Wellington Philosophical Society year ending 31st October, 1927. Otago Institute year ending 30th November, 1927. Auckland Institute year ending 8th February, 1927. Nelson Institute year ending 31st October, 1927. Hawke's Bay Philosophical Institute year ending 31st December, 1927. The Hon. Treasurer on the 17th August forwarded a report showing the position of incorporated societies at the end of last year. End of Financial Year.—At last Annual Meeting it was resolved that incorporated societies should be asked to end their financial year on the 31st October. The Philosophical Institute of Canterbury and the Nelson Institute already ended their year on that date. The Wellington Philosophical Society agreed to do so, and the Otago Institute will fall in line with other societies. The Hawke's Bay Philosophical Institute has not replied, and the Auckland Institute, as it receives the major part of its revenue from the Auckland City Council has to make its year coincide with that of the Council which ends on the 31st March. Date of Annual Meeting.—It has been felt by many that January is a most inconvenient time to hold the Annual Meeting of the Board, and that an endeavour should be made to bring the Institute's financial year into line with the Governmental year. At its meeting of the 1st December the Standing Committee resolved to recommend to the Annual Meeting of the Board of Governors that future meetings be held in winter, and suggested May as a suitable time. Hector Award.—As the Hector Award Committee was unable to make its report to the last Annual Meeting, owing to the absence of one of its

members, the Standing Committee was authorised to make the Award. At a meeting of the Standing Committee on the 22nd April the Hector Award Committee reported as follows:— “We are of the opinion that the Award should be made to Professor C. A. Cotton, of Victoria College, Wellington. Professor Cotton has especially distinguished himself by his researches on the Geomorphology of New Zealand, and has added greatly to our knowledge of this subject. He is endowed with the capacity of recording his researches in a lucid style, and has a rare ability for illustrating his matter in drawings of great exactness and merit. We feel that Professor Cotton has done work that has given New Zealand a prominent place in the branch of study to which he has mainly devoted himself.” The Committee's Report was unanimously adopted, and at a meeting of the Wellington Philosophical Society on the 12th October at the Diamond Jubilee Celebrations the medal and Prize were presented to Professor Cotton by Mr. F. W. Furkert, President of the Wellington Philosophical Society. Fellowship New Zealand Institute.—Mr. W. R. B. Oliver and Mr. H. D. Skinner were on the 12th May gazetted as Fellows of the New Zealand Institute. Ten nominations were received for the Fellowship, and on the 25th July these were submitted to the Fellows for selection. On the 27th September the Hon. Returning Officer, Professor Segar, reported the result of the selection, and the four names were submitted to members of the Board on the 7th October. The election for two Fellows will take place at the Annual Meeting of the Board. Fellowship Election.—The method of election as proposed by Professor Sommerville was considered by the Standing Committee and referred back to Professor Sommerville and Professor Segar for report. National Research Council.—The question of the formation of a National Research Council in New Zealand was discussed at length at last Annual Meeting, and certain recommendations which had been brought down by a sub-committee were approved, and it was finally resolved: “That a scheme for a National Research Council be tentatively approved by the New Zealand Institute and submitted to the Council of Scientific and Industrial Research and that the ultimate adoption of the scheme be contingent on the provision by the Government of the necessary finances for the functioning of the Council and for affiliation with the International Research Council.” A copy of the recommendations and of the foregoing resolution were forwarded to the Secretary of the Scientific and Industrial Research Department who replied and asked that the President and Dr. Thomson should meet Professor Denham and Dr. Malcolm in regard to the subject. On the 21st February the following letter was received from Dr. Marsden addressed to the President:— “Further to the conference between Professors Denham and Malcolm and yourself, Dr. Thomson and the writer, I have to inform you that the Research Council at its meeting on Thursday last considered the resolutions embodied in your letter of the 7th inst, with regard to the establishment of a National Research Council, and the following resolutions were passed:— “1. That this Council is of opinion that there is no immediate necessity for the establishment of a National Research Council. “2. That in order to take advantage of the scientific advice of the New Zealand Institute, wherever a local committee of the Research Council is established to supervise any investigations or researches, the local Philosophical Institute or New Zealand Institute be asked to nominate members to that committee. “With regard to the latter resolution, I have to point out, for example, that the Council would appreciate the advice of your Institute on scientific questions at any time, and, in particular, it desires to thank you for nominating members to the Committees of the Apia and Hector Observatories, and. further, has to ask that the Otago Institute be requested to nominate two members to the following committee:—

“Committee on Food Value and Vitamins. “Resolved: That a committee on Food Value and Vitamins be set up to carry on the work at Otago University on these subjects, and that £150 be provided in the Estimates to cover the Vitamin work, and that the Committee report on the financial requirements in regard to the former. That the Committee consist of Professor Malcolm, Professor Inglis, Mr. Bowman, and two nominees from the Otago Institute.” International Research Council.—On the 12th October, Dr. Marsden wrote as follows:— “I shall be glad if you will place before your Executive the question of adherence to the International Research Council. This question was raised recently in connection with a desire that Dr. Thomson, Director of the Apia Observatory, Samoa, should attend the Prague Conference of the International Geodetic and Geophysical Union. The matter was considered by the Observatory Committee, on which your Institute is represented by four members, and, in the meantime, arrangements have been made by the Government for adherence to the International Research Council and the Geodetic and Geophysical Union, while the question of adherence to the Astronomical Union is also under consideration. “I should be glad if you would place this matter before your Executive for an expression of its opinion. “I enclose, for your information, copy of cable which has been forwarded to the High Commissioner for New Zealand, also copy of letter received from the Secretary for Lands and abstract from Minutes of the Apia Observatory Committee Meeting.” This letter was considered at a meeting of the Standing Committee on the 25th October. Mr. W. T. Neill, Surveyor-General, who was present by invitation, gave some additional information in regard to the fees of adherence to the Council and to the various Unions attached thereto. It was resolved that the President and Dr. Marshall interview Dr. Marsden on the subject and report to next meeting. On the 1st December the President reported that Dr. Marsden stated that it was proposed to recognise the New Zealand Institute as the National Research Council for New Zealand and the Government would pay the necessary fees to the International Research Council through the New Zealand Institute; on the 3rd December, Dr. Marsden wrote to the Institute to this effect. Research Grant Vote.—The research grant moneys are now received through the Department of Scientific and Industrial Research and applications for grants require to have the approval of the Council of that Department and not of the Hon. Minister of Internal Affairs as formerly. A vote for research was placed at the disposal of the New Zealand Institute and applications were called for on the 27th May to be in by the 30th September. Nine applications for a total of £898 were received. Eight applications for a total of £813 were recommended by the Research Grants Committee and approved by the Standing Committee. The Council for Scientific and Industrial Research has not yet dealt with these publications. Tongariro National Park: Amendment Act.—In accordance with a long standing request of the New Zealand Institute the Tongariro National Park Amendment Act includes a clause which now makes it possible for the Institute to elect its representative on the Park Board instead of its being represented by the the President ex officio. Ohakune Track.—At a meeting of the Standing Committee on the 17th August the President reported that there was a proposal to widen the Ohakune Track, and that a sub-committee had recently visited the track to view the site. After some discussion the following resolution was passed:— “That the New Zealand Institute opposes any suggestion for widening the track from Ohakune to the Ohakune Hut, but suggests that the track from Ohakune Junction through the podocarp forest be improved without sacrificing any of the timber trees. The matter was brought up at the last meeting of the Tongariro National Park Board and deferred.

National Parks.—A letter was received from the Auckland Branch of the New Zealand Tourist League with reference to the conservation of National Parks. It was agreed to co-operate, and the President and the Hon. G. M. Thomson were appointed a committee to enquire further and to watch developments on behalf of the Institute. Arthur's Pass.—The Annual Meeting last year authorised the Standing Committee to enquire regarding the practice of selling flowers in the National Reserve at Arthur's Pass. A resolution was forwarded to the Tourist and Lands Department, and the latter wrote stating that the Scenery Preservation Board had recommended that the land with the bush on it at Arthur's Pass be made a scenic reserve, and the necessary steps were being taken to carry out the recommendation. Whitchait Fishery.—The Philosophical Institute of Canterbury wrote asking that the Institute endorse a resolution urging the Government to establish some form of control of the Whitebait Fishery. It was resolved: “That the New Zealand Institute represent to the Department of Scientific and Industrial Research and to the Fisheries Department the urgent need for close and continued research into the life-history of the whitebait in New Zealand and matters connected with the Whitebait industry and the taking of whitebait, and that it offers its services to assist in carrying out the work involved.” These Departments replied stating that the matter would receive consideration. Type Specimens.—The matter was referred by last Annual Meeting to the Standing Committee with power to act. On the 22nd April the matter was discussed, and it was resolved that the following resolution, passed by a Conference of Museum Representatives is not feasible:—“That it is desirable that no Natural History Specimen should be exported from New Zealand for examination by scientists in other countries except under the condition that the type specimens of any new species be returned.” It was further resolved to agree to the following resolution passed at the same Conference: “That the Maori Antiquities Act should be amended to provide that Type Specimens of animals, plants, and fossils should not be exported from the country except on loan.” Science Congress.—At last Annual Meeting it was resolved that the next Science Congress should be held in Auckland in January, 1929. The Secretary of the Auckland Institute wrote stating that the Auckland Institute would undertake all arrangements for the Congress. The offer was gratefully accepted. Australasian Association for the Advancement of Science.—Professor Kirk and Dr. H. G. Denham, of Canterbury, were appointed to represent the Institute at the Hobart Meeting of the A.A.A.S. on the 19th January, 1928. (Pan) Pacific Science Congress.—The Fourth Meeting of the (Pan) Pacific Science Congress is to be held at Java in May-June, 1929, and the “First Announcement” has been received. Copies are available on application. Celebrations.—During the year the Auckland Institute and the Wellington Philosophical Society celebrated Diamond Jubilees and successful functions were held. Invitations were also received from the American Philosophical Society to the 200th Anniversary of its foundation, and from the University of Toronto to its centenary celebration. Mr. H. D. Skinner, who was then in America, was asked if possible to represent the Institute at these gatherings, but he was unable to do so. Carter Bequest.—With a view to carrying out a resolution passed at last Annual Meeting it was decided to ascertain from the New Zealand Astronomical Society whether, in the event of the Institute's being legally able to proceed in the direction proposed in the resolution, it would be willing

to provide for the upkeep and work of the Observatory. No reply has yet been received. Dr. Hill's Visit.—At a meeting of the Standing Committee on the 1st December the President reported that Dr. Hill, Director of the Kew Gardens was to visit New Zealand in January. It was resolved that the President should ascertain the conditions under which Dr. Hill is visiting New Zealand and take action on behalf of the Institute. Standing Committee Report.—The foregoing report was considered clause by clause. In the paragraph relating to Societies' celebrations it was agreed to insert the words “Auckland Institute” before “Wellington Philosophical Society.” The report as amended was adopted. Business Arising from Report of Standing Committee. 1. Government Printer's Charges.—The Hon. Treasurer referred to the correspondence which had been exchanged between the Hon. Minister of the Printing Office and the New Zealand Institute, and reported that no further action could be taken.—Received. 2. Levy on Volume 58.—On the motion of Mr. Hudson seconded by Professor Park it was resolved that the levy be 5/- per volume as previously. 3. Reference List of Periodicals.—On the motion of the Hon. G. M. Thomson seconded by Professor Easterfield it was resolved that a hearty vote of thanks be conveyed to Mr. Archey for his work in connection with the compiling of the Reference List of Scientific Periodicals. 4. Manawatu, Philosophical Society.—Mr. Eliott reported that the Manawatu Philosophical Society would shortly be reorganized and at present an endeavour was being made to find a suitable secretary. Honorary Treasurer's Report for the Year Ending 31st December, 1927. The Balance Sheet for the year ending 31st December, 1927, shows a Debit Balance of £608/0/7, as compared with a Debit Balance of £163/19/- for the same period in 1926. The cost of Volume 57 was considerably greater than anticipated owing to its size (1220 pages), and to the very large number of corrections in author's proofs, extra for special setting, process and line blocks, etc. The contract price was £1,016/13/4, but the above-mentioned extras brought the total cost up to £1,385/11/-. However, even this amount was £245 below the Government Printer's account for Volume 58 (860 pages), but at the same time the cost of Volume 58 and succeeding Volumes is of urgency and importance. The Standing Committee should take the necessary steps to limit the size to reasonable dimensions, and prevent a recurrence of unnecessary extras, particularly the cost of author's corrections. If we are to carry out our undertaking to pay off the balance due to the Government Printer, £1,237/18/6. then the cost of the Transactions Should not exceed £850 per annum. It can be done for this, and the responsibility is with the Standing Committee to act accordingly. The Trust Accounts continue to show a satisfactory condition. The Carter Bequest Capital has increased by £402 during the year. Five per cent. Post Office Inscribed Stock for £400 purchased in 1922 for £388/8/4 matured in November last, and has been reinvested in 5¼; per cent. Post Office Inscribed Stock maturing in 1933, together with a further £200 available in the Carter Bequest.

The proposal to alter the date of the Annual Meeting is a good one. The present time of closing the books and accounts for the year, viz., 31st December, is a most awkward one for the Secretary, Auditor and Hon. Treasurer. The 31st March, which would coincide with the Government year, would be a much more convenient date. The Books and Accounts have, as usual, been accurately kept by the Assistant Secretary. (Signed)M. A. Eliott, Hon. Treasurer. New Zealand Institute.—Statement of Receipts and Expenditure for the Year Ending 31st December, 1927. Receipts. £ s. d. Balance as at 31st December, 1926 2,112 4 10 Statutory Grant 1,500 0 0 Levy Volume 57 221 10 0 Authors' Reprints 19 17 2 Publications Sold 59 4 6 Reference Lists Sold 17 16 8 Authors' Corrections paid 34 13 4 Contributions to Publication Expenses 52 0 0 Wellington Phil. Soc., Half Share Carter Beq—Legal Expenses 19 8 6 Interest, Post Office Savings Bank 52 18 3 Research Grants from Treasury 746 13 6 Carter Bequest—Interest 382 5 0 Hector Memorial Fund—Interest 68 10 0 Hutton Memorial Fund—Interest 69 0 0 Carter Library Legacy—Interest 8 0 0 Endowment Fund—Interest 20 10 0 Carter Bequest, P.O.S.B. A/c Transfer to B.N.Z. 65 1 2 Hector Memorial Fund, P.O.S.B. A/c Transfer to B.N.Z. 10 15 0 £5,460 7 11 Expenditure. £ s. d. Ferguson and Osborn, Ltd. 1,666 17 6 Government Printer 400 0 0 Whitcombe and Tombs, Ltd. 3 10 6 Salary 300 0 0 Travelling Expenses 51 1 4 Charges (Insurance, Bank Com., etc.) 8 7 2 Petty Cash (Postages, etc.) 14 10 5 Research Grant Instalments 634 15 7 Bell, Gully, Mackenzie and O'Leary—Carter Beq.—Legal Exs. 38 17 0 Hector Award (Dr. Cotton) 45 0 0 Hutton Research Grant Instalment 10 0 0 Carter Bequest—Interest Invested 401 16 2 Trust Funds Transferred to Accounts 139 11 8 Balance as under 1,746 0 7 £5,460 7 11 £ s. d. £ s. d. Balance in Bank of New Zealand 1,123 1 3 Less Unpresented Cheques 564 9 8 558 11 7 Balance in Post Office Savings Bank 1,173 18 11 Petty Cash in Hand 13 10 1 £1,746 0 7

New Zealand Institute.—Revenue Account for Year Ending 31st December, 1927. Expenditure. £ s. d. Balance at 1st January, 1927 163 19 0 Printing, etc. 2,006 7 6 Salary 300 0 0 Travelling Expenses 51 1 4 Postages, etc. 14 10 5 Insurance 3 12 11 Wreath 2 2 0 Bank Charges 1 10 0 Sundries (Cartage, freight) 1 2 3 Accounts Written Off:—Author's Corrections 17 10 11 Reprints 0 18 2 £2,562 14 6 Income. £ s. d. Government Grant 1,500 0 0 Contributions 52 0 0 Levy and Sales of Publications 402 13 11 Balance, 31st December, 1927 608 0 7 £2,562 14 6 To Balance £608 0 7

New Zealand Institute.—Statement of Assets and Liabilities as at 31st December, 1927. Liabilities. £ s. d. Carter Bequest Capital Account 6,806 8 8 Hector Memorial Fund Capital Account 1,184 18 1 Hutton Memorial Fund Capital Account 1,114 5 10 Endowment Fund Capital Account 397 17 0 Hamilton Memorial Fund Capital Account 48 7 11 Carter Legacy Capital Account 100 0 0 Carter Bequest Revenue Account 18 3 2 Hector Memorial Fund Revenue Account 44 18 7 Hutton Memorial Fund Revenue Account 67 1 5 Endowment Fund Revenue Account 139 18 11 Hamilton Memorial Fund Revenue Account 6 13 9 Carter Library Legacy Revenue Fund 17 6 11 Ferguson and Osborn, Ltd. 243 10 9 Government Printer 1,237 18 6 Library Fund 176 19 4 Research Grants 667 5 0 £12,271 13 10 Assets. £ s. d. £ s. d. Inscribed Stock 7,568 2 11 Post Office Inscribed Stock 2,035 6 8 Cash in Bank N.Z. 1,123 1 3 Less Unpresented Cheques 564 9 8 558 11 7 Cash in P.O.S.B. 1,173 18 11 Petty Cash in Hand 13 10 1 Outstanding Accounts 111 11 4 Carter Bequest P.O.S.B. Account 18 3 2 Hector Memorial Fund P.O.S.B. Account 44 18 7 Hutton Memorial Fund P.O.S.B. Account 67 1 6 Hamilton Memorial Fund P.O.S.B. Account 56 1 8 Carter Legacy P.O.S.B. Account 17 6 11 Balance of Liabilities over Assets 608 0 7 12,271 13 10 To Balance £608 0 7

New Zealand Institute.—Trust Accounts. Carter Bequest Revenue Account for the Year Ending 31st December, 1927. Dr Cr. £ s. d. £ s. d. To Interest re-invested 401 16 2 To Balance 31/1/26 56 1 11 Legal Exs., Bell, Gully, Mackenzie & O'Leary 38 17 0 Interest 383 5 11 Balance 18 3 2 Half Share from Wellington Phil. Soc. 19 8 6 £458 16 4 £458 16 4 By Balance £18 3 2 Hector Memorial Fund Revenue Account for the Year Ending 31st December, 1927 Dr. Cr. £ s. d. £ s. d. To Prize (Dr. Cotton) 45 0 0 By Balance 20 10 4 Balance 44 18 7 Interest 69 8 3 £89 18 7 £89 18 7 By Balance £44 18 7 Hutton Memorial Fund Revenue Account for the Year Ending 31st December, 1927. Dr. Cr. £ s. d. £ s. d. To Part Grant (Miss Mestayer) 10 0 0 By Balance 6 12 9 Balance 67 1 5 Interest 70 8 8 £77 1 5 £77 1 5 By Balance £67 1 5 Hamilton Memorial Fund Revenue Account for the year Ending 31st December, 1927. Dr. Cr. £ s. d. By Balance 4 11 7 Interest 2 2 2 £6 13 9 By Balance £6 13 9 Carter Library Legacy Revenue Account for the Year Ending 31st December, 1927. Dr. Cr. £ s. d. By Balance 9 3 6 Interest 8 3 5 £17 6 11 By Balance £17 6 11 Examined and found Correct. G. F. C. Campbell, Controller and Auditor-General.

Financial Statements.—The Hon. Treasurer moved the adoption of his slightly amended report and the Statements of Receipts and Expenditure, Revenue Account, Liabilities and Assets, and Trust Accounts. Seconded by Professor Park and carried. Report of the Publication Committee. The Committee is in the happy position of being able to report not only the issue of Volume 57, which was issued on 10th March, 1927, but also the issue of the first three quarterly numbers of Volume 58, Parts 1 and 2 as a double number on 15th August, 1927, and Part 3 on 15th November, 1927. Part 4 (December) will be out in February. For Volume 57 sixty papers by forty authors were submitted, of which forty-seven papers by thirty-five authors were published. Owing to two or three exceptionally long papers, this volume turned out the biggest yet issued by the Institute, consisting of 10 plus 1,123 pages, of which 143 were Proceedings and Appendix, and Minutes and Proceedings of the Third Science Congress of the New Zealand Institute (15 pages), with eighty plates and the usual proportion of line drawings. In Volume 58, sixty papers by forty-five authors were submitted, of which fifty-one papers by thirty-seven authors have been, or are being, published. Parts 1 and 2 (March and June) contain 4 plus 188 pages, of which thirty-four are the Minutes of the Annual Meeting of 27th January, 1927. It also contains the Presidential Address of Mr. B. C. Aston for the year, seventeen papers by fifteen authors, two reviews and an obituary notice, and includes twenty plates. Part 3 (September) contains 4 plus 169 pages, the whole of which are eighteen papers by fourteen authors, with seventeen plates and an extra proportion of line drawings. Details for part 4 (December) cannot be given, as it is still in the printer's hands, but it will not contain more than 250 pages, and will include probably eleven papers by ten authors, besides the Appendix and Index. An attempt has been made to include reviews: Mr. Aston has reviewed work on the Correlation of Iron Starvation in Ruminants with the Physical Features of the Country, and Mr. Millar has reviewed Dr. R. J. Tillyard's book. “The Insects of Australia and New Zealand.” It is felt that the Institute should take some notice of important books or work in this way. Attention may be drawn to two important facts. Firstly, there was not a paper on hand when the December number of the Transactions went to press; everything was so up-to-date that papers read less than two months before are included in that number. This means, too, that in future contributors may see their papers in print at any rate within three months of their being read, most probably within two months. This is partly due to the promptness of the printer, and the reliability that can be placed on his promise to have a part out by a certain date. Secondly, the financial position of the Institute as regards the Transactions will in future be in a most satisfactory state; the constable will not be overrun as he has been, unavoidably under the conditions, in the past. This again is largely due to the reasonable charges of the printer. We would take this opportunity of stressing the fact that the printer has striven his utmost, at times at financial loss to himself, to turn out work in as creditable a manner as possible. It must be remembered that the first volume he undertook, Volume 57, was the largest the Institute has had, and the work was of a technical nature of a kind this printer was not accustomed to, whereas the former printer had had years' of experience in it; and as we who deal with our present printer know the trouble he takes to turn out our work as we wish it, we trust the consideration shown for us by him may be shown by the Institute for him. During the year was issued Part 4 of Dixon's Bryology of New Zealand; this leaves a final part to complete this Bulletin, and Mr. Dixon has written to say this part is in hand. The Reference List of Periodicals prepared by Mr. Gilbert Archey, was also printed, the proofs being read by Miss Wood. Assistant Secretary. A four-page advertisement of publications on sale by the Institute was also printed and the bulk sent to Messrs. Wheldon and

Wesley, Ltd., who undertook to distribute it, with their own circulars, among their customers. The printing of these three items was also done by the printers of the Transactions, Messrs. Ferguson and Osborn, Ltd. (Signed)Johannes C. Andersen, For the Publications Committee. Publication Committee's Report.—Mr. Hill suggested that members who wished to receive the Transactions in a single volume instead of in four parts be provided for. On the motion of the President this was referred to the Standing Committee. The report was adopted. Report of the Great Barrier Reef Committee. Five meetings of the Committee were held during the past year. A British Barrier Reef Committee has been formed in England to cooperate with the Australian Committee. British Expedition.—The Australian Committee agreed to find as its maximum obligation £1,000 to aid the expedition, which is to be postponed until 1928 in favour of a larger scheme. The expedition will examine a section of the Great Barrier Reef off Cairns from the shore to the open ocean. The party will work for twelve continuous months. The main problems to be investigated include the physiology of the coral polyps, method of calcium deposition, distribution of plankton, and properties of sea water. Financial Statement at 1st September, 1927. £ s. d. Gross Receipts 5,692 9 2 Expenditure 4,631 17 4 Balance in Hand £1,060 11 10 (Signed)W. R. B. Oliver, N. Z. Institute Representative on the Committee. On the motion of the President the above report was adopted. Report of the Institute's Representative on the Tongariro National Park Board. I have to report that during the past year one meeting of the full Board was held at Wellington on 17th June, and three meetings of the Central Executive Committee consisting of the Wellington members were held on January 12th, May 12th, and December 8th, all of which were attended by me. The Chairman and Secretary make it a point to consult members before fixing a date for any meeting, a fair and business-like proceeding which ensures a maximum attendance. It might well be copied by some other Institutions. Heather.—The committee appointed to report on the imported heather question has begun work, and although at first handicapped by the absence in England of Mr. E. Phillips Turner, has presented a preliminary report. The Annual Report of the Board, which was presented to Parliament and which is before you, states that, “Much of the criticism which has been levelled in this connection is based on an imperfect knowledge of the true position, and can serve no other purpose than to convey a false impression that the whole area of the Park is a blazing mass of heather, choking out all native life. This, as will be seen by the report of the sub-committee, is contrary to fact.” I am not aware that any responsible person has made statements that could tend to convey such an impression, but what is earnestly sought by all interested in preserving the Park in its present condition is, that the whole area or any part of the Park shall not become “a blazing mass of heather,” or that any great portion of the flora may be choked out. If

action should be delayed until such a state of affairs is reached, it will then be too late to apply an effective remedy, and the Tongariro National Park will cease to be representative of New Zealand. No conclusions were drawn by the Heather Committee in framing the report, and cannot justly be drawn by others. Road Making.—A much more serious menace than the choking of the native vegetation by heather is the proposal to sacrifice a two chain width of forest at Olakune as a preliminary to the construction of a motor road from Ohakune up the Mountain. It was suggested that the sale of timber from such a strip would aid in making the road. Such a width of road would necessitate perpetual vigilance to keep the second growth down, and if not kept clear the view of the forest would be obscured. A committee of the Board visited the site in winter, and found the track knee deep in mud in places, which is good argument for improving the track, but not for making a road. The Annual Report of the Board states that £161/12/- was expended on the Ohakune Track. The work consisted in straightening and shortening the route. This entailed much cutting, clearing and formation, and the erection of several small bridges, and laying down 30 chains of corduroying. The Institute's Standing Committee passed the following resolution:— “That the New Zealand Institute opposes any suggestion for widening the track from Ohakune to the Ohakune Hut, but suggests that the track from Ohakune Junction through the Podocarp forest be improved without sacrificing any of the timber trees.” I am of opinion that this Institute should pass a very strong resolution with the view of awakening public opinion to demand that no more timber trees may be sacrificed than is absolutely necessary in making tracks, and I consider that no timber trees should be felled unless certified to as necessary by a competent committee which should be appointed. The whole matter of the proposed road has been referred to a meeting of the full Board to be held at the Park early in the New Year. It is satisfactory to report that matters are satisfactorily advancing towards the erection of an adequate Hostel for the accommodation of visitors to the Park, and that the Bruce Trustees, with characteristic generosity, have made a donation of £500 towards the erection, which will carry a Government subsidy of a like amount. (Signed)B. C. Aston. On the motion of the President the above report was adopted. Representative on Park Board.—On the motion of Professor Park seconded by Professor Worley it was resolved that Mr. B. C. Aston be elected as representative of the Institute on the Park Board. Report of the Institute's Representative on the New Zealand Institute of Horticulture. This Institute is continuing the work mentioned in my last report. The passage of an Act of Parliament last Session giving among other things to the Institute power to grant diplomas should strengthen its position as the New Zealand authority on Horticultural matters. An interesting Bulletin, of which Mr. Gilbert Archey is the Editor, is published dealing with horticultural matters. I brought the matter of Dr. A. W. Hill's projected visit to New Zealand before the Committee at the July meeting. The matter was at once taken up enthusiastically, and suitable receptions have been arranged. It is to be hoped that Dr. Hill, as a representative of the British Man of Science, will have time to meet members of the Board of the New Zealand Institute at the Annual Meeting. Meetings of the Sub-committee to consider the establishment of a National Botanical Garden were attended by me and a report prepared. It is to be hoped that details of the progress made with the Wilton's Bush scheme will show that efforts are being made to carry out the high ideals expressed at the opening last year.

The frequency of the meetings of the Horticultural Institute renders it impossible to attend all of them; a proposal to hold some of the meetings in the evening may do much to allow those who are busy at their own work in the day time to attend. The “Banks Lecture” has now become an annual feature of the Horticultural Institute, the subject of the last one most appropriately being “On the Fertility of the Soil,” by Mr. L. J. Wild, of Feilding. In addition to the subjects mentioned in my last report this Institute has taken up the following:— (1) Awarding Cups for competition in Horticulture. (2) Plant Registration. (3) Judging Rules at Shows. (4) Judges' Register. (5) Popular Lectures in connection with the W.E.A. (6) Native Plant Preservation. The Institute has now two paid officers, a Dominion Organiser and a Dominion Secretary. Attempts to secure grants from the Department of Scientific and Industrial Research in Horticulture are being made. (Signed)B. C. Aston. The above report, on the motion of the President, was adopted. Honorary Librarian's Report. Nothing of importance has to be reported regarding the Library. A few new exchanges have been entered into, and a careful watch is kept upon the regularity of the Journals received. It is satisfactory to note the publication of the Institute's Reference List of Scientific Periodicals, compiled by Mr. Archey. This will do much to increase the accessibility and usefulness of the Library. The binding of periodicals has been proceeding, but much yet remains to be done, and there are still, unfortunately, many sets which will have to be completed by the filling up of gaps. (Signed)D. M. Y. Sommerville. The above report was adopted. Report of the Research Grant Committee. Ten applications for research grants were made during the year. The Committee recommended grants in eight cases, to the total amount of £813, in one case it suggested that the proposed research might appropriately be carried outby the Public Works Department, and, in the remaining case, the Committee was unable to make a recommendation. Reports or interim reports have been received from most of those holding grants and abstracts of these, kindly prepared by the Assistant Secretary, are appended. In a few cases no report has been sent in. The reports and abstracts were received on January 12th and 13th. Owing to the short time available, and to the absence from Christchurch of the majority of the Committee, it has not been possible to discuss fully all the points raised, and to present a detailed report on the accounts given of the researches conducted. Some general questions arise, and the following matters, in particular, are submitted for review by the incoming committee:— 1 Detailed vouchers of the expenditure are supplied only in a few cases. 2 Certain grantees have suggested that the unexpended balance of their grants should be transferred to other purposes or persons, or have made recommendations as to the custody of apparatus purchased. 3 The question of cancelling grants where no work has been done within a reasonable time. (Signed)Chas. Chilton. Chairman Research Grants Committee.

Research Grants Report for the Year Ending 31st December, 1927. Dr. C. E. Adams was, in 1925, granted £200 for research on Southern Stars. He reports, that through the assistance of the Public Works Department, he has been supplied with a design of an interferometer to be fitted to the 9-inch City Telescope at Kelburn. The Public Works Department has gone into the matter very carefully, and advises that the work be placed in the hands of an English firm, such as Cooke, Troughton and Simms. The Mt. Wilson Observatory has supplied the four plane mirrors for use on the interferometer. No portion of the grant has yet been expended, and Dr. Adams asks that he may obtain quotations for the construction of the interferometer. Dr. H. H. Allan was, in 1924, granted £50 for research on Mt. Egmont forests. He reports that it has not been possible to conduct any further field work since his last report. The research will be completed in May, 1928. Advantage was taken of the presence of Dr. G. E. du Rietz, of Uppsala University, to discuss various problems, especially those connected with the significance of the lichen flora and vegetation and a representative set of lichens was determined by Dr. du Rietz. Mr. Dixon, of Northampton, has also assisted with the treatment of mosses. No expenditure has been incurred during the year, and grantee has a balance in hand of £23/0/10. Dr. H. H. Allan was, in 1923, granted £30 for research on cocksfoot and ryegrass. He reports that, owing to flooding of the area devoted to rye-grass, much of the work has to be repeated. Investigations have been continued on the phenomena of germination and life-histories of the species. Several selections of promising individual plants have been made, and these have been multiplied by clonal divisions. Comparisons of strains of different origins have been continued, and it has been determined that New Zealand grown material affords the best means of furthering the objects of research. Advantage was taken of the visit of Mr. G. Stapledon, of the Aberystwyth Plant Breeding Station to discuss the problems arising, and methods of investigation for dealing with them. No expenditure was incurred and grantee has in hand £20/16/6. Mr. G. Archey was, in 1926, granted £40 for research on Chilopoda. He reports that general collecting of all orders of Chilopoda has been carried out in the Auckland district, and a small portion of the grant expended on this. A detailed study of the Geophilomorpha has been practically completed and a revision of the New Zealand species of the order can be presented as soon as certain specimens sent to Europe and the United States for comparison with types have been returned. Expenditure to date has been £32/18/11. Professor W. N. Benson was, in 1925, granted £50 for preparing rock-sections of Dunedin region. He reports that the work of the detailed mapping and petrological examination of the volcanic rocks of the Dunedin district has been continued by him and his students. One of the latter has made a detailed map of Waitati Valley, finding therein a series of complexly faulted lavas. Further work will be continued during the coming vacation. Expenditure to date is £22/15/-. Dr. C. Chilton was, in 1925, granted £100 for research in food-supply of New Zealand Fishes. He reports that further progress has been made by his assistant, Mr. E. W. Bennett, in the collection and study of Entomostraca. One paper has been written, and several others are in course of preparation. Some collection of fresh and brackish water Entomostraca have been made, and some of these have been sent to Dr. V. Brehm, of Bohemia, for examination and identification. He has discovered among them a number of new species of Ostrocoda and Copepoda. Reports on the first part of his researches are expected soon for publication in the Transactions of the New Zealand Institute. Dr. Brehm has also sent collections of Cyclopidae and Hydracarina from the same material to other scientists in Europe. The total expenditure to date is £55/0/3, and, as Dr. Chilton and Mr. Bennett are leaving Christchurch for Nelson, he sees little prospect of continuing the research, and he refunds a balance of £4/19/9.

Mr. W. C. Davies was, in 1921, granted £50 for research on soil bacteria and protozoa. He reports that the investigations of the previous year concerning the correlation of bacterial counts with the relative fertility of Nelson soils have been continued as far as the exigencies of other work have permitted. Several fresh soils, including those of the Nelson Haven and Mud Flats, and the Pakihi lands of the West Coast, are still under consideration and publication of the results is being delayed to permit the inclusion of these in the series. The whole of the grant has been expended. Mr. H. G. Denham was, in 1925, granted £115 for research on Low Temperature Carbonisation of New Zealand Brown Coals. He sent a table of the results of the analyses of the coals obtained to date by his assistant. The methods adopted are outlined in a publication of the English Fuel Research Board, “Physical and Chemical Survey of the National Coal Resources, No. 7.” Gas analysis was conducted with the Hempel apparatus, hydrogen absorbed over copper oxide, and the remainder exploded for methane and ethane. The whole of the grant has been expended, and the work is being continued by the Fuel Committee of the Department of Scientific and Industrial Research. Professor Easterfield was, in 1921, granted £200, and in 1926 an additional £100 for research on the cool storage of fruit. He reports that the results of the 1926-27 experiments have been published during the year in the form of a pamphlet. Experiments are now being extended in the direction of using other varieties of fruit and still further modifyng the conditions under which the fruit is stored. The general result of the researches has been a great increase of knowledge on the conditions under which apples can safely be stored for comparatively long periods. The whole of the grant has been expended. Dr. C. C. Farr was, in 1924, granted £250 for research on Helium in New Zealand. He reports that he and Mr. Rogers have continued the investigation during the whole year, and gases have been collected from the Northern part of the South Island, and from the Taranaki, Hawke's Bay, and Gisborne districts, and their Helium content has been determined. As Mr. Rogers has been able to devote his whole time to this investigation, progress has been much more rapid, and it is hoped to complete the work during the coming year. Specimens of all gases collected have been preserved for chemical analysis, and the results, together with the Helium results, will be published, and it is hoped to possess an accurate knowledge not only of Helium content but also of the general character of the gas effusions which are to be found in so many different parts of the Dominion. The expenditure to date is £161/1/8. Dr. C. C. Farr was, in 1921, granted £15 for research on the physical properties of gas free sulphur. He reports that work in connection with the research has gone on as opportunity presented itself, and this year it has been brought to the publication stage, and an account of the work done and the results arrived at has been prepared in the form of a paper by Farr and McLeod, and has been sent to England for publication. Owing to the experimental difficulties involved and also to lack of time, the investigation has been rather prolonged, but it is hoped that the results are of sufficient importance to justify the labour which has been put into it. There has been no expenditure during the year, the unexpended balance being £4/18/1. Dr. C. C. Farr was, in 1923, granted £30 for research on the relationship between radium emanation and goitre. He reports that as far as the work contemplated originally is concerned it was finished with the publication of a paper by Mr. M. N. Rogers, giving the results of an examination of different sources of water supply in Canterbury and elsewhere. At this stage, however, the work was continued by Dr. Milligan in conjunction with Mr. Rogers, and papers have been read by them during the year embodying the results of injecting rabbits with radon, and of impregnating water inhabited by trout with radium emanation. The work is more properly carried out with the aid of a Bio-chemist, and it is suggested that the balance of the vote should be handed over to Mr. Rogers and Dr. Milligan, so that experiments may be continued by them. No expenditure was incurred during the year, the unexpended balance being £14/0/7.

Mr. H. J. Finlay was, in 1924, granted £100 for research on tertiary mollusca. He reports that the work is covered by papers which have been published in the Transactions of the New Zealand Institute. Perhaps the main work done has been the critical review of New Zealand recent and tertiary mollusca, the results of which are embodied in “Further Commentary in New Zealand Molluscan Systematics.” Some hundreds of species have been described and thousands identified, many new genera have been proposed, and a valuable reference collection built up for the use of students of New Zealand Mollusca. The whole of the grant has been expended. Mr. F. W. Foster was, in 1923, granted £25 to collate the notes, MSS., etc., of the late Sir David Hutchins. He reports that he is still working on the notes and the MSS., and he hopes to submit a large portion of the work early in the New Year. No expenditure has been entailed. Dr. F. W. Hilgendorf was, in 1926, granted £50 for a calculating machine. This instrument is used for the purpose of co-ordinating agricultural experiments and is assisting investigations in many directions, and is in almost daily use. It has been used in correlating scattered manurial experiments in various places, and the first Bulletin on this subject is now in the press. The whole of the grant was expended in the purchase of the machine. Mr. H. Hill was, in 1925, granted £50 for completing a survey of the Taupo Plains. He forwards a report of the results of his investigations which have covered a wide area of land, and have dealt with many aspects of the survey as follows: Sulphur deposits, clays, etc., water finding, rhyolite deposits, exploitation and value of the pumice lands, etc. There is an unexpended balance of £8. Dr. J. H. K. Inglis was, from 1923 to 1926, granted amounts totalling £75 for research on the essential oils of native plants. He reports that during the year work has been begun upon the oils of several plants, but no research has been carried through to completion. A considerable amount of oil has been obtained from White Pine and Totara, and work on these will be carried on next year. Work has also been carried on on Silver Pine, some varieties of Rata, Black Pine and Red Pine. There is an unexpended balance of £2/14/10. Mr. G. Jobberns was, in 1926, granted £50 for correlation of shore platforms of the North East Coast of the South Island. He reports that the work is now well in hand and a complete preliminary survey of the coast has been made from Blenheim to Banks Peninsula. As many problems have arisen in the course of the work most of the coast will have to be revisited. This he proposes to do in the vacation. To complete the work, terraces of East Coast rivers will have to be examined. This is likely to take a considerable time, and grantee has applied for an additional amount. The whole of the present grant has been expended. Mr. F. V. Knapp was, in 1925, granted £26 for procuring Maori Artifacts, etc. He reports that no further research has been carried on during the year, but he hopes to visit a rock shelter beyond Lake Rotoroa used by Maoris in their journeys from the East to the West Coast, and also to visit several camping sites in the Golden Bay district. No further expenditure has been incurred. Balance remains, £16/16/0. Mr. R. M. Laing was, in 1924, granted £100 for research on New Zealand Algae. He reports that he published a paper on the “External Distribution of the New Zealand Algae and Notes on Some Algological Problems,” and another paper on the genus Porphyra is also completed. He considers this the most important (economically) of the genera of algae; the species are largely used for food in Great Britain, Japan, Hawaii, California and elsewhere. In Japan they are extensively cultivated. He hopes to continue the work next year. The expenditure to date has been £65/7/11. Dr. J. Malcolm was, in 1919-1926, granted a total amount of £631/3/7 for research on the the food-values of New Zealand fishes. He reports that he has personally carried out analyses of monthly samples of Stewart Island oysters for the ordinary constituents, and for their content of Vitamin A.

At present the work is incomplete, and he hopes to publish the results during the year. Samples of tinned toheroa were also examined and found to be rich in Vitamin A. A paper on this subject is being prepared for publication. As it is unlikely that Dr. Malcolm will be able to continue the work on fishes after completing what he has in hand, he wishes to thank the Institute for the financial help he has received without which the work could not have been done. The expenditure to date is £609/18/-. Dr. J. Malcolm was, in 1918, granted £30 for research into the Pharmacology of New Zealand Plants. He reports that no further work has been possible this year, and he suggests that the unexpended portion, £10, be used for isolating a quantity of Pukateine, sufficient to carry out research into its possible therapeutic uses. He suggests that Mr. Aston might undertake to do this. Dr. Marsden was granted, in 1924, £60 for seismological research. He reports that neither he nor Dr. Adams has been able to undertake the work and no expenditure has been incurred. Mosquito Control Committee was, in 1925, granted £100 to carry on an investigation in Auckland. A lengthy report of the work done was submitted to the Research Grants Committee of the New Zealand Institute earlier in the year, and this Committee reported it as satisfactory. The work, however, is in a preliminary state, and the Mosquito Control Committee applied for an additional grant in order that the work might be continued uninterruptedly, and it proposes (in the event of the application being approved) to have a man giving his whole time to the research. The whole of the £100 has been expended. Mr. A. W. B. Powell was, in 1925, granted £50 for a survey of the molluscan fauna of Manakau Harbour. He reports that data is steadily being accumulated, but owing to the difficulty of access to the greater part of the shore line, the work is not likely to be completed for a year or two. In the meantime, other work is being accomplished with the aid of the microscope previously purchased by means of the grant. Several lengthy papers are almost ready for publication. Expenditure to date is £37/13/7. Research Committee for Ecological Survey of the Waitemata Harbour was, in 1925, granted £65 for this work. It reports the next report will include the final results of the investigations. During the past year several expeditions were made, and collecting stations established at all important points. Observations and data have been made on mammals and birds, fish, invertebrate animals and plankton and seaweeds. Expenditure during the year amounted to £13/4/1. Mr. W. F. Short was, in 1925-26, granted £175 for an investigation into the constituents of New Zealand Essential Oils. He reports that the catalytic hydrogenation apparatus arrived broken, and it was necessary to wait for replacements from the makers in Europe. The apparatus, however, is now in working order. He has been working on Sesquiterpene and Leptospermol, and is making preparation for an attack on the constitution of other constituents of essential oils from plants growing in New Zealand. The total expenditure to date is £169/15/8. Mr. H. F. Skey, who took over from Capt. Isitt a balance of £86/10/9, and who was granted an additional £175 at the end of last year, for research on Upper Air, reports that since last report 103 balloon flights have been observed. An account of the results for the first 87 flights was given before the Canterbury Philosophical Institute in August last, the results being illustrated in graphic form. The apparatus purchased by means of the grant was loaned to the Department of Scientific and Industrial Research during February and March of this year, and intensive series of observations were made, and the results are to be published in the Annual Report of the Christchurch Magnetic Observatory, and Mr. Skey requests that permission be given to him to have all the observations he makes published in the report, also so that all the results should be available together. The additional improved aero-theodolite ordered from Messrs. Watts and Son should shortly be delivered, and the balance of the grant, £170/1/7, should be sufficient to meet this expense and to carry on during 1928.

Professor R. Speight, was, in 1919, granted £225 for geological survey of the Malvern Hills. He reports that the final report, covering the whole work of the research is being published by the Department of Scientific and Industrial Research. There is a small balance in hand of £1/1/3, which if not required will be refunded. Dr. J. A. Thomson was in 1919, granted £100 for research into the chemical character of igneous rocks. He reports that owing to ill-health he had to suspend work on this research. There is an unexpended balance of £15/12/6. Mr. A. Tonnoir was, in 1925, granted £50 for research on New Zealand glow worms. He reports that, owing to his removal from Christchurch, where the research was instituted, to Nelson, he has been unable to continue. He hopes that next year he may be able to resume. He has a balance in hand of £7/0/3. Messrs. Wild and Tankersley were, in 1923, granted £25 for a soil survey of the Manawatu District. Mr. Wild reports that the work has progressed as limited opportunities permitted. He does not anticipate requiring the unexpended balance of £18/5/6. Professor F. P. Worley was, in 1923, granted £25 and in 1925 an additional £25 for research on the chemistry of essential oils and other products of the New Zealand flora. He reports that during the year the essential oil of Mairehau (Phebalium nudum) has been investigated, and the results are being prepared for publication. During the summer he intends collecting a supply of leaves of Melicope ternata for investigation next year. Expenditure to date is £21/8/6. Mr. F. H. McDowall was, in 1924, granted £60, and in 1926 an additional £20, for an investigation of Ngaio Oil. He reports that the results have been published in the Journal of the Chemical Society under the title “Constituents of Myoporum Laetum, Forst. (The Ngaio), Parts 1 and 2.” Part 2 deals with Hydrogenation of Ngaione and Ngaiol and Dehydration of Ngaiol and was published early in the year. Mr. McDowall is working on this research at London University, and his grant is being administered through the High Commissioner who has £20 in hand. Reports have not been received from the following:— Mr. G. Brittin. £100, Fruit Tree Diseases. Mr. G. Salt, who took over Professor Burbidge's research grant of £125 for Long Wave Wireless from Europe. Mr. H. Hamilton, £30, Cave Fauna of New Zealand. Mr. E. K. Thomas, £25, research on Intelligence of School Children. Mr. W. J. Phillipps, £30, Life History of New Zealand Fishes. Research Grant Committee Report.—On the motion of the Chairman of the Research Grant Committee, Dr. Chilton, the report was adopted. Research Property.—Certain questions in regard to the disposal of books and apparatus were referred to the Standing Committee. Date and Place of Annual Meeting.—On the motion of the Hon. G. M. Thomson, it was resolved that the next Annual Meeting be held pro forma in Wellington on the 10th January, 1929, and adjourned to Auckland at a date to be fixed later. Science Congress, 1929.—It was resolved that the next Science Congress be held in Auckland at a date to be fixed. National Research Council.—On the motion of Professor Farr seconded by Mr. A. M. Wright it was resolved that the constitution under the New Zealand Institute of the National Research Council

be referred to the Standing Committee to consider and report at next Annual Meeting and that in the meantime the Board of Governors act as the National Research Council. Pan Pacific Science Congress.—Correspondence from the President and General Secretary of the Fourth Pacific Science Congress, to be held at Java in May, 1929, was read, and copies of the First Announcement laid on the table. It was resolved that incorporated societies be circulated in regard to the matter. Gape Kidnappers Bird, Sanctuary.—A report from the Secretary of the Board was received. Hutton Research Grants.—An application was received from Dr. Chas. Chilton for a grant of £50, for expenses in connection with his researches on New Zealand and Antarctic Crustacea and one from Mr. H. J. Finlay for £10, for defraying photographic expenses in connection with his research on New Zealand mollusca. Both applications on the motion of Hon. G. M. Thomson seconded by Professor Worley were granted. Hutton Award.—A letter from Dr. Benham was referred to the Hutton Award Committee for consideration. Dr. Chilton was added to the Committee. Storage of Specimens.—A letter from the Turanganui Public Library in regard to storing specimens was referred to the Standing Committee. Waipoua Forest.—On the motion of the Hon. G. M. Tromson seconded by Dr. Chilton it was resolved: “That this Institute views with regret the action of the Government in opening a public road through the Waipoua Forest, when one which would have served the needs of the district and of the settlers in the neighbourhood could have been constructed round the forest area at the same or only a slightly increased cost.” It was further resolved: “That as the Waipoua Forest contains the only large tract of Kauri forest left in New Zealand, it is desirable that it should be preserved for all time and that no trees should be removed from the area except under the authority of and by the officers of the Forestry Department, and only where it is considered that such removal of trees is essential for the regeneration of the Kauri forest.” Dr. Thomson moved and Professor Easterfield seconded and it was carried: “That the Auckland Institute be asked to set up a Vigilance Committee to preserve the Waipoua and Trownson forests intact.” Annual Meeting.—Mr. Hill moved and Dr. Cockayne seconded: That a meeting of the New Zealand Institute be held in Wellington on the 10th January, 1929, and adjourned to the Tongariro National Park two days later. Professor Segar moved an amendment that Mr. Hill's motion be considered next year. The amendment was carried. Method of Elections.—On the motion of Dr. Thomson seconded by Professor Easterfield it was resolved: “That a committee of three

members be set up to examine systems of election and to recommend an improved system for the election of Fellows and of Honorary, Members, the Committee to report to the Standing Committee, and that the Commitee consist of Professor Segar, Professor Sommerville and Dr. Thomson (convener). Arthur's Pass.—On the motion of Dr. Cockayne seconded by Mr. Hill it was resolved: “That the Department of Lands he informed that it is not merely the forest near Arthur's Pass that should be made a Scenic Reserve, but also the open ground on the actual Pass itself, such ground being famous for its alpine plants. Abstracts of Papers.—On the motion of Professor Worley seconded by Professor Segar it was resolved: “That the Standing Committee be instructed to enquire into the possibility of publishing abstracts of papers published outside the Dominion by workers in New Zealand.” Research Grants.—On the motion of Dr. Farr seconded by Mr. Wright it was resolved: “That in order to avoid unnecessary delay it be a recommendation to the Government that applications for research grants which have been approved by the Research Grants Committee and by the Standing Committee of the New Zealand Institute be placed promptly before the Minister.” Dr. Cockayne Honoured.—On the motion of Dr. Thomson it was unanimously resolved: “That this meeting congratulates Dr. Cockayne on the three recent honours conferred on him: The Mueller Medal, Honorary Membership of the American Botanical Society, and Honorary Membership of the Finland Botanical Society.” Election of Officers.—President, Dr. J. A. Thomson; Hon. Secretary, Mr. B. C. Aston; Hon. Treasurer, Mr. M. A. Eliott; Hon. Editor, Mr. J. C. Andersen; Hon. Librarian, Professor Sommerville; Hon. Returning Officer, Professor H. W. Segar. Managers of Trust Accounts.—Mr. B. C. Aston and Mr. M. A. Eliott. Research Grants Committee.—Professor Farr (Convener), Professor Speight, D. Hilgendorf, Dr. Denham, and Mr. A. M. Wrgiht. Hector Award Committee.—Dr. Chilton and Mr. G. V. Hudson. Hamilton Award Committee.—Dr. Marshall and Dr. Thomson. Library Committee.—Professor Sommerville, Professor Kirk, Professor Cotton and Dr. Thomson. Finance Committee.—Mr. Wright, Hon. G. M. Thomson, Professor Segar, Messrs. Eliott and Aston. Votes of Thanks were accorded to the President, Hon. Editor, Hon. Secretary, Hon. Treasurer and Assistant Secetary; also to the Council of Victoria College for continuing to house the Library and Office, to Professor Kirk for the use of his room for the meeting, to

the Dominion Museum for use of room, and to the Press for its attendance. Travelling Expenses.-It was resolved that travelling expenses be paid. Dr. A. W. Hill.—Just prior to the afternoon tea adjournment, a visit was received from Dr. A. W. Hill, Director of the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew, accompanied by Dr. Marsden, Secretary of the Department of Scientfic and Industrial Research. Dr. Hill is visiting Australia under arrangements made by the Empire Marketing Board and the New Zealand Council of Scientific and Industrial Research invited him to extend his itinerary so as to include New Zealand. After afternoon tea the Board resumed, and the President, in welcoming Dr. Hill, said it gave him great pleasure to inform Dr. Hill that he had that day been elected an Honorary Member of the New Zealand Institute. Dr. Hill thanked the Institute for the honour conferred upon him, and stated that he was very glad of the opportunity of meeting members of the Board of Governors. He gave an interesting outline of his career as a Botanist, and later joined in a general discussion of botanical matters in New Zealand.