THE PREMIER AND THE NATIVES.

Globe, Volume XXIV, Issue 2464, 28 February 1882, Page 3

THE PREMIER AND THE NATIVES.

OHINEMTJTU, February 27.

A largo meeting was held to-day here for the purpose of presenting an address to the Premier and affording the Natives an opportunity of bringing several matters under his notioe. There was a very largo attendance of Natives and Europeans. Major Mair and arother gentleman interpreted. The substance of the address was that the Natives congratulated the Premier on his arrival, and thanked him for his visit. The Maoris thoroughly approved of the Thermal Springs Aot of last session, and expeoted it would be the means of providing a living for themselves and their children. Other complimentary remarks to Parliament wound up with " God Save the Queen." The Premier replied in terms which elicited strong marks of approval from both Maoris and Europeans. Ho thanked the Natives for their oordial welcome, and reminded them that there oould only be one Sovereign for the people of this oountry, namely, the Queen, -whose desire it was to promote the welfare and happiness of both races. There was a Parliament to enact laws, and inthis Parliament there were Native representatives. The duty of Mir isters was to carry out the laws whio'i Parliament made. He exprefsed pleasure at the Natives' approval of the Thermal Springs Aot. Springs possessing such wonderful and valuable properties should be available for all olaeses of the people. Great numbers of persons would come there from all parts of the world, and it was right that the Maoris should receive a considerable share of tho rental. At auction full value would be realised, and letting at annual rental would be better for tbe Natives than downright sale. The sale would also attract a large European population, which would enhanoe the value of the rest of the land. He would lay their address before Parliament. He thon asked the leading chiefs to explain their grievances to him. Several important mattersare being discussed. OHINEMUrd, February 28. The Maoris continued addressing the Premier for two hocri, and delayed his departure lot Kotomahana considerably. All tho matters are of great importance to the district and residents, but not of general public interest. They specially urged the prosecution of a road from bridge, and the Premier promised to have the road completed before the winter. A question about the licensing law was also raised og»i ns * the prohibition to supply the Maoris. They urged their understanding that thero was but one law for themselves and the Europeans. Ihe Natives also wanted a school established to teach t"* l * boys European trades. The Premier left tor Kotomahana, and is expected to return tomorrow and proceed to Napier via Taupo. =* John O'Shannaay i 3 hero and a number of other visitors. . ~.. The Government land sale on tho 7th is UWv to pro jo a great sucoess.