Untitled

Hokitika Guardian, 14 October 1932, Page 4

The annual report of the Native Department recently tabled in the House of Representatives, stales the system of development of native land by Maoris is steadily progressing, and i,s now beginning to show results for the expenditure that has been incurred. Unfortunately, iii one sense, but providentially in another way, the commencement of the main operations began af a time when world' prices took a downward trend and economic conditions occurred which upset the calculations of all financial experts. The hone, however, that something was at last to he done to help the Maoris to develop their lands, gave them renewed confidence in the future, especially 'as while improving their landis they were to obtain partial subsistence. This expenditure became a charge upon the land owned by them, and thus somewhat minimised the burden that had fallen upon the general taxpayer. There are now about 49 schemes in progress, although less than 20 of them have so far reached the revenue-producing stage. The Maoris have been enabled, in spite of low prices and strenuous times, to repay over £IO,OOO of indebtedness incurred on their behalf. In the coming year it is expected that many more, will reach a partially productive basis. The report says that the funds held or invested by Maori Land Boards decreased by £33,949 during the year. The funds totalled £595,047, of which £173,757 was on denosit with the Native Trustee, £30,270 was in Government securities, £306.757 was represented by other securities, and advances and cash balances accounted for £24,262. Native land purchased by the Crown amounted to 5624 acres. Since 1910, 1,539,818 acres of native land had been acquired through the Native Land Purchase Board.