LATEST FROM THE EAST COAST.

Marlborough Express, Volume IV, Issue 157, 13 February 1869, Page 3

LATEST FROM THE EAST COAST.

On Sunday, 24th ult., Captain Spiller and a small mounted party started inland, in order, if poasible, to determine the truth or otherwise of reports prevalent as to the presence of Hauhaus in the district. Capt. Spiller, the day before, called for volunteers, without pay and rations, and all who had horses expressed their willingness to join. A number of natives, on being similarly asked, volunteered and accompanied the expedition. Accompanied by

Lieutenant Finlayson, Mr. Worgan, and Mr. Preece, twenty-four Europeans, and fifteen natives, the party started. They found Felix Goulet all right, but he said that natives had driven half his sheep off his run, and that fires were constantly seen in the direction of Waihi and Kiwi. On Monday the party reached Tukurangi, and found there large potato cultivations, and fires still burning. Farther on, the force came upon a large encampment, with fresh built huts and breakwinds, with indications that natives had just left. It was now raining heavily, but the force pushed on to the top of a steep hill near the Kiwi, which was found rifle-pitted, with numerous tracks of natives. A settlement in the vicinity was also visited, and found to have been recently evacuated. The force advanced to within-four miles of Waikare Moana lake, but Captain Spiller did not think it prudent, with the very small force at his disposal, to proceed farther. He returned on the evening of the 29th, having been pleased, we understand, with the general bearing of those under his command. It is supposed that the natives, of whose presence so many indications were seen, were cither those of Te Warn, or the party under Anaru Matete.— H.B. Herald.