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New Zealand Times, Volume XXXIV, Issue 5847, 25 December 1879, Page 2

During the past few days there have been rumors in circulation as to a probable advance on the Waitnato Plains. We can state authoritatively, however, that the Government have no intention of doing anything that might possibly lead to a collision with the natives, or that might even be construed by them as a menace. What the Government purpose doing is to repair the old line of road oh the sea coast via Opunake, and they intend employing a portion of the large force of Armed Constabulary on the work. As there are now about 800 of the force on the coast, the expenditure entailed on the country is something very considerable, and the Government consider that profitable occupation can be found for a large number of men in making culverts and doing other necessary repairs along the coast road. They do not anticipate any objections on the part of the natives to the carrying out of these works, as the road was made, in the first instance, with the entire concurrence of the Maoris owning the lands. There is no intention of making any new roads for the present; neither will any surveys be proceeded with. The Commission to inquire into the confiscated lands, to which Mr. Bryce made reference when he delivered his Native Statement to the House, will be appointed in the course of a few days. It will be composed of three members—two European and one Maori. The names of the former gentlemen have not yet been finally decided upon; but Mr. Honi Mohi TAwifir, M.H.R., will represent the natives on the Commission. Until such time as a report is furnished to the Government, it is very unlikely that any further steps will be taken in reference to either the occupation, survey, or settlement of the Plains. Whatever may occur, the out-settlers can rely that the Government will bear in mind their exposed position, and will do nothing without being fully assured of their safety. However, the Government are of opinion that there will be no objection whatever ,on, l t]j6 : part of the natives to the course [decided upon, and . there need, • tHefejfore, be no alarm on' the;part'"ofcthfe (settlers. '' ' {'