NATIVE LEASES.

Opunake Times, Volume II, Issue 93, 24 May 1895, Page 2

NATIVE LEASES.

(to the editor.) Sir,—Having occupied a nativs lease under the impression that, as stated in the Act, all improvements up to five pounds an acre were to be considered the property of the lessee, I, on application to the Public Trustee for a new lease, had nearly the whole of my improvements confiscated for the benefit of the native owners. If this practice is followed to the end of our tenancy, those who have spent their time and money in rendering valuable what was waste and valueless lands, will find that this fair reading lease will prove a delusive snare for robbing them and their children. Combined action is required to finally deal with this matter during the coming session of Parliament; not of a section, but the whole of the lessees. Opunake being a good centre for a meeting of delegates, some amongst you should communicate with" a few lessees in every locality to arrange for district meetings to discuss matters; and, on a date fixed afterwards, to send one or more delegates to some centre to draw up a petition to Parliament, setting forth our grievances, which they would have to present to their lessees for signature, and be prepared to back its contents at Wellington before a oommittee of the House. Then, with the petition and the statements of their delegates, lessees may obtain what they require—security of their improvements.—l am, &c, • . Lessee, Puniho, May 20th.