WANGANUI RIVER TRUST (ANNUAL REPORT OF THE); WITH MAPS.

Appendix to the Journals of the House of Representatives, 1908 Session I, C-15

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1908. NEW ZEALAND.

WANGANUI RIVER TRUST (ANNUAL REPORT OF THE); WITH MAPS.

Presented to both Houses of the General Assembly by Command of His Excellency.

WANGANUI RIVER TRUST. Members.—T. D. Cummins (Chairman, Government nominee); J. T. Hogan, M.P., Wanganui; Walter Svmes, M.P., Patea; W. Ritchie, Chairman, Waitotara County Council; D. Mason, Chairman, Wanganui Count}- Council; J. H. Keesing, President, Wanganui Chamber of Commerce; C. E. Mackay, Mayor; W. G. Bassett, T. B. Williams, and J. T. Stewart, C.E., members elected by the ratepayers of Wanganui. Report. Sir,— Wanganui, 10th July, 1908. I have pleasure in reporting on the work performed by the Wanganui River Trust for the year ended 31st March, 1908. The conditions of the river have been favourable to the work in hand, and a very considerable amount has been handled, resulting in much improvement to the navigation of the upper reaches. 1 am pleased to be able to report that the traffic from Taumarunui down-stream has been maintained without interruption. A very large number of tourists and settlers have been carried down-stream, and the facilities for the conveyance of goods to the settlers on both banks of the river have been largely taken advantage of, and have undoubtedly assisted settlement of lands abutting on the river. During the year a special committee was set up to report on the lands that should be reserved for scenic purposes, also to report on suitable areas that were not of so much consequence in that respect, but could be utilised by the Wanganui River Trust Domain Board for leasing, and producing a revenue for maintaining the navigation. You have already received the report by Mr. J. T. Stewart, and I enclose witli this a copy of a report Furnished by Mr. 11. Lundius, Crown Lands Ranger, to the Commissioner of Crown Lands, Wellington. I trust that ere long these reports will be given effect to. that the scenery will be fully preserved, and that the areas suitable for leasing and producing revenue will be offered for tender. The improvement-works have mainly consisted of the construction of walls and groins for deepening shallow places, and improving the rapids. The length <>( the c pleted walls this year is 9,506 ft., of an average width of 5 ft. and depth of 3 ft. 9 in. As well as the work above referred to, many vagrant snags have lx-en removed, also boulders and papa reefs that have appeared through scour consequent on the construction of the walls and groins. The cost of the work has been £2,509. Below Pipiriki maintenance of the river-channel has received full'attention by removal of snags and boulders and repairing walls. In conclusion, I would urge that, although the condition of the river for navigation purposes has been very considerably improved, there is yet much to be done to assist matters in the low condition of the river in the summer months, when steamer traffic is at its greatest. I sincerely trust that the sum already requisitioned to be placed on the estimates for this very necessary work will have due consideration. I am, <$re, T. D. Cummins, Chairman, Wanganui River Trust. W. C. Kensington, Esq., Under-Secretary, Lands Department, Wellington,

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[Enclosure, j Extract. Wanganui River Trust Domain. Sir, — Wanganui, 19th February, 1908. As instructed in your memo, of the 9th November last, 1 proceeded to Taumarunui on the 4th instant and met there the Chairman (Mr. T. D. Cummins) and two members (Messrs. J. T. Stewart and J. Hogan, M.P.) of the Wanganui River Trust. From there we proceeded down the river in the Trust's motor canoe, and I beg to submit the following report: — The portion of the public domain from Taumarunui to Tunakotekote Stream should not, in my opinion, be leased. It comprises a rather extensive manuka flat at the confluence of the Ongarue with the Wanganui River. This Hat extends some 30 to 10 elm ins back from the river, then it rises with a fairly easy slope to a ridge some 300 ft. to 400 ft. high. The slope is mostly fern-clad, but there are a few patches of scrub and bush and the whole forms rather a picturesque background to the township of Taumarunui. Ido not think the small revenue that would be derived from it, if leased, would compensate for the scenic value, especially if one considers the danger there would be of the patches of native bush being destroyed when the lessee burnt the fern lor the purpose of sowing grass-seed. South of the Tunakotekote Stream to Te Maire Stream there are some 300 acres of open fern land that could be leased without any detriment to the scenery. There are a few clumps of bush and scrub; which should not be included in the areas leased, and the leases should contain clauses to the effect that these clumps of bush and scrub should be securely fenced off (perhaps the River Trust could see its way clear to defray half the cost of such fences), and on no account should cattle or any stock (except sheep; be allowed in the areas so fenced off. Every precaution should be taken by the lessee to prevent Hies from getting into and destroying the bush or scrub. The terms of the leases should be the longest allowed by the Wanganui liiver Trust Act, and the upset rentals Ik; Is. per acre per annum. The leases should be sold by public auction or by public tender to the highest bidder. From Te Maire Stream downwards is all forest of greal scenic value. There are several small areas of flat or undulating land that would be suitable for settlement, but I do not think it would bo advisable to lease any land below Te Maire. as by doing so there would be some danger of fires getting into the bush aiid causing irreparable damage, and I do not think such risk should be run. H. Lundius, Crown Lands Ranger. The Commissioner of Crown Lands, Wellington.

Report by John T. Stbwart, Member of the Wanganui River Trust, on the Matter of the Preservation of the Rush Scenery along the Upper Navigable Portion of the Wanganui River. Wanganui, 2nd Juno, 1908. The Chairman of the Wanganui River Trust. In accordance with a resolution passed at a recent meeting of the Wanganui River Trust, I submit the following report: — . Throughout the river-course upwards from Raorikia, which is the commencement of the River Trust District, and about fourteen miles by river from the Town Bridge, Wanganui, and extending to Taumarunui at about 144 miles, I have taken the various rapids as landmarks and as a basis in noting the native bush as an adjunct to the scenery upon both banks of the river, and whether Crown lands or Native lands. Without the bush the main feature and beauty of the scenery would be gone. The importance of preserving this along the river cannot be overestimated, when considering it as a tourist or pleasure route. The accompanying sketch-maps (Sheets Ito 4) show the approximate positions of the rapids referred to in this report, and will enable the various notes to be located. After giving in detail the notes taken along the river-course I have added a summary dealing with the general question. There is necessarily in so long a river-course, with so many recurring similar natural features, somewhat of what may seem repetition in the details, but this cannot well be avoided. The rapids are numbered downwards, beginning with rapid No. 1 at the junction of the Ongarue River with the Wanganui near Taumarunui, about 144 miles by river above the Town of Wanganui. The mileage by the winding river-course is approximate. On the Ist February, 1908, in company with Mr. T. D. Cummins, Chairman of the Wanganui liiver Trust, and Mr. Keaney, District Road Engineer, we left Wanganui and proceeded up-river to Taumarunui. Mr. Lundius, Crown bands Ranger, and Mr. Hogan, M.P. for Wanganui, joined us iit Taumarunui, and accompanied us on the return trip down-river. Wanganui to Pipiriki. 14 Miles: Raorikia. —The Wanganui River Trust District begins here. Native bush on hillslopes on right bank begin* a shoi t way up, and extends upwards some distance. This should, if possible, be preserved from destruction. 17 Miles: Kanihinihi Rapid, No. 288.—Some good native bush on lower slopes on right bank just below the lapid. The upper slopes have been recently burned off. The bush at the narrowpoint on left bald; above this rapid has been burned, but a small lot of the native bush is still left

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where the narrow neck joins the hills. Just below where the road from Ipokongaio on left bank comes down to the river there is a bit of native bush on the slopes on right bank, and at Pungarehu a small patch of native bush on right bank. 22 Miles : Parikino.—There is a g 1 piece of bush on right bank with fern-trees about opposite the old schoolhouse, and just above Whakaruawaka Rapid, No. 231. Aokura Rapid, No. 229: There is a bit of native bush on left bank between this and I'pokopoito Rapid, No. 228, and this extends along ' Pof I'pokopoito Rapid. About half a mile of bush on Left bank above this rapid has been recently burned oil. Tauterata Rapid, No. 227 : There is some native bush on right bank. The recently burned bush on left bank extends above this rapid, and there is some more recently burned bush on the right bald; in the reach above. 29 Miles: Atone. Above this at I'liiiitapi Rapid, No. 222, good native bush, with fern-trees on both banks. The bush near Umutapi Rapid is well worth preserving. In the reach above this good bush on both sides of the river, extending to Ngapurua Rapid, No. 221. This is worth preserving, and is mixed with fem-treeß, also a tine bit of bush just above at a stream on right bank, and above this the native bush both Bides extends up as far as Te Ahuahu Rapid, No. 220, and some way above it. Otmnairo Rapid, No. 219: Good bush on right bank. Along the tine reach above this some bush on right bank, and several clumps of fern-trees on both banks. The bush on right bank ends at Te Punga Rapid, No. 218. 36 Miles : Koriniti. At the rapid above Koriniti s c good bush on the slopes on right bank : bush burned off recently on left bank, and a little higher up some bush on both sides. Kuapirau Rapid, No. 213: Here good bush on the right bank for some way below and above the rapid. A clump'of fern-trees on the point below the stream on hit bank, and some light bush on right bank at a stream a short wav above rapfd. Malahiwi Rapid, No. 212: Here a load-line on left bank goes into the OhotM Block. Karatia: A bit of good bush on light bank at top of the rapid above Karatia. At Kawana a small bit of good bush above I'estal's on the left bank in the reach, and some light bush at river side on right bank, and some good bush on left bank further up, at a stream. Kaiwaka Rapid. No. 210: Good bush worth preserving on both banks begins here and goes some distance up-river, with fern-trees and kowhai-trees; and a very good bit of bush with fern-trees on left bank opposite the top of rapid. In the reach above this the good bush continues on right bank, ami some light bush on left bank with mixture of fern-trees. The good bush on right bank ends at a large stream with stone point at river. 45 Miles: Ranana.—Above this at Haumoana Rapid, No. 206, some good light bush with ferntrees on left bank, and this extends a good way above this rapid and is very line here, there being a large number of fern-trees mixed with it on the slopes. This is worth preserving. Kanaeroa Rapid No 205: At a steep slope above this on right bank there is a good bit of bush with ferntrees and kowhai-trees. Kukupai Rapid, No. 20 1 : Here scrub and old clearings on left bank with m„m, I patches of fern-trees and kowhai-trees here and there near the river. It may be noted that these and similar patches of light bush elsewhere, though of little extent, add much to the beauty of the river-banks. The yellow kowhai-trees. especially when in blossom about October, are very fine. .._ "49 Miles: Hiruharaiua. Some very tine light bush with kowhai-trees and tern-trees on a clitlfare on right bank opposite here, ami this continues some way up. There are also some patches at the immediate river-mai-in OH the left bank. Above this, after passing several old clearings on both sides, there is bush on the right bank and the mission clearings on the left bank. After passing this mission clearing, going up, there is good bush on both banks of river right up to a slant wav below Pipiriki, and this is a tine bit of scenery. In a greal portion ol this latter part the slopes are so steep at the river that the bush is not likely to be destroyed, but there is a risk, as has been seen where the burning of the mission clearings on left bank extended down to the river-side. Near Te Puha Rapid, No. 200, there is a tine clump of fern-trees just above a stream on the right 65 Miles- Pipiriki.—Going upwards above the upper of the two Paparoa Rapids, No. 196, in -i fine reach there is good bush on left bank on upper slopes, ami some old clearings on right bank on lower slopes Te Autcnutu Rapid, No. 195: Here there tire fern-trees and light bush on left bank The'reach above this is a tine long reach with old clearings, but a good deal of ornamental light bush fern-trees, and kowhai-trees on the lower shq.es both sides of the river. The presetva tion of these is very important, the clearings being chiefly above the lower marginal slopes along the whole of this reach: ami this applies in general to many other places. Autapu Rapid, No. 194: Above this a good reach and same character of banks continues. The ' ( ayes and Bridge-Site are above this rapid. Aral i. a Rapid, No. 193 : From here upwards good bush on both banks with steep slopes The bush in this part is very fine. The so-called " Drop Scene ' is here. Mangan. Ranid No I'll ■ Here a large stream on right bank : good bush continues both sides, and at Lower NeapoVo Rapid, No. 190, and Upper Ngaporo Rapid, No. 189. There is a very tine stretch of bush both sides of river in the reach below the junction of the Manganui-o-te-ao River _ 62 Miles- The Manganui-o-te-ao River joins on left bank. Then above a good reach with very ,i„e bush both sides of river. Arawha.a Rapid, No. 186: Near this a road-line goes in on left bank to the River Trust Endowment Block: then a fine long reach with papa faces both sides.of Hver ami good bush on the hill slopes above. Puahue Rapid, No. 185 . Jus, below this rapid there is a fine bluff on right bank, and the bush here is very good. Omaika Rapid, No. 184: Ihe heavy bush on both sides of river .-mis just above this and several old clearings occur (Raumanm, Tieke), and in the reach here old clearings both sides of river, with some light bush and fern-trees near river-margins, which add much to the scenery. . ... ~ ... 69 Miles Parinui - Kaluga on right bank. Here old clearings continue on both sides, with patches of shrubs and fern-trees near river-banks. Otaiko Rapid, No. 180: Still old clearings both sides, with some good patches of light bush near river. In the reach above this rapid the

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main bush on both sides commences again, and continues upward with mixture of shrubs and fern-trees, and on the river an alternation of rapids and fine reaches. 74 Miles: Mangapurua Stream, left bank.—Fine bush continues on both banks and goes on above this, with occasional groves of fern-trees, and rapids and quiet reaches alternating in the river. 82 Miles.-- Whaiigamomona River joins on right bank. Bush continues both sides of river with same character of rapids and reaches between. 85 Miles.—The Tangarakau River joins on the right bank. Good bush continues both sides. There is a fine grove of fern-trees on right bank a little below the Tangarakau junction. A short way above this is Puketapu, an old kainga of some importance, with clearing on right bank, with a good deal of light bush and fern-trees near river. Good bush continues on both banks above this, and there comes the long nearly straight part of the river called " Otaihanga," a narrow water-way, canal-like, confined between papa faces on both sides, with fine bush on the hill-slopes above, a strikingly picturesque piece of the river, with very fine nearly still-water reaches between the rapids. 93 Miles: Ohauora Rapid, No. 139.—Here an old clearing on left bank, and going on above this good bush continues on both sides of the river. In a reach between rapids Nos. 136 and 135 there is a fine grove of fern-trees on lower slopes on the right bank. It may be added that there are here and there large fern-tree gloves of great beauty on the wooded hill-slopes, although not specially noted. 98 Miles: Tarepokiore Rapid, No. 128.—Going on upwards there are between rapids Nos. 124 and 122 old clearings on both banks, the bush continuing generally on both sides of the river. 100 Miles: Kirikiriroa. Kainga and old clearing left bank, with along the river-margin light bush and fern-trees which add much to the scenery. Above this, good bush continues on both banks, and above Mangapapapa Rapid, No. 117, there is a long reach with very fine bush scenery on both sides all the way. This is called Tokakura Reach, and is particularly worthy of conservation. Owairua Rapid, No. ll(i: There is a kainga and old clearing on left bank, with light bush at river; above this the bush continues on both sides. At Ngararanui Rapid, No. 114, old clearing on right bank with light bush and fern-trees at river. Up to Te Haukopai Rapid, No. 113, and Otawa Rapid, No. 112, ami in the reach between them there is fine bush on both sides of river. There is a fern-tree grove just above W 7 aikoriri Rapid, No. 110, on left bank. The general character as above described continues upwards. LOS Miles.—Retaruke River joins on left bank. A road-line comes in here on left bank. This is the Retaruke Valley Road, and the Rata Road on left bank comes in to river a short way above the Retaruke junction. There are old clearings here on both sides, and then good bush extends upwards on both banks. Near Otahapa Rapid, No. 101, there is a large fern-tree grove on right bank. At No. 99, I'apanui Rapid, good bush continues both sides. Near Mangaohutu Rapid, No. 97. a road-line oomes in on left bank. This is the Mangaohutu Road. In the reach above good bush continues both sides. In the reach above Te Hue Rapid, No. 96, there is an old olearing on left bank. 11l Miles: Tawhata.—Kainga and old clearing on left bank. At Ohuraite Rapid, No. 93, an old olearing on left bank and good bush on right bank, and this .continues on right bank in the reach above, with another old clearing on left bank. The name of this very tine reach is Ngatukuwaru, and it is one of the longest reaches in the upper river, and the good bush begins on left bank in upper part of reach and goes on upward. At Kahuitara Rapid, No. 91, good bush continues both sides. 11l Milis. Tin- Ohura River joins on right bank. At ( >hi nemaiiuhiri Rapid. No. 90, old clearings both sides of river, with light bush and fern-trees at the river-iuargins. At Te Kapara Rapid, N0..89, old clearing on left bank with good light bush at river, and at Tutaeahiia Rapid, No. 88, old clearing left bank and good bush on right bank. There are old clearings in reach above on both river-banks. Kakahi, an old clearing, is on the right bank. At Kakahi Rapid, No. 87; good bush both banks, and this continues upwards in the reach above. In the reach between Ruangarahu Rapid, No. 84, and Te Puha Rapid, No. 83, an old clearing, Pehimaki, on left bank, and at No. 83 an old clearing, Te I'uha. on right bank, with good bush on left bank : and in reach above old clearings both sides with fine light bush and fern-trees near the river-sides, and good bush in parts on left bank. At Wliakapiri Rapid, No. 82, old olearing on right bank. In the reach adjoining Kokakariki Rapid. No. SI, a waterfall on left bank over two papa ledges. A road-line joins river near this on left bank coming from Waimarino, and probably crossing river. This is the Kokakoriki Road. At Kirikau Rapid, No. 80, the old clearing on right bank continues, and there is good bush on the face on left bank. At Kairakau Rapid, No. 79, the old clearing on right bank ends in a prominent bluff. At rapid No. 78 old clearing on left bank, and at Owhawhe Rapid, No. 77, old clearing and open fern land on left bank, and this continues in the reach above. At (It nit i Rapid, No. 76, the Otuiti Stream on right bank flows into river over papa ledges. Here old clearing on right bank. In reach above He Repu Rapid, No. 75, the open fern land extends inland on right bank with good light bush near river, and in the upper pari of reach old clearing left bank with good bush on right bank. Wliakapaenoa Rapid, No. 74, in reach above this old clearing on left bank, ami good light bush and fern-trees near river on right bank. At Te Auroa Rapid, No. 7-'!. good bush both sides of river. At T,- Ruawhakainga Rapid, No. 72, old clearings both banks: a load-line comes in here on left bank. This is the Kokakonui Road. In the reach above Te Ohu Rapid, No. 71, an old clearing and fern land on left bank. 121 Miles. -In this fine reach there is a large rock called Tokapihepihe, and further up in teach g. 1 hush both banks with kowhai-trees on right bank. At top of Otutekawa Rapid, No. 69, old clearing on left bank, and good bush right bank. There seem to have been numerous old

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kaingas and clearings in this part of river, but there is much fine light bush with fern-trees near the river-margins at these old clearings. Poukaria Rapid, No. (is :In reach above this, old clearing on left bank called Ohata, and good bush on right bank. At Arataua Rapid, No. 67, and Owhata Rapid, No. 66, and the short reach between them old clearings on both banks. 123 Miles: Koiro Rapid, No. 65.—An old kainga, Koiro, and clearing mi right bank: good bush on left bank. There is a good reach above this with fine bush on both banks, and this continues upwards. Paparoa Rapid, No. 61 : (lid kainga and clearing left bank. There is a large waterfall over papa cliff on right bank. Just below this is a narrow confined channel when the river is at ordinary summer level, with flat papa ledges on right bank and large boulders along left bank : this is called Waiw hakaata. In the reach above Paparoa Rapid some old clearings and open fern lands on both sides of river. 125 Miles. — W heiniatere, an old important kainga and clearing on left bank. In the reach above light scrubby bush on left bank, with g 1 bush on right bank. Komako Rapid, No. 58: Old clearing right bank, and kowhai-trees on slopes left bank. Tokaateatua Rapid. No. 57: Old clearing right bank called Nukunuku, and high face with bush on left bank. In the good reach above, thi' old clearing on right bank continues. The name of this reach is Taurakawa, and it has good bush on both banks. Taurakawa Rapid, No. 56: There are a number of tine kowhaitrees on right bank above this rapid, and good bush on both banks. Above this a short reach with good bush both sides, and high faces with kowhai-trees on right bank. l'ohile Rapid, No. 55: In the reach above there is good bush both sides, with low land at river-sides. There have been old clearings both sides, and good light bush exists with fern-trees near the river; higher up an old kainga, Teoteo, on right bank, and good bush on left bank. At Otuioi Rapid, No. 54, the old clearing on right bank ends, and there is g 1 light bush on both sides near river. Te Aukopae Rapid, No. 53: (bind bush both sides. W'aiari Rapid, No. 52: In reach above this Aramatia, old kainga and clearing on left bank, extending along a large bend of the river. Te Aukopae Landing on right bank: A road-line goes in here to the Ohura settlements inland. This is the Aukopae Road. Here a clearing on the right bank, and good light bush near river on left bank. In a fine reach above this some good bush on both banks, with light bush in parts ou left bank of river. Omarutihone Rapid, No. 51: Old clearing right bank, with light bush at river on left bank. In the reach above good light bush at river-sides on both banks mixed with larger trees, and open fern lands showing on hills inland on left bank. Taupiri Rapid, No. 50: Good bush on right bank; light bush on left bank with open fern land behind. In the reach above the same description continues. Ohinepane Rapid, No. 17: Above this rapid on left bank light bush and fern-trees near river with some large kahikatea-trees. Above this a short reach with open fern country on left bank some light bush close to river. Te Pera Rapid, No. 16 : A large papa Ledge on right bank, with fine ferns on upper part. Above this a short reach with good bush at river on right bank, and open fern land on left bank. Otunui Rapid, No. 15 ; A large stream en right bank over a papa ledge, and open fern land inland with light bush near river. There is a road-line here on left bank to the Ohura settlements. This is the Otunui Road. There is good bush both sides above this rapid, low-lying bush on right bank, and higher up in reach larger trees, kahikateaa and rimus in parts mixed in the light bush. Marekura Rapid, No. 43: In the reach above this rapid fine bush on high slopes on left bank, and open fern land on right bank with fringe of fine light bush at river-side. All the peninsula or tongue of land at Ariniatia old kainga on left bank at the large bend of river should, if possible, be preserved, and, although this is Native reserve, it might perhaps be secured for scenery interests. Matawhem Rapid, No. 42: barge shingle island on left bank, ami low land near river on right bank, with kahi-katea-trees. In the reach above Otukotare Rapid, No. 11, open fern country on left bank with some light bush in patches near river, ami some bush on low land near river on right bank: this continues in reach above. Te Rala Rapid. No. 40: Some good light bush near river, mingled with larger trees on both sides. Te Ruaatenamu Rapids, Nos. 39 and 38 : Here high faces with kowhai-trees on right bank, and light bush on low land near river on left bank with some kahi-katea-trees. 132 Miles: Te Maire. —Kainga on left bank, with some open fern country. A road-line conies to river here on left bank. This is Te Maire Road. (Note: A Native reserve extends along lefl bank of river from here downwards to below Paparoa Rapid, No. 61.) At Te Maire Rapid, No. 37, some good bush on right bank, and open fern country on left bank. In reach above, open fern land right bank. At Te Hinau Rapid, No. 36, small bush and fern-trees left bank. Motutara Rapid, No. -'i 5: From the Motutara Stream mi right bank a horse-track goes to Taumarunui. There is some light bush at mouth of this stream, and some light bush and fern-trees on left bank. In the reach above, light bush on left bank of river, and some bush and kahikatea trees on right bank, with open fern land behind on both sides of river. Onetapu Rapid, No. 31 : Good bush on right bank near river and light bush on left bank, with open fern hilly land behind on both sides. In the reach above, light bush at river on left bank ami open fern spurs on right bank, with some light bush close to river-margin. Some kahikatea-trees on left bank at river just below- the rapid. Pouwhakamaru Rapid, No. .'S3: Good bush on left bank: open fern hills on right bank, with fringe of light bush at river. Above this rapid light bush in parts close to river on both sides with open fern hills behind, and in short reach above good light bush and kowhai-trees on right bank, and open land on left bank. Whakarae Rapid, No. 32: bight bush and kowhai-trees on right bank near river, and open fern country left bank. In roach above, open land left bank, and in lower part' light bush with some kahikatea-trees near river on right bank, and open land higher up on both sides of river. M auaw anawa Rapid, No. 31 : Some good light bush at river-margins, and some kahikatea-trees on left bank: open hilly land behind on both sides. The light bush on left bank should be conserved. In a fine reach above, the light

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bush at river-sides on both banks should be preserved : open fern country behind. There is a group of kahikatea-trees on left bank on low ground at river-side. In upper part of reach, light bush and kahikatea-trees on slope on right bank. Onepoto Rapid, No. 30 : Good bush on right bank, and fringe of light bush on left bank at river. Kohatupiko Rapid, No. 29: Good bush on right bank on lower slope near river, and open fern land on left bank. This character continues up to the next rapid. Auhauaroa Rapids, Nos. 28 and 27 : The bush on right bank ends; open fern country both sides; a few kahikatea-trees in upper pari at riverside on right bank. Omaka Rapid, No. 26: Here and in reach above, open fern land both sides of river. The fringe of light bush near river-side should be preserved in parts on the left bank. On the higher hills and slopes above the left bank near this rapid, the clumps of bush should if possible be preserved, the larger trees standing out in bold masses, and this is a feature well seen coming down the river. There is considerable area of flat open land between the foot of these hills and the river just below Omaka Rapid. In the reach above Omaka, open land both banks, with a fringe of light bush in parts on left bank. Kaka Rapid, No. 25: Here there are s c kow hai-t rocs on the high slope on right bank just above rapid should be preserved, as also some light bush and kowhai-trees on country on left bank, and some light bush and trees near river on right bank. Boroporoaki Rapid, N". 21, Open fern hills on right bank: and a clump of kahikatea-trees with light bush on right bank just above rapid should be preserved, as also some light bush and kowhai-trees on a steep face on left bank. Inland there is open fern lands both sides id' river. These clumps of kahikatea mentioned before here and there should all be preserved. At Titakataka Rapid, No. 23, good light bush at river on left bank, and the same on right bank, with kahikatea trees. Inland there is open fern country both sides. The margin of light bush on right bank continues upward and ends at the next rapid, .lust above No. 23 no bush on left bank. Hikamutu Rapid, No. 22: Near this a road-line comes out on left bank. This is the Hikamutu Road. Some margin of light bush on left bank and at a large si ream on left bank here should be preserved. This continues some way up. The right bank is open land. In the reach above, open fern country on right bank, with a fine strip of light bush and kowhai-trees on left bank narrowing to river -margin at top of the reach. Raparua Rapid, No. 20: Open tern country both sides of river. In the reach above. a clump of kahikatea-trees with some light bush at river on right bank, and above this on a steep face on right bank there are kowhai-trees, the country on left bank being open. I'ataaiia Rapid, No. 19: Open country inland, but light bush with kowhai-trees on high slope near river on right bank. These kowhai-trees in all places where they occur should be specially preserved. The left bank here is open country. In the reach above, open fern land continues both sides of river. W'airere Rapid, No. IS: Open oountry loth sides. Tauteti Rapid, No. 16: Generally open country both sides. There is a clump of light bush near river on left bank at rapid, which should lie preserved : also some light bush at river-side in short reach above on left bank. Towhenua Rapid, No. 14: The open oountry continues both sides. On the high face on right bank above rapid some bush and line kowhai-trees, ami this continues on right bank in reach above. This should be preserved. The country on left, bank is open. Whakatorino Rapid, No. 13: Open country on left bank, and some light bush near river on right bank, with open country behind. This light bush ends at the next rapid above. Pokaka Rapid, No. 12: Open country both sides of river. Kokirae Rapid, No. II : The open fern country continues on both sides. in the reach above on the right bank some kahikatea-trees with some lighl bush, and above this on same bank some good light bush near the river should be preserved. Paehoii Rapid, No. 10: Good light bush and kowhai-trees near river on right bank, and this ends at next rapid. I'okonga iv ru Rapid, No. 9 : Open fern country both banks, and this continues in reach above. In the upper part of this reach a high face on right bank, with some light bush and kowhai-trees. A less proportion of this occurs also on the left bank near here. On the left bank a large open flat extends to the foot of the open hilly country. At Tunakotikoti Rapids, 8 and 7, the open country on both sides extends upwards. Just above, on the right bank, some kahikatea-trees with light bush near river should be preserved. A road-line joins the river here on the left bank. This is the Tunakotikoti Road. Te Mini Rapid, No. 6: Some kahikatea-trees on right bank should be preserved, and also some kowhai-trees on left bank at a high face. Turangahoru Rapid, No. 5: Some kowhai-trees on left bank near river: open country both sides continues above. On a high face on right bank above I'uiigahuru Rapid, No. 3, there are some light bush and kowhai-trees which should be preserved : these end at rapid No. 2. And just above, on low land on right bank near river, there are some kahikatea-trees and light bush, with open hilly fern country behind. Ngahuinga Rapid, No. 1: At junction of the Ongarue River, which joins on the right bank. Some good light bush on right bank near river at juncti and this extends some way up the right bank of the Ongarue River. 144 miles: Taumarunui,—The landing for Taumarunui is a short way up the Ongarue River, and on its left bank. General Summary. Having now given detailed notes along both sides of the river-course from Raorikia, the com mencement of the River Trust district, to Taumarunui, a distance of about 130 miles, the following general observations are submitted: — Wanganui tO Pipiriki This is the most accessible and generally visited portion of the river. Starting from Raorikia and going upwards it will be observed from the notes given that there are still many places with native bush yet remaining on the river-banks and on visible slopes between this and Pipiriki, and that this adjunct to the scenery here is by no means yet gone. It is therefore all the more important that the scenery-preservation of this part of the river should be given immediate attention to, as more occupation of the land here is yearly taking place.

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Besides the original main bush yet remaining on many of the upper slopes, there are in quite numerous places (even where the'land is partly utilised by the Natives, ami also at old clearings) clumps and fringes near the river-margins of light mixed bush, including fern-trees and the yellow kowhai-trees, adding greatly to the attraction of the river, and which should, if possible, be preserved; and that these still remain shows that (heir complete destruction is not an absolutely necessary consequence of the land being utilised by occupation, if necessary precaution be taken as afterwards referred to. 11l general, over the whole course of the river-navigation, from Raorikia right up to the upper reaches and Taumarunui, it may be suggested that, besides the sett ing-apart the bush existing upon Crown lands and the public domains along the river banks, means might be taken to acquire, from the Native owners, especially tine [nut ions of the river-slopes; and in other parts, where the Natives are leasing, provisoes, if found practicable, might be introduced safeguarding as far as possible the natural light bush still remaining on the immediate river-margins. Above Pipiriki, 55 miles, up to Tarepokiore Rapid, No. 128, about 98 miles, the river-banks are still to a great extent in their natural condition, except in the limited cases where the Natives are occupying, or at the more numerous old abandoned clearings. This portion of the river, about 43 miles in length along its winding course from Pipiriki to Tarepokiore, comprises perhaps the finest and most characteristic length of river and bush scenery, and should be preserved in its entirety on both banks as far as possible, conserving both the "forest primeval" and the beautiful light bush which has sprung up at the river-side- at the old clearings. This upper part of the river also requires attention while it is still time, and the preservation of all the old original bush for a mile wide from the river should be a matter for consideration as opportunity occurs. There are many old clearings which might" perhaps be leased, providing for the preservation, as afterwards referred to at the end of this report, of the light bush remaining near the river, for at these old clearings this is generally of much beauty. All the original main bush on the mile-wide public domain on left bank of river from a little below opposite the junction on right bank of the Whangamomona River, at 87 miles, as far up as Kowhaiturua Rapid, No. 111, about two miles below the junction of the Retaruke River, 108 miles, should be left intact; not only the part on the slopes visible to the eye from the river up to the sky-line, but the whole mile wide, as a security for the river-slopes, and also, what is very important, as safeguarding the numerous small streams and waterfalls which reach the river through this bush: and these remarks apply equally to the original bush remaining on either bank of the river wherever the public domain exists. Retween the point mentioned above (rapid No. 111, about 106 miles) and rapid No. 61, Paparoa, about 123 miles, the original bush remaining on the domain on the left bank should all be preserved for the mile wide; but many of the old clearings might probably be leased, with restrictions as to light bush near the river, referred to already and afterwards. From near rapid No. 61, Paparoa, 123 miles, up to rapid No. 47, Te Maire, about 133 miles, the land on left bank of the river is a Native reserve, but the general suggestions already made as to bush-preservation will apply to this part also as circumstances may admit. It would lie a pity if the circumstance of being Native land should prevent the preservation of the bush scenery. From rapid No. 47, Te Maire, about 133 miles, up to Tunakotikoti Rapid, No. 8, about 142 miles above Wanganui, and about two miles below Taumarunui by the river, the country inland and in parts close to the river has more the character of open fern country, and the public domain here along the left bank of river, ami also the public domain where it occurs on the right bank of river, might be leased in suitable sections; but here also, as will be seen by the detailed notes previously given, there are frequent clumps and fringes of light mixed bush, with fern-trees and kowhai-trees of great beauty, at the river-margins which it is essential should be safeguarded. It may be a question whether the occupation, under proper conditions, id' these open lands and old clearings generally would endanger this feature of the light native bush near the river-sides more than the present condition of these open lands and old clearings, with their inflammable overgrowth, endangers it. I Would again, at the risk of repetition, remark that this feature of light bush at the riversides, even where the original heavy bush has disappeared, is most important along the whole course of the river described. In leasing open lands and old clearings provision might be made for fencing off and protecting a certain limited distance from the river-margins—generally a fewchains wide would suffice; while also leaving sufficient access to the river at suitable places. John T. Stewart.

Fuhther Report by Mr. J. T. Stewart. 23rd July, 1908. T. D. Cummins, Esq., Chairman of the Wanganui River Trust. I accompanied the Chairman along the river-works in the early part of February, 1908. The river was low, and favourable for this proceeding. The work has since been continued up to the end of April, under the Trust's foreman of works, Mr. A. Marshall. A great deal of useful work has been done in the upper part of the river between rapid No. 105, Whakatara, just below the junction of the Retaruke River, and Taumarunui, a distance of thirty-six miles by river, and the numerous difficulties in the navigation of the upper river have been materially lessened. There still remains much to be done in this direction here, and the principal works for next season are: At Turangahoru Rapid, No. 5, a training-wall from right bank. At Paehou Rapid, No. 10, a training-wall from right bank. At Pataaua Rapid, No. 19, training-walls from both banks. At Raparua Rapid, No. 20, a training-wall from left bank, and

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present wall from right bank lengthened. At Titakataka Rapid, No. 23, walls from both banks to be lengthened. At Auhauaroa Rapid, No. 28, a training-wall from right bank. At Motutara Rapid, No. 35, training-walls from both banks. At Te Hinau Rapid, No. 36, training-wall required. At Taurakawa Rapid, No. 56, training-wall from left bank. At Paparoa Rapid, No. 61, the papa shelf on right bank, on outer part next channel, wants cutting down to lower level, and general improvement of channel attended to. At Kahuitara Rapid, No. 91, both train-ing-walls to be lengthened. At Otahapa Rapid, No. 101, training-wall, and blasting of papa reef. At Otahua Rapid, No. 108, training-wall from right bank. Also, in this part of river in sundry places boulders to be cleared out and other matters attended to. The works already done are fulfilling their requirements, and are standing well. This season a prolonged drought occurred from the beginning of January, for fifty-two days, to the 21st February, with practically no effective rainfall, the rainfall in the lower river at Aramoho, near Wanganui, being for the month of January only o'l4in., and from the Ist to the 21st February none at all. The following shows levels of water at Pipiriki during the latter part of the drought : — Water-level at Pipiriki an River Trust Gauge. (Zero = low summer level.) 1908. . I 1908. January 27 ... li in. above zero. February 9 ... 2 in. below zero. 28 ... lin. ,; „ 10 ... 2 in. 29 ... \m. - „ 11 ... 2 in. 30 ... zero. „ 12 ... 24, in. 31 ... \ in. below zero. „ 13 ... in. February 1 ... 2 in. above zero. ~ 14 ... 3 in. 2 ... lin. „ 15 ... 34; in. „ 3 ... zero. „ 16 ... 34Tn. 4 ... 1 in. below zero. „ 17 ... 3Jin. „ 5 ... lin. „ „ 18 ... 3|in. 6 ... l£in. „ 19 ... 3|in. 7 ... 2 in. „ „ 20 ... 3|in. 8 ... 2 in. „ „ 21 ... 3|in. This is about as low as we have known the river here, and indicates the low water occurring in proportion all along the river-navigation. The above table shows how very slow and gradual the fall in level of water was, and that, notwithstanding the long drought, the sources of the Wanganui River in the Tongariro-Ruapehu Range were keeping the river supplied. This is encouraging in regard to the state of the river in future. In connection with this it may lie mentioned that at the time of our visit, after about thirty-seven days of the drought, we found a good run of water in the Ongarue, and also in the Retaruke and Manganui-O-te-ao Rivers, tributary to the Wanganui, but many of the smaller streams on the right bank which commonly show in waterfalls, such as the Otunui, the Otuiti, the stream at Paparoa Rapid, No. 61, and others, were practically dry, the papa-rock ledges, over which the falls generally show, seeming to be merely damp, with no run of water; and the papa reefs or ledges at the water's edge at the rapid just above Pipiriki (No. 197) and just above Tauteti (rapid No. 16) were more out of the water than our Native crew recollected seeing them. Notwithstanding this low water, the river-steamer passenger service has been carried out with fair regularity, and this also shows the good effect of the improvement-works of the River Trust. The question of the most suitable description of boat for the upper river is an important one, and the proprietors of the present river service are giving this matter their attention, as it is evident this is one of the chief directions in which improved navigation may be looked for. John T. Stewart, Honorary Engineer to the Wanganui River Trust. Approximate Cost of Paper.— Preparation, notjgiven ; printing, (1,750 copies, exclusive of maps), £i 13s.

Authority : John Mackay, Government Printer, Wellington.—l9oB.

Price 6d.]

WANGANUI RIVER TRUST SKETCH MAP OF PORTION OF WANGANUI RIVER BETWEEN PIPIRIKI AND THE WANGANUI. RIVER MOUTH

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WANGANUI RIVER TRUST SKETCH MAP OF PORTION OF WANGANUI RIVER BETWEEN PIPIRIKI AND THE RIVER TANGARAKAU

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WANGANUI RIVER TRUST SKETCH MAP OF PORTION OF WANGANUI RIVER BETWEEN THE JUNCTIONS WITH THE TANGARAKAU AND OHURA

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WANGANUI RIVER TRUST SKETCH MAP OF PORTION OF WANGANUI RIVER BETWEEN THE JUNCTIONS WITH THE OHURA AND ONGARUHE