DEPARTMENT OF LANDS (ANNUAL REPORT ON).

Appendix to the Journals of the House of Representatives, 1910 Session I, C-01

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1 9 I 0 . NEW ZEALAND.

DEPARTMENT OF LANDS (ANNUAL REPORT ON).

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

COITTBITTS. •

General Report— Fuse Introductory .. .. .. .. 3 Lands opened for Selection during the Year . . 4 Lands being prepared for Settlement .. .. 4 Lands selected during Year, and Area held under all Tenures .. .. .. .. 4-5 National Endowment Area .. .. .. 5 Improved-farm Settlements .. .. .. 6 Village Settlements .. .. .. .. 6 Inspections by Crown Lands Rangers .. .. 6 Grass-seed supplied to Settlers .. .. 6 Revenue .. .. .. • ■ . ■ 6 Rebatos of Rent .. .. .. .. 7 Payment of "Thirds" and "Fourths" .. 7 Timber and Flax Royalties .. .. .. 7 Medical Assistance in Sparsely-settled Distriots 7 Lar.d-for-settlements Estates.. .. .. 8 Drainage of Hauraki Plains .. .. .. 11 Whangamarino Swamp .. .. .. 11 Crown Purchases from Maori Owners .. .. 11 Crown and State Forests .. . . .. 12 Scenery-preservation .. ■ . .. 12 Domains .. .. .. .. .. 12 Cemeteries .. .. . • ■ .. 12 Departmental and General . .. .. 12 Promotions .. .. .. ■. .. 13 Expenditure of Department .. .. .. 18 Appendix I — Settlement of Crown Lands — Auckland.. .. .. .. .. 14 Hawke's Bay .. . • ■ ■ • • 16 Taranaki .. .. .. • • • • 18 Welliugton .. .. .. .. 20 Nelson .. .. .. .. .. 23 Marlborough .. •. ■. 25 Westland.. .. .. .. .. 25 Canterbury .. . .. • ■ 20 Otagn .. .. .. .. .. 30 Southland .. .. .. .. 32 Cheviot Estate .. .. .. • • 30 Appendix ll— Land for Settlements — Auckland.. .. ■ ■ • • • • 34 Hawke's Bay .. .. •• •• '■! Taranaki .. .. .. .. • ■ 36 Wellington .. .. . • • • 36 Nelson .. .. . ■ •. 36 Marlborough .. . . ■ ■ ■ ■ 37 Westland .. .. .. • • 37 Canterbury .. ■ • • • • • 87 Otago .. .. .. ■■ • 39 Southland .. .. .. •• I 0.1.

Appendix lII— Page Timber Industry — Auckland .. .. .. .. 40 Marlborough .. .. .. .. 41 Appendix IV— Whangamarino Swamp .. .. 42 Appendix V— Landslip at Waihi, Tokaanu .. .. 43 Tables — Table I.—Lands of the Dominion, Position of (approximately).. .. .. 11 2. —Lands opened for Sale or Selection during the Year.. .. .. 45 3. —Lands taken up dnring the Year and Summary of Settlement Lands 46-48 4.—Holdings taken up duiinz the Year, Analysis of .. .. .. 40 s.—Lands sold for Cash during the Year 50 6. —Deferred-payment Lands .. .. 51 7.—Perpetual-lease Lands .. .. r>2 B.—Occupation - with -right- of- purchase Lands .. .. .. .. 53 9.—Lease-in-perpetuity Lands.. .. 54 10. —Renewable-lease Lands .. .. 56 11.—Agricultural-lease Lands .. .. 58 12. —Mining Districts Land Occupation Leases .. .. .. .. 58 13.—Village Settlements .. .. 59 14. —Village Settlements, Summary of Position of .. .. .. G2 15. —Special-settlement Associations .. 63 16. —Homestead Lands .. .. 64 17. —Small Grazing-runs .. 64 18. —Pastoral Licenses .. .. .. 66 „ 19.—Miscellaneous Leases and Licenses .. 68 20. —Gross Revenue received during the Year .. .. .. .. 69 21.—Lands reserved and alienated .. 71 22. —Forfeitures and Surrenders during the Year .. .. .. 72 23. —Thermal - springs District, Lands taken up within.. .. .. 72 24.—Payments of Capital Value under Seotion 191 of the Land Act .. 73 „ 25.—Bush felled, Area of .. .. 73 26.—Selectors on Books of Department, Number of .. .. .. 74 27.—Crown Tenants, Number of, Area held, and Arrears of Rent .. 75

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Tables — continued. Table 28.—Endowments : Lands taken up during the Year 29.—Endowments: Revenue received dur ing the Year 30.—Arrears of Rent due to the Crown 81. —Improved-farm Settlements 32.—Land for Settlements Acts, Land acquired and leased under 33. —Selectors and Lands selected under Settlement Conditions : Comparative Statement for past Ten Years 34.—Transactions in Bush, Swamp, and Scrub Lands under Section 127 of the Land Act 35.—Rebates of Bent granted during the Year 36.—Crown Lands proclaimed under Local Bodies' Loans Acts, the Amount borrowed, and the Amount repaid to Public Account

Page Tablks— continued. Page Table 37.—Crown Grants, Certificates of Title, 7G <fee, prepared during the Year .. 83 38. —Payments to Local Bodies! from H "Thirds" and "Fourths" and II "Halves" during the Year .. 83 7! I Maps— Showing Whangaraarino Swamp .. Paoing page 42 80 Showing Landslip at Waihi, Tokaanu.. » 43 Showing Land Transactions during the 81 Year, North Island .. .. At end. Showing Land Transactions during the 82 Year, South Island Showing Land-tenure, North Island .. „ Showing Land-tenure, South Island .. 82

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ANNUAL REPOST.

The Under-Secretary for Lands to the Right Eon. the Minister of Lands. Sir, — Department of Lands, Wellington, 30th April, 1910. I have the honour to submit herewith the annual report of the Department of Lands for the year ended 31st March, 1910, which also shortly touches upon its subsidiary blanches, the full reports on which will be laid before Parliament as usual. I have, &c, Wμ. 0. Kensington, • Under Secretary for Lands. The Etighi Eon. Sir Joseph Or. Ward, P.C., K.C.M.G., Minister of Lands.

Before entering upon the statistical portion of the annual report of the Lands Department it may be useful to state, in the forefront, that the number of new settlers for the past year, of all classes, amounted to 2,582, who, with their families, may be estimated at 8,000 souls. The total area opened during the year for all classes of applicants amounted to 2,326,037 acres, and the total area disposed of in like manner was 2,431,1 13 acres. There are ai present under survey by the survey stall' 1,354,048 acres <>l Crown land, and also in furtherance, (if the decision of ihe Government that all Native-land surveys are to be carried out by the Lands and Survey staff, there are under survey 156,837 acres of Native land, chiefly for the various district Maori Land Boards, for settlement purposes under the Native Land Act, 1909. The subjoined tables set forth the matter in concrete form. Many references have appeared from time to time in the public Press, apparently drawing attention to what they are pleased to style as the dilatory opening of Crown lands in certain parts of the Auckland District—notably in the Counties of Kawhia, Waitomo, West Taupo, and Awakino. The subjoined schedule will show what areas —only recently purchased by the Crown from the Maori owners —are available for settlement, and how they are being dealt with in order to open them for selection as speedily as possible. Kawhia County. —Area, 8,816 acres. Of this area, 2,717 acres are under survey by Mr. T. Carroll, who has also 12,495 acres under survey for the Maori Land Board. The area under survey by Mr. ('a noil is good soil, limestone country, with heavy bush. Wai/mini ('aunty. —Area, 37,748 acres. Of this area, 6,691 acres are under survey by Messrs. Edgecumbe and Newton. One-half is open country, and the balance bush. The soil is good, but area cannot"be opened until roads are surveyed for long distances through adjoining Maori lands. West Taupo. Area, 116,674 acres. This area lies north of the source of the Mokau River, and 24,800 acres of it will be taken in hand shortly by Mr. Galbraith on completion of his present work, but roads of access must be obtained through adjoining Maori lands. Awakino County. —Area, 10,881 acres. Of this area. f.OOO acres will be taken in hand by Mr. A. D. Newton next spring, as the block is very difficult of access in winter time. It must he borne in mind that when lands arc purchased from I he Main; owners they cannot be secured, as a rule, in large consecutive blocks, lint each area purchased is more or less isolated from its neighbour. Then, there are no roads of access, and these have to be first explored for. and then surveyed through tracts <>! land still owned by Maoris. The necessary work of laying off sections for opening depends upon the securing of such suitable loads, which are taken under Governor's Warrant or by Proclamation. No effort is being spared by the field stafl to loyally co-operate with the several Commissioners of Crowri Lands in preparing land lor settlement purposes, and the , results are highly creditable to the Surveyor-General and the Chief Surveyors and their staffs. The total number of surveyors employed on salary by the Departmeni amounts to 86, outside of bhose employed at dontracj rates for the survey of Crown and Maori lands.

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The following table shows the lands opened during the year under the various tenures :

Table A. — Land opened during the Year 1909-10.

Lands under Survey and being prepared for Settlement. On the 31s< March, 1910, the Lands Department had under survey, and being prepared for opening for settlement, an area of 1,510,885 acres, made up as follows : — < Ordinary Crown lands (chiefly under optional system and as .small grazing- Acres, runs .. .. .. .. .. .*. .. 929,266 National endowment (renewable lease and small grazing-runs) . . . . 424,7(-'2 Native lands (chiefly for Maori Land Boards, Native-land settlement) . . 156,837 Total . . . . .. . . .. .. 1,510,885 The areas given above are distributed in the following j'roportions : —

The area given above is composed mostly of blocks actually in the hands of the surveyors being surveyed into subdivisions for settlement. It should, however, be explained thai the Otago figures include 679,000 acres, the major portion of which has already been selected by tenants. Lands selected under all Tenures. The total selectors for the past year do not equal those of the previous year by 21. but the area taken up, which includes lands selected under pastoral lense, both ordinary Crown hinds and national endowment Lands, totals 2,431,1 L 3 acres, or 1,514,622 acres in excess of last year. The subjoined table gives the complete details of the year's transactions, and it will suffice to notice thai included in the above, and under the provisions of the Land for Settlements Ad. 1908, and amendment of 1909,

u< ■Mirer Optional ' ' ""' S] it m ordinary Crown Land. inewable l.i National Endowment. ■use. Improved , , ' ■'■■■""' Farm : ils ' 1 v '3 AucLand for Bpeolal ;\ uc - Uonand Setae- Settle- tlon - A p.l» h - mente. mente. cation. Village AllotSmall ■ Elans. Ordinary National Crown Endowl.an.l*. ment. Acres. Acres. Auckland .. 53,426 3,266 Hawke'a Bay 6,414 Taranaki .". 22,134 Wellington .. 45,791 Nelson .. 7,935 18,737 Maryborough Westland .. .. 29,477 Canterbury .. 564 272 Otago .. 3,860 1,457 Southland .. 12,359 3,737 Acres. 24,980 856 ! 12,320 6,142 215,765 4,981 11,198 teres, Lcrea. Lcres. lores. 11,970 12,941 127 636 28,929 .. 83| .. 67 19,985 45 36 828 13,866 526 7,517 5,285 .. 15 .. 75 .. 154 41 159 29,100 .. I 509 13,731 .. 85 .. 2,905 . . 501 .. Ac ITS. 85 47 130 Lcres. 3,970 Acres, i Acres. 64,126 116,016 24,845 1,760 10,000 76,166 348,520 53,11 id 3,824 304,574 246,460 141,254| Acres. 287,573 61,174 54,587 80,530 257,737 86,953 442,556 34,270 859,901 160,756 5,577* I 1 • • 289,734f Totals .. ( 152,483 5(i,946 276,242 92,890 46.792J 1,424 9,011 • 263 299,281 973,309 417,396 2,326,037 • National endowment t Includes 210,554 acr I Includes 5,847 acres t lands. res nationa ( national * 1 endowmei endowment it lands, lands (Tai itnaki, 4,81 17 acres, and Wcl lington, 950 acres).

Lam! District. Grown Lands. National Endowment. Maori Lands, chiefly for Settlement. Auckland Hawke's Bay raianaki Wellington N'elsoii . . kfarlborough Westland Canterbury Acres. 122,540 37,618 104,750 60,000 I.X.S7: , . 7.184 Nil 5,395* 553,506 19,400 Aires. 73,790 13,570 16,840 Nil 16,110 27.150 20,000 Nil Nil Acres. 78,190 18.270 17,177 18,500 Nil J) n 3tago Southland 24,700 Totals .. 929,266 156,837 424,782 * Lam for settlements.

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there were 308 selectors, who have taken up between them M).2(M! acres, against 288 selectors of 95,698 acres last year. It is also of interest to note that at the close of the year the Crown tenants totalled 26,498, holding 18,722,779 acres, and paying an annual rental of £577,693.

Table B. — Return showing Selections during the Year, together with the Total Number of Crown Tenants, the Net Area held, and Annual Rental payable at 31st March, 1910.

The National Endowment Aura. The total area within the national endowment, in terms of section i.'f>B of the Land Ad. 1908, amounts to 8,202,845 acres. The selectors for the pasl year numbered 615, the area selected being 1,024,537 acres, and the amount of revenue received for the past year totalled £78,408.

Selections during the Year. Tenure. Number. Area. Net Area held at 31st March, 1910. Nunilierof ,„, Annual Rental Selectors. Area - payable. irch, 191(1. Annual .Rental payable. Ordinary Crown Land*, — A B iCash lands . . . . .. . . 358 8,618 3 8 I deferred payment Perpetual Lease Oooupation with right of purchase .. 307 108,151 3 36 Lease in perpetuity .. .. .. 4 1,011 1 8 Renewable lease, town and rural .. :'.( 8,553 2 28 Agricultural lease Mining distriots hind occupation leases .. (ill 2,067 2 27 I Village settlement, cash .. .. 8 12 0 2 „ deferred |iayment ,, perpetual lease „ occupation with right 1 0 10 of purchase ,, lease in perpetuity „ renewable lease . . 12 115 3 16 ■ Village-homestead special settlement Special-settlement associations Improved-farm special settlement .. 220 33,605 0 0 Small grazing-runs .. .. .. 2| 2,867 0 0 Pastoral rone .. .. .. 68 1,057,602 2 11 Pastoral licenses in miuing districts under 26 5,083 3 31 special regulations Miscellaneous leases .. . . . . 558 89,555 3 26 a. k. v. £ s. d. 31 14,238 3 24 740 1 10 475 82,378 0 17 2,903 15 5 4,948 1,691,014 2 34 76,890 17 3 5,082 1,483,312 1 6 46,613 1 9 127 19,697 3 14 1,352 3 8 16 521 1 29 22 13 3 591 i 23,515 3 2 1,391 18 0 S 163 1 6 18 11 0 98 1,450 1 10 197 13 8 32 62 3 14 14 12 6 1,082 i 22,795 1 12 3,995 5 4 121 800 1 29 473 4 0 605 13,455 3 24 1,663 0 1 663 115,452 1 5 ' 6,214 15 6 795 104,334 3 19 5,873 10 9 255 I 468,307 3 12 17,956 15 9 463 6,944,768 2 23 35,105 19 4 215 39,143 0 29 809 3 8 3,514 663,010 3 38 ! 14,431 0 1 i £ 9. d. 740 1 10 2,903 15 5 76,890 17 3 46,613 1 9 1,352 3 8 22 13 3 1,391 18 0 18 11 0 197 13 8 14 12 6 3,995 5 4 473 4 0 1,663 0 1 6,214 15 6 5,873 10 9 17,956 15 9 35,105 19 4 809 3 8 14,431 0 1 Totals .. . . 1,656 1,317,245 3 33 1,656 1,317,246 3 33 19,121 19,121 11,688,424 3 27 216,668 2 10 I 1,688,424 3 27 216,608 2 10 ( 'hi riot Estate, — Cash lands .. .. .. .. 1 I 010 Lease in perpetuity Village homestead Urazing-farms . . . . .... Pastoral runs Miscellaneous leases . . . . . . 2 153 1 0 I ■ J il8 24,387 2 2 6,424 7 6 92 2,480 1 0 870 10 4 49 45,782 0 7 0,840 5 2 1 1,642 0 0 193 3 8 49 1,269 3 20 229 17 5 Totals .. .. . . 3 153 2 0 3 153 2 0 309 75,561 2 29 14,558 4 1 309 75,561 2 29 14,558 4 1 Land for Settlements, — Cash lands .. .. .. . . Iβ 254 1 28 Lease in perpetuity Renewable lease .. .. .. 274 88,430 2 2!) Village lease in perpetuity ,, renewable lease Special-settlement associations Small grazing-runs Pastoral runs M iseellaneous leases .. .. .. L8 520 3 36 3,600 603,364 1 25 194,096 16 8 (ir,r> 247,233 0 0 49,220 l<) 6 46 438 1 28 333 12 8 2 9 2 Hi 8 15 6 11 2,114 1 9 162 7 8 111 204,308 0 33 26,739 4 4 2 963 2 38 ; 121 13 0 205 0,723 0 22 1,401 15 3 __■ i_ Totals .. .. .. 308 ' 89,206 0 13 1 ■ , 4,632 i 1,125,144 3 11 272,085 4 7 4,632 i 1,125,144 3 11 272,085 4 7 National Endowment Lands, — Renewable lease .. .. .. 303 : 81,052 0 1 village settlement . . 32 352 1 21 Improved-farm special settlement .. 39 ii,.'!!)!• I :>o Small grazing-runs . . .. . . 43 295,627 0 0 I'iistoral runs .. .. .. 44 604,818 2 34 Pastoral licenses in mining districts under 45 6,861 3 30 special regulations Miscellaneous leases .. .. .. 109 29,426 0 25 720 196,783 1 28 I 9,122 10 6 107 1,003 0 21 244 17 0 • 48 7,745 2 14 75 14 7 460 1,413,016 0 27 25,702 14 I 227 4,009,840 2 37 35,065 11 8 152 25,256 1 17 536 2 8 416 173,945 3 15 | 1,475 2 2 720 196,783 1 28 107 1,003 0 21 48 7,745 2 14 460 1,413,016 0 27 227 4,009,840 2 37 152 25,256 1 17 9,122 10 5 244 17 0 75 14 7 25,702 14 1 35,065 11 8 536 2 8 416 173,945 3 15 1,475 2 2 Totals . .. .. 615 1,024,537 2 21 2,130 i 5,827,591 0 39 j 72,222 12 7 2,130 5,827,591 (i 39 72,222 12 7 . . 1 , Thermal springe, Rotorua 306 : 6,057 0 2 2,158 16 4 806 6,057 0 2 2,158 Iβ 4 (irand totals .. .. 2,582 2,431,143 0 27 26,498 J 18,722,779 2 28 577,693 0 5 26,498 118,722,779 2 28 577,693 0 5

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[mPROVED-FARM SETTLEMENTS. In order- to meet the urgent applications for land by a class of persons comparatively withoui means, but who were anxious to obtain small areas, the Governmeni determined on a vigorous policy of opening for selection very considerable areas of Crown lands in the Auckland. Taranaki, and Wellington Districts, us near the Main Trunk Railway line as possible, the result being that 4<>,7OL , acres were made available, and distributed amongst 258 heads of families. The intention of the Government was to open under the improved-farm-settlement conditions some 60,<K)<) acres of land, and thus provide for four hundred selectors. It was found, however, that land of sufficiently good quality, and reasonably near the Main Trunk Railway line, could not be obtained to meet the full requirements of the Government's decision. The total number of selectors and holders of improved-farm-settlement sections number 843 heads of families, holding a total area of 112.080 acres, the total improvements to tin , 81st March being valued at £207,828. further particulars are available in the reports by the several Commissioners of Crown Lands published in the Appendix. Vii.i.Ac k Settlements. A few additional areas near Dannevirke and elsewhere were opened to workers during the past year. The total selections numbered fifty-three, and the area taken up was 480 acres. The total number who hold at present under this tenure which gives the right to certain advances amounts to 2,193 selectors, the total area so held being 42,659 acres. I.Nsi'KiTioxs iiv Crown Lands Rangers. The total number of Crown Lands Rangers employed on 1 he necessary, 1 hough often t hankless task of insuring that Crown tenants are fulfilling their improvement and residential conditions, is divided as follows: North Island, lit viz.. Auckland, 8; Hawke's Bay, 2; Taranaki, 3; Wellington, (i. South Island, 19 —viz., Nelson, 3 ; Marlborough, 2 ; WeStland, - : Canterbury, 4 ; Otago, 4 ; Southland, 4. The total number of inspections made during the year was !).047 ; the total area inspected amounted to 2,589,587 acres ; the total value of the improvements actually made being £3,240.955. The following table gives the details : —

Table C. — Return of Number of Inspections made by the Rangers for the Year ended 31st March, 1910.

Grass-seed supplied to Settlers. The moneys repaid during the past year amount to £6.8(10. and the total repaid to date is £9,979. Only comparatively few of those who were helped in this way have asked thai the time mentioned in their promissory notes be extended. Revenue. The total gross revenue received by the several Receivers of Laud Revenue amounted to £674,907, or £15.893 over the estimated gross revenue, which was set down as £659,014. This, however, Calls short of last year's gross receipts by £21,468. The territorial revenue showed a reduction of £22,74Ji. below the estimate, as the total amoani received was only £201,257. against an estimated revenue of £224,000. This is entirely accounted fox by the diminution of cash sales to the amount firsi mentioned. Table I), hereunder. furnishes the details, and shows the amounts credited in euch district to territorial revenue

V'alut' (if Itt iprovemente. .NllMli !l- of Defi tnlteiB. NiiiciIht of Properties riaited. Area. * C*M14Vy ' ' I All l!( .juireil. Ar(ll,ill\ made hi a o I 1 i s I* District. \iu-khuid iawke's Bay Faranaki Wellington Selson tlarlborough iVcsl land .''anterbury )tago Jouthland 1,751 1,173 297 1,743 253 587 531 1,709 888 615 A. R. P. 430,380 0 0 508,668 2 18 160,266 3 13 289,331 0 0 , 138,278 0 0 296.427 2 :i7 76,272 3 4 324,545 2 25 234,836 3 32 130,589 2 22 £ e. i. 1(59,426 0 0 286,931 18 11 57,111 0 0 99,188 0 0 21,585 0 0 126,066 8 8 31,633 17 9 334,253 3 5 151,247 12 10 72,570 8 9 £ a. (1. 505,509 0 0 112 863,926 lo 9 27 124,005 0 0 36 363,105 0 0 84 44,659 0 0 40 287,899 12 2 28 91,772 9 0 560,246 15 4 100 259,572 9 2 102 140,198 18 8 14 3,240,954 15 1 ! 542 183 (il 19 72 22 44 45 10 22 3 120 15 4 5 13 7 •• 2 416 103 58 161 7.-) HI 46 110 129 24 5 5 2 Totals 9,547 : : 2,589,587 0 31 481 174 4 1,201 1,349,013 10 4

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Table D. — Revenue received during the Year ended 31st March, 1910.

Kioisatks of Rent.

The lessees of ordinary Crown land have received rebates of rent to the amount of £9,688, and the tenants under the Land for Settlements Act and Cheviot Estate to a total of £22,149. It is open to doubt whether the system of granting rebates of rent for prompt payment is based upon sound business principles. It is not carried out by private persons, and. considering the low rentals paid as a rule by oidinary Crown tenants, and, moreover, taking into consideration the fact that in regard to another class of tenants under the Land Act. 1908—viz.. pastoral licensees- where the Act directs thai a fine shall be imposed if the rent, when due, is not promptly paid, it seems difficult to understand why differential treatment should be meted out to the ordinary Crown tenants. Payments of " Thirds " and " Fourths " to Local Bodies. The various local bodies have had paid over to them, in accordance with the provisions of t he Land Act. 1908. no less a sum thai} £29.727, the several Land Boards having approved of the roadworks upon which this money is to be spent. Timber and Flax Koyalties. Owing to the falling-ofl in the amount of timber available for sale from ordinary Crown lands, and also to the demand for such timber having abated considerably during the past year, and further, in the case of flax, on account of the lesser production thereof, local bodies have only received "halves" amounting to £9,456. It is not expected that any large amount will be either received or payable (hiring the coining year. Medical Assistance in Sparsely Settled Districts. The Lands Department has continued its contributions in the form of subsidies to assist the medical clubs in sparsely settled districts to maintain medical men. and the amounts so paid are set forth in the following table : — >. 'Mi Amount ol Amount paid Nam, "" M ' ■'■'- Subsidy. 1909 1C E . d. Clevedon .. .. .. .. . . 25 12 10 0 Kaitaia .. .. .. .. .. 50 50 0 0 fcawakawa .. .. .. .. .. 50 50 o o Kawhia .. .. .. .. .. 50 50 0 0 Little River .. .. .. .. .. 50 50 0 0 Ohura .. .. .. .. .. 100 100 0 0 Owaka .. .. .. .. .. L5O L5O 0 0 Preservation Inlet . . . . . . . . 50 5(1 O 0 Raetihi .. .. .. .. .. 100 100 0 0 Raglan .. .. .. .. .. 50 50 0 Q Morrinsville .. .. .. .. .. 30 22 10 •0 Taumarunui .. .. .. .. .. 50 50 o o Tinui .. .. .. .. .. 50 37 10 0 Tolago Bay .. .. .. .. .. 75 75 0 0 Waian .. .. .. .. .. 25 25 0 0 Wanaka .. .. .. .. .. 100 Weber .. .. .. .. .. 50 50 0 0 Whangaroa .. .. .. . . .. 0 50 0 0 '£1,105 6972 10 0

I list riot. Territorial Revenue. N °Re™ al *<™ Auckland Hawke's Bay Tarauaki Wellington .. Nelson Maryborough Westland .. Canterbury . . Otago Southland .. £ 13,789 31,340 11,923 27,32(1 6,555 11, 5-1 9 3,843 24,917 28,786 11,329 £ £ 108,045 (57,651 98,9!) I 18,336 30,259 52,322 79.648 23,264 29,819 26,027 37,576 9,478 13,321 113,972 138,889 76,523 105,259 21,771 33, loo Totals 201,257 473,650 674,907

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Land for Settlement Estates. The table appended below gives the position and prospects of each estate purchased and opened for settlement. Seven additional estates have been opened for selection. In the North Island the area offered amounted to 28,600 acres, and comprised estates at Tongoio, near Napier; Clyde hank, at W'airoa ; and Ngatapa, in the Gisborne district. These were divided into sixty [arms, for which there was keen competition. In the South Island the area acquired and opened [or selection amounted to 31,226 acres, and comprised estates in the Canterbury and Southland Districts, Eor which there was also keen competition.

Table E. — Summary of the Settlements established upon Estates acquired and dealt with, under the Provisions of the Land for Settlements Act, up to the 31st March, 1910.

Land District and Selec- , llesi- Principal Purpose for which \iiini> of Settlement. tors. : donees. Holdings aro utilised. Auckland— Bickerstaffe .. 33 25 Grazing and dairying Fencourt .. 37 36 Dairying Karapiro 18 12 Mangapouri 10 9 Mangawhero 18 18 » Matamata .. 183 159 Okauia .. .. 8 8 Grazing Opouriao .. 92 , 77 Dairying Rangiatea 20 18 Rewi .. . . 1 1 Grazing Selvvyn .. 107 67 Tautari 25 15 Teasdale .. 58 l<), Residential Waimana .. 25 15 Dairying Whitehall . 11 10 , ■ .. Pair .. j Substantial Satisfactory Pair Ml * * Satisfactory Pair Excellent .. Satisfactory Unsatisf'ct'ry Pair Poor Good Satisfactory Progress during Year. Fair Satisfactory Present Position. Doubtful. Bright. Hopeful. Bright. Hopeful. Excellent. Hopeful. Doubtful. Hopeful. Discouraging. Bright. Prospects. Excellent Satisfactory Unsatisfactory .. Satisfactory Unsatisfactory .. Satisfactory n Hamlets — Cradock .. 13 12 Residential Hetana ..66 39 Kitchener 12 10 Methuen 30 24 > Plumer .... 17 IS Waari .14 0 Good Sound Bright. Hopeful. Bright. Doubtful. Very good .. ] Pair Fair 798 582 I Hawke's Bay— Argyll .. 62 60 Agricultural and pastoral Clydebauk 23 .. Elstliorpe .. 48 27 Pastoral Satisfactory Only recently Very satisfactory Satisfactory Very satisfactory Pair Satisfactory Very satisfactory Ditto Prosperous selected. Prosperous Good. Good. Forest Gate 29 I 26 Agricultural aud pastoral Hatuma .. 76 62 Kanakanaia .. 7 7 Pastoral Kumeroa .. 15 14 Pastoral and dairying Lindsay . . 68 61 Agricultural and pastoral Mahora .. 34 32 \ Agricultural, dairying, and fruit-culture Manga-a-toro .. 26 25 Pastoral Mftuyatahi .23 21 Ngatapa .. 24 .. Agricultural and pastoral Pouparae .. 9 9 Agricultural Pourerere .. 6 5 Pastoral Raumati .. 30 27 Dairying Only recently Very satisfactory Fair Very satisfactory Ditto selected. Raureka .. 19 17 Agricultural, dairying, and fruit-culture Te Arai .. 53 i 49 Agricultural and pastoral Te Mata ■ ■ 9 8 Fruit-culture Tomoana . . 13 12 Agricultural, dairying, and fruit-oulture Tongoio.. .. 12 .. Pastoral Waimarie .. 18 16 Agricultural Pair Very satisfactory Only reoently ' Very satisfaotory Only recently Very satisfactory Ditto selected. Prosperous Good. Waipuka .. 1 .. Pastoral Wigan .. .17 19 selected. Prosperous Good. Willows .. 22 1C Agricultural 644 513 Taranaki— Clandon .. 6 6 Dairying and sheep Huinga.. . 10 ; 10 Spotswood . . 13 13 Grazing Tokaora . • 13 13 Dairying Unsatisf'ct'ry Good Better Good Noc too good .. Satisfactory Unsatisfactory .. Satisfactory Not too good. Good. Indiffereut. ! Good.

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Table E. — Summary of the Settlements established upon Estates acquired and dealt with, under the Provisions of the Land for Settlements Act, up to the 31st March, 1910 —continued.

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Land District and Name of Settlement. Selectors. llesidences. Principal Purpose for wbicb Progress Holdings are utilised. during Year. Present Position. Prospects. Vellington— Aorangi Carrington Dyer 37 29 36 38 27 36 Dairying Dairying and grazing Grazing, dairying, and cropping Residential, market gardening, &o. Not yet es-tablished. Grazing Good Satisfactory Excellent .. Excellent Good .. Satisfactory Good. Pair. Good. Epuni 4-2 42 Satisfactory Good .. Fair. Hawtrey Hikawera Langdale Linton Longbush Mahupuku Mangawhata Maungaraki Normandale 9 3 29 5 7 8 7 21 34 3 3 24 5 6 8 7 19 33 Dairying and cropping Grazing and dairying Very good .. 8teady Good Good .. Excellent Satisfactory Good .. Excellent. Good. Very bright. Good. Favourable. Fair. Unoertain on larger areas. Good. Satisfactory Ohakea.. Paparangi 17 36 15 36 Residential and farming .. Residential, poultry-farm-ing, &c. Dairying and cropping Residential, poultry and dairy farming Grazing Dairying and cropping Dairying Indifferent Good Satisfactory Good as to residential Excellent Good Tablelands Tawaha Te Matua 9 24 13 9 24 12 Very good .. Satisfactory Good Excellent Excellent. Fair. Good. 366 347 felson — Braeburn 14 9 Principally pastoral Very good .. Very good Very encouraging. Ditto. Wangapeka 14 11 Agricultural and pastoral.. 28 20 Iarlborough— Blind River 17 12 Sheep-farming and graingrowing Ditto Grazing Sheep-farming and graingrowing Grazing Dairying Sheep-farming and graingrowing Ditto .. Grazing Fair Good .. Good. . Flaxbourne North Bank Omaka 118 7 13 89 6 13 Good Fa"ir ! '. Fair .. Progressing Satisfactory Hopeful. Good. Puhipuhi Rainford Richmond Brook 2 11 11 1 11 10 Very little .. Fair Good .. Fair. Very good. Fair Starborough Waipapa 192 4 105 4 Good Fair Fair Excellent. Fair. 375 251 Veetland— Kokatahi 8 7 Dairying and grazing Highly satisfactory Ditto .. Good. Good Poerua 22 14 ■ 30 21 lanterbury— Albury Annan 75 43 58 41 Mixed farming Partly pastoral, partly mixed farming Partly pastoral, partly dairying Residential and marketgardening Ditto .. Partly pastoral, partly mixed farming Pastoral and mixed farming Mixed farming Small farm Mixed farming .. Very good .. Very good .. Excellent Excellent Very good. Very good. Ashley Gorge 10 12: Steady Satisfactory Good. Braco 14 14 Steady Satisfaotory Good. Buddo Chamberlain 6 20 22 Selected in Very good .. March, 1910. Excellent Very good. Culverden 44 42 m Very good Good. Eccleston Epworth Fyvie Hekeao Highbank Horsley Down .. Kaimahi Kapua .. Kapuatohe Kereta Kinloch Kohika Lyndon (No. 1) .. Lyndon (No. 2) .. Marawiti .. Maytown Mead Mills 4 2 5 15 76 26 12 12 12 4 30 15 8 9 13 11 21 21 4 1 5 13 58 21 11 12 ; ii j 3 27 15 8 9 12 11 19 21 „ • * • • m ■ • • • Market gardening Small farming and dairj ing Workmen's homes Dairying Pastoral Mixed farming and dairying Pastoral Good Steady Good Very gcod .. Good Stearly Good Steady Good Very good .. Good Satisfactory Good .. Very good Excellent Very good Satisfaotory m • • H • • • Very good. Good*. Fairly satisfact'ry Excellent Satisfactory Improving. Very good. Good. Mixed farming Small farming and dairying Mixed farming Dairying and small farming Vitv good .. Good Very good Satisfactory Very good. Good. il • •

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Table E. — Summary of the Settlements established upon Estates acquired and dealt with, under the Provisions of the Land for Settlements Act, up to the 31st March, 1910 —continued.

Land District and 8eleo- Reei- Prinoipal Purpose for which Name of Settlement. tors. deuces. Holding* are utilised. dutaff&r. Preeeat PoBiti ° n - Prospects. Canterbury— contd. Morice .. Orakipaoa Otaio .. Otarakaro 30 27 9 7 27 22 8 7 Dairying and grass-seeding Small farming Small farming and dairying Residential and marketgardening Mixed farming Small farming and dairying Mixed farming and dairying Grazing Workmen's homes Mixed farming Workmen's homes Mixed farming and dairying Pastoral Mixed farming and dairying Pastoral Small farming Residential and marketgardening Small farming and dairying Partly pastoral, partly mixed farming Small farming and dairying Pastoral Workmen's homes Good Steady Satisfactory Good. I Good P apaka Pareora (No. 1) .. Pareora (No. 2) .. Patoa Pawabo Peaks Puhuka Punaroa Raincliff Rakitairi Rapuwai Rautawiri Roimata 9 28 32 4 25 12 10 17 1 22 5 6 27 9 24 32 1 25 2 10 17 1 17 5 6 26 i Very good .. j Steady I Very good .. Steady Good Steady i Good I Very good .. Good Very good .. Very good Satisfactory Exoellent Satisfactory . Exoellent Satisfactory Very good Very good. Good. Very good. Good. Very good. Good. Very good. Good" Steady Satisfactory '< Good". Rosebrook Rosewill 14 154 13 145 Very good .. Excellent Very good. Studholme Junct. Takitu .. Tamai Tarawahi Tripp 1 39 28 24 2 5 40 28 Steady Very good .. Good Satisfactory Very good Satisfactory Good. Very good. Good. Partly pastoral, partly mixed farming Mixed farming .. Partly pastoral, partly mixed farming Workmen's homes Seleoted in March, 1910. Waiapi Waikakahi 15 182 14 169 Good Very good .. Satisfactory Excellent Good. Very good. Wharenui Homestead-sites, &o. Miscellaneous occupation licenses 26 9 26 4 Good Satisfactory Good. 44 1,323 1,125 Good. Otago— Airedale Arrigowan Barnego Duncan.. Earnsoleugh Elderslie Greenfield Janefield Kauroo Hill Grazing and dairying Dairying and general Grazing and dairying .. j Grain-growing and dairying Fruit-growing Grain-growing and general Good Good .. 12 66 24 7 13 M 41 21 89 11 53 20 4 8 •24 10 10 2'J Poor Very fair .. Good Pair .. Not good Satisfactory Good .. Fa'ir. Poor. Good. Dairying and residential.. Grazing and general farming Dairy farming and general farming Grain-growing and general Grazing and dairying Fair Good Pair '.'. Fa'ir. Kurow 14 13 Good .. Good. Maerewhenua Makareao and Makareao Extension Meadowbank Momona Otekaike Plunket.. 75 35 8 14 M IK 57 ■20 1 13 52 18 Very fair .. Good Pair '.'. Very sound Good .. Fair. 0 Very good. Good. Pomahaka Puketapu Steward St. Helen's Tahawai Taumata Teaneraki Tokarahi Totara M 11 47 8 8 9 23 78 ■27 14 8 42 8 8 9 15 44 25 Dairying .. Grain-growing and dairying Dairying and general farming Grain-growing and general Dairying Grazing and general Fair Good Fair Fair .. Good .. Fair. Good. Dairying Grain-growing and general Dairying .. .. I Grazing and general .. Dairying and general farm ing Grazing and general .. , Good Fair Good Not good .. Fa"ir .. Good .. Pair .. Fair. Windsor Park No. 1 Windsor Park No. 2 :>7 10 98 8 Fair Good .. Good. * « • • 766 587 Southland— Beaumont Edendale 12 145 7 123 Farming and grazing Farming, dairying, and grazing Only selected 31st March, Farming, dairying, and grazing Grazing and dairying .. Farming and grazing Grazing FailVery good .. Satisfactory Very good Enoouraging. Excellent. Ermedale Glenham 9 Sβ 41 1910. Good Good .. Very good. Merrivale Otahu Ringway 49 6 8 40 5 8 Very good .. Good Fair Very good Satisfactory Good. Fair. 264 224 Grand totals .. 4,636 3,711

11

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Reports on other Works and Services controlled ity the Lands Department.

Hauraki Plains. The statutory report which will be laid before Parliament in accordance with the provisions of the Hauraki Plains Act, 1908, will give full particulars of the successful carrying on of the drainage operations. This has resulted in an area of 17,500 acres (including town and suburban areas for auction, and areas of roads and reserves) being ready for handing over to the Auckland Land Board for disposal at the close of the financial year, the land being scheduled for opening in May. Fot drainage purposes the total moneys raised from the Government Loans to Local Bodies Account under the Hauraki Plains Act, 1908, is £31,<XX); and since the coming into operation of the New Zealand State-guaranteed Advances Act. 1909 (sections 84 lo 86). a further sum of £10,000 has been obtained, making the total sum £41.000. The expenditure from the 20th October, 1908, to the 31st March, 1910, is £33,907, leaving ; balance of £7,093 still to credit. It is expected that the opening of the area for selection in May, the sale of the Town of Pipiroa and suburban lands, and the sale of about 550 head of cattle, will place a considerable sum to the credit of the Hauraki Plains Account for further works. It is a matter for congratulation that the value of the 16,898 acres to be opened for selection has been fixed by competent valuers at £75,660. Since the beginning of August, 1909, the general and local charge of the drainage-works and surveys has been under the direct supervision of Mr. J. B. Thompson, District Surveyor. Mr. George I'urchas having charge of the drainage operations, and the whole of the operations being generally directed from the Head Office. I must congratulate Mr. J. B. Thompson, and those working with him, upon the enthusiastic and able manner in which all details have been carried out. I anticipate that it will take five years to complete the drainage of the 90,000 acres and the completion of the great canal fifteen miles long, but of the ultimate reclamation of the whole area, and its settlement with a thriving class of settlers, I have no manner of doubt. The details are now all settled as to the manner in which the works shall be carried out from year to year, and every six months areas ready for opening for selection should be available. The next opening of areas for selection will be in November, 1910.

Whangamanne Swamp.

As a fitting oorollaiy to the previous paragraph on the drainage oi the llauraki Plains comes the question of the possibility of draining the considerable area of Crown lands known as the Whangarnarino and Maramanta Swamp, Lower Waikato. [ji oidei bo obtain a reliable basis from which to gauge the possibilities of reclamation, Mr. Breakell, who lately retired from the Hauraki Plains works, was engaged to make a preliminary investigation, and to furnish a report. This report will be found published in full as an appendix. After fully reviewing the whole of tin; conditions which have led to the formation and retention of the swamp area, Mr. Breakell proceeds to deal with the cause and cure h> the above conditions viz., the congestion of the Waikato River below Mercer. After dealing with the obstructions between Mercer and Tuakau, Mr. Breakell states, " Between Tuakau and the Heads there is a long low Hat. aboul three; miles in length, where the river spreads to a width of, 1 should say, two or three miles, with many small and varying channels. The river here requires restricting, so as to create, one definite channel. Tins could be done by low training or wing walls 15 chains apart, so as to confine the scour; the method of forming these, being loose nibble deposited on given lines to the height of, Bay, I ft. above low-water level at spring tides. Beyond this latter-mentioned work 1 think very little else would be required other than a little dredging from Port Waikato to the point where high-water neap tides reach up the river. From this latter point up to the mouth of the Whangamarino River dredging would be required, and 1 apprehend that if a channel of, say, 3 chains wide were dredged, and the work hereinbefore proposed lower down the river were performed, the river would gradually scour itself to its original sole, and, with a little assistance, to its original width.* If the work as above proposed were performed, the Whangamarino and Maramarua Rivers would be enabled to perform their natural functions." Mr. Breakell states, as will be noted at the end of his report, that a suitable dredge and gear for dredging the Waikato River would probably cost £15,000. Taking the report as a whole, it appears that any sum from £50,000 upwards would be ultimately required, and, as the total area of the swamp is only 19,500 acres, and, moreover, as the principal works required to be undertaken are many miles away from the swamp itself, and the initial cost of dredging and meeting training-walls will be so heavy, the scheme should be put in hand by a specially constituted Drainage Board, subsidised by the Government as far as its own area of Crown swamp is concerned. ( 'mum Purchases from Maori Owners. The land-purchase operations during the past year have resulted in additional lands to the extent of 15,588 acres being obtained, the officer who has charge of the operations being Mr. R. A. Paterson,

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who was recently gazetted as Land Purchase Officer. The details will be given in a separate report. Th; coming into operation of the Native Land Act, 1909, has necessitated different machinery from that formerly in vogue, and all purchases of Native lands by the Crown will now be f by and through the Board specified in section 361 of the Native Land Act, 1909, the direct purchase by the Lands Department automatically ceasing. Crown and State Forests. The usual special report; upon the progress made with reafforestation, and the work done under the direction of the Superintending Nurserymen for the North and South Islands, will be laid before Parliament in due course. It is sufficient to say that the work has been vigorously prosecuted, and that the results have exceeded the most sanguine expectations. So wel] have the trees grown at Waipa (Rotorua) and Waiotapu (on the way from Rotorua to Taupo) that it has been decided to set apart a large area of, say, 2<).<XK) acres, on the Waiotapu-Galatea Road, upon which a central camp-site will be selected, and from which planting operations can be conducted for five or six years without a further removal of the prison headquarters. Trial boring for water is now being conducted, as that is one of the first considerations when selecting a camp-site. The exhaustive general report dealing with forestry in New Zealand—foreshadowed in last year's annual report —was duly laid before Parliament during last session. It has been well received and mosi favourably reviewed in many publications in Great Britain, the Continent of Europe, and America. Scenery-preservation. This work, though carried out by the Lands Department, is under the control of a separate Minister, and will appear in the usual report. The surveys in progress in connection therewith have been principally along the Main Trunk Railway line and on the banks of the Wanganui River. Domains. The recreation reserves brought under Part II of the Public Reserves and Domains Act, 1908. now number 510. Special grants were appropriated by Parliameni towards the pin-chase of domains in several centres, and these have been paid over in every case where the areas purchased have been in the name of the King. Grants towards improvements, fencing, &c, have been paid to the amount of £1,869. Cemeteries. The additional cemetery-sites out of Crown land set apart during the year numbered five, and towards the clearing and fencing of cemeteries already vested in trustees sums totalling £149 have been granted. Departmental and General. Amongst the names of those who. having reached the age of retirement under the Public Service Superannuation Act. I9<>B, and its amendment, have retired, or are on leave of absence previous to retirement, I would single out for honourable mention Mr. G. J. Roberts, who lately retired from the position which he had so ably filled of Commissioner of Crown Lands and Chief-Surveyor, Westland, and who in his earlier days conducted most of the triangulation and topographical surveys of the Southern Alps in Canterbury and Westland. a most arduous and trying work, and one which left its legacy of impaired health at a comparatively early age. Mr. G. J. Roberts was a keen geologist and a most enthusiastic officer. His equal will be hard to find. Mr. J. W. Davis, formerly Chief Draughtsman in the Head Office, was obliged to retire early this year, owing to failing health. He was an old and valued officer. To the list of other valued officers in their special branches must be added the following names, viz. : Mr. H. P. Kavanagh, Chief Timber Expert, Auckland, formerly :i Crown Lands Ranger in the Wellington District; Mr. Kavanagh , s knowledge of New Zealand timbers was unequalled. Mr. T. M. Taylor, Receiver of Land Revenue, Auckland, was also retired, at his own request, after long and faithful service loth under the Auckland Provincial and General Governments. Also Messrs. .). Cumine and W. G. O'Neill, surveyors, and Messrs. J. S. Welch, William Darby, H. G. Rodger, and Edward Krissell. draughtsmen. With regard to Mr. Frissell, it may be mentioned that he w.is a partner with Mr. Todd when the latter was shot by the Maoris whilst both were engaged on the survey of the Kaiainn and Pirongia Blocks for the Crown in the Auckland District, in 1865. Mr. J. Cook, clerk in the Receiver's office, Auckland, and Mr. J. M. McKay, Crown Lands Ranger, in the Whangarei District, North of Auckland, also retired.

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Promotions.

Owing to the vacancies caused by the retirements mentioned both in last year's report and in the preceding paragraph, the following principal officers have been promoted : To the position of Surveyor-General (rendered vacant by the retirement of Mr. Thomas Humphries), Mr. John Strauchon, Mr. Eric Gold Smith being transferred from Canterbury to Auckland as Commissioner of Crown Lands and Chief Surveyor iti Mr. Strauchon's stead. Owing to Mr. David Barren's retirement, Mr. E. H. Wilmot was transferred from Southland to Otago ; Mr. F. W. Flanagan was transferred from Nelson to Canterbury ; Mr. T. N. Brodrick was promoted from being Inspecting Surveyor and Land Officer at Qiebome to the position of Commissioner of Crown Lands and Chief Surveyor for the Hawke's Bay District; Mr. R. T. Sadd was promoted from being Chief Draughtsman and Surveyor. Nelson, to be Commissioner of Crown Lands and Chief Surveyor for thai district; Mr. 11. M. Skeel was promoted from the position of Chief Draughtsman and Surveyor. Westland, to Commissioner of Crown Lands and Chief Surveyor, Southland ; whilst Mr. G. H. M. McClure, Chief Draughtsman and Surveyor, Christchurch, was promoted to the position of Commissioner of Crown Lands and Chief Surveyor, Westland, in place of Mr. G. J. Roberts. Expenditure of the Department. The following in a summary of the expenditure of the Department for the year ended 31st March, 1910 :—

Conclusion.

Before bringing this report to a close. I would like to place on record my warm appreciation of the manner in which the several Commissioners of Crown Lands and Chief Surveyors, and the officers working under them, have carried out their duties. Again I can say that the discipline of the whole Department has been good, and that the survey staff, from the Surveyor-General downwards, have used their utmost efforts to assist the several Commissioners in opening the lands for selection. Most of our Crown lands in the North Island —and for the most part also in the South Island —are in broken forest country difficult of access, and where progress musi necessarily be slow. Experience has also proved that to throw the land open for before survey only leads to endless trouble and irritation. In the Head Office I have been assisted by a willing staff, who, under the direction of the Chief Clerk, have carried out their duties in a manner worthy of all praise. Much of Ihe lime of Mr. R. A. Paterson, the Chief Accountant, has been occupied with the purchase of Maori lands, and his assistant, Mr. Sinel, has displayed a promptitude and an aptitude for work which is greatly to his credit.

/ote No. N«m« of Vote or Account. Amount voted (Net). Expenditure (Gross). Recoveries. Expenditure (Net). 7:-! 71 06 .18 .14 Iβ L6 .17 .19 Lands and Survey ... ... 170,887 Lands and Survey, Miscellaneous 84,887 Immigration ... ... j 10,000 Improved-farm Settlements ... 22,800 Lands, Miscellaneous ... 4,944 Irrigation and Water.. ... 5,000 Purchase of Native Lands ... 30,000 State Forests ... ... 23,335 Scenery Preservation... ... j 10,425 £ 170,887 84,887 10,000 22,800 4,944 5,000 30,000 23,335 10,425 £ s. d. 177,125 11 1 52,865 11 II 1 30,702 19 3! 1,935 18 6! 3,569 19 9 224 14 6 31,454 9 8 22,266 17 7 5,828 17 1 £ s. d. 17,027 0 9i 7,426 1 9 13,700 10 5 1,030 15 2 t e. d. 160,098 10 4 45,439 10 2 17,002 8 10 905 3 4 3,569 19 9 223 13 2 30,566 10 11 22,187 0 6 5,775 13 6 114 887 18 9 79 17 1 53 3 7 Totals 362,278 362,278 325,974 19 4 40,206 8 10 285,768 10 6 Consolidated Fund, Unauthorised Account Special Acts Deposit Accounts, &c. Land for Settlements Account (including Votes Nos. 120 and 121) Cheviot Estate Account Maori Land Settlement Act Account (including Vote No. 122) 6,527 5 47,398 6 514,046 2 0 ( 0 6,157 19 5 0 0 0 370 0 47,379 6 514,046 2 0 7 0 8,951 9 437 11 8 8 8,951 9 437 11 8 8 Totals 577,360 14 11 6,176 5 0 571,184 9 11 Grand totals 903,335 14 46,382 13 10 856,953 0 5

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APPENDICES.

APPENDIX [.—SETTLEMENT OF CROWN LANDS.

EXTRACTS FROM THE REPORTS OF THE COMMISSIONERS OF CROWN LANDS ON SETTLEMENT OPERATIONS DURING THE TWELVE MONTHS WHICH ENDED ON THE 31st MARCH, 1910.

AUCKLAND. The Settlement of Crown Lands. The demand for Crown land in this district has continued unabated dining the past year, as evidenced by the number of sales and ballots held —viz., thirty-seven—and the large total of 5,920 applications dealt with. To endeavour to satisfy that demand, the office has had on hand and available for selection in the Land Guide at the end of each month under all classes of tenure areas varying from 326,000 acres to 424,000 acres, and, in addition, has put on the market from month to month during the year a total of 287,573 acres. Ho far as the total of 287,573 acres offered afresh to the public is concerned, all was selected except 19,754 acres. Herein is shown what the newspapers refer to as the " land hunger of the north." This latter area, however, is exclusive of the five pastoral runs opened, and aggregating 115,001) acres, which, generally speaking, are lands of indifferent quality, and suitable only for men who have the means to develop it in large areas. The new legislation giving preference to landless applicants, and the power which exists to examine applicants as to their suitability id.selectors, have had a very marked eifect in the settlement of the lands. The Land Board has taken a firm stand in the rejection of those who are not landless, and, as a result, tfttere has be«D an increase in the number of applications made under sections 129 and 138 of the Act, granting land t<> adjoining holders without competition. There are many cases where Crown lands adjoin the homes of settlers who have very small areas and wish to extend their holdings, but would be barred from a ballot through being not landless. In such cases the, Board has not hesitated in grant additional areas under the clauses referred to. Although the land laws are framed with a view to the settlement of people on the land rather than with the object of revenue, the large sum collected in this district, as shown in the tables, is worthy of note. In summing up the position, therefore, it must 'ne admitted that the Department has rendered a, very large area available to meet the demand of would lie settlers, and has facilitated I lie acquisition of land by bona fide, applicants. Conditions and Proukkss of Skttlement. As will always be the case, the degree of progress in the development of settlement is governed very largely by the nature of road-access. Prom the very initial stages, when stores are being taken in prior to bushfelling operations, up to the time when a. market must be found for produce, the proportion of expense varies with the nature of the roads. Notwithstanding the drawbacks incidental to indifferent roads, bad tracks, or entire absence of access, there has been a great deal of work done in the development of new country, and the progress made shows that those who have tackled pioneer work are of the right stamp. A very large area of bush has been felled, which, besides providing employment for bushfellers. means that there will be a large increase in the stock returns lor the district. Of the area felled, it is satisfactory to note that over a third was chopped on lands taken up during the year. From this it is fair to assume that the new settlers are energetic men, determined to lose no time in making their selections render a return. Taking the selectors as a whole, the fact that three times the amount of improvements required have been effected is a sufficient indication that operations are being conducted on a very extensive scale. In the far north there has been considerable increase in dairying during the year, and the ready money which it circulates benefits all classes of the community. The progress of this industry is specially encouraging in view of the fact that a. great deal of the land is not of first-class quality. In addition to dairying and general farming, gum-digging and timber work continue to give employment to a large section of the population. There are signs everywhere that the attention which is being directed to the far North is resulting in the general advancement of that portion of the land district. Coming further south, but still within the operations of the kauri timber and gam industries, there is similar evidence of activity, and there has been a slight revival in flax-production. Considerable attention has also been given to the development of coal prospects, with very encouraging results. In connection witli both timber and gum there is one feature which has become more apparent of late — namely, the demand and attention which is now given to a class of timber and kauri-gum wliich in former years would not have been looked at. Timbers which were, considered of no marketable value are now being milled and kauri-gum collected which would formerly have been left untouched.

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In the North of Auckland the land offered for selection has for the must part consisted <>f scattered areas, only one block of any magnitude having been put on the market. In the Coromandel district a meat impetus to settlement has taken place. A new butter-faotory has been elected at Whitianga, and. although started late in the season, has been very successful. The timber industry has also been very brisk in the Thames and Coromandel districts, and with the recent Hoods, large quantities of timber have been delivered to the booms, thus providing a good deal of employment in the district. Again, taking the Waikato district, the erection of creameries, the development of coal properties. and the keen demand lor land show thai greal progress is also being made. The Bay of Plenty lands continue to lie sought alter, and the excellent crops produced and tin , increase in stock are ample evidenoes of the desirability of this district for the carrying-on of farmiim pursuits. The settlers look forward with great hope to the pushing-through of a railway, In the southern portion of the land district a good proport ion of splendid country has been selected, and the, settlers are. with very few exceptions, men of the right stamp. The difficulties of access are gradually being overcome, and new dairy factories are being established all over the district. The demand for land is also very keen, and few of those who are successful in securing sections ever let them go by default. The principal feature was the disposal of Tc Akaii Block. This area attracted applicants from all over the Dominion. Three improved-farm-settlement blocks were also opened for allotment, and a very satisfactory class of settler has acquired the land. Although only a few months have expired since allotment, and many of the sections are not yet provided with access, a number of the settlers have started improvements, and are living on their sections. The success of the settlements seems assured. In reviewing the condition and progress of settlement generally, it will be found that, with improvements in access, erection of bridges, construction of railways, establishment of schools and creameries, and the increase, of stock, there are evidences of distinct progress and increased prosperity throughout the country. Rangers' Reports. There was a much greater area covered by the Rangers' inspections than in the previous year, more than 300 additional selectors being visited. But although this was the case, it is satisfactory to note that there was a reduction in the proportion of defaulters to selections inspected. The inspections and reports of a miscellaneous nature continue to constitute a formidable amount of work, the number reaching as high as 809. When it is remembered that in most cases considerable distances separate localities that have to be visited, and a great deal of time is taken up in travelling, it will be seen that the work has been energetically carried out. Forfeitures. Under this heading there has been a very large increase in the number of those who have been relieved of their holdings as compared with previous years. In former times a considerable period was allowed in cases of default before the Crown resumed possession. But when the demand for land increased, the Land Hoard determined that areas should not be locked up unimproved and neglected, to the detriment of the progress of the district. Action was therefore taken promptly to get rid of the indolent and make room for those energetic settlers who were only waiting the opportunity to secure suitable holdings. In no case has a selector been deprived of his holding where his default has been due to absolute misfortune. In cases such as this the Board has exercised the greatest leniency, and has thereby helped struggling settlers to tide over times of financial stress. Arrears ok Rio.vtal. Although what is known as an air of prosperity may pervade a district, the absolute fact that it exists could not be determined were it not that proof is available in support of the belief. For wherever selectors have effected improvements far in excess of what the law demands they demonstrate clearly that funds have been available, so also have they by prompt payment of rent indicated that a certain amount of ready money is at hand to meet such liabilities. Notwithstanding the fact that a considerable number of new selectors were placed on the books during the year, the number in arrear with rent was twenty-five below that of the previous year. In taking action against the defaulters, the Board has exercised discrimination, in order not to inflict hardship on those who have met with extreme difficulties in the arduous work of pioneer settlement. Transfers. There has been a considerable increase in the number of holdings that have changed hands during the year. Five hundred and five applications to transfer were approved, and seven were refused. These transactions are no doubt another indication of the demand which exists for farming land. This has created values which are very tempting to settlers, and many take a profit notwithstanding the disqualification which they thereafter have to bear in terms of section 109 of the Act. The Board, in dealing with such applications, exercises its judgment and tries to prevent speculative transfers, but cannot, as has often been suggested, refuse a transfer simply because the vendor is making apparently a large profit. Conversions ok Tenure to Renewable Lease. There were fifteen applications during the year, all by selectors within mining districts, to change their leases to renewable lease. This makes a total of thirty-five applications since the power was provided. The operations of clause 193 of the Act have resulted in a large increase, in the number of llaiiraki pastoral lease and mining district laud, occupation application-..

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Purchase of Fee-simple ok Lease in Perpetuity. Since the coming into operation of the Act there have been forty-three applications for purchase of the fee-simple. It is difficult to understand how the acquisition of the fee-simple on an increased value cm be a satisfactory financial transaction when money costs at the very least 5 per cent., as against 4 per cent, on the lease-in-perpetuitv tenure. During the year there were no objections to the valuations made under this system. "Thirds," "Fourths," and " Ealves." There has been an increase in the amount of " thirds " paid over to local bodies, but a falling-off in the amount of " fourths " and "halves." As noticed in previous reports, the bulk of the money paid to local bodies for roadwork is utilised for maintenance, very little new roadwork being undertaken. There have been few complaints by settlers as to the expenditure of their "thirds." the local bodies appearing, as a rule, to give satisfaction in the work that is accomplished with such moneys. Land Board. There were nineteen meetings of the Board during the year. In addition to meetings held in Auckland, the Board visited the district from Thames, through Coromandel, Mercury Bay, down to Katikati. Tauranga, and Rotorua, and made recommendations in regard to dealing with Crown lands in those localities. A visit was also paid to the Matamata Settlement, and it gave the members much pleasure to witness its prosperous condition. The Tokatoka Swamp was also visited, and recommendations were made in regard to the drainage. The Board was present at Ngaruawahia at the ballot for sections in Te Akau Block. Land Revenue. In the Receiver's branch there were 10,591 revenue receipts issued and 143 provisional titles. The Deposit Account transactions totalled £25,708 Is. 9d., and there were 1,832 receipts issued. There were 2,400 transactions and operations on the Deposit Account, amounting to £25,663 4s. 9d. OFFrcE-WORK. From the foregoing it will be readily seen that such large transactions necessitate considerable office-work. In catering for the requirement of settlers, over 18,000 posters were sent out. There were thirty-seven distinct sales of land, and there were thirty-two ballots. The total number of applications lodged was 5.290, of which 105 were rejected from the ballots. There was an increase in the number of letters, &c, received, but a falling-off in the number despatched, although the total reached the very large number of 75,119. In addition to duties associated with the disposal of land, much time is taken up with the numerous questions which arise in the administration of the Acts which cannot be set out in a quotation of figures. Conclusion. I have to acknowledge the assistance which has been rendered me by the Chief Clerk and all the officers of this branch of the Department. Eric C. Gold Smith, Commissioner of Crown Lands.

HAWKE'S BAY. The Settlement op Crown Lands. The transactions for the year under this heading may be considered satisfactory. All the allotments offered were well competed for by a good class of settler, and the demand for land still continues. At the present time there are only seven sections available for selection in this land district, four of which are village allotments, and there is every indication that as much land as we can offer will be readily taken up during the coming year. The system recently adopted of the examination by the Land Hoard of all selectors, whether original or transferee, tends to keep out speculators and undesiraliles. and will, it is thought, assist in the genuine permanent settlement of the country by the people who really want to live by farming. The last of the deferred-payment holdings has been converted into fee-simple, but conversions from lease in perpetuity and occupation with right of purchase are not numerous, considering the number of holdings under those tenures. The revenue for the year was £98,991, an increase of £21,039 over last year. Of this, £1,506 13s. lid. was from increased rents on renewed small grazLng-run leases, and most of the remainder from increased settlement. Disposal op remaining Crown Lands. It is proposed to offer for sale or selection during the current year an area of 94,813 acres. The following are brief descriptions of the principal blocks : — Wwarara and Makaretu (8,400 acres) : Hilly bush land, varying in altitude 'from 1,500 ft. to .'5.500 ft. The land is particularly well watered, soil good, and healthy sheep country. Tα mill, i No. 4 Block (I.SI "> acres): Mixed forest country, the bush being principally mahoe, tawa, rata, rimu, tawhero, &c. Most of the land is flat or undulating, and will be ploughable when cleared and stumped. The soil on the hills is fair to good, the flats chiefly rich alluvial deposit overlying shingle. Ndatapa Hun. So. 47 (19,649 acres) : All hilly, about 14,0<X) acres covered with forest, which when cleared will make good sheep-farming country. The remainder is open grass land of fair to good

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quality. All will be readily taken up. The Gisborne-Rotorua Railway is vow formed through one end of this block, and will probably be open for traffic at an early date. Tutamoe (7,570 acres) : Undulating country, covered with mixed bush; formation generally papa and clay ; good soil, suitable for sheep and cattle. Access for last few miles by pack-track only. Kaiveka, Pohui. and Kuripapanga (33,510 acres) : High. I>roken, pastoral country; altitude from 2,000 ft. to 5,000 ft. above sea-level ; soil liglit and stony on steeper portions ; open and manuka country, with scrub and black-birch in gullies ; well watered. Ngatwpa Survey District (4,600 acres): Mixed bush of tawa, kahikatea. &c. with birch on the top ill ridges ; well watered ; soil light. llttngaroa Run, No. 48 (3.147 acres) : Hilly .Mid undulating land of good quality, part still manuka, fern, and bush, remainder in English grass ; well watered. Tuahu and Waikarcmoana (6,000 acres) : Mixed bush land with thick under-scrub ; well watered ; soil varies from inferior to fair ; sandstone and papa formation. Waitara (5,326 acres) : Open fern and manuka land; portions in native and self-sown English masses ; light pumice soil. Inspection and Progress of Settlement. The Crown Lands Ranger for the northern or Poverty Bay portion of the district reports that he inspected 395 holdings, with a total area of 2H2.789 acres. The value of improvements required to be effected was £169,330. while those effected were valued at £596,814. Of these selectors, only nine were in default for non-residence. Twenty-three special inspections were also made, covering an area of 13.620 acres; they comprised reports on timber, mineral, quarry reserves, and river accretions, &c. The area of bush felled on Crown lands taken up since 1908 was 2,471 acres, and on lands taken up in previous years 7,122 acres, making a total of 9,593 acres felled and grassed last season. The Crown Lands Ranger for the southern portion of the district reports that he inspected and reported on 778 holdings, school-sites. &c., and, in addition, supervised and managed the construction of the Lindsay Settlement River protei live works. He also attended to his duties as a member of the lkaroa District Maori Land Board. The total area inspected was 245,879 acres, the area of bush felled S<)() acres, (lie value of improvements required to be effected £116,601, value of improvements effected £267,112. On the holdings inspected, the tenants were depasturing 1,212 horses, 121,299 sheep, 7,609 cattle, and 967 pigs. Arrears of Rent. A comparison of the arrears of rent this year with the past one shows that last year's amount is exceeded by £1,395 9s. 3d. This increase is Largely due to concessions granted by the Land Board to settlers by extending time Eot payment in the Raumati and Piripiri Settlements, owing to the delay in tin , construction of roads hampering them for a time, and preventing them sending their milk to the factories. All are in good order now, and no doubt the arrears will soon be paid off. Forfeitures and Surrenders. Exclusive of miscellaneous leases, only eight holdings were resumed and six surrendered during the year, and most of these were small holdings. The district appears to be fortunate in the class of settler it has obtained. Most of them seem to be good capable farmers. Transfers. One hundred and forty transfers were approved by the Land Board and seventeen rejected. The Hoard exercised much care in dealing with applications for transfer, and examined all proposed transferees as to their financial positions, &c. Small Grazing-runs. The term of the leases of twelve small grazing-runs expired during the year. The aggregate area of these was 39,003 acres, formerly let at annual rental of £294 16s. 7d. All were renewed for a further term of Twenty-one years at greatly advanced rentals, which now total £2,801 Ids. 6d. per aim inn. Land Board. Twenty-three ordinary and special meetings of the Land Board were held during the year. The members paid special visits of inspection to Raumati and Ngatapa Settlements, and meetings were held in Gisborne. Wairoa. and Dannevirke to examine applicants for various settlements. The second election by Crown tenants of a member of the Land Board was held on the sth April. 1910. and Mr. Eustace Lane was again returned. Departmental. It is my pleasant duty to be able to report that i have found the officers in this district to be a most capable and energetic body of men, with whom it has been a pleasure to work, and I lake this opportunity of thanking them for greatly lightening the difficulties I had to contend with in taking up my duties in a strange district. The business transacted continues to increase from year to year. During the period under review 32,981 letters and 641 vouchers were dealt with, in addition to the usual notices and despatches of all kinds. The steady increase of settlement naturally brings increased office-work, but there is every reason to believe that the staff will be able to cope with it. T. N. Brodrkk. Commissioner of Crown Lands.

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TARANAKL. Settlement of Crown Lands The supply of land available for offering for selection greatly exceeded that of the previous year, and it is gratifying to be able to report thai it met with a ready disposal. Twenty-four allotments iii different parts of the laud district wen' dealt with in this manner. Of new laud, eight allotments in Ohura, Kangi, and Piopiotea West Survey Districts were disposed of under ordinary conditions, the preference being given to the occupation-with-right-of-purchase tenure. In addition, twenty-two allotments of national endowment land in Mahoe and Pouatu, Rangi, and Piopiotea \Vesi Survej Districts were selected on renewable lease. Two forfeited allotments were also taken up under this tenure, one being national endowment land. In the Spotswood Settlement, one allotment, comprising (IT acres, was reoffered and selected, and four new selections were also made in that settlement, in which, there are still twenty-six allotments, comprising an area of 148 acres, open for application. One section in the Euinga Settlement was selected. In the Towns of Manaia and Mangaroa sixty-one allotments were offered and fifty-seven disposed of, at very satisfactory prices. Of the twenty-three allotments offered in the Matire Village nine were sold. The revenue maintains a steady increase, and the receipts from all sources amounts to £4,30. r ) in excess of last year's return : but tl • ><><) of this amount represents a refund by incoming tenants of valuations for improvements on expired leases of small urazing-runs paid by the Crown under section 211 of the Land Act. 1885. Two selectors have converted their leases in perpetuity to freehold, and four others have given notice of ntention to purchase. Condition and Progress op Settlement. The Banger for the north-eastern portion, of the land district reports that a general advancement is indicated by the extent of the improvements effected on the various holdings inspected by him during the year. Settlers, more particularly those who were allotted land under in the improved-farm-settle-tnent conditions, are realising that they must give more attention to fencing and other necessary work before they can expect to make a reasonable livelihood from their sections. The question of stocking ihe land is becoming one for more consideration by many of the settlers having a considerable area of i:rass, who have in past years sold off their stock on the rise of prices in the spring, and have not replaced them until lute in the autumn or in the winter, which has allowed the grass to grow too rank The dairy factories established about three years ago have not realised expectations, largely due to lack of support, particularly perhaps from single men or men with families too young to assist with the milking. The expense of running these factories is very high, and this makes the dairying anything but a remunerative business. New schools have been built, and others are contemplated, and the attendance at those in existence is very satisfactory. Those holdings which are not used for dairying operations are being worked for the raising of stock and cattle. The improved-farm settlements that were established some six years ago continue to make wood progress; most of the sections HOW have dray-road access. Most of the settlers devote their energies to dairying, the results of which I have already mentioned, and growing field produce. Some depend on roadworks during the summer months, but the present lack of this employment may have the effect of turning their attention more to the working of their sections. It may safely be said that the assistance given to these improved-farm settlers in years past is fully justified by the progress made. The settlements lately established in the Toroto and Mapara districts are referred to in a later paragraph. The Eanger for the western, central, and southern portions of the district, which embraces the older and more settled localities, reports that the past year has been a prosperous one for the majority of the farmers, and the most of them have done exceedingly well. Prices for staple products have maintained their high standard, and the prospects for all classes of terming in this district are good. A considerable area of bush has been felled during the year, notwithstanding the fact that the high price for felling is maintained. Generally speaking, settlers have made improvements on their holdings in excess of requirements, and they all seem desirous of getting as much of their sections under urass as possible. By the rapid advancement of the Stratford-Ongame Railway towards Whangamomoua. which is at present the centre of a large and prosperous district devoted to dallying, wool, and stockraising, it is hoped that by the time the winter sets in settlers will be able to travel and have their goods carried by rail. Several new factories and creameries have been opened during the year, and all of them are running up to their capacity, which points to the lad that the dairying industry is apparently getting on a better footing in this district every year, and it seems that the time is not far distant when all the land suitable for dairying purposes will be cut up into small holdings, and. through scientific farming, will be made to carry a cow to tin' acre. Improved pabw Settlements recently established. Two blocks of land were set apart for application by landless married men and others under the Improved-farm Settlement Regulations, preference being given to retrenched Civil servants and men discharged from road and railway works: and a ballot for thirty lour sections in the Totoro Survey District was held at New Plymouth on the 29th September, when all the sections were allotted. Another ballot was held at Taumarunui on the, 27th October lor eighty-eight sections in the Mapara and Tangitu Survey Districts, and all the sections were allotted, lint only 112 selectors in both settlements completed their applications. They have made a good start, considering the lateness of the

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season during which the sections veic allotted. The Ranger in charge of these settlements reports that sixteen out of thirty-one selectors in the Mapara Settlement have already effected improvements in the why of Inishfelling or grassing the fern land, and eleven are residing with their families in camps 6r rough dwellings. in the Tangitu Settlement seventeen out of eighty-one selectors have commenced improvements ; tun having built dwellings, and are residing. Twenty-nine others are employed on roadworks leading tii the settlement, and in many cases are camped with their families near the works: consequently they will he ready to make a start with bushfelling this winter. (ill ASS-SEED. The promissory notes for repayment of advances for grass-seed made to the settlers during 1908 are being fairly well met. Out of thirty-six notes given for a total amount of £383 16s. 2d. payable during March. 1910, fifteen|have been met, representing £193 Bs. 3d. : but early payment of a still turther amount is assured. In addition, twelve others have paid El 15 1 Is. during the year. A number of these notes mature in March, 1912. Arrears'of Rent. Taking into consideration the fad thai the number of settlers has increased, and the annual rent;' payable has risen by about £2.000, the increase of the arrears from £256 last year to £47.'! this year may not lie regarded as very serious, but, in my opinion, more than should be owing, and action is being taken to recover them. The principal increases arc in the lease-in-perpetuity and renewable-lease tenures. I may. however, mention that the position of these rents is much more satisfactory than Was t lie case about three 01 four years ago. when the number of Selectors was smaller. Expenditure of " Thirds " and " Fourths." Twenty-three proposals were submitted by local bodies for the expenditure on roadworks of accrued "thirds" and "fourths" of rents, which received the approval of the Land Board. Tin' total amount paid over was £2.648 Bs. Id. Forfeitures and Surrenders. The areas of the sections forfeited lor non-improvement or abandonment by the selectors vary from I<K) to 1,600 acres, and arc generally bush country. As might be anticipated, the reasons leading up to such forfeiture or surrender are various. In some cases want of reasonable capita] may lie the cause ; in others, the selector, owing to lack of training, was totally unfitted to encounter the everyday little difficulties of backblock life. Again, it may be the inability of the selector lo scenic the services and company of other men. or he is perhaps a labouring-man who is depending upon his earn ings for a living, and has no capital to spare for the development of a bush section. All this points to the desirability of having a careful selection of the persons who are to break in these rough bush sections to profitable account, and the inquiry that now may be made into the circumstances of applicants tends to the securing of a more desirable class than were formerly admitted to ballot. Disposal of the remaining Cbown Lands. In the Heao Survey District there are 3,840 acres of the Opatu Block almost ready to lie offered, which form part of the national endowment. The following blocks are also being surveyed for settlement, and portions of them will be completed during the coming year : Whakaihuwaka H Mack, about 16,700 acres, intersected by the provincial boundary, and extending from the Rawhitiroa State Forest to the Wanganui River, a. portion of this block being in the Wei lington Land District. If' halitohanifi Block, 17,900 acres, lying to the north-west of Ongarue Railway-station, and extend ing in that direction to the Ohura Road. Aminira. Mangapukatea, mid BaoraomouJcu Mucks, about 1.3,400 acres, and Whakaihuwdka I Block, about 20,300 acres, in Omara and Taurakawa Survey Districts, adjoining the Wanganui River. and running westerly towards the settled country. Taumatamahoe 2b No. 2a Mock, about 17,400 acres, abutting on tin , Wanganui River, and extending westward to the surveyed country in the .Mahoe Survey District. Also about 2,000 acres adjacent to the sections in the Tangitu Improved-farm Settlement, Mapaia Survey District. With the exception of portions of the W hatitokarua and Opatu Blocks, which are partially open lands, all the foregoing blocks comprise bush-clad country suitable for subdivision into Farms which will be adapted to the rearing of sheep and cattle. OFFICE-WORK. The volume of business has been heavy, the correspondence inwards and outwards, circulars. applications, parcels. See., totalling 24,298: cheques drawn for wages, &c, 880; vouchers dealt with, 869 ; transfers recorded. 218 ; receipts for rents, refunds. &c, 3,513 ; provisional titles issued. 52 : total 29,825, an increase of 3,867 on the previous years work. Francis Simpson, Commissioner of Crown Lands.

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WELLINGTON.

Conditions and Prospects of Settlement. The year just closed shows no diminution in the demand either for Crown lands that may be in a virgin state or those more or less improved that may be acquired under the Land for Settlements Acts. Would-be settlers all seem to recognise that whatever the State offers in the way of land inspires confidence, showing that the sole object is bona fide settlement and the providing of holdings for those without them. Hence the rush for all the Crown lands that arc advertised for selection. Unfortunately, our available ordinary Crown lands suitable for settlement every year is diminishing in quantity, and is, in this district, mainly confined to the balance of the Waimarino Block, of about 70,1)00 acres, over a third of which (excluding the 35,184 acres opened this year) it is hoj(d to place on the market this coming season. There will, of course, be other isolated areas, Imt unless further Native or private lands are acquired the present supply will be exhausted hi a very few years. Lands opened for Sale or Selection. 'the total area of Crown land offered publicly during the year was 66,664 acres, exclusive of 13,866 acres offered under improved-farm conditions, which, added to the area standing open on the Ist April, L 909 -viz., 2,490 acres —made a total of 69,154 acres available for selection. Of the area of 66,664 acres placed in the market, 58,508 acres was offered for the first tune. The total area of land selected under all tenures, including the improved farms referred to in the last paragraph, but excluding renewals of siiiall-grazing-run leases, was 68,717 acres. The number of new selectors under all tenures during tae year was 399, being an increase of fifteen over last year's figures. After deducting forfeitures, surrenders, titles, &c, from last year's total, the addii ion of this year's figures makes a grand total of 3,631 tenants on the books. The principal operations during the year were as follows : Portion of the South Waimarino Block (Kiariaka Mangatiti) subdivided into thirty-eight lots, and comprising an area of about 35,184 acres, was offered on the optional system, with exemption from rent and rates for a period of four years, under section 127 of the Land Act, 1908. The Rarigitatau Block, on the Waitotara River, comprising an ana of 9,964 acres, on portions of which the unemployed felled the bush last winter, was also offered on the optional system, subdivided into fifteen lots. The selectors of most of the felled ami grassed allotments in this block are being allowed seven years in which to pay for the improvements by instalments of principal and interest;. Portion of Tauakira No. 1 Block near the YVanganui River, comprising an area of 3,654 acres, now in the national endowment, was offered in three lots on renewable lease. An area of 3,970 acres, comprising Section 2, Block 11, Ruahine, and Section 2, Block XVI, Moumahaki, was offered on the small-grazing-run system. A pastoral license of 1,760 acres of open land in the Rangiwaea Block and the leases of three lots of open land in the Rimutaka State Forest, comprising 7,253 acres, were offered by public auction and disposed of. Auction sales were also held of lands in City of Wellington, VVaitotara Township, Pohonui. and Mowlianau Villages, and near Porirua Harbour ; also in the following towns and villages along the North Island Main Trunk Railway line, most of which were offered for the first time : Ninia, Waimarino, Kaitieke, liaurimu, Owhango, Kakahi, and Raketapauma. The Hawtrey Settlement, originally offered in December, 1908, was reopened for selection at reduced rentals, with the result that there is a. likelihood of a fair number of allotments being selected in the near future During the year the expiring leases of eleven small grazing-runs, comprising an area of 7,895 acres, were renewed for a further term of twenty-one years under section 209 of the Land Act, 1885, at new rentals aggregating £608 55., as against £17M 19s. td. previously paid. The North Waimarino Improved-farm Settlement. In conformity with the Government's directions to place married unemployed persons on the land, preferably those whose services had been dispensed with through; the Civil Servii c retrenchment, as well as men who had previously been working on the North Island Main Trunk Railway construction works, it was decided to set aside for this purpose an area of about 13-,900 acres, lying westerly of Rauriniu, Owhango, Kakahi, and Piriaka, situated on the North Island Main Trunk Railway line, and subdivided into 102 sections, each 200 acres or under. The land was balloted for in October last; 590 persons lodged foimal applications for the 102 lots, but as the ballot gave preference to unemployed married persons, there were very few sections available except for this class. As there is a considerable amount of milling-timber on many of these holdings, all the successful applicants were required to enter into a special agreement which prevented the destruction of the timber fit for milling, and gives the Commissioner absolute control of the milling operations, thus benefiting the State and the selectors, who will receive credit up to a certain amount as a set-off against their advances, rentals, &c, for the timber removed from their holdings for milling. As November was too late to start bushfelling, and as I was purposely conserving the millable timber till sold, the settlers coming in, to the number of seventeen families, who are in residence, were confined to the open or scrub sections, and have made improvements to the value of £264. Sixteen other i ettlers are, however, employed on roadworks in the settlement, the improved-farm settlers having the preference in regard to employment. Notwithstanding the fact that retrenched Civil servants had a certain amount of preference, only some thirty-live applied, whilst some of those successful declined 4 to take up their sections, and at the present there four retrenched Civil servants on the settlement. Oi the 102 successful applicants, twenty-nine, for various reasons, either declined to take up or would not comply with the preliminary

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conditions. These vacant sections are being allotted or balloted for chiefly amongst men with families who were unsuccessful originally, and who are now resident along?the railway-line.) A little later on, as the sections being milled by the Railway Department become cleared, they will be opened. I have every confidence in the settlement being a success eventually. Some further remarks concerning the settlement appear under the heading of " Inspections and Rangers' Reports." Inspections and Rangers' Reports* During the year the Rangers in the cast coast district made 925 inspections, the area, being 142,371 acres. This is an increase on last year's figures of both inspections and area. The amount required to be spent on improvements was £50,299 ; the amount actually spent, however, was £207,704. being the large sum of £157,405 in excess of requirements. In the west coast district the number of inspections made was 818, covering an area of 146,960 acres, being an increase over last year's figures. The improvements required to be effected equalled £48,889, whereas the amount actually expended was £155,461. being again a substantial increase of £106,572 over requirements. The total amount expended over that actually required by law in the whole land district amounted to the large sum of £268,977. The Crown Lands Ranger for the eastern portion of this district reports that settlement is making steady progress, and settlers generally seem to be contented. The past season has been one of the best of years for mass, and prices for stock and produce have been good. Settlement has been established some years, and most of the improvements have been effected far in excess of requirements. Where bush has been felled, settlers are burning off logs so ax to bring land into full profit. The dairying industry still dourishee, and is the principal source of income, especially on lands between Eketahuna and Woodville. In the Pongaroa district it is falling off, and is being replaced by wool. Every year sees improvements in the roads, 6 ft. tracks being replaced by dray-roads and clay-roads by met ailed ones. Tin' Crown Lands Ranger for the west coast districts generally north of Falmerston North and the Steward of improved-farm settlements report that settlers in their districts have enjoyed a good year, teed being plentiful, and good prices ruling for produce and stock. Farmers are cheerful, though more cautious in expending money. Older-settled blocks are being well improved. The new village settlements along the North Island Main Trunk Railway are making fairly good progress, noticeably Rangataua, which has grown into a good-sized town in about a year. In Ohakune some of the settlers have sold their timber to sawmillers, and this somewhat retards the settlement, but prevents waste, and the settler gets the benefit. In Horopito and Owhango not so much has been done, but mills arc about to start in the former, which will improve the state of affairs. Excellent progress continues in the land-for-settlement blocks, and future prospects are bright. The same applies to the improvedfann settlements, especially Manunui and Raketapauma. In the new North Waimarino Improved Farm seventeen settlers have taken up residence, five in Innises on their sections, the rest in tents pitched on the roadside, or on natural clearings. There are thirty-nine souls on the land. Sixteen other settlers are employed on roadworks in the block. Little in the way of improvements has been done this year, except in clearing fern and light scrub, and in a few oases the erection of cottages. About 200 acres have been cleared of bush, scrub, and fern, at a cost of £125, and five houses have been built, improvements to the value of £2<i-l being effected. As the first of the settlers did not arrive on the land until the end of November, it was then too late to fell any heavy bush, as it would not have dried sufficiently to ensure a burn, but it is exjiected that a good bit will be cut down during the coming winter. The settlers have had meetings to discuss the question of starting dairy factories, and it is probable that within a few years several factories will be under way. It was arranged with the Public Works Department that the improved-farm settlers should have preference on roadworks. Contracts were kept for some of the settlers who had written prior to proceeding to the block, but, notwithstanding this, they did not appear, and, therefore, now only men actually on the land are given roadwork. Two miles and a half of bridle-tracks have been made and half a mile is in hand. The Crown Lands Ranger for the south east and southern portion of this laud district reports that generally the selections in his district are under lands-for-settlement and village-settlements conditions. With the exception of the larger areas on the Normandale Settlement and the Petone workers dwellings, all are making excellent progress. Tawaha Settlement is now on the fair way to success, the dairy factory being well established, with a milk-supply from some 450 cows. Carrington Settlement has made good progress during the year, all the settlers are residing, and express themselves freely as being satisfied. The year has been a successful one, there being abundance of feed and good prices riding foi stock and produce. Practically the whole of his district has been brought into effective use, dairying and grazing being the mainstays, and the improvements are far in excess of requirements. Roads arc good and access to railway and centres easy. The residential settlements in close proximity w> Wellington are, generally, successful, and serve their purpose admirably. The marked success of the settlements has created a desire in many landless men to obtain an area of land. " Fourths," and " Halves." The allocation under the Land Act, 1908, of [the proportion of rent from Crown lands [under various tenures, and of timber and Jlax royalties, has been made, and the sum of £5,299 10s. lid. has been paid to the respective local bodies for expenditure on approved proposals tor roadworks and under hypothecation certificates.

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On the 31st March. 1910. the sum of £11,62"! 2s. id. was in the Receiver of Land Revenue's Deposit Account at credit of various local bodies in the Wellington Land District. An effort is being made to reduce this amount. Rebates op Rental. For prompt payment of their rental, rebates amounting to £2.111 were granted to 2.285 settlers on ordinary Crown lands, and on land-for-settlement estates an amount of £1,278 was granted to 265 tenants. Compared with last year's figures, this year's statistics show that the tenants of both ordinary Crown land and land-for-settlement estates are taking fuller advantage of the concession granted them in being up to time with their payments. Arrears of Rental. Although the arrears at the dose of the year show an increase over the previous year's amount. it must be borne in mind that the Eormerincludes an amount of £3,400 owing by settlers in the North Waimarino. Had this latter amount been paid, the arrears would not have been higher than usual. Conversions. During the year six village-homestead settlers applied for and obtained conversions of their leases to renewable leases, thus securing the benefit of lower rentals; and four lessees in the Tawaha Settlement exchanged their leases in perpetuity for renewable leases with similar advantage. Purcb \sk of Fee-simple. Six settlers in village settlements and one on ordinary Crown lands availed themselves of the riuht conferred by section 177 of the Land A.ct, 1908, and purchased the fee-simple of their leases in perpetuity. The area thus made freehold was 849 acres. I lie price paid being £763. Transfbrs. The number of transfers completed during the year was 200, of an area of 13,311 acres on ordinary Crown lands; and twenty-three, of an area of t,026 acres, on land-for-setl lenient estates, the figures beinti; made up as follows : — ~ , . ° r Number ol . Ordinary Crown lands— Setttore. ». b. p. Lease in perpetuity .. .. .. ..128 18.751 223 Renewable lease .. .. .. .. 5 60 3 9 Occupation with righi of purchase .. .. 55 IK.isjii 112 Sjnall grazing-runs .. .. .. .. 3 ").(>37 r o 0 Miscellaneous leases and licenses .. ..9 42 2 I 200 43,311 I 8 Land for settlements Lease in perpetuity .. .. .. 23 1.<>26 211 l,.i\ii Boaktj Meetings. During the year under review twelve ordinary meetings and nine special meetings of the Land Hoard in connection with the land-sales. &•<■.. were held, [n several cases the meetings extended over t wo dayß. Land Board Election. The first election liv the Crown tenants of a member to the Wellington Laud Board, under the amending Land A* iof 1907, was held during the yeas. Nine candidates were duly nominated In tin , tenants. The Dumber of selectors entitled to vote was 2,703, and the total number of votes polled was 1,451, of which eighty-four were rejected as informal, showing thai about •">:'>.', per cent, of the selectors voted. The voting-papers were opened on the 3rd June, I9<>9. when it was found that Mr. T. 11. Ellingha.ni. of Horoeka, had received the greatest Dumber of valid votes viz.. 350 and he was duly declared elected. Forfeitures and Surrenders. These amounted to eleven forfeitures and eight surrenders, of a total area of 3.142 acres. A number nf the surrenders were made so that new leases with increased areas could be obtained. In addition to these figures, fourteen of the dwellings in the Heretaunga Settlement were vacated during the year, but six of these were relet to new tenants. Receiver of Land Revenue. In the Receiver's office 7.*m> l ordinary revenue receipts and L4B provisional titles were issued. covering a gross revenue of £79,647 18s. Id. In the Deposit Account 972 receipts, for the sum of £13.62<> Is lid., and 311 cheques, Ac., for refunds and disbursements, were issued. The sum of £6,630 I Is. Bd. was paid into the Local Bodies Deposit Account, and fifty-eight payments, amounting to £5.2.).) 10s. lid., were paid to twenty-four local bodies. Clerical. The number of letters. &<■.. received during the year was IM.IiS2. the number despatched being 15,300, the grand total being 63,982. There were 1,016 cheques drawn on the Imprest Account for £11,080, and 1,466 vouchers were dealt with, amounting to £35,574. James Mackenzie, Commissioner of Crown Lands.

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NELSON.

Conditions and Progress of Settlement. The area of laud disposed of during the past year is not nearly so large as the average for the previous three or four years, owing pertly to the luilk of the easily accessible lands having already been opened, and partl\-that a lesser area of land has been made available for selection. The Rangers report that the conditions as to improvements and residence are well complied with, and the majority of the settlers are prosperous and contented. The two great requirements in these back bush blocks are improved road-access and an increase of capital, the former being gradually proceeded with, and the employment of the settlers on the roadworks helps to furnish the latter. The exemption from the payment nl rent in heavy forest country is very necessary to the struggling settler with a small capital, li takes quite two years before the bush can he felled, burnt, and the area grassed so as to depasture stock and give a return. During that time the settler must have means to provide a living, and also to help clear his land. During last winter and spring the inquiries for land abated somewhat, but lately the demand has increased to a large extent. The large blocks opened in the Central Buller are being rapidly cleared, and as the railway is being extended to Glen Hope, thus avoiding the haulage by wagon over the watershed, not only will the cost of living lie lowered, but Nelson will be within marketable distance for sheep to be supplied to the freezing-works, and provide an outlet for the butter From the recently established dairy factory at Murchison. Large areas of Mat land in the valleys of the tributaries of the Central Buller are suitable for dairying, and with improved roads these lands will be able, to supply produce in the shape of butter and cheese. On the West (oast the demand for land lias increased considerably during the past year, and nearly all the available country extending from Seddonville to Karamea has been selected by a good type of hard-working sett lei-. LAM) PROPOSED TO BE OPENED DURING 1910 11. It is proposed to offer for selection during the coming pear an area of 41,000 acres of unsurveyed land and 1,250 acres of surveyed land. The following are the blocks to lie opened :— Howard Block (28.000 acres, of which 86,000 a ires are ordinary Crown lands and 3,000 acres are national endowment). Land well adapted for pastoral purposes. Situated in the valley of the Howard River and its tributaries, and within eight miles of the Hope Junction, on the main coach road Nelson to West port, and within fifteen miles of the proposed terminus of the railway-line now being constructed. Waimea Block (aboul 5,000 acres, ordinary Crown lands). Situated at the head-waters of the Miner and Serpentine Rivers, about twenty-three miles from the City of Nelson. Chiefly limestone formation, and well adapted for cheep-grazing when felled and grassed. Miiiiii Block Extension (aboul 8.000 acres, national endowment). Situated on the right-hand branch of the Matiri River. Excellent land of calcareous formation, with fair amount of flat, and good slopes for pastoral purposes. Maruia North Block Extension (1.250 acres, ordinary Crown lands). Hilly country, limestone formation. Situated on the slopes of the Buller River. This land is suitable lor sheep-grazing when cleared and sown. Inspections by Crown Lands Rangkrs. The Crown Lands Ranger for the northern portion of the district reports having inspected 25.'! holdings, comprising an area of 138,278 acres. The value of improvements required was £21,686, and the value affected £44,65!). Forty selectors have not complied with the improvement-conditions, twenty-two were not resident, and thirteen have failed to comply with both improvement and residence conditions. Selectors to the number of 103 are exempt from residence for the period of four years, exemption on heavy bush land not yet having expired. This Ranger has also made ninety-one miscellaneous inspections, and reports for the information of the Land Board and Warden respecting land. timber, flax, and reserves. Generally, the improvement and residence conditions of Crown tenants are being well maintained, and the majority are prospering, and Satisfied with their selections. The past winter and spring were very mild and wet, and, in consequence, there was abundance of feed, so that stock were ready foi market much earlier than usual. The wet season proved a drawback on account of the difficulty in burning felled bush, and in many instances caused serious loss to the settlers. The Crown lands in this district are chiefly hilly land under heavy forest, and only suitable for pastoral purposes when cleared and grassed. When the bush is felled and burned the. grass lakes readily, and large areas are being rendered suitable for stock-grazing year by year. With the extension of the railways and the construction of better roads, the prospects of the backblock settler are becoming much brighter, and in a few years most of them will be in very good circumstances. The Crown Lands Hanger for the Buller and [nangahua Counties reports that the demand for land for settlement purposes has been very keen in the Buller County, and that the settlers an , of a good hard-working type, but are hampered for the want of necessary capital to make a home in heavy bush country. A considerable area of bush has been felled, but the wet season has prevented good burns, and in some cases the settlers have failed to get a burn at all. Owing to the Ranger having to take charge, of the [nangahua County as well as the Buller last year, his tune has been fully occupied making inspections and reports lor the information of the Land Board and the Wardens at Westport, Lyell. Keefton. and Ahaura. These inspections niinil ered 138 for the Land Hoard and 11(> for the Wardens, and entailed a very large amount of travelling, which extended from Cape Foulwindi to Karamea in the liuller County, and from Westport to the extreme south of the [nangahua County.

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Noxious Weeds. The eradication of noxious weeds on Crown lands and reserves has received attention in the northei' part of this district, but the Ranger did nothing in regard to this matter in the Buller and Inangahua Counties, as it would be very little use unless n combined effort were made by tin , local bodies and other authorities, the whole district being more or less overrun by noxious weeds. The Inangahiui Valley, in particular, is in a very bad state. Crown Tenants' Improvements. During the past year an area of 6,725 acres has been felled and grassed on lands held by (Jrown tenants, and this does not include the Buller and Inangahua Counties. A rough estimate of the area felled in these counties is an additional 1,200 acres. Tenures. Nearly the whole of the Crown lands available for settlement are situated either within the national endowment area or in a mining district, so that the tenures are chiefly renewable lease and leases under Part VIII of the Land Act, 1908, or pastoral licenses. Arrears. The total arrears amount to £1,089 14s. 9d., and of this amount £543 7s. Bd. is owing on land-for-settlement lands, chiefly on the Wangapeka Settlement. The balance of arrears is distributed amongst the other tenures, and excluding the rent owing on land for settlements, the payment of rent is fairly satisfactory. The Dairy Industry. This industry is in a very flourishing condition, and is capable of still further development as the tlat lands in the back country are brought under grass and the road-access is improved. At present there are five butter-factories at work, situated in the Waimea, Takaka, and Collingwood Counties, one in the Buller, and one in the Inangahua County, and two cheese-factories in the Collingwood district. A butter-factory was established at Murchison during the yeai, and is a great success. The output of butter foi the season was 356 tons, and of cheese 160 tons, with a total value of £39,000. The Timber Industry. In the northern portion of the district this industry is on the decline, owing to the bulk of the available timber on Crown and freehold lands being cut out. Most of the mills aie small, no as to be easily removed from one part of the district to another to cut small areas of bush left in previous years. There, are forty-five mills working in this part of the district, of which forty are cutting on freehold land, four on Crown land, and one on Native land. The yearly output was 6,442,000 ft. of mixed timbers. In the southern part of the district, in the Buller and Inangahua Counties, there are still large areas of timber available. There are thirty-two mills in these districts, of which twenty-seven are working on Crown lands and five on freehold. The output for the year was 7,250,000 ft. The industry is not in a flourishing condition, and the total quantity of timber cut was 13,692,000 ft.. showing a decrease of nearly 2,000,000 ft. on last year's return. The Flax Industry. This industry has been at a very low ebb for a considerable period, owing to the low price of fibie. In the northern portion of this district there are seven mills, and these only produced 140 tons last year, valued at £2,800. In the southern part of the district there are six mills working in a small way, with the hope, of a rise in the price of fibre. There are no large areas of flax in the Nelson District, the growth being limited chiefly to the sea-coast and river-frontage and some small swamps, and the industry can never grow to any great extent. The Coal Industry. In the northern portion of the Nelson District very little development has taken place during the year, and, although a considerable area is known to be coal-bearing, very little has been done to place this product on the market. Prospecting operations have been carried on to a large extent, and two good seams have been found within three miles of the port at Collingwood. and with a fair outlay of capital should give satisfactory results. Seams have also been found five miles from Belgrove and two miles from Nelson, in the Brook Street Stream, and operation? are now in active progress to enable the coal to be placed on the market. The Puponga Mine—about thirteen miles from Collingwood — is the only mine producing coal at present. In the Buller County this industry has assumed very large proportions, and Westpoit —the shipping port—is in a very flourishing condition. There are four large mines in active operation —Denniston and Millerton Mines, owned by the Westport Coal Company ; the State mine, at Seddonville ; and the Westport-StocktonJCompany's mine. The latter company began operations only List year, and is just beginning to make headway alter erecting a most complete plant, all worked by electricity. The prolonged strike in New South Wales enabled these mines to dispose of very much larger quantities of coal, and the output exceeded last year's by 100,000 tons. These mines give employment to over fifteen hundred men. The mines are all connected by railway with Westport, and the Westport Harbour is capable of berthing steamers'of 4,000 tons. The sum of £200,000 is to be expeneded shortly increasedjjwharfage and dock accommodation, The output of coal from Westport Vfor ; the year was 718.419 tons. Large deposits'of coal exist in the [nangahua "district, in the vicinity [of Reefton, and will no doubt in time be woikedjjtojadvanatge. The output from the many small mines was 4,000 tons, mainly used for household purposes.

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The Fruit Industry. The northern portion of the Nelson District is Earned for its orchards, and the industry is increasing very rapidly. During the year a further area of 600 acres ha* been planted, principally with apples. Motueka and Riwaka and the lands between Nelson and Wakefield are the principal fruit-growing districts. Motueka and Riwaka have established a direct trade with Wellington, and steamers make several trips a week during the fruit season. It has been found that the clay lands on the Moutere Hills are admirably adapted for the growth of apples, the fruit keeping better and being of a better flavour than that grown on the richer flats. There are several thousands of acres of this class of country in the Nelson District, and with the prospect of a payable market a very large extension of this industry will take place within a few years. A trial shipment of S.(MK) cases of apples has been sent to the Home market in the cool-chamber of an ocean steamer, and a favourable result will give a great impetus to fruit-culture. There are five canning and preserving factories in the district, four at Motueka and one at Nelson, and the establishment of several more is contemplated. A moderate estimate of the value of the fruit from an acre of orchard in full production is £40, so that in the event of a good market being found for an unlimited supply it is certain that there is a great future for this industry. Land Board. During the year the Land Board sat eleven times at the District Office, and held two special meetings, one at Westpori and the other at Reefton. The meetings at Westjiort and Reefton were taken advantage of by the settlers to a large extent to interview the Board. It also gave the members an opportunity of seeing different parts of the district, and obtaining a local knowledge very useful in dealing with applications. &c. Departmental. Owing to the large areas of land opened and selected during the last few years, the work in the office has largely increased. The number of selectors on the books has increased to 2,250, and the correspondence with the tenants on various subjects entails n large amount of work. The number of letters and telegrams received and despatched during the year was 12,639. The number of vouchers passed through the books for the year was 762, representing a sum of £17,253 17s. Id. 1 wish to express my thanks to the members of the office and field staffs for the assistance they have given me. and for the manner in which they have carried out their duties. Robt. T. Sadd, Commissioner of Crown Lands.

MARLBOROUGH. I have to report that the year just ended has been devoid of any special feature which would call for a long report. Owing to the very limited extent of Crown lands within this district suitable for settlement purposes —on account of its inferior quality—but little progress has been made in settlement this year. What land was offered was keenly competed for by a large number of applicants. In this respect it is hoped there will be better results next year, as it is expected that about 35,000 acres will be ready for selection. This is generally hilly bush country, of rather poor quality, situated up the Wakamarina, Pelorus. Heringa, and Tinline Rivers. It is anticipated that, although of rather inferior quality, much of it will, in the absence of anything better, be taken up. So far only two persons have taken advantage of section 177 of the Land Act to acquire the feesimple of their lease-in-perpctuity holdings. There are, however, three more persons who have decided to accept the Land Board's valuation of their land for this purpose. The climatic conditions of the past year, although very favourable to the pastoral interests, have been apparently detrimental to the agriculturists, presumably from the fact that, although a fairly large rainfall was experienced, it probably did not fall at the right time for the crops. The result is that crops have been generally very disappointing ; whereas, owing to the abundance of feed, good prices for wool, and fair prices for fat sheep and lambs, it has been a good graziers' year ; and, although the crops have been disappointing, taking one thing with another, the year has been fairly prosperous for the Crown tenants throughout the district. F. Stephenson Smith, Commissioner of Crown Lands.

WESTLAND. The revenue received during the past year shows a decrease of £1,887, as compared with the previous year; but this is more than accounted for by the decrease in timber royalty (£1,000), and the decrease in ordinary endowment revenue (£1,700), wholly due to the closing of the Tyneside Proprietary Coal-mine. The amounts received from leases exceed the amounts received during the previous year on every class of tenure. When framing the estimates of revenue, the slump in the timber trade was not anticipated, and the actual receipts from timber were £2,000 short of the estimate ; also, it was thought that the Paparoa and North Brunner Coal-mines would be in full work : but both of these mines raised very little coal before the end of the year, and there is therefore a deficiency of upwards of £2,000 under this heading.

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The'new selections on permanent tenures (including pastoral licenses in mining districts under special regulations) were 11,939 acres by 122 selectors, and under miscellaneous leases and pastoral licenses 398,025 acres by 274 selectors. A large proportion of the area leased on permanent tenures is dealt with by free selection, which entails a considerable amount of work, as it is necessary to obtain reports and consider each application on its merits, giving due consideration to the special circumstances that surround each case. This course must necessarily be adopted to a large extent in this district. on account of the complications arising through timber and mining rights, which in most instances prevent blocks of any dimensions from being offered to the public. The special regulations for dealing with land in this district are of great assistance to settlement, as they permit of the land being dealt with on a tenure under which the lessees are justified in effecting improvements, while the right of the timber is reserved to the Crown, and mining rights are protected. The selections under miscellaneous leases include large areas of land situated in the different river-beds which have hitherto provided free grazing for the public. A considerable amount of revenue is now received from these lands : but, unfortunately, the destructive nature of the rivers, combined with the fact that most of the land is auriferous, prevents permanent tenures from being given, under which much higher rentals could be obtained, as these river-beds comprise some of the best grazing-land in the district. The improvements of the means of access, more especially in the southern district, is proving of great benefit to settlers, and their prospects are much more encouraging. Upon completion of the bridge over the Wanganui River, the contract for which was been let, communication for upwards of a hundred miles south of Hokitika will be uninterrupted in ordinary weather, and across to the market for their produce will be practically deviod of the danger and delays that have hitherto existed. The prospects of the timber industry are more encouraging than at the beginning of the year, and, although the sawmills are not yet all in full work, there has lately been a decided improvement in business. The area of bush worked during the year is'less than for several years previously, and this has its effect upon settlement, as, until the timber rights are extinguished, the land cannot be opened for selection. There is undoubted demand for land within reasonable distance from the centres, and I anticipate that'the'area to be paced on the market will be largely in excess of that offered for some years. The subdivision of blocks in Mawheranui, Brunner, and AVaiho Survey Districts are now in hand, and were it not^for" , 'overlapping sawmill rights, "the whole" , of the areas could shortly be made available for selection. Tarn now'approaching the'sawmillers with the object of getting their rights extinguished overall areas"that have been worked out. The settlers, more especially those in the southern part of the district, r have been importing pedigree stock with the idea of improving'their herds ; but the only market at present available to them is very limited, and, until the railway is completed to give them easy access to the Canterbury markets, they will "not reap the benefit they deserve for this enterprise. Settlement is progressing satisfactorily all over the district; but in the extreme south the distance from the~market by road, and the infrequent communication by steamer, are a severe handicap. There were 531 properties visited by the Crown Lands Ranger, and in every case the improvement-conditions had'been complied with ; the excess of improvements effected over the amount required was upwards of £60,000. Forty-five lessees were not in residence, but in nearly every case were residing on freeholds or leaseholds adjacent, and they have been exempted from residence. The butter and cheese factories at Arahura, Kokatahi, and Inter-Wanganui are all well-established, and are proving of very material assistance to settlement. There has been an abundance of grass all"over the the turnipcrop has produced very good results, but the potato-crop was ruined by the blight.^ On account of the mining district and the auriferious nature of a large proportion of the area, the permanent tenures available are limited to renewable lease, pastoral licenses under special regulations, and "mining districts land occupation leases. Intending selectors have therefore practically no option, as they must accept whatever tenure can be permitted, on account of'the situation of the land and its proximity to gold-workings or known or probable gold-deposits. The tenants as a whole seem satisfied to'accept whatever tenure is available at the time, be it only a temporary license to occupy, and to await an opportunity of improving the tenure at a later f The steady increase in the number of leases held during the pastfew years has resulted in a proportionate increase in work, and my thanks are due to the clerical staff for'the efficient manner in which they have carried out their duties. G. H. M. McCltjre,^ Commissioner of Crown Lands.

CANTERBURY.

General Progress and State of Land-settlement. Land-settlement in this district for several years past has been confined to areas on the plains and downs acquired from private owners under the Cheviot EstateJDisposition Act and the Land for Settlements Act. The spread of close settlement has therefore not been as rapid or as extensive as in other districts of the Dominion. There is, indeed, practically no Crown land in Canterbury left available for disposal except such areas as may from time to time revert to the Crown either by surrender, or by forfeiture, or by the expiration of existing leases, such as pastoral runs, and the latter, owing to their high elevation, configuration, and climatic characterictics, are in the main suitable for sheep-grazing only. The progress made in close settlement in this district since 1892— the date of the passing of the first Land for Settlements Act —is a remarkable record.

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There have been purchased and subdivided fifty-three properties, now held by 1,322 tenants, and parrying 4.997 souls. Nojpne, who travels through these settlements can fail to observe the unmistakable evidences there are of prosperity, nor'can he'help being convinced that the occupation of arable hind.- in living areas is the policy"which'makes for national development on sound and progressive lines. That the Crown tenants, generally speaking, are drawn from a good class is beyond doubt. They are observing the conditions of their leases, and it is pleasing to note that systematic crop-rotation is observed by them. They find that it is an important factor in their returns from the land. Here and there a selector may fail, as in every other walk of life. The frequently repeated assertion that the Land Board is placing on the land as selectors tradesmen and others who were not brought up to and that these men are doomed to failure, has nothing in it. Many of the most successful tenants are drawn from these classes. In farming, us in other callings, brains and industry are the chief factors of success. The year now cosed has, broadly speaking, been one <>l prosperity throughout the Dominion. In no part of the Dominion has that prosperity been enjoyed more than in Canterbury. The season has been one of the best possible. The wool-clip was good, the lambing was good, dairying excellent, and. although the yields of wheat and oats were below the usual standard in some districts owing to premature ripening and unfavourable harvesting weather, a payable average will have been maintained. Good values have been obtained from wool, lambs, dairy-produce, and wheat. This prosperity is, of course, shared by the Crown tenants, and there is every prospect that the winter can be faced with confidence. Lands opened for Selection during the Year. With the exception of the three estates, Fyvic, Tripp, and Buddo, which have been acquired and offered for closeT settlement during the year, and to which special reference is made in my report under the Land for Settlements Act, the area of the land offered for disposal in this district during the past year has been extremely limited. The areas offered have included one section of 564 acres near Hanmer Springs, offered for optional selection, and taken up under the <iccupation-with-right-of-pur-chaee system ; two pastoral runs, aggregating 3,824 acres, near Mount Somers and Lake EUesmere : two allotments, totalling 272 acres, situated at Motunau, in North Canterbury, offered under the renewable lease system only ; and miscellaneous reserves, comprising a total area of 490 acres, offered for lease by public competition for various terms. Land-tenures. There has been little change in the areas of lands held under the various tenures. The total area of land alienated from the Crown under the freehold tenure has'been only 47 acres 1 rood'2s perches, out of which 24 acres is excess area on previous alienations, and 17 acres represent the acquisition of freehold of lands held under the deferred-payment, perpetual-lease, and oeeupation-with-right-of-pur-chase systems, in respect of which the holders exercised their statutory rights of fulfilment of the occu-pation-conditions required of them. The number of holders under the renewable-lease tenure has been augmented by the new selections ill land offered under the Land for Settlements Act, and by some exchanges of similar lands previously selected, from lease in perpetuity to renewable lease, under section 192 of the Land Act, 1908, the object being to secure the reductions of rent arising from the revaluations provided by the Act. The total number of tenants of all classes on the books of the Department for the Canterbury District on the 31st March, 1910, was 3,286, occupying a total area of 4,130,514 acres and 18 perches, and paying an annual rental of £151,300 2s. 3d. Revenue and Payment of Rent. The total revenue collected during the year from all sources was £138,888 13s. Id., and the arrears of ivnt due on the 31st March, 1910, was £6,537 15s. 2d., owing by 132 tenants. This represents 4 per cent, of the total number of tenants, and about 44, per cent, of the total annual rent-roll of the district. Out of the arrears mentioned, a sum of £4,672 is due by holders in the Kinlooh Settlement alone, these tenants having, as a measure of relief, m considerat ion of losses sustained at the outset of their career, been allowed to postpone for three years the payment of two half-years' rent due in 1908 and 1909, the whole of these postponed payments being now counted as arrears. Excluding these special arrears, the remaining amount outstanding represents slightly under \\ per cent, of the total annual rental. In a few cases the arrears somewhat exceed normal proportions, but with steady yet gentle pressure there is every prospect of these being reduced, for hardly any of them can be regarded as hopeless cases. The Crown, moreover, is fully protected, except in the case of leases under the Workers' Dwellings Act, by the value of improvements effected or paid for by the tenant on the Crown property. Rebates of Rent. The aggregate amount of Tebates granted during the year under section 116 of the Land Act, 1908, and section 55 of the Land for Settlements Act, 1908, was £8,118 18s. 4d. The number of Crown tenants who participated in this privilege was 1,857. The question as to the extent to which the rebate of rent increases the amount paid for good-will ill leaseholds is worthy of consideration. That some good-wills of leases include the capitalised value of rebates, is beyond doubt —for instance, a leasehold has been offered, the advertised rental thereof being the Tent reserved in the lease minus the rebate of one-tenth of each half-yearly instalment allowed

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to flic tenant for prompt payment. It is regrettable that a concession beneficient in its intent should be abused. It would seem that some modification of the privilege is desirable. It is satisfactory to record that there have not been any cases of disaster or misfortune during the year such ac to render any remissions of rent necessary. Transfers. The total number of holdings occupied under settlement tenures which have been transferred during the year was 126. comprising a total area of 26,409 acres .'5 roods 16 perches. The following are details respecting the principal tenures : — \. K. P. Leases in perpetuity (all classes) .. .. .. Xl > 9,052 3 1 Village homestead leases .. . . .. .. 29 765 3 36 Small grazing-runs .. .. .. ..8 16,395 2 it Perpetual leases, fee. .. .. .. .. 9 195 2 19 126 26,409 3 16 In a large number of these cases the Department has assisted in the preparation and registration of the transfers, and the parties concerned have therefore obtained the benefit of this assistance, in addition to the work involved in submitting the applications to the Laud Board, &c, for a net payment to the Department of ss. It may be a question for consideration whether, in view of the services rendered by the Department in such cases, a special charge proportionate to the amount of consideration involved should not be imposed. It may not be inappropriate here to refer to the controversy which goes on intermittently in this district respecting transfers of Crown leases in perpetuity. To any person unacquainted with the land laws and administration it would appear, according to the sweeping statements which obtain currency, that the speculative phase of land-selection has assumed formidable proportions. It has been frequently asserted that it is customary for speculators to traffic in Crown lands by means of transfers —that the Land Board is powerless to check the iniquitous process, and that the only effectual cure for the evil is to abolish the right to transfer altogether. It is not the function of my office to engage in a discussion on the ethics of transfers. I may venture, however, to affirm that there is very little of what is termed " trafficking m Crown lands" practised in the Canterbury Land District —and 1 write with special knowledge on the subject. There are attempts made at speculation, but they rarely succeed. No doubt the settled conviction in some quarters thai the speculator flourishes is due to an imperfect understanding of the rigid restrictions imposed on transfers by the provisions of the Land Act and the Land for Settlements Act. Under these provisions, as you are aware, a transfer cannot be effected without the recommendation of the Land Board and the approval of the Minister of Lands. The Land Board is invested with very wide discretion, which it exercises in the public interest unfailingly. I doubt if so much would be heard of transfers were it not that the amount paid as consideration money is sometimes comparatively large. It is the big transaction which attracts the public attention to the subject. The amount paid is, however, no indication of the bona fides or the mala fides of the transferror. There may be several sound reasons submitted to the Board why a transfer involving the payment of a large sum as good-will should b< , approved, and quite as strong and convincing reasons why a transaction involving the payment of a small sum as consideration should be refused. In my opinion, there is no cause for alarm. The Crown tenants in this district show no undue disposition, generally speaking, to transfer their holdings. Comparing the number of transfers approved during the year just expired with the figures for the previous year, the former shows a falling-off of about one-fourth in number and nearly one-third in area, and the probable tendency will be to a further gradual diminution of transfers. Forfeitures ami Sikrenders. The policy of the Land Board is in all cases, by reasonable concessions and well-timed leniency under bona fidfi. circumstances of temporary misfortune or embarrassment, to encourage Crown tenants to hold on to their selections. The number of holdings that have been forfeited and surrendered during the year is therefore small, being only eighteen, representing an area of 6.817 acres and 23 perches. Only seven of these, comprising an area of (i acres, were held under the lease-in-perpetuity and renewable-lease systems ; the balance was made up of one pastoral run lease of 6,600 acres and several temporary occupation licenses. Forests. It is again satisfactory to record the absence of any destructive tires on the limited areas of Crown forest remaining in this district. The amount of timber-cutting done on Clown lands is very small, and confined to the Oxford district, where four sawmill licenses and a few hand-splitting licenses represent most of the timber industry still carried on in the district. Crown Lands Rangers' Reports and Condition op Settlement. The reports received from the Crown Lands Rangers during the past season continue to show an amount of successful settlement and bona fide compliance with the requirements of the Land Acts that emphasizes still further what has been recorded in previous reports as to the success achieved by the policy of land-settlement in the Canterbury District.

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The report of the Ranger for the North Canterbury district shows that, out of the fifty-four rural holdings under various tenures which have not yet been in occupation for ten years, forty holdings, comprising an area of 8.-459 acres, have been inspected during the year. Out of these, seven have failed to effect improvements up to the value required by the terms of their lenses, and one was not residing. In connection with the holdings around Lake Ellesmere, which are used to a considerable extent for dairying and pastoral purposes, the Ranger mentions that these lands, by reason of continual submergence by the brackish waters of the lake, have become so saturated with sea-salt that they require several years of freedom from lake-water before becoming fitted for cultivation 01 the laying-down into pasture with exotic grasses. The Ranger remarks that continual residence on the lowest-lying lands does not appear to be conducive to health. In the Oxford district I lie Ranger notes a progressive improvement of the light lands which are in occupation : good crops of roots, and in some places of cereals also, are grown. The unimproved value of the lands has advanced, and the conditions of the leases generally are satisfactorily fulfilled. The new holdings on the Eanmer Plains have also been inspected, and the lessees are residing and improving their lands. In the Ashburton County and in South Canterbury generally the Crown lands holdings have passed the period of statutory inspection, and therefore need only general supervision. Here, also, a very satisfactory extent of compliance is found in most cases. There are instances, both on the light plain lands and also on some of the large pastoral leaseholds, where the improvements effected fall short of the full statutory requirements, the explanation generally being that the lessees have effected such reasonable improvements as are sumcieni for the bona fide occupation and practical working of the holdings: and under such circumstances it would obviously be a hardship to a genuine and deserving class of tenants to insist upon literal compliance with requirements which the holdings by their quality or character are not fitted to bear. In the village settlements throughout the district, many of which have now lieen in existence lor over twenty years, slight improvements are evident Erom year to year, but these are practically equalised by the gradual depreciation of the older improvements. The occupants of these lands are of the class for whom such settlements were established farm-workers and others needing small homes in localities where suitable employment can be found—and these have in most instances been benefited in their position in life. Workers' Dwellings. Seven new workers' dwellings, erected on an acquired block of land near the Railway Workshops at Addington. were opened for selection during the year, as well as one dwelling in the older settlement at Sydenham, the holder of which, owing to removal from the district, was unable to carry out his obligations. Although the total number of applicants was not as large as might reasonably have been expected, all the dwellings were disposed of at the first ballot. With the exception of two or three cases where misfortune or intermittent employment has embarrassed the tenants, the rents are generally punctually paid, and the dwellings and surroundings generally are kept in good order. The supervision of these dwellings and attention to minor repairs, kc., represent a by no means inconsiderable addition to the other duties of the Crown Lands Ranger. I'astokal-ri'n Classification. In March. 1911. the existing pastoral licenses over thirty-one runs, containing a total area of 1,413,000 acres, will expire. These runs include the whole of what is known as the Mackenzie Country. between Burkes Pass and Mount Cook, the greater portion of the back country in the Ashburton County between the Rakaia and Rangitata Rivers, and a few runs in the highlands of the Selwvn and Ainiiri Counties. North Canterbury. A Commission consisting of Mr. James Stevenson, a member of the Canterbury Land Board: Mr. 11. I). M. Haszard, Acting Chief Surveyor; and myself was appointed in September. 1909, to classify and report on the runs in accordance with the provisions of section 225 of the Land Act. 1908. The work of inspecting the whole of these runs, and of framing proposals lor dealing with them in the best possible way so as to promote alike the interests of the Crown and the advancement where practicable of suitable occupation in smaller subdivisions, proved to be of such magnitude as to render it impossible to deal with the subject in a thorough manner a year before the expiration of the existing licenses, and arrangements have therefore been made to allow the present tenants I.) continue in occupation for a further period of one year until the 28th February, 1012. The Eresh leases of the country will be offered for disposal not later than February, 1911. Lands to be Openkd. Exclusive of such properties as are now in hand, or may be acquired for subdivision and disposal under the provisions of the Land for Settlements Act. tl uly Crown lands at present in prospect for disposal during the coming year are the pastoral-run lands to which reference has just been made. These comprise an aggregate area of nearly a million and a half acres, and, although not adapted generally for any form of settlement occupation, they represent a portion of the Crown estate whose successful management by men of the right class has an important bearing on the welfare of the whole district. Departmental. During the year eighteen ordinary and special meetings of the Land Board have been held. The number of statutory applications lor land received and considered was 522, and a very large volume of week, including numerous applications for transfer and other matters demanding close scrutiny and

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careful consideration, is dealt with at each meeting of the Board. With the steadily increasing number of tenants, each of whom represents a certain amount of correspondence,£besides numerous inquiries for land, &c, the quantity of general business transacted in the office shows a steady augmentation. , " j En the Receiver of Land Revenue's office, besides the 5,983 receipts issued for the revenue received during the year, amounting to £138,888 13s. Id., a sum of £44,868 16s. 7d. was passed through the Deposit Account, against which 1,402 receipts, vouchers, and cheques were issued. A sum of £899 Is. lid. was also paid into the Local Bodies Deposit Account, out of which £812 18s. 2d. was paid to eighteen local bodies for carrying out approved works to provide or improve the means of access to the lands from which " thirds " and " fourths " are derived. In the Accountant's office 376 vouchers, representing a sum of £2,785 18s. 2d., were drawn against the Imprest Account, and 270 vouchers, representing a sum of £14,167 18s. 7d.. were forwardedjfor pre-audit and payment. I have to express my satisfaction and thanks to the Acting Chief Surveyor, the Chief Clerk, and the other officers of the Department in this district for the able and loyal assistance invariably accorded to me. One and all work with a will in the interest of the Department. F. W. Flanagan, Commissioner of Crown Lauds.

RKPORT ON THE CHEVIOT ESTATE, CANTERBURY. As regards the occupation of lands on the Cheviot Estate, there has been practically no change during the. year. The Crown Lands Sanger states that the most noticeable feature on the estate during the past season was the comparatively large increase o the area on which wheat was grown. During the season of 1908-9 the area under crop of this cereal was only about 980 acres, whereas last season the area in wheat was approximately 2,030 acres ; the yields were generally satisfactory, and it was anticipated that the threshing-returns, when completed, would show an average of about 38 bushels per acre, quite equal to the average of any other district in Canterbury. The wheat grown is principallyJW the Tuscan variety, and the grain is sound and well harvested. Oats were grown on about 2,660 acres. The yields varied greatly, owing to the partial destruction of some crops by high winds and caterpillars. Green and root crops were grown on about 4,280 acres. The turnips, and in some cases potatoes also, were blighted, but other crops were more satisfactory. The Eanger notes with pleasure the almost complete absence of noxious weeds on the entire estate, .i Eaot which is as much to the credit as to the interest of the settlers. Throughout the year feed has been very plentiful. Over 85,000 sheep were wintered on the leaseholds, and the lambing averaged from 95 to 100 per cent. Flocks of fat lambs are sent off the estate for every market ; about 43,000 have been sent, and further supplies are comingJ>n, while store sheep are purchased from other parts of the district and fattened on the Cheviot farms. The number of cattle on the estate is approximately 1,300 head ; of horses, about 1,180 ; and of pigs, about 300. The Ranger estimates that about 25,000 acres are laid down with cultivated grasses, while the virgin land, principally on the grazing-farms, amounts to about 37,700 acres. The feed on the tussock lands is reinforced by surface-sown grasses, which have taken root and are spreading. The buildings, fences, orchards, plantations, dips, drains, and other improvements on the estate are well maintained, and are added to as settlers' requirements necessitate and their means permit. The orchards are thriving, and are producing a very fine and abundant crop of apples. The estimated value of the improvements on the leaseholds is £112,000, and the permanently resident population is about 1,060 souls. The unimproved value of all the lands has increased very considerably, and the increase will be still further enhanced in the near future by the opening of the railway to Mina, which is in the centre of the estate, and by the construction of the Waiau Bridge, which will afford communication northwards with the east coast district towards Kaikoura and Blenheim. The old dairy and cheese factory building, which was erected soon after the settlement of the estate, but which has for some time been unused owing to the settlers having turned their attention more to other branches of farming, has now been sold for removal. The Port Robinson landing service plant has been handed over to the Cheviot County Council, and has been dismantled, its usefulness having now passed away and been superseded by the more regular and reliable communication afforded by railway. F. W. Flanagan, Commissioner of Crown Lands.

OTAGO. As was the case last year in this district, the revenue, £105,258 175., lias been up to the estimate, although the gross receipts show a shrinkage of £18,827 19s. 2d. on those of last year. This shrinkage is almost entirely due to the fact that in last year's return " cash sales " was credited with the price of Crown lands converted into land for settlements, the price being nearly £16,000. The number of tenants has increased from 3,896 to 4,068. The outstanding feature of this year's dealing with Crown lands has been the cutting-up and offermi; for sale of the Morven Hills, Eawarau, Matakanui, Ida Valley, and Linnbum Runs, in Central Otago. These runs, formerly held under pastoral leases, have been cut up into areas of from about 1,000 acres to 33,4(X) acres. Fourteen of these subdivisions, aggregating 188,250 acres, were offered as pastoral runs ; and forty-three, with an area of 299,300 acres, as small grazing-rune. It is satisfactory to

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note that, in spite of a very dry summer and the high price of stock, all these, areas were selected excepi ing two on Morven Hills, and these.' doubtless, will soon find selectors. In connection with the opening-up of these runs, it may be mentioned that two areas —one. on Morven Hills of 9,000 acres, and one on Kawarauof 8,340 acres — have been reserved for the purpose of conducting experiments in the direction of re-establishing the native, passes, and c>l ascertaining the suitability of other grasses for regrassing the pastoral lands of Centra] (Jtago. These experiments will be of interest to pastoralis's generally. Consequent on the pushing forward of the railway into the CatHn's Bush, inquiries were made for bush land, and a number of sections were opened for selection, with the result that nine, with an area of 1,645 acres, were taken up. Although the summer has been a very dry one. there has been no outbreak of fires in the bush. Land Tenures and Transactions. During the past year one deferred-payment holding has been made freehold, leaving now only e'even selectors, holding 3,470 acres. Three holders under perpetua' lease have acquired freeholds during the year. About half the area taken up under this tenure has now been made freehold, the area'Wected being about 57.000 acres. The return of occupation-with-right-of-purchase land'shows that'about'SSjOOO acres have been selected, and that during the year five selectors purchased the feesimple.' Lease-in-perpetuity returns show, as to Crown lands, eight forfeitures and two surrenders, but no r exchanges to renewable lease, nor any freehoMs acquired ; as to settlement lands, there have been'two forfeitures and one surrender ; wh'le five selectors of small holdings have exchanged to renewable lease. In renewable leases over Crown lands there have been fourteen exchanges from other tenures, but no forfeitures or surrenders ; while in leases over settlement lands there have been five exchanges, one forfeiture, and one surrender. The principal transactions during the year have been in small grazing-runs and pastoral runs. Of the former, close on 300,000 acres have been taken up during the year by forty-one selectors ; and of the latter, leases over nearly 1,000,000 acres have been purchased by fifty-three selectors. From the above it will be seen that the year has been a busy one. Arrears of Rent. The amount of arrears, exclusive of current half-year's rent at the end of this year, is £1,077 9s. Id. less thai Tat the end of last year, and amounts to less than 1 per cent, on the grass rentals Forfeitures and Surrenders. Last year it was noted that the number of forfeitures and surrenders, as shown by the tables, was smalljas compared with previous years, and this year's returns show the same satisfactory state of affairs. Transfers. The total number of transfers completed during the past year is shown by the following list:■— No. f rea - Acres. Lease in perpetuity ] .. .. .. 40 9,862 Occupation with right of purchase .. .. 12 1,981 Land for settlement .. .. .. .. 22 4,590 Small grazing-runs .. .. .. .. 18 64,683 Perpetual lease .. .. .. .. 15 1,259 Occupation lease .. .. .. .. 10 r 325 Pastoral license .. .. .. .. 11 2155,226 Miscellaneous .. .. .. .. .. 32 12,140 160 ' 250,066 The amount paid for goodwill is still a noticeable feature of these transactions, especially as regards land for settlement. Workers' Dwellings. The Ranger's report as to these shows that the tenants as a rule are satisfactory, and that the houses are kept in good order. Experience shows that the one-story houses are much preferred to the two-story ones. At the end of. this jyear one "house only "out of twenty at Windle Settlement was unoccupied. Land proposed to be opened for Selection during 1910-11. The principal areas of land to be offered next year will be the subdivisions of Aviemore and Rugged Ridges Runs, near Kurow; Ormaglade, near Beaumont; Benger Run, near Roxburgh ; and iNorthburn Run, near Cromwell. These will as small grazing-runs. General Remarks as to Progress. The reports of the Crown Lands Rangers show that in most cases Crown tenants are fulfilling the conditions of their leases very satisfactorily. At the end of the year the improvements effected on Crown lands exceeded the required amount by over £22,800 ; while the excess over requirements in the case of land for settlements was about £85,450. Throughout Otago the summer was a particularly hot and dry one, and told against andjjroot crops ; but, fortunately, the prices of wool, dairy-produce, and fat stock kept up well, and enabled our settlers generally to better their positions.

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The Crown Lands Ranger Teports on ordinary Crown lands ;is follows : On the whole, the settlers on the ordinary Crown lands have had a very fair season. The early spring promised well, and the grass and grain crops came away in a flourishing condition. December, however, turned ont to be a very dry month, and everything received a set-hack. A few light showers falling in January did not give a sufficient supply of moisture, with the result that the grain, especially the wheat-crops, did not till oul at nil well. Many fields of wheat that looked well, and stood a good average height with apparently a good head, proved very unsatisfactory on being threshed. It was found that the grain was shrivelled and undeveloped, and. instead of yielding oil to 60 bushels, as appearance would lead one to expect, they more often yielded only -'55 bushels and less. What applies to the wheat-CTOp applies also in a more or less degree to oats, and it is to be feared that some <>l Otago's most bountiful districts will during next season have to bring in seed-oats from outside. Over practically the whole of Otago the grass went off quickly towards the middle and end of December, and did not again recover, owing to want of sufficient moisture. North Otago was perhaps not so bad in this respect ; but Central and South Otago experienced one of the driest years mi record, with a consequent shortage of grass. The turnip-crops have suffered perhaps more than any other. December, a month in which moisture is so necessary to root-crops, was so very dry that the turnip-blight made its appearance, and spread very rapidly. Whole fields have been practically destroyed, and even now the blight is exceedingly bad. It is likely to remain now until the heavy frosts set in. and even should rain come by that time, it will be too late to give a recovery. From all appearances, Otago will not produce sufficient turnips this year to maintain its reputation as a fat-stock producer. The potato-crop is light generally, but it is in fair order. The potato-blight, which, unfortunately, appears to have come to stay, is not so bad as it had been during a few previous years. The dry season has no doubt prevented its development to a certain extent, but there is enough of it to make the chances of keeping potatoes for any length of time extremely doubtful. Spraying appears to find more favour among farmers as time goes on ; from what can lie gathered, it has been very successful in keeping the blight in cheek. Though the past season has been in the matter of rainfall unsatisfactory to the farming population, it has also had some corresponding advantages. Wool has realised a particularly good price. Dairyproduce and fat sheep and lambs have perhaps more than held their own. so that where small profits have been the rule in grain-growing, the low yield has been in most cases counter-balanced by good returns from wool, sheep, and dairy-produce. The settlers of Otago have made very fair progress during the past year, and they have not any marked grievances. Their prospects may well be described as very bright, unless something unforseen happens to our Home market. Departmental. It is a pleasure to me to record my appreciation of the way the officers of the staff have worked, and of the willingness with which they have assisted me since taking charge of this district. E. H. WILMOT, Commissioner of Crown Lands.

SOUTHLAND. During the year the number of Crown lessees has increased from 2,05] to 2.162. the area held from 1,729,313 acres to 1,745,651 acres, and the annual rental payable from £22,822 to £23,798. The gross revenue received for the year is £33. LOO as compared v. ii h 32,041 received last year. The Various Tenures. Under the heading " Lands sold for Cash " the selections and amount received are about the same ;is last year. This system is not extensively availed of where lands are opened on the optional system, and the majority of the purchases represent sales of townships by auction and outlying pieces that have been bought by adjoining owners. Under the occupation-with-right-of-purchase system, fortyfive persons selected 9,415 acres, at an annual rental of £455 12s. 6d. The total number of tenants under this system has been increased during the year from 347 to 376, the area held from 77,899 acres to 83,835 acres, and the annual rental payable from £2,090 to £2,393. Very few have exercised the right of purchase. Under the renewable-lease system thirty-two tenants selected 3,412 acres (national endowment lands) at an annual rental of £137. The total number of selectors under this tenure has increased during the year from twenty-two to fifty-four, and the areas held from 1,916 acres to 5,327 acres, and the animal rent payable from £76 to £214. As regards perpetual lease and lease in perpetuity, there is very-little alteration in these tenures, as very few of the selectors have taken advantage of their right to acquire the freehold. The pastoral run. small grazing-run, and other remaining tenures do not call for any special remarks, as there is little change ; and the conditions are. generally speaking, well complied with. Arrears of Rents. One of the results of the successful season has been a reduction in the amount of arrears of rent owing. Last year (exclusive of the current half-year) fifty-two tenants owed £582; while, inclusive of half-year, 291 tenants were in arrear to the amount of £2,866. This year (exclusive of current half) thirty-two owe £289, while inclusive of current half, 215 tenants owe £1,798.

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Freehold Titles issued. The subjoined (able shows the number of provisional titles issued by the Receiver of Land Revenue under the various tenures : T.miiv. Seleotore, Area " \. 1!. I. Lease in perpetuity .. .. .. .. ..9 2,709 1 II Occupation with right of purchase .. .. ..4 759 3 39 Perpetual lease .. .. ... .. .. 3 366 3 6 Cash under the Land Act. 1908 .. .. ..13 224 2 3 Auction sales .. .. .. .. ..II 265 0 3 43 4,325 2 22 Transfers. All transfers are examined very closely, the Land Board being very careful in dealing with cases that show too great a difference between improvements and purchase money, though the hard-working pioneer settler has the fullest sympathy. The total number of transfers completed during the year is made up as under : — Tenure. N . umber o£ Area - Lessees. A. R. p. Lease in perpetuity (ordinary) .. .. ..50 4,729 3 29 Lease-in-perpetuity land for settlements .. ..19 4,221 3 5 Occupation with righi of purchase .. .. 2(\ 1.831 137 Perpetual lease .. .. .. .. .. 7 289 011 Mining districts land-occupation leases.. .. .. :! 53 329 Miscellaneous licenses .. .. .. ..14 1,378 1 13 Pastoral licenses .. .. .. .. ..3 12,940 0 0 Small grazing-run .. .. .. .. ..2 5,528 2 0 Certificate of occupation .. .. .. .. 2 229 026 Coal leases .. .. .. .. .. 2 59 0 38 Sawmill areas .. .. .. .. 2 400 0 0 Renewable lease (ordinary) .. .. .. 2 3 2 3 132 34,664 3 31 Forfeitures and Surrenders. A reference to the tables will give full details of dealings under this heading. It may be observed tliat I lie area which has reverted to the Crown is somewhat in excess of last year's figures. Several holdings on occupation with right of purchase were forfeited, with the object of obtaining a revaluation of the land. In other instances various reasons are assigned, such as the cost of improvements on the land to enable the selector to make a living being too great for the people of insufficient means to stand the first few years of the pioneer life, especially on the less favoured lands ; but very few cases have been caused by non-compliance with the conditions. Sawmilling Industry. There are sixty-four sawmills winking, with cutting-capacity of about 85,000,000 ft. per annum. (Iwing to the depressed state of the timber trade the mills have not worked full time. There are now indications of a greater demand for timber, so sawmillers are more hopeful. The means of access for getting timber to market has improved so much of late years that this enables the trade to be more concentrated. The waste in dealing with the cutting of timber s still considerable, and, combined with the limited areas of timber lands available, makes the end of the life of the industry in sight. The birch, however, is gradually proving a valuable timber, and this will help to prolong the industry and output, and at the same time make country valuable that hitherto has been considered of very little use. Lands proposed to be opened for Selection during Year. An area of about 30,000 acres of worked-out sawmill areas in various parts of the district has been withdrawn from the operations of the State Forest Act. and is now available for settlement, and only awaits subdivision to enable it to be opened for selection. Of this area a block of 4,600 acres in Blocks 111 and IV, Oteramika Hundred, has already been surveyed, and will be opened early in the year. The. survey of another block of about 4,000 acres in Blocks V and VII, Longwood, is almost completed, and it will also be available for selection shortly. 1 propose to have a further block of about 800 acres in the Mabel Hundred subdivided, and this should also be in the market during the year. The subdivision of another large block, containing about 10,000 acres, to the west of Otautau, will be commenced, and it is hoped that at least one block will be available before the close of the year. All this land is of fair quality, and should be readily taken up. It is very desirable that it should be selected as soon as possible, as the Canadian thistle has already gained a good hold in some parts of it. In most of these cases the land will be loaded under the Government Loans to Local Bodies Act, for the purpose of providing internal road-access. Landless-Native Blocks. Of the lands set aside under the South Island Landless Natives Act, 1906, the claims in the Waiau, Wairaurahiri, Waikawa, and Lord's Eiver Blocks have been completed. This has entailed a vast amount of extra work, and has involved the preparation of 80 warrants for the issue of certificates of titles, representing 1,947 claims of an aggregate area of 67,694 acres.

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General Remarks. By reports received from the Rangers, and from my own personal observations, I have been greatly impressed by the steady progress that is being made by the Crown tenants in this district. Aided by a favourable season, bush clearing, burning, and drainage-works have been very much facilitated. but the greatest Eactoi in contributing to the success lias been the stcmh- demand and good prices ruling for all farm-produce. Dairy-farming is quickly becoming the chief occupation of c large number of Crown tenants, and is a very valuable source of revenue to the farmer, and a strong inducement for him to clear his land and get it under cultivation as soon as possible. With the pastoral lands the difficulty of replacing tlic natural grasses and supplying suitable grasses to take their place seems lo demand more attention. An effort should also be made to prevent burning and overstocking, as much of the high lands are now showing signs of injudicious management in these respects. With such conditions obtaining, it is only natural to expect that the tenants, on the whole, observe the. conditions of their leases n a very satisfactory manner, and the past season has placed the setters in a most cheerful and progressive posit ion. Departmental. Without entering into details, I may state that the volume of office-work is steadily increasing. and has taxed the energies of the several officers employed to their utmost. All officers have shown a keen interest in i heir duties, and. coming here a complete stranger, I thoroughly appreciate their efforts in making the work- of the office run so well and smoothly. 11. M. Skebt, Commissioner of Crown Lands.

APPENDIX lI.— LAND FOR SETTLEMENTS (EXTRACTS FROM REPORTS OF COMMISSIONERS OF CROWN LANDS ON).

AUCKLAND. The twenty-one settlements in thia land district may be divided into three classes. In the first are placed pastoral ami agricultural areas; then comes class 2. containing one settlement devoted entirely to residential purposes, the third class comprises the hamlets laid out in proximity to Auckland. and which are used mainly as residential sites, but which are large enough in area to enable some income to be derived from market-gardening, fruit-growing, poultry-keeping. <fee. The rural areas of the first class are comprised in fourteen settlements. In the previous year's report it was stated that Opouriao, Fencourt, and Matamata were the most conspicuously successful. This year the settlements at Rangiatea, Karapiro, and Whitehall can be added to the first three mentioned, as they have attained a standard which marks them as definitely successful. The Okauia Settlement, which lias always been the least successful of the older settlements, continues to lag, but the infusion of new blood continues, and t here has been some progress during the year. The prospects in the Bickerstaffe are not encouraging. Selwyn Settlemeni has not yet become an established success, but the settlers have made good progress,and the hind, with the aid of manure, will no doubt turn out as well as that in older settlements. The balance of the settlements are progressing satisfactorily, with the exception of Rewi and Tautari. The Teasdale Settlement (which is the only one of its kind) appears to be serving the purpose for which it was intended. All the buildings erected are of a substantial nature. In the case of the hamlets which are comprised in class 3, there has been considerable progress. An enlargement of some of the areas by re-grouping sections resulted in an improvement, and with the exception of Waari Hamlet, all the settlements have made progress. In some it has been of a very substantial nature. Although in looking over the settlements of all kinds as a whole there are one or two discouraging Features, still there has been no retrogression, and in a great degree there has been considerable progress. As already mentioned, the older settlements are reaching the standard which enables them to be finally classified as a success, and of the newer blocks, with the exception of those mentioned, the indications show that next year more may lie added to the list of those passed as successful. Eric C. Gold Smith, Commissioner of Crown Lands. HAWKE'S BAY. I have to report the subdivision and settlemeni this year of the Tongoio, Clydebank, and Ngatapa Estates, containing altogether about 28,849 acres, which brings the area of acquired land in this district up to 193,405.

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There was keen competition for all the allotments offered, and it is to be regretted that many desirable applicants could not be accommodated, and had to seek land elsewhere. The Rangers report that most of the settlers are making good headway. The Board lias granted some of the settlers extension of time for payment of rent where t lie circumstances seemed to warrant it. On the last days of March a very heavy ram at Poverty Bay Hooded several of the settlements, and damaged others by causing huge landslips. The Ranger is now making a detailed report as to the damage done to individual holdings. The Crown Lauds Ranger for the southern portion of the districi reports that, reviewing operations for the past twelve months in llawkc's Bay, it is highly satisfactory to note a steady progress in all branches of agricultural pursuits, but more especially in the dairying and fruit-growing industries. This applies also in cases of ordinary Crown Lands. The produce sheds at the Hawke's Bay Agricultural and Pastoral Society's autumn show were taxed to their utmost capacity. The exhibits of fruit were the largest that have yet appeared in this district, and were augmented by a magnificient display of grapes and wines from the Government experimental farm at Arataki, near Havelock North, and adjoining Te Mata Settlement, and from the Frimley vineyards. For the root-crops, comprising mangolds and turnips, the names of Mahora and Hatuma settlers appeared in the list of prize-winners in the field agricultural classes. During the year there has been a considerable addition to the number of creameries and cheese-factories throughout the district, and numbers of hand cream-separator machines are now to l>e found installed in the homes of many of the settlers, effecting a considerable saving in cartage to the Eactory of the milk in the ordinary way. The population of land-for-settle-nients areas in this portion of the district as compared with past years shows a remarkable increase during the last twelve months, whilst the increase in the number of stock is also considerable. The favourable weather-conditions experienced during the lasi twelve months, combined with fair market prices for wool and other produce, was the principal factor in the present prosperii v and general progress of the sett lenient lands iv this district. The Crown Lauds Ranger for the Poverty Bay portion of the laud district reports thai there are seven settlements let under the land-for-settlemeni system, namely: Pouparae, Waimarie, Willows. W'igan. Te Arai. Kanakauaia. and Ngatapa. The four former settlements are lei under the lease in perpel uity. while tbe t hree latter are under renewable lease. These eel I lements, having a leasingarea of 38,055 acres 2 foods 15 perches, have been subdivided into 150 holdings, all of which have been selected. Practically all t he sect ions were taken up as soon as opened for selection, and have been continuously occupied, and at present are carrying a population of l<>4 souls. The improvements required under the Act amount to £42,948 18s. 5d., while the value of improvements effected (including original improvements —fencing, grassing, and buildings) is £97.797. There were only two defaulters for non-residence, these being selectors of township sections in Tβ Arai Settlement. There were no defaulters for improvements. One hundred and sixteen dwellinghouses, valued at £27,605. have been erected. The area in white crop is 722 acres, and in root or green crop 285 acres 2 roods: while 811 acres I rood :s(i perches is in orchards, plantation, bush, scrub. Ac. : and i he balance, 25,582 acres and 28 perches, is in grass. Of the total area let, there are nine township sections, ol an average area of |J acres ; fifty seven agricultural sections, of an average area of 32 acres ; fifty-eight agricultural and pastoral sections, of an average area of 407 acres ; and the balance, 2,347 acres, is divided into two small grazing-runs. The stock carried on the settlements amounts to 53,973 sheep, 4,774 cattle, 602 horses, and 543 pigs. Only 1.007. 1 , acres is in crops of various kinds, so it is manifest that the land is used exclusively for woolgrowing, grazing, and fattening stock. On the W'igan Settlement, taken up in December, 1903, the settlers selected when sheep were down in price, and, the markets rising immediately afterwards, all obtained a splendid start. The unimproved value of the laud in this settlement has increased fully £3 per acre the last five years. This settlement is used exclusively for sheep and cattle, and the land is carrying fully two sheep and a half to the acre, including cattle. This settlement is in a very prosperous condition: the laud is very good and the rental low. On Kanakanaia and Te Arai Settlements, taken up in February and March. 1908, the settlers had rather a bad start. In the first place, the principal sheep-sales were over in March, and the settlers were late lor t ins. and had to take what they could 'jet. and pay a big price ; consequently, they obtained a poor class of sheep to start with, and at the end of the season the.stock dropped almost Is. 3d. in value. On the first year's working, though they received a fair price for I heir fat stock. Ihe store sheep and wool were very low. This season they got a lair price for wool, but very few have been able to fatten any stock. This is chiefly caused by the settlers not getting a good class of sheep to si art with. The majority of them have sold oil' all their old stock this year, and gone in for some really fiist-claes sheep, ami there is no doubt next year their id urns will be very much improved. The selectors on the Kanakauaia Settlement go in exclusively for wool-growing and the raising of fattening stock, while on Te Arai Settlement twenty selectors go in exclusively for sheep, twenty-three for mixed farming (dairying, sheep, or dairying and (flipping), and the balance are small township sections used for residential purposes. On Te Arai Settlement the selectors who have done the best for the year just ended are those who ac in lor dairying, and there is no doubt that next year many more will go in for it. There has been a very good price ruling for milk, but the price received for gram was only fail. Of tin; forty-eight tenants on the Pouparae, Willows, and Waimarie Settlements seventeen selectors go in for dairj ing, twenty-two for cropping and grazing, and nine sections are used for residence-sites, the tenants finding work locally. As the price for milk and farm-produce has been fairly well maintained throughout the year, these settlers have had a fairly good season, and the Eaci thai thine are no defaulters lor improvements speaks very highly of the class of tenants. .. Brodrh k, Commissioner of Crown Lands.

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TARANAKI. The Tokaora and Huinga Settlements arc making good progress, and the settlers on both of them are well satisfied. I understand that a section of 94 acres in the former settlement yielded a return of £875 for the year. Though the progress on the Clandon Settlement has not been so marked, still the settlers have come through the year fairly well. The Spotswood Settlement lias done better this year, a few of the unallotted sections having been taken up, and two new residences have been erected. It is anticipated that when the improvements to the harbour at Moturoa, which is near the settlement, are completed, its prospects will be consider ably hopeful. Fuancis Simpson, Commissioner of Crown Lands.

WELLINGTON. My remarks as to ordinary Crown lands, so far as progress is concerned, are equally applicable to the lands-for-settlement holdings, with the difference, of course, thai the latter comprise, generally speaking, improved lands, and the tenure under which they are held is principally lease in perpetuity without any right to purchase. I visited most of the settlements, and have interviewed a large proportion of the settlers, and one cannot, help being impressed with the evidences of etability that one meets at every turn. One very noticeable feature is the improved class of homestead and outbuilding that is now so prominent tliroughout this class of settlement, and this extends to cases where the area is small. The settlements in the easi coasi districts are used for mixed farming, the rougher country for grazing of sheep and cattle, and the lower for dairying and agricultural purposes. In the neighbourhood of Wellington the land is used for residential purposes, fruit-growing, market-gardening, and for poultry-farming. On the west coast the settlements are chiefly in the Feilding, Bulls, and Lower Oroua districts, and these, if possible, seem more prosperous than the Wairarapa settlements. On the west coast the settlements are used chiefly for dairying, cropping, and fruit-growing, the grazing of sheep and cattle not being so marked as on the east coast. James Mackenzie, Commissioner of Crown hands.

NELSON. Wangapeka Settlement. —This settlement consists of 6,263 acres, divided into fifteen allotments, of which fourteen, of a total area of -4,202 acres, are occupied. The remaining allotment, containing 1,949 acres, has just been applied for. The tenants have all elected good dwellings on their holdings, and have done a large amount of work in Fencing, cultivation, felling bush, scrub, &c. Owing to the weH season the grain-crops have not been very good, but the root-crops are looking well. The settlers intend using tlie land chiefly for pastoral purposes until the price of white crops improve. Owing to tin' neglected state of the land, it was quite two years before it could be brought into profitable condition, and consequently fair returns from the land are only just being realised. Improvements to the value of £6,653 have been effected, an excess of £2,495 over the requirements of the Act. There an , 2,904 head of stock on the estate, an increase of 1-14 over lasi pear. A school has been ereected on the settlement, and has an attendance of twenty-one children. Braebiirn Settlement. —This settlemeni contains 18,063 acres, of which 15,563 acres was forest and 2,500 acres open land. Good work has been done during the past year, an area of 853 acres of land having been felled and grassed, and contracts let lor further areas. A considerable amount of fencing has been done, and nine dwellinghouses erected. An area of 11,965 is at present occupied by fourteen selectors, two more sections have been recently applied lor. and several inquiries have been made lately with regard to the vacant lands, and it is anticipated that the remaining allotments will lie selected at an early date. The establishment of a butter-factory at Murchison, eleven miles from the settlement, has enabled several of the settlers to become suppliers by each settler running a separator and sending the cream to the factory. The initial expense of providing cows and separators has been large, and does not Leave much margin lor profit, but the prospects for the next season are much brighter. There are 133 dairy cows on the settlement, and this number will be largely increased during the year. The butter-factory will undoubtedly be a great benefit to the settlement. The lessees have all complied with the improvement and residence conditions. There are thirty-two inhabitants on the settlement, and the live-stock numbers 1,025 head. The improvements effected amount to £3,999, or £2.070 in excess of the requirements. I feel sure that the prosperity of this settlement will lie assured in a few years when mote of the finest lands are brought under grass. Rout. T. Sαmi. Commissioner of Crown Lands.

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MAKLBOROUGH. Despite the fact that the past season has been a very unfavourable one for agricultural operations, the general progress made, on the nine land-for-scttlement estates in Marlborough lias been good, especially to holders of sheep country, and as the settlements become longer established, and the settlers get to work more on their own capital, still better results may be expected. The total area <>l settlement-land acquired in the nine estates within the Marlborough Land District is 114.07 d acres, out of which 5,049 acres Lave been used as reserves, roads, and river-bods, leaving an effectual area of 109,930 acres, of an estimated capital value of £396,984, or an average value of £3 12s. 3d. per acre, yielding an annual cental of £20,091 16s. 6d. Two of these estates — Puhipuhi and Waipapa, of an agregate area of ."5.975 acres —are worked in conjunction with other Crown land. and it is therefore impossible to separate the results. The particulars of the other purely settlement estates may be of interest : Area, 105,955 acres ; value of improvements required by the Act, £65,503 ; value of improvements effected, £161,862 ;. number of persons resident, 1,055 ; number of houses, 246 ; number of sheep, 100,703, or 0-95 per acre throughout. Notwithstanding the fact that there are 9,683 acres under white crops —chiefly barley, oats, wheat, and a few acres of peas —the number of horses is 1,186 ; cattle, 1,016; and pigs, 355. The area of land under green crops —chiefly rape-is (>,OK(> acres. The small settlement situated in the Kaikoura district is continuing to yield very good results, owing to the extreme fertility of the soil and the proximity to a splendid cheese-factory. The prospects of continued prosperity in these settlements is good, always provided thai uo unfavourable climatic conditions prevail. Unfortunately, last year many of the.settlers suffered con siderable loss owing in caterpillars ; in many instances these attacked the crops of the smaller holders, who were least able to bear I lie loss. There is a hope that a more severe winter may destroy, or render less harmful, many of these pests, which bear heavily on many very deserving settlers. F. Stephenson Smith, Commissioner of Crown Lands.

VFESTLAND. There are only two settlements in the district—Kokatahi and Poerua and. both are in a very flourishing etate. The quality of the land in both cases is very good :in fact, these settlements comprise some of the best land in West laud. The land is used almost wholly for grazing, the only crops grown being used for feed. The whole of the Poerua settlers supply milk to the butter-factory, and they are at present milking 300 cows. Four Kokatahi settlors work their holdings as dairy farms, and the other three for rearing and fattening stock, mainly cattle. The stock bred are of good quality, and the herds are being materially improved by the importation of pedigree stock. There has been an abundance of grass on both settlements, and what crops have been grown have yielded well. The settlers are all well satisfied with their holdings, and, although the goodwill of any of the sections would realise a considerable sum. it is gratifying to notice that applications for transfer are very rave. G. H. M. McClure, Commissioner of Crown Lands.

CANTERBURY. Lands opened for Selection. Three new estates in the Canterbury District have been acquired and opened for selection under the provisions of the Land for Settlements Ah during the year. These wen' (I.) The Fyvio Sett lement, situated between the Selwyn and Rakaia Rivers, about thirty-one miles limn CnristchurcE. It comprised L,585 acres of mixed light agricultural land and pastoral land of fair quality, and was opened for selection on the 2nd December, I'.toit. in five sections, ranging in size from 2(S(> acres to •575 acres. Applications were received from twenty six persons, and the whole of the sections were disposed of at the first ballot. (2.) The Buddo Settlement, situated near Belfast, aboul nine miles Erom Christchurch. h com prised 70.acres of good level alluvial-deposil land, and waa opened for selection on the Ist March, 1910, in fifteen sections, ranging in size from 3 acres to H\ acres. Op to the 31st March. 1910, six sections had beet) allotted, and others bad been applied for. In this class of settlement it is usually found that the sections go i>iV more slowly than in the case of rural settlements; bul there is little doubt that the whole of the sections will in a short lime Ke taken up and satisfactorily occupied. It is noticeable thai up fco the present there has been a complete absence of applicants from among the class whose supposed requirements the settlement was specially designed to meet namely, the workers employed at the Freezing-works and other industries established at and near Belfast. (3.) The Tripp Settlement, formerly part of the Orari Gorge Estate, situated about nine miles from Geraldine, in South Canterbury. The area acquired was 7,977 acres, to which was added a block of L 9,199 acres of paetoral Crown land previously leased by the owners of the estate. The whole. area was divided into nineteen agricultural sections ranging in size Erom 33 acres to 253 acres, the aggregate area being 2,753 acres, and five pastoral sections ranging in si/.e Erom 1,782 acres to 9,896 acres, the aggregate area being 24,134 acres. There was a very keen demand lor sections in this settlement, and applications were received from 350 persons, of whom 293 were admitted to the ballot. The whole of the sections were disposed of at the first ballot. The Land Hoard observed with much satisfaction the generally excellent stamp of would-be settler represented, by the applicants, and there is no doubt that in the hands of men of this class the success of the Tripp Settlement is fully assured.

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Lands for Future Selection. At the close of the year preparations foi the disposal of the following further estates were well in hand :— (1.) The Ladbrooks Settlement, near Lincoln, comprising 268 acres, to be subdivided into twelve dairy [arms. (2.) The Clandeboye Settlement, near Temuka, comprising 560 acres, to be subdivided into ten dairying and agricultural farms. (3.) The Hornby Settlement, near Hornby, comprising 75 acres, to be subdivided into twentythree small allotments for labourers and others. (4.) The Ruapuna Estate, near Ruapuna, comprising 4,423 acres, to be subdivided into fourteen mixed agricultural and pastoral farms. Condition <>k Established Settlements. The reports which have been furnished by the Crown Lands Rangers upon the condition of the whole of the established settlements throughout the district at the close of the year again reveal in a. most striking manner the magnificent success which has been achieved under the operation (if tin . Land fin' Settlements Acts in promoting settlement within a district which had. by the free-selection system previously in force, been left practically destitute (if any Crown lands suitable lor occupation under sett lenient-conditions. A perusal of the reports shows an almost unbroken record of prosperous settlers, contented with their holdings, and fulfilling the conditions of their leases in a satisfactory manner —men who. with the assistance afforded them by a progressive land policy, coupled with their own industry. have been enabled to improve their own position, to bring up families in comfortable circumstances, to increase the productiveness of their lands, and to contribute in no small degree to the prosperity of the district and the Dominion. With very few exceptions, the settlers , farms are neatly and carefully worked, kept cleat of noxious weeds, and maintained in good heart by judicious farming, the conditions of the leases respecting rotation of crops, &c., being generally well observed. The Land Board is at all limes willing to give careful and sympathetic consideration to any application for relaxation of the Strict conditions as regards number of crops or the period during which land must oc left in pasture, provided that reasonable grounds, verified by a report from the Crown Lands Ranger, can be shown to justify the concession asked for. The members ot the Hoard, as practical farmers, recognise that weather-conditions, whether local or general, as well as other circumstances, must render it impossible at all limes In enforce absolutely ha id -and-iast rules of cultivation. At the same time, the Hoard does not encourage tenants ii> expect permission to vary the conditions, and. indeed, most of the settlers recognise thai these conditions arc framed as much in their own interests as in those of the Crown. The buildings, fences, and other improvements effected on these holdings are generally of a good quality, and well maintained, and in many instances il is found that when a settler has .surmounted his initial expense, and begun to reap good returns from his land, the small cottage which was made to suffice fof his earlier requirements is enlarged or replaced by a new dwellinghouse, often fitted with Conveniences that are usually looked for in town dwellings only. There arc a few cases in which the value of improvements effected falls short of the legal requirements ; but. the usual experience, is thai such deficiencies are remedied as soon as opportunity offers and the tenants' means permit. There are. of course, also some cases— although they are not many where there is noticeable a lack of satisfactory management, where the husbandry is inferior, where the buildings show evidence of want of care, and the whole farm, by contrast with neighbouring holdings, falls short of the usual standard. This, however, is merely to say that on Crown leaseholds, as on freehold properties, there are those who lack energy or ability to make the best of their holdings. One subject that has received much consideration from the Hoard on several occasions has been the question of how to deal with applications for t he amalgamation, by transfer, of small holdings which, the holders allege, are insufficient for I he maintenance of themselves and those dependent on them. There are. no doubt, cases in which the number of small holdings provided in a given locality, the holders of which must seek outside employment to supplement the subsistence obtainable from their holdings, is in excess of the requirements of the surrounding district, in such cases applications lor amalgamation of holdings, in order to provide an area which will render the tenant practically independent of outside employment, will sooner or later be made to the Land Board. While it is undoubtedly the case that amalgamation of holdings should, as a general rule, be strongly discountenanced, it cannot be denied that ii is belter lo establish one settler upon an area. Sufficient to enable, him lo maintain himself and his family in reasonable comfort than to seek to retain two holders on insufficient areas, with the result that the Crown has two somewhat discontented settlers, obliged to neglect their own holdings to some extent by reason of the necessity for seeking outside employment, perhaps at considerable distances from their homes. The reports on the various workmen's homes, hamlets, and other small settlements in the vicinity of Christchurch, and the one suburban settlement near Timarii. are generally of a very satisfactory character. Neat and comfortable cottages have been erected on most of Ihe holdings, and the sections are used lor market-gardening and poultry-farming, or provide the holder with the means to glow sufficient garden-produce lor himself and his family, and perhaps to graze a horse or cow. Apart from the increased value given to these lands by the tenants' improvements, there is in most cases a very substantial increase in I lie unimproved value of the lands, owing to the expansion of the city and the extension of facilities for communication. of the settlements offered during the year, only one the Fyvie Settlement has been occupied lon- enough to enable any progress to be made up to the date of this report. In the case, of I his sell lenient, a preliminary inspection shows that all the live tenants have built and taken up their residence on their holdings, and very satisfactory progress has been made during the four months that have elapsed since the settlement was established. F. W. Flanagan, Commissioner of Crown Lands.

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OTAQO. . During the past year no new settlements have been offered Eor selection. Of bhree allotments open Eoi selectioE .it the beginning of the year, a large section on Kauroo Hill Settlement was taken ii|). The transfers which bave taken place in reaped of settlement selections nave all shown consider able though not extravagant amounts for goodwill, thus giving evidence of the increasing value of settlement lands. The only selectors who nave taken advantage of the provisions of the Land for Settlements Act in respect of exchanging lease-in-perpetuity tenure lor renewable lease are the. tenants on Duncan Settlement, who thereby secured a considerable reduction in the capital values of their holdings, as well as the reduction from •") to it, per cent, on the capital values as rentals. Speaking generally as to the settlers under the Lands for Settlement \< tin Otago, they are making very steady and satisfactory progress, although they have been under the great disadvantage of an exceptionally dry summer. During the spring months things looked very promising. The frequent showers brought the crops away well, and there was every indication of a bountiful harvest with plenty of feed. During the early summer, however, prospects did not look quite so well, on account of a succession of hot north-west winds, which had the effect of giving the grain-crops and grass a decided set-back. The dry weather, with occasional high winds, continued throughout January and February, and entirely banished all hopes of the high returns which promised so well in the earlier part of the season. Strange to say, this state of affairs existed over nearly the whole of the Land District, Otago Central, as might be expected, being the worst affected, while north of the Kakanui the effects of the dry weather were not so apparent. South of the Kakanui, as far as Gore, crops of all kinds suffered very severely, as was proved by the threshing returns. It may be safely said that, taking the coastal districts of Otago all through, the crops have been quite 30 per cent, short of expectations. The same remarks also apply to the turnip-crops. As far as swede turnips ate concerned, they are practically a failure on account of the blight. Taking that fact into account, together with the shortage of farmers will no doubt find some difficulty in providing for their stock during the coming winter. In North Otago the usual area is under potatoes, but. on account of the dry season, the crops are not turn ing out as well as they promised; but growers are compensated to a certain extent for the smaller yield by the fact that the blight is not so bad as in previous seasons. With regard to the fat-lamb market, farmers are much better off than they expected to be. In the early part of the season fat lambs were selling at 10s., but before the season had advanced very far the price went up as high as 15s. a head. The suppliers to the dairy factories and creameries have also had the advantage of good prices, which compensated somewhat for the reduced quantity of milk. On Earnsclough Settlement, where the selectors are going in for fruit-growing, they are beginning to get a return for their labour, the Otago Central Railway enabling them to send their fruit in good condition to a profitable market. On Janefield Estate, which may be called a residential settlement, market gardening and dairying are being successfully carried on. a ready market for the produce being found in Dunedin. On the larger estates, the usual routine of mixed farming is carried on successfully. On the whole the settlers have had a good year and generally are well satisfied with their prospects as tenants of the Crown. E. 11. Wii.mot, Commissioner of Crown Lands.

SOUTHLAND. Lands opened during thj Year. During flu , year one new aettlemeni was purchased and opened to application viz., Ermedale. This settlement, containing a leasing area of 2,692 acres, is situated from five to seven miles from Fairfax Railway-station. It was subdivided into twelve sections, ranging in ana from 130 to 400 acres. On the day of opening nine sections were selectedj and one has since been taken up. leaving two. containing 548 acres, still unselected, hut lam confident that these will be taken up very shortly. As the sections were only allotted on the 31st March last, it is not necessary to make any further comments at present. Condition of established Settlemests. It is satisfactory to record that since last year steady progress lias been rnad< all the settlements, the improvements effected being increased by £5,000 since last report. For convenience of reference, the settlements may lie divided as follows: Western and eastern, tin 1 former comprising Merrivale. Otahu. Beaumont, ami Ringway, and the latter (ilenham and Kdendale. Generally speaking, the settlers in the western district are engaged in mixed farming and sheep-grazing, with a little dairying, while in the eastern district dairying is very extensively and successfully carried on. and forms the chief occupation. In the western district the white and green crops have, suffered somewhat lor the want of rain, and in consequence are a little poor, except on Otahu. where these crops are all that could be desired. An area of 1,266 acres has been laid down in new mass, and it is pleasing to note that the settlers are improving the stock-carrying capacity by this means. The high prices ruling for wool have created a feeling of satisfaction among the settlers in this portion of the district. The position of Otahu and Merrivale Settlements has been vastly improved by the completion of the Ore-puki-Waiau Railway to Tuatapere, which brings them much nearer the railway terminus. In the eastern district, as already mentioned, the chief occupation is dairying. Although the umss has not been quite so plentiful owing to thejeontinued drought, it is gratifying to know that there has been a great increase in the milk-yields. Realising whatjjthis means. , the settlers have put down no less than 2.1>20 acres in new grass during the year. All the milk-factories have been taxed to their utmost, and, to cope with the milk received, the chief factory at Edendale has been working

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three shifts. To meet future developments, the directors have decided to erect another factory before next Beacon, unci the initial steps have already been taken to accomplish this object. As a farther instance of the prosperity of these settlements, it might be mentioned thai twenty mechanical milking plants have been installed, and have proved a great boon in labour-saving. As an indication of what (lie subdivision of the Edendale Settlement has done for dairying, it might be mentioned that in 1904 - r > a sum of £14,299 was paid for milk, while in 1909-10 the amount was £44,000. In 1904-5 the output of cheese was 368 tons, of a monetary value of £24,240 ; and in 1909-10 the output will be approximately 1,100 tons, of a value of £56,460. The conditions on GHenham, although not so marked as Edendale, are also worth recording. In 1905-6 the output of cheese was 31 tons, while in 1909-10 the output will be approximately 130 tons. This means an increase in supply of milk for this season of 58,250 gallons. From this source alone a sum of about £7,000 was distributed amongst the Glenham suppliers this season. The white and root crops in the eastern districts have suffered through the exceptional spell of dry and windy weather, and consequently the yields are not so heavy as in former years. With such conditions obtaining,it is only natural to find that the settlers in this part of the (listrid are prosperous and cheerful. The conditions of lease, have been well complied with during the year. Future Prospects. Now that the great majority of the tenants have firmly established themselves on their holdings, it seems reasonable to expect that their future prosperity is almost assured, more especially if the pre sent prices for dairy-produce, stock, and wool are maintained. In this district, at all events, the iast three seasons have been exceptionally favourable to farmers, and this has had the effect of placing the tenants in a more progressive and satisfactory position than at any other time since they have been established. The settlers are seeing the necessity of providing shelter for their stock. Everywhere there is evidence of tree-planting that in a few years will quite alter the aspect of the country. It would be a good thing if more trees of general utility were planted, which in the course of time would supply the wants of the farmer for buildings and fencing. H. M. Skbet, Commissioner of Crown Lands.

APPENDIX TIL — REPORT ON THE TIMBER INDUSTRY IN THE AUCKLAND AND MARLBORO UGH LAND DISTRICTS.

AUCKLAND. The sales of timber for the year as compared with the sales for the previous year show a decrease in revenue. This fact is partly due to the disposal of large quantities of timber within the State forests during the previous year, whilst this year a number of small lots of timber only, consisting of the residue of old workings and small clumps of timber within certain districts, were offered and disposed of for the purposes of enabling the land to be cleared of milling-timber prior to opening same for settlement purposes. This, together with the reduced number of bills falling due for past sales of timber, largely accounts for the decrease in revenue. During tin , , greater part of the year only two measuring parties were engaged constantly in the Held, and the total quantity of timber measured was 35,244.956 sup. ft. (exclusive of the balance of timber measured on the Moutatau Block No. 2 for the Tokerau Maori Land Board). The measured quantity of timber available for sale purposes, and Eoi which sale plans are nowbeing prepared, totals 78,449,173 sup. ft. Six poster plans and local sale notices, comprising 21 lots of timber, were prepared and issued, and the total sales effected (including sections loaded with the value of timber) wore 53, aggregating 10,664,952 sup. ft.; and the amount realised, £8,296 11s. 7d. Owing to the heavy rains and freshes experienced, the sawmillers' log supplies were largely atig.mented by the exceptional number of kauri and other logs coming to hand, which in some cases have remained in the creeks for years. The demand for sawn kauri timber is still well maintained, and a further increase in prices has been fixed by the sawmillers. The following table shows the various kinds of timber disposed of during the year : —

Kauri. Kiniii Kahikatea. Totava. ■mi *«? Miscel- , Vnt , Amount Matal - laneous. rotaL realised. Irown lands .. ,tate forests .. Totals Hup. ft. .. 7.489,245 .. 1,267,827 .. 8,757,07-2 Sup. ft. 987,617 3,750 Sup. ft. Sup. ft. 436.071 418.038 Sup. ft Sup. ft. Bnp. ft. £ s. d. 58,468 .. 9.390,034 7,405 18 2 3,341 1,274,918 890 13 5 58,468 3,341 10,604,952 8,296 11 7 991,367 430,071 418,038 Timber measured ar* id disposed / of for Education i Department : — I 50,674 i •• I •• I •• I I .. [ .. I 66,674 42 12 10

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Export of Timber from Ist April, 1909, to 3lst March, 1910.—From Auckland : Kauri, 15,855,453 sup. ft., value £109,221 ; kahikatea, 11,916,395 sup. ft., value £48,250 ; other kinds, 179,053 sup. ft., value £795 ; total, 27,950,901 sup. ft., value £158,266. From Kaipara : Kauri, 8,738,056 sup. ft., value £52,222 ; kahikatea, 19,739,156 sup. ft., value £65,580 ; other kinds, 987,997 sup. ft, value £3,449 : total, 29,465,209 sup. ft., value £121,251. Grand total, 57,416,110 sup. ft, value £279,517. Imports of Timber, Auckland, from Ist April, 1909, to 31s< March, 1910.-2,587,265 sup. ft., value £12.129. Of this quantity and value, Oregon pine is represented by 1,967,090 sup. ft, value £7,593. The total imports show a decrease over last year of 7,626,793 sup. ft, value £49,971, or practically 80 per cent. less. Timber-floating. —Twelve new licenses were granted, 64 renewals were granted, 5 licenses lapsed : total license and renewal fees received, £101 10s. Bush-fires. —Although every precaution was taken by the Forest Caretakers to guard against fires and trespassers in the forests, still, owing to the very dry summer, several large bush-fires occurred, resulting in considerable damage to private bushes and plant, mostly within the Thames County. Fortunately, however, the Crown forests suffered only to a slight extent, through the timely heavy lams quenching the fires before they penetrated far into the forests. Had these surrounding fires still continued, no doubt serious damage and loss would have resulted in the large kauri forest on Ti Tipi Block. Gathering Gum, Waipoua and Warawara State Forests. —Tree-gum gathering by the Caretakers from old incisions made in the trees within these two State forests is still being continued, but not to the same extent as in previous years, as, owing to the large crops having been gathered, the temptation for diggers and others to trespass in the bushes for the purposes of collecting gum has to a great extent been removed. The amount of gum disposed of during the period was 1 ton 19 cwt. 2 qr. 1 lb. ; amount realised, £95 16s. 3d. There still remains in the broker's store at Auckland 1 ton 13 cwt. 3 qr. 10 lb. for disposal; present value, £140. This is being held awaiting a more favourable market, and will be dealt with in due course. Although a decrease in timber revenue is shown, nevertheless the correspondence in connection with timber matters has been very considerable. In addition to the preparation of sale plans, returns, &c., 986 letters and 1,028 sale posters were despatched during the year. Eric C. Gold Smith, Commissioner of Crown Lands.

MARLBOROUGH. I forward herewith a table showing the quantity of timber from the State-owned forests upon which royalty was paid during the year ended 31st March last. Although many of the mills, especially smaller ones, have either been closed down, or were running slowly, for a considerable period of the year, the gross output has been over twelve and a half million superficial feet, or about three and a half million feet more than last year's output. It is anticipated that the gross returns from the bushes next year will be about fifteen million superficial feet ; out of this there will probably be but little less than two million feet cut from Crown lands —the balance from State forests. The various varieties of timber cut are, in the order of their quantities, rimu, kahikatea, matai, totara, and birch, although the proportion of white-pine has increased considerably. The gross amount of royalty on timber cut during the year was £3,295 4s. Id., against £2,439 15s. last year —an increase of £855 9s. Id. Of this sum £1,192 11s. 10d. was from Crown lands, and £2,102 12s. 3d. from State forests. It is anticipated that a greater amount of revenue will be received from the latter next year, because the two largest mills will be cutting on State forests. The number of men employed in the bushes and mills during the year was 236 —119 in the mills and 117 in the bushes ; probably twenty or thirty more were employed in carting, shipping, &c.

Summary of Timber cut from Crown Lands and State Forests for Year ended 31st March, 1910.

6—C. 1.

Mill. Rimu. White-pine Totara (Kahikatea). iot "»- Matai. Birch. Totals. 'rown Lands. irownlee and Co. ... !ooke and Co. Totals ... Sup. ft. ... 1,912,509 39,545 ... 1,952,054 Sup. ft. Sup. ft. 2,226,865 26,610 807 Sup. ft. Sup. ft. 3up. ft. 417,801 ... 4,583,785 8,646 ... 43,998 2,227,672 26,610 421,447 4,627,783

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Summary of Timber cut from Crown Lands and State Forests, &c.— continued.

APPENDIX IV. —WHANGAMARINO SWAMP: REPORT AS TO DRAINING.

Memo, for the Under-Secretary for Lands, Wellington. In response to your request, I visited the Whangamarino Swamp and the Government lands adjacent thereto. I have made considerable examination of the property, and find that under the existing circumstances the taking of levels is unnecessary ; but the data acquired enables me to give you such information as will place you in a position to determine as to whether the swamp can be drained, 01 is worth draining. Though the dry land or ridges on the blocks are of inferior quality, the swampy portion is generally good, and the whole property free from inundation is a very valuable asset. The existing conditions of the bed of the Waikato Kiver are such as to make it impracticable to drain the above-mentioned land. Of course, it is possible to bank the Whangamarino and Maramarua Rivers, and pump out the water accumulated in and within their drainage-area. It is also possible to bank along the railwayline to prevent the inflow of the Waikato River, also to bank out the overflow from the Waikare Lake (as I believo has been suggested); but this scheme, though possible, is impracticable for the following reasons : Firstly, the expense would be prohibitive ; secondly, the maintenance would be enormous ; thirdly, such scheme would be extremely detrimental to the railway, to the Government lands not included in the last-named area, and also the private lands adjoining would suffer materially. The Whangamarino and Maramarua are, generally speaking, fine rivers, with very few obstructions. There are a few willows in the Maramarua which require"removing for purpose of navigation ; but it is quite accessible for the coal-barges to go up to the coal-mine. There are a few eel-weirs in the Whangamarino which interfere with navigation, but these obstructions do not materally affect the drainage question. I have seen these rivers at summer level also when there has been a fresh in the Waikato. Tn the present state of the bed of the Waikato River there is practically no fall in the above-mentioned rivers even at summer level. If the Maramarua and Whangamarino Rivers could perform their natural functions they would be able to carry off the water within their drainage-area, and there would be no floods, and the so-called swamps adjoining them would be sufficiently drained by the subdivisional roads and along the boundaries of subdivisions. In fact, the drainage question of Government lands and also private lands adjoining would be a very simple problem, provided as hereinbefore inferred, these rivers could perform their original and natural functions. The cause of the flooding of the lands above referred to is, firstly, that when the Waikato River rises its waters flow up the Whangamarino and Maramarua Rivers and flood the country. Again, under like conditions, the waters of the Waikato River flow up the Rangirixi and Te Onetea Streams into the Waikare Lake, and from the Waikare Lake on to the Government and adjacent lands, practically causing an immense lake over thousands of acres of land. Further, owing to the Waikato River being congested, the waters remain for a considerable period. The cause and the cure for the above conditions are apparent —namely, the congestion of the Waikato River below Mercer, and the immediate necessity of removing the obstructions that cause congestion. At several places near Tuakau and lower down the river the sectional area of said river is about one-tenth of the sectional area of the river near MeTcer and Churchill. The damage caused by the obstructions as shown above is considerable, and steadily increasing, and if some action is not taken, matters will become very serious to the settlers owning lands adjoining the Evidence of this is ample. Big floods which inundated the valley years ago were very seldom, and many years intervened ; now there are two or three floods every year.

F. Stephenson Smith, Commissioner of Crown Lands.

Mill. Rimu. White-pine (Kabikatea). Totara. Matai. Birch. Totals. .< Robertson Bros. ... W. C. J. Bryant ... Marlborough Timber pany Smart Bros. F. A. Smart Brownlee and Co. Sup. ft. 450,971 160,143 Com- 1,129,735 273,106 413,341 ... 1,500,328 state Forest, Sup. ft. 204,058 126,251 2,010,821 47,450 39,254 554,224 'tate Forests 3up. ft. .38,196 6,635 22,298 1 - Sup. ft. 1,344 42,092 Sup. ft. 804,030 293,391 3,611,285 Sup. ft. 204,058 126,251 2,010,821 Sup. ft. ! 9,461 362 6,339 Sup. ft. ! Sup. ft. 138,196 1,344 6,635 122,298 42,092 47,450 39,254 554,224 10,111 59,299 23,421 31,707 , ... 294,909 23,421 31,707 !94,909 ) 343,977 494,413 2,408,760 Totals ... ... 4,227,624 2,982,058 2,982,058 85,572 617,166 43,436 7,955,856 Grand totals ... 6,179,678 5,209,730 5,209,730 112,182 1,038,613 43,436 12,583,639

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PLAN to accompany Mr. Breakell's report on proposed drainage of WHANGAMARINO SWAMP.

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PLAN Showing Position of Land-slide of the 27th March, 1910, at Waihi, Lake Taupo.

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ir *'* The obstructions, or the principal obstructions, consist of shifting sand-banks ; consequently the channel is ever varying ; and, although the river may be 15 or 16 chains'wide, the'chanml is practically only 3 chains, the depth varying from 8 ft. to 15 ft., and in a few instances 30 ft., the rest'of the riverbed being at summer level practically a dry sandbank. Between Tuakau and the Heads there is a long low Hal about three miles in length, where the river spreads to a width of, I should say, two or three miles, with many small and varying channels. The river here requires restricting so as to create one definite channel. This could be done by low training or wing walls 15 chains apart, so at to confine the scour, the method of forming these being loose rubble deposited on given lines to the height of, say, 1 ft. above low-water level at spring tides. Beyond this latter-mentioned work I think very little else would be required other than a little dredging from Port Waikato to the" point where high-water neap tides reach up the river. From this latter point up to the mouth of the Whangamarino River dredging would be required, and I apprehend that if a channel of, say, 3 chains wide were dredged, and the work hereinbefore proposed lower down the river were performed, the river would gradually scour itself to its original sole, and, with a little assistance, to its original width. If the work as above proposed were performed, the Whangamarino and Maramarua Rivers would be enabled to perform their natural functions. It must be evident that if the work as suggested is undertaken it will save considerable loss and expense to the; Railway Department, and considerably enhance the value of lands belonging to private individuals. Therefore, I presume that before the work could be undertaken, even if the Government were willing and financially able to do so, some legislation would be necessary to enable an adjustment of the cost. There is one point to be remembered ; there is plenty of waste land along the river-banks below Mercer available foT depositing the excavated material from the. river-bank, and a suction-dredge could easily deposit the said excavated material where required, and in many cases the land would be materially improved thereby. If the works as proposed are carried on, there is plenty of suitable stone in the immediate neighbourhood. In conclusion, 1 again inform you that I am of opinion that it is impracticable to drain, or otherwise reclaim the Whangamarino and other Government lands adjoining without commencing at the initial point—-the clearing of the bed of the Waikato River. Of course, I might have recommended the expenditure of a considerable amount in taking levels, but this, in my opinion, would be a wilful waste of time and money, and I am satisfied that were I to spend two or three months at the work I could afford you no more information than is herein contained, excepting, of course, detail work. The approximate cost of a dredge and gear suitable for the purpose of performing the work as proposed herein would be from £13,000 to £15,000. I have, &c, Department of Lands, Auckland, 2nd March, 1910. William C. Breakell.

APPENDIX V. — REPORT ON LANDSLIP AT WAIHI, TOKAANU, BY H. J. LOWE, DISTRICT SURVEYOR.

I have the honour to forward herewith a sketch plan showing the position of the recent landslid near the Native village of Waihi, on the south-west bay of Lake Taupo, which occurred on Saturday morning, the 27th March, 1910. On the south-west of the plan is shown the old volcano of Kakaramea, the north-eastern aspect of which presents an almost perpendicular face some 800 ft. high; from the base of this the land gradually slopes to the high terrace from which this landslide came. A huge mass of volcanic debris some 30 chains long, 15 chains wide, and 400 ft. deep, consisting of sands, gravels, and huge volcanic bombs, slipped into the basin 500 ft. below (leaving cliffs from 400 ft. to 500 ft. high), and shooting down the narrow valley of the Waimatai, spread out over the cultivations and grass land, and out into the lake some 120 chains away and 1,000 ft. lower than the starting-point. There is still more to come. The area of grass and cultivated land covered with debris from 10 ft. to 30 ft. deep I estimate at 45 acres, while quite 10 acres of new land has been formed above the waters of the lake. Huge quantities of debris were shot out into the deep water for many chains. The new slide is much larger than the one which overwhelmed the old pa in 1846, and quite covers it up. 1 understand that quite 12 acres of cultivations (potatoes, marrows, pumpkins, corn, &c), have been destroyed, as well as pigs and cattle, and that the Waihi Natives will be short of food this winter in consequence. A man was overwhelmed at the point A, and his body apparently located at the point B. As far as I can judge, the Village of Waihi is, and always will be, quite safe, but further slips are liable to occur in this valley. The upper and western side of the valley is simply perforated with steam-holes, some of which exploded as the slide passed over them.

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44

Table 1. —Return showing (approximately) Position of Lands of the Dominion at 31st March, 1910.

District. Total Area sold and held on Freehold. Total Area granted under Acts without Money Payment or reserved for Public Purposes from Foundation of Dominion. Total Area of Crown Lands leased under all Tenures (exclusive of Reserves leased by Crown). Total Area open for Selection. Total Area of Native Land. Estimated Area of Barren and Worthless Country not already included under any of the other Headings. Estimated Area occupied by Roads, Rivers, Lakes, &c. Total Area remaining for future disposal, exclusive of Land shown in Preceding Columns. Total Area in Land District. Acres. Acres Acres. Acres. Acres. Acres. Acres. Acres. Acres. Auckland 2,152,311 3,572,293 1,752,782 424,811 4,006,771 653,173 1,295,859 13,858,000 Hawke's Bay 2,386,573 433,752 908,599 8,512 1,493,336 342,643 150,000 53,539 128,128 5,508,900 Taranaki 452,156 705,632 551,635 367 310,777 2,417.299 Wellington .. 3,016,478 894,832 905,130 15,042 1,533,836 41,400 36,500 1,544,000 143,752 60,000 265,383 6,810,953 Nelson 552,409 30G,315 723,496 235,040 1,223,340 4,686,000 Marlborough 837,506 208,428 1,311,514 912 140,000 100,000 169,640 2,768,000 Westland 120,211 205,893 1,146,967 808,487 1,375,500 154,072 83,757 3,894,887 Canterbury 3,703,125 1,361,069 3,824,932 430 272,389 442,100 9,604,045 Otago 1,979,710 543,220 5,447,634 20,191 200,000 263,200 428,845 8,882,800 Southland 1,561,923 3,495,335 1,745,651 30,833 233,698 139,897 376,555 7,583,892 Totals 16,762,402 3,802,087 2,159,733 11,726,819 18,318,340 1,545,125 7,417,986 4,282,284 66,014,776 Note.—Readjustments have been made in the figuree appearing in some of the columns found necessary upon investigation made during the year.

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Table 2.—Lands opened for Sale and Selection during the Year ended 31st March, 1910.

District. Optional System. Lease by Auctiou Cash by Auction. and Application. Village Allotments. Pastoral Huns. Small Grazing-runs. Keni-wable Lease. Improved-farm • Special Settlements. Totals. Ordinary Crown LandsAuckland Hawke's Bay Taranaki.. Wellington Nelson Marlborough Westland Canterbury Otago Southland Acres. 53,426 6,414 22,134 45,791 7,935 564 3,860 12,359 Acres. 127 83 45 526 15 41 85 501 Acres. 127 83 45 526 15 Acres. 636 "36 7,517 Acres. 636 36 7,517 337 Acres. 37 47 130 1 Acres. 64,126 24,845 10,000 76,166 348,520 3,824 304,574 141,254 Acres. 3,970 Acres. 3,266 18,737 Acres. 12,941 15,088 12,916 Acres. 134,559 31,389 37,303 70,850 36,687 76,166 378,039 4,997 389,156 157,851 41 85 501 337 79,180 29,477 272 1,457 3,737 Totals 152,483 152,483 1,423 1,423 8,526 8,526 215 973,309 83,150 56,946 40,945 1,316,997 Cheviot Estate — Canterbury 1 162 I 162 I 163 • • Land for Settlements - Auckland Hawke's Bay Taranaki.. Wellington Nelson Marlborough Westland Canterbury Otago Southland 154 10 48 11,970 28,929 67 828 5,285 75 12,018 28,929 67 828 5,285 229 29,100 13,731 2,905 29,110 13,731 2,905 Totals 164 164 48 92,890 93,102 National Endowment Auckland Hawke's Bay Taranaki Wellington Nelson Marlborough Westland Canterbury Otago Southland ■ I159 116,016 1,760 24,980 856 12,320 6,142 215,765 4,981 11,198 4,897 950 140,996 856 17,217 8,852 215,765 10,558 64,517 53,160 5^577 246,460 210,554 457,014 - Totals 159 159 417,396 216,131 276,242 5,847 915,775 Grand totals .. " 152,483 1,424 1,424 9,011 9,011 263 1,390,705 299,281 426,078 46,792 2,326,037

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Table 3 (Part I). —Summary of Lands taken up during the Year ended 31st March, 1910 (exclusive of Pastoral Runs and Miscellaneous Leases).

q I Tenures. Auckland. C Auckland. _ . . _ Hawke's Bay. Taranaki. Wellington. Nelson. Marlborough. Westland. Canterbury. Otago. Southland. Total Area taken up during Year. ! Ordinary Crown Lands. a. b. p. Table 5—Cash lands .. .. .. "945 2 12 8—Occupation with right of purchase 40,212 3 37 9—Lease in perpetuity 10 —Renewable lease 12 —Mining districts land occupation 1,005 0 0 leases „ 13—Village settlement, cash .. 6 2 19 13 —Village settlement, occupation with right of purchase 13 —Village settlement, renewable lease 31—Improved-farm special settlement .. 10,124 0 0 17 —Small grazing-runs A. R. P. A. R. P., 882 3 32 268 2 9 4,548 0 1720,251 1 2 A. R. P. A. R. P. A. R. P. A. R. P. A. R. P. f24 1 28 214 3 11 787 0 4 564 1 32 3,329 3 12 9,415 0 17 487 1 28 846 0 32 10 0 21 A. R. P.! 5,018 3 21 26,676 1 0 A. R. P. 500 3 39 3,153 3 39 .. A. R. P. 8,643 0 36 108,151 3 36 1,011 1 8 8,553 2 28 2,067 2 27 .. 1,796' 0 28| 523* 3 20 '.'. 6,757 '2 0 15 - 0 0 191 1 14 0 2 0 4 3 23 0 10 .. .. 12 0 2 0 10 •• .. '.'. 13,988"o 0 115 3 16 1 9,493 0 0 2,867 0 0 •• 115 3 16 33,605 0 0 2,867 0 0 .. .. .. .. .. .. . .: .. i —— — 5,431 2 941,265 1 ll| 165,027 ;; 33 Totals .. .. .. 52,294 0 28 45,972 0 8 3,669 3 38 523 3 20 191 1 14i 589 0 20; 4,390 3 15 10,699 2 30 Cheviot Estate. Table 5 —Cash lands 10 —Renewable lease 13 —Village homestead special settlement (renewable lease) 17 —Grazing-farms 0 10 0 10 Totals 0 10 0 10 Land for Settlements Acts. Table 5—Cash lands .. .. .. 17 1 0 .. 10—Renewable lease .. .. 18,457 0 3 13—Renewable lease (village) 15 —Special settlement associations 17 1 0 2 0 0 18,457 0 3 30,130 0 6 300' 3 16 10 3 890 3 4 3,794 0 0 411' 1 20J 5 3 0 29,062 1 0 223 1 25 5 0 0i 3,489 3 16 2,256 2 4 254 1 28 88,430 2 29 .. .. • ■ • • Totals .. .. .. 18,474 1 3 18,474 1 3 30,132 0 6 300 3 16 891 3 7 3,794 0 0 49 1 201 29,068 0 0! 3,713 1 II 2,261 2 4 88,685 0 17 National Endowment Lands. Table 5 - Cash lands . 10—Renewable lease (ordinary) .. 20,164 2 2 . 13—Renewable lease (village settle- 85 2 34 ments) 31--Renewable lease (improved-farm special settlements) 17—Small grazing-runs 20,164' 2 2! 4,7Sl' 3 31 85 2 34 24 1 17 6,595 1 27 5,239 3 32 28,105 0 27 34 0 0 : 4,709' 0 0 •• 6,333 1 30 27l' 2 1 0 1 31 1,635 0 10 11 2 5 3,216 0 1 196 1 14 81,052 0 1 352 1 21 4,669 1 30 1,730 0 0 •■ 6,399 1 30 .. .. 1,460 0 0 5,577 0 0; 288,590 0 0 95,627 0 0 Totals .. .. .. 20,250 0 361 20,250 0 36 4,806 1 8 11,264 3 17 8,463 3 32; 28,105 0 27 10,286 0 0 10,859 1 0 16,333 3 21 290,236 2 15; 271 2 1 3,412 1 15 383,430 3 12 Grand totals .. .. 91,018 2 27 91,018 2 27 40,369 3 23J 52,831 0 4 55,327 3 7 35,569 0 251 6,525 0 35 29,928 3 21 298,340 2 3l! 16,373 2 91 1637,144 0 22 Includes an area of 1 acre improved-farm special settlement land sold for cash. + Excess area purchased.

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Table 3 (Part II).—Summary of Settlement Lands: Transactions up to the Year ended 31st March, 1910.

I Total Surrenders during tne Year. Total Expiries during the Year. Total Area held on 31st March, 1910 : Past and Current Transactions. Total Area made Freehold to date. CO A % I Tenures. Exchanges from other Tenures during the Year. Area held at 31st March, 1909. Total Exchanges during the Year. Total Forfeitures during tbe Year. Ordinary Crown Lands. Table 5—Cash lands 6—Deferred payment 7—Perpetual lease 8—Occupation with right of purchase 9 —Lease in perpetuity 10 —Renewable lease 11 —Agricultural lease 12 —Mining districts land occupation .. 13—Village settlement, cash 13 —Village settlement, deferred payment 13 —Village settlement, perpetual lease 13—Village settlement, occupation with right of purchase 13 —Village settlement, lease in perpetuity 13 —Village settlement, renewable lease 13 —Village - homestead special settlement 15 —Special-settlement associations .. 31 —Improved-farm special settlement.. 16 —Homestead 17 —Small grazing-runs Totals A. R. P. i A. H. P. 16,417 0 33 86,908 3 16 1,056,308 3 24 1,528,657 1 5 11,144 2 26 521 1 29 24,633 0 13 164 3 3 1,459 2 16 62 2 14 22,920 0 5 691 2 13 13,633 0 2 115,462 2 36 73,120 2 6 458,457 3 14 1,010,570 0 15 a. r. p. 2,735 2 20 130 1 7 2,865 3 27 A. R. P. 483 2 26 43,608 1 4 21,228 3 39 0 10 578' 1 7 A. R. P. 598 2 0 5,460 0 39 0 10 134" 0 28 A. R. P. 35 3 37 A. R. P. 14,238 3 24 82,378 0 17 1,691,014 2 34 1,483,312 1 6 19,697 3 14 521 1 29 23,515 3 2 163 1 6 1,450 1 10 62 8 14 A. K. P. 13,125,611 1 38 979,843 1 24 784,960 1 8 182,963 1 20 39,418 2 19 140,895 3 23 7,145 2 34 12,230 1 28 2,623 2 17 8 1 18 10 0 4 0 17 22,795 1 12 138 1 20 7 0 0 39 1 11 ■ 72 0 800 1 29 13,455 3 24 69 3 0 2,755' 0 0 384 0 0 6,538 3 4 78,534 0 38 78,570 0 35 115,452 1 5 104,334 3 19 468,307 3 12 4,041,502 0 17 91,358 2 14 3,597 2 32 80,452 3 11 15,451,248 2 26 ~ 1,010,570 0 15 2,865 3 27 68,771 2 7 4,041,502 0 17 15,451,248 2 26 Cheviot Estate. Table 5—Cash lands 9—Lease in perpetuity 10 —llenewable lease 13 Village-homestead special settlements (lease in perpetuity) 13 — Village-homestead special settlements (renewable lease) „ 17 —Grazing-farms .. 24,387 2 2 2,480 1 0 45,782 0 7 - 24,387 2 2 2,480 1 0 6,842 2 25 ** • • 45,782 0 7 I Totals 72,649 3 9 72,649 3 9 72,649 3 9 6,842 2 25 I

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48

Table 3 (Part II).— Summary of Settlement Lands: Transactions up to the Year ended 31st March, 1910— continued.

00 CD a> ft Tenures. Exchanges from other Tenures during tlie Year. Area held at 31st March, 1909. Total Exchanges during tbe Year. Total Forfeitures during the Year. Total Surrenders Total Expiries during during the Year. the Year? Total Area held on 31st March, 1910, Past and £ Current Transactions. Total Area made Freehold to date. Land fob Settlements Acts. A. B. P. A. B. P. A. R. P. A. K. P. A. B. P. 37 2 1 5,684 2 29 A. K. P. A. B. P. 663,364 1 25 247,233 0 0 438 1 28 9 2 16 2,114 1 9 ■204,308 0 33 A. B. P. 399 1 32 Table 5—Cash lands . 9—Lease in perpetuity .. 10 — Renewable lease .. .. '.1,929 0 1 , 13 —Lease in perpetuity (village) „ 13 —Renewable lease (village) 15—Special-settlement associations .. „ 17- Small grazing-runs 676,370 2 18 155,972 3 7 438 1 28 9 2 1C 2,114 1 9 211,004 0 33 9,929 0 1 3,035 3 10 1,379 0 29 6,696 0 0 Totals .. .. .. 9,929 0 1 1,045,909 3 31 1,045,909 3 31 9,929 0 1 9,929 0 1 11,110 3 39 11,110 3 39 5,722 0 30 1,«117,467 3 31 399 1 3! —— National Endowment Lands. Table 5—Cash lands „ 10—Renewable lease (ordinary) .. '5,868 1 15 , 13 —Renewable lease (village settlement! 13 - Renewable lease (village-homestead 81 1 7 special settlement) 15 — Renewable lease (special-settlement associations) 31 —Renewable lease (improved - farm special settlements) 17 - Small grazing-runs 118.056 1 1 574 1 33 1,137,505 2 13 118.056 1 1 574 1 33 5,270 0 23 5 0 0 5,270 0 23 5 0 0 16,862 0 0 3,368' 3 20 196,783 1 28 921 3 14 81 1 7 7,745 2 14 1,137,505 2 13 16,862 0 0 493 1 26 1,413,016 0 27 Totals .. .. .. 5,949 2 22 1,256,136 1 7 I 1,256,136 1 7 22,137 0 23 ■22,137 0 23 3,862 1 6 1,618,548 1 10 Grand totals .. .. 15,878 2 23 6,385,266 0 22 6,385,266 0 22 12,794 3 28 12,794 3 28 1 102,019 2 29 102,019 2 29 16,123 1 0 78,570 0 35 6,850,168 0 27 15,458,490 3 l^ " Incudes 10 acres added to a renewable lease after exchange.

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Table 4. —Analysis of Holdings taken up during the Year ended 31st March, 1910.

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Average Holdings of Selectors. No. of Selectors. No. of Selectors No. of Selectors 501 to 1,000 1,001 Acres. Acres. and upwards. Tenures. INO. 01 Selectors. No. of Selectors N %?**£ torB 1 to 50 Acres. S \%£° No. of Selectors 251 to 500 Acres. « No. of Selectors under 1 Acre. 1 Ordinary Crown Lands — Cash lands Occupation with right of purchase Lease in perpetuity Renewable lease Mining districts land occupation leases Village settlement, cash Village-settlement, occupation with right of purchase Village settlement, renewable lease Improved-farm special settlement Small grazing-runs Pastoral runs Pastoral licenses in mining districts under special regulations .. Thermal springs, Rotorua Miscellaneous leases and licenses 356 307 4 34 60 8 1 12 220 2 68 26 .. 558 193 1 "IT •• 4 1 142 25 46 4 12 17 114 2 1 14 1 91 2 10 1 59 "6 17 1 9 220 'l2 1 2 1 1 61 4 4 57 315 134 24 12 16 Totals 1,656 273 554 514 132 86 97 ■Cheviot Estate — Cash lands Miscellaneous Totals 1 2 3 1 1 1 .. 1 1 1 Land for Settlements Acts — Cash lands Renewable lease Renewable lease (village) Miscellaneous 16 274 '.. 18 4 22 11 100 1 71 "3 36 M ii 1 14 i Totals 308 27 125 75 36 34 11 National Endowment Lands — Cash lands Renewable lease (ordinary) Renewable lease (village settlements) Renewable lease (improved-farm special settlements) .. Small grazing-runs Pastoral runs Pastoral licenses in mining districts under special regulations .. Miscellaneous leases and licenses 303 32 39 43 44 45 109 22 2 '52 29 105 80 39 '37 .. 7 43 38 1 7 46 3 31 6 43 10 222 96 2 1 7 "3 Totals 615 2i 135 47 91 Grand totals 2,582 167 199 325 815 812 264 .

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Table 5. —Return of Crown Lands sold for Cash during the Year ended 31st March, 1910.

Area disposed of. Average Price per Acre. Consideration received. District. Town. Suburban. Rural. Total. Number of Purchasers. Area. Number of Purchasers. Area. Number of Purchasers. Area. Number of Purchasers. Area. Town. Suburban. Rural. Cash. Scrip. Total. Ordinary Grown Lands — Auckland Hawke's Bay Taranaki 32 33 A. H. P. 17 1 33 20 1 21 1 3 A. R. P. 10 2 0 10 1 2 I 24 26 4 A. B. P. 916 2 19 10 0 882 3 32 237 3 26 57 1 26 40 A. K. p. 944 2 12 10 0 882 3 32 268 2 9 £ s. d. 159 3 11 76 13 5 £ s. d. £ s. d. 1181 j 1 6 7 [• 10 0 ' 1 3 6 I i -2 16 9 j> 7 0 0 .' ° 12 7 1 ' U U (45 10 1 )■ . la ., ■ i l 16 6 i ; 4 13 - 118 8 6 )' [ 0 10 0 I I 1 17 6 J • £ s. d. 3,992 3 5 10 0 3,567 10 10 £ s. d. ■■ - £ s. d. 3,992 3 5 10 0 3,567 10 10 1,718 4 4 ': 1,718 4 4 : • : Wellington as 33 2 26 41 161 1 35 10 4,823 3 0 143 5,018 3 21 106 8 2 i 4,829 4 11 4,829 4 11 Nelson 2 0 2 0 6 500 1 39 8 500 3 39 408 0 0 1,115 0 3 I 1,115 0 3 llarlborough Westland Canterbury 13817 7J 49 19 4§ •• 138 17 7 49 19 4 Otago 15 6 2 27 ■22 ■i-2 0 30 17 175 3 34 54 214 3 11 21 19 0 4 ', (i 1111' 4 ° 6 13 17 5)' o n n ( 0 12 10 l 300 I 0 14 6 } • 930 8 8 930 8 8 Southland 3 110 S <J0 2 24 16 695 0 20 27 787 0 4 37 0 0 792 4 4 792 4 4 Totals 177 79 3 27 ; 75 305 0 11 104 8,233 3 10 356 8,618 3 8 17,134 18 8 I 17,134 13 8 .. Oieviot Estate — Canterbury 1 0 10 1 .. ■• •• 0 1 0 J 48 0 Oj 12 0 0 12 0 0 hand for SettlementsAuckland Hawke's Bay Wellington Canterbury Otago Southland : 2 5 10 4 1 12 0 0 2 0 0 6 1 1 3 4 1 17 1 0 2 0 0 10 3 5 3 0 223 1 25 5 0 0 11 8 7 164 10 0 74 18 0 306 11 3 57 12 6 1,228 3 0 75 0 0 ■■ 1 •• 0 10 1 10 3 • 2 4 1 5 2 0 223 1 25 .-) 0 0 .. 6 10 0 300 18 4 8 14 2 15 6 6 10 3 8 5 9 11 15 0 0 164 10 0 74 13 0 306 11 3 57 12 6 1,228 3 0 75 0 0 •• •• .. .. .. .. .. -• Totals 5 2 0 1 10 3 12 247 3 25 16 » 254 1 28 1,906 9 9 1,906 9 9 Grand totals 181 85 2 27 76 ; 306 0 14 116 I i 8,481 2 35 J i 373 8,873 1 36 •• .. 19,053 3 5 19.053 3 5 • Where two average prices are given, the first is for lands selected when an option was given to acquire them under other tenures, and the second when no such option was given. I Payment received for excess area on survey of areas selected as unsurveyed iand. 5 Payment received for an excess area of 24 acres 1 rood 28perches. i Improved farm special settlement land.

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Table 6.—Return of Deferred-payment Lands at Year ended 31st March, 1910.

I Forfeitures durij ig the Year. Exchanges during the Year. Capitalised during the Net Area on lst March - Year 1910, including Capitalised Holdings. Amount received ! j : i.L. District. ||| Area. Yearly g g Yearly Instalments -g t> Area. Instalments payable. |~ payable. — : ,!,,,-;■,., tko j : during the °£ Yearly °j Yearly In- *«« e * de 1 d Q1 3 n lst 1 1 Area Instal " If Area stalments March . 191 °- S S Area - ments g § Area - and Interest j3(g payable, = £ payable. i A. R. p. £ s. d. i a. R. p. £ s. d. a. r. p. 1 1,415 0 0 £ s. d. 42 10 0 A. R. P. 5 552 3 27 1 213 0 22 10 1,088 0 37 4 8,914 0 10 11 3,470 2 8 £ s. a.) 8 13 6 i 16 4! 8 8 0 660 0 8 61 8 4 £ s. d. 7 14 0 127 10 0 6 16 2 563 6 10 163 1 4 Auckland Hawke's Bay Taranaki Wellington .. Nelson Marlborough . . Westland Canterbury .. Otago Southland •• I .. •• Totals.. 1 1,415 0 0 42 10 0 31 14,238 3 24 740 1 lot •■ I 868 8 4 District. is 02 Freehold acquired during the Year. Area. S-S |Z;CO Made Freehold from Commencement of System to 31st March, 1910. Area. Selectors in Arrear on 31st March, 1910. Area. Total Amount realised, exclusive of Interest. 9.2 Area. Amount. • I Auckland Hawke's Bay Taranaki Wellington .. Nelson Marlborough .. Westland Canterbury .. Otago Southland 1 4 1 A. B. P. 1,415 0 0 563 1 9 328 808 1,304 654 1,587 50 100 118 1,125 1,314 A. R. P. 40,232 3 36 85,321 1 20 157,189 0 3 136,987 1 31 150,002 0 28 4,638 1 30 4,571 3 12 18,881 0 34 189,154 1 27 192,864 2 3 £ s. d. 22,923 4 9 90,496 7 9 238,795 11 3 151,161 10 10 121,178 5 10 3,257 9 3 4,282 11 3 43,039 9 10 227,062 13 8 254,519 4 2 A. E. P. £ s. d. 2o6' 0 0 Totals .. ;.f6 7,388 2,178 1 9 979,843 1 24 1,156,716 8 7

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Table 7. —Return of Perpetual-lease Lands at Year ended 31st March, 1910.

Exchanges to other Tenures during the Year. Forfeitures during the Year. Freeholds acquired during the Year. Surrenders during the Year. District. "o m Area. Annual Rental. II SJi Area. Annual Rental. ll Area, Annual Rental. •2 o £ CO Area. Amount realised. Auckland Hawke's Bay Taranaki.. Wellington Nelson Marlborough Westland Canterbury Otago Southland '■ A. R. P. j £ s. d. A. R. P. 1 46 3 30 1 S01 1 0 1 135 1 36 £ B. d. I 13 6 4'io 0 A. R. P. ' •• £ s. d. 8 1 1 1 A. R. P. 2,711 0 8 218 3 20 136 0 0 156 1 24 £ s. d. 1,318 12 6 219 0 0 306 0 0 156 8 0 5 8 0 3 2 459 3 31 360 2 0 317 12 6 272 8 9 1 Totals .. " ' = 3 483 2 26 3 I 483 2 26 11 1 6 16 4,042 3 3 2,590 1 9 Made Freehold from Commencement of System to 31st March 1910. Net Area held on 31st March, 1910. Amount received during the Year Selectors in Arrear, 3tst March, 1910. District. S 3 ; Total Amount Area. realised, exclusive of Interest. i |S *-■ Wai! 3 m 1910 (exolusive of of Amount from Perpetual Leases made Freehold). So Area. Amount. 1 Auckland.. Hawke's Bay Taranaki .. Wellington Nelson Marlborougli Westland Canterbury Otago Southland a. R. p. ! £ s. a. 161,456 2 15 75,916 12 3 133,878 1 4 102,593 9 7 101,344 2 39 ; 94,101 10 2 309,476 3 29 276,039 3 8 9,181 0 30 3,122 5 6 1,676 12 772 1 10 482 3 20 482 17 2 15,649 3 11 23,847 1 9 28,773 3 5 22,672 16 2 23,039 3 13 17,252 4 2 A. R. P. 31,935 3 35 2,633 1 3 3,640 3 6 3,706 1 3 1,621 1 13 420 1 5 580 1 8 1,388 2 35 28,075 0 18 8,376 0 11 £ s. d. 947 13 7 102 0 0 183 9 10 145 19 10 32 11 6 17 12 6 28 0 4 110 5 2 1,025 9 4 310 13 4 £ s. d. 745 7 8 84 18 3 146 6 8 215 13 8 34 10 9 14 17 5 51 10 2 100 2 2 990 15 9 292 7 1 a. R. P. 474 1 2 474 1 2 £ s. d. 15 3 3 536 298 402 792 27 8 6 92 150 98 185 8 11 11 10 4 7 19 168 52 6 a 440 2 30 440 2 3 19 3 2 1 77 0 14 77 0 1 14 2 18 9 1 4 1 38 2 17 354 1 38 51 1 25 38 2 1 354 1 3 51 1 2 17 38 25 1 18 8 12 15 9 2 11 0 Totals .. • « 2,409 82,378 0 17 2,903 15 5 2,676 9 7 15 1,436 2 6 54 10 784,960 1 8 616,800 2 3 | 475

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Table 8.—Return of Occupation-with-right-of-purchase Lands at Year ended 31st March, 1910.

Taken up during the Year. Forfeitures during the Year. Surrenders during the Year. Freeholds acquired during the Year. District. 3^3 Area. Annual Rental. 9.2 I* Area. I! Area. Amount received. Area. Annual Rental. Annual Rental. Auckland Hawke's Bay .. Taranaki Wellington Nelson Marlborough .. Westland Canterbury Otago Southland 143 20 28 36 16 A. R. P. 40,212 3 37 4,548 0 17 20,251 1 2 26,676 1 0 3,153 3 39 £ s. d. 3,465 4 10 1,145 7 10 1,296 0 0 2,931 2 10 94 15 0 97 15 A. R. p. 26,087 2 6 301 0 0 12,324 0 39 & s. d. 807 0 2 68 5 0 435 16 10 1 A. R. P. 315 0 0 £ s. d. 19 13 10 50 13 7 26 9 9 A. R. P. 7,482 0 36 5,133 2 0 3,269 2 0 6,858 3 0 1,821 1 12 3,569 2 23 £ s. d. 5,281 19 8 5,530 6 6 2,856 5 0 7,395 1 3 625 9 0 3,770 16 11 "i 1,742' 3 18 34 4 2 8 3 2 135 19 2 1 283 2 0 5 6 6 1 18 45 564 1 32 3,329 3 12 9,415 0 17 33 15 0 120 10 6 455 12 G 1 12 435' 1 0 2,717 1 21 1 5 4 12 2 0 436 2 24 759 3 39 50 0 0 266 18 0 331 10 0 Totals .. 1 307 108,151 3 36 9.542 8 6 133 43,608 1 4 1,489 8 6 ■2 598 2 0 25 0 4 124 29,344 0 14 26,108 6 4 I Freeholds acquired from Commencement of System to 31st March, 1910. Net Area held on 31st March, 1910. Amount received during the Year ended 31st March, 1910 (exclusive of Amount paid for acquiring Freehold). Selectors in Arrear, 31st March, 1910. Distriot. ■3 g 25 Pn Area. Total Amount realised. O CO it 3 a> Area. Annual Rental. On the Year's °^ 4 Transactions. | Total - Total. JSS-S Jo2 Area. Amount. Auckland Hawke's Bay Taranaki Wellington Nelson Marlborough Westland Canterbury Otago Southland 337 56 ' 49 ! 231 29 19 A. B. p. £ s. d. 57,132 1 38 32,100 12 7 24,649 3 0 22,576 2 3 13,694 0 32 , 16,845 7 3 70,237 1 31 82,688 12 8 5,487 1 7 1,887 17 2 5,800 0 11 5,367 6 9 2,4301 307! 469! 664| 254! 30 106: 24 288 376 a. R. P. 741,070 0 31 149,272 3 38 257,585 2 13 306,072 1 0 68,087 0 22 9,025 3 37 18,590 0 24 4,642 2 15 52,832 0 37 83,835 2 17 £ s. d. £ s. d. 26,833 17 9 1,626 9 6 12,785 11 9 606 19 0 10,999 13 2 695 4 1 19,896 18 6 1,772 18 7 1,281 11 2 77 13 3 343 18 5 601 4 0 262 14 8 32 1 3 1,492 11 4 90 3 7 2,392 16 6 227 16 3 £ s. d. 17,468 4 2 9,770 13 1 6,591 0 6 10,074 3 2 781 4 4 354 2 9 558 17 7 207 2 10 1,226 3 11 1,777 2 1 £, s. d. 19,094 13 8 10,377 12 1 7,286 4 7 11,847 1 9 858 17 7 354 2 9 558 17 7 239 4 1 1,316 7 6 2,004 18 4 83 4 8 52 14 1 3 A. R. P. 20,498 2 11 2,887 3 30 2,735 2 6 32,286 0 0 2,304 1 0 205 0 0 689 0 0 £ s. d. 346 7 5 132 14 7 68 12 3 1,843 5 0 24 2 0 10 17 6 17 10 6 10 10 29 1,149 0 29 1,483 4 5 884 3 7 593 8 0 3,928 0 25 2,893 7 3 182,963 1 20 166,435 18 4 3 1,631 2 10 718 3 27 2l' 2 8 5 0 10 Totals 770 4,948; 1,691,014 2 34 76,890 17 3 5,129 5 6 48,808 14 5 53,937 19 11 175 63,956 3 4 2,469 12 9 1 1

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54

Table 9.—Return of Lease-in-Perpetuity Lands at Year ended 31st March, 1910.

Exchanges to Renewable Lease during the Year. Forfeitures during the Year. Surrenders during the Year. Freeholds acquired during the Year. District. Area. Annual Rental. Area. Annual Rental. I -,a - Area. o o 55-3 CO Area. Annual Rental. og —' (73 -8 ! o o GO Amount realised. Ordinary Crown Lands — Auckland Hawke's Bay Taranaki Wellington Nelson Marlborough Westland Canterbury Otago Southland "J "' A. K. P. £ s. d. : 22 [ A. E. Pi £ S. d. 5,687 1 14 i 125 17 5 971 0 0 21 1 6 A. R. P. £ S. d. 14 i O 14 3 2 1 86 12 4 14 13 8 1 D a n a. B. p. 8,120 2 29 504 1 12 500 2 0 300 0 0 6,776 2 27 462 0 0 A. li 8,120 ! £ s. d. 4,925 6 10 536 9 4 997 17 6 375 0 0 2,483 13 2 254 2 0 :: -i 3 1 2 500 i 11] 8,400 2 37 174 2 2 9 1 1 1 4,547 1 15 86 12 4 14 i 70 2 24 13 8 1 160 0 0 3 4 0 300 ( 6,776 i 462 ( 1 ! 103 0 0 1 10 10 3 4 0 1 .. I : 6 50 2,741 3 31 42 1 5 3,324 3 37 41 14 0 - 682 1 0 10 2 0 .. 10 2 0 7 2,693* 2 15 1,608 8 4 7 2,693 i I I 101 2 0 42 19,357 3 3 11,180 17 2 Totals 21,228 3 39 406 7 4 13 5,460 0 39 101 2 0 _ Land for Settlements — Auckland Hawke'a Bay Taranaki Wellington Nelson Marlborough Westland Canterbury Otago Southland .'. *4 '.'. 22 5 404 3 19 i 18 .. .. .. 388 4 0 3 ; '.'. k 2,303 2 10 80 0 3 16 0 0 : 239 13 G 73 19 0 12 10 6 •i 1 •■ 15 0 18 53 6 1 .. 4* 8 2 I '.'. 2 0 10 .. 9,003* 2 0 520 2 22 4,774 5 10 3 208 1C 4 2 1 3 0 0 ! 420 0 37 213 0 0 4 2 6 71 12 0 45 5 4 3 1 2 2 0 14 0 17 12 0 2 16 4 6 .. 34 13 8 J .. 135 15 8 42 Totals .. 31 9,929 0 1 5,371 6 2 29 3,035 3 10 447 2 10 6 37 2 1 Grand totals .. 9,929 0 1 5,371 G 2 79 24,264 3 9 853 10 2 19 5,497 3 0 19,357 3 3 11,180 17 2 Taken up during the Year.' District. No. of Selectors. Area. Annual Rental. Ordinary Crown Lands— Marlborough Southland 2 2 a. B. p. £ a. d. 523 3 20 11 1 2 487 1 28 7 19 0 1,011 18 19 0 2 Totals 4 * These were uncompleted transactions finally dealt with during the year.

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Table 9.—Return of Lease-in-Perpetuity Lands at Year ended 31st March, 1910— continued.

Freeholds acquired from Commencement of System to 31st March, 1910. Net Area held on 31st March, 1910. Amount of Rent received during the Year ended 31st March, 1910. Selectors iu Arrear, 31st March, 1910. District. Number of Purchasers Area. Totai amount realised. Number of Selectors. Annual Rental. On • the Year's Transactions. On ' On Past I the Year's Transac- Total. On Past Transactions. Total. Number of Selectors. Number of Area. Amount. Area. Transactions. tions. Si Selectors. Ordinary Crown Lands — Auckland Hawke's Bay Taranaki Wellington Nelson Marlborougli Westland Canterbury Otago Southland 21 4 2 2 32 3 6 1 3 9 A. E. P. i £ S. d. 10,683 1 9 ; 8,472 17 10 1,603 1 12 i 1,498 11 10 500 2 0 997 17 6 2,280 0 0 1,860 0 0 15,421 3 35 6,835 2 11 1,665 0 0 766 19 0 1,211 3 8 690 6 2 39 0 0 123 10 0 2,145 2 8 740 14 6 3,868 0 27 3,076 12 8 1,172 206 473 527 520 331 472 245 800 336 A. R. P. 288,569 0 23 102,520 3 39 177,289 1 18 145.786 1 29 189,163 3 35 144,824 2 19 65,702 3 4 75,565 2 23 198,465 2 15 95,423 3 1 £ s. d. 8,048 17 8 3,792 19 3 7,167 15 0 6,952 17 4 3,319 12 4 3,414 0 0 1,564 1 8 4,287 4 6 5,842 9 4 2,223 4 8 £ s. d. £ s. d. 7,854 14 11 3,496 18 3 6,124 19 5 6,088 14 4 1,413 2 1 2,979 8 4 1,106 18 6 3,837 2 3' 5,349 14 8 2,095 2 9 £ s. d. 7,854 14 11 3,496 18 3 6,124 19 5 0,088 14 4 1,413 2 1 3,034 8 4 1,106 18 6 3,837 2 3 5,349 14 8 2,120 2 9 43 7 19 10 14 7 14 2 8 5 a. R. p. £ s. d. 10,909 1 30 194 8 1 1,612 0 36 111 14 9 7,007 15 119 8 4 3,695 0 0 112 0 0 ■2,901 2 23 47 13 4 1,701 3 13 34 9 11 790 3 4 . 31 9 3 194 0 0: 6 4 0 1.033 3 19 9 6 4 993 0 23 i 10 4 4 55 0 0 25"o 0 Totals 68 39,418 2 19 25,062 12 5 5,082 1,483,312 1 6 46,613 1 9 80 0 0 40,346 15 6[ 40,426 15 6 129 30,839 0 33 676 18 4 Land for Settlements. — Auckland Hawke's Bay Taranaki Wellington Nelson Marlborough Westland Canterbury Otago Southland 617 426 34 303 13 300 27 1,110 535 235 115,564 1 22 119,734 0 17 4,017 2 15 38,669 3 22 4,097 0 9 54,390 0 21 4,990 1 4 164,987 1 21 108,699 0 11 48,214 2 3 18,264 6 2 39,537 16 4 3,241 2 8 14,570 4 6 805 4 10 12,264 1 4 538 11 8 59,912 12 4 34,303 3 10 10,659 13 0 17,688 8 5 35,384 8 6 3,235 17 10' 13,516 7 1 485 7 3 10,853 12 2 549 15 6 55,531 1 6 32.189 14 7 10,192 0 0 17,688 8 5 35,384 8 6 3,285 17 10 13,516 7 1 485 7 3 10,853 12 2 549 15 6: 55,531 1 6 32,189 14 7 10,192 0 0 29 17 4 17 25 "31 22 14 9,403 0 11 911 16 2 3.950 2 35 693 2 6 191 15 64 16 10 1,196 0 0 450 10 0 2,199 0 22 543 7 8 1.646 0 9 345 10 3 2,796 2 3 1,185 17 6 ■1,667 2 12 663 0 0 3,028 1 14 205 13 5 • • Totals |_ .. 3,600 3,600 1 663,364 1 25 194,096 16 8 179,676 12 10 179,670 12 10 .79,670 12 10 166 29,078 2 31 5,003 14 4 •• Cheviot Estate (Canterbury) 5,769 10 1 5,769 10 1 292 0 0 29 4 118 24,387 2 2 6,424 7 6 •• Grand totals 83 8,800 2,171,064 0 33 247,134 5 11 80 0 0 60,209 3 24 ,5,769 16 39,418 2 19 25,062 12 5 225,792 18 5 225,872 18 5 296 Ellesmere Endowment .. 68 13,987 0 0 1,399 13 2 1,270 8 7 1,370 8 7 ..

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Table 10.—Return of Renewable-lease Lands at Year ended 31st March, 1910.

Taken up during the Year. Exchanges from other Tenures during the Year. Forfeitures during the Year. Surrenders during the Year. District. ■i 3.2 'o Area. Annual Rental. I! Area. Annual Rental. BS 3 Area. Annual Rental. 3 e Area. Annual Rental. 'ational Endowment — Auckland Hawke's Bay Taranaki Wellington Nelson Marlborough Westland Canterbury Otago Southland 62* 21 14 8 88 8 59 2 16 25 A. R. P. 20,164 2 2 4,781 3 31 6,595 1 27 5,239 3 32 28,105 0 27 4,709 0 0 6,333 1 30 271 2 1 1,635 0 10 3,216 0 1 £ s. d. 812 19 6 1,253 8 0 509 9 7 431 18 10 604 0 0 96 15 10 202 4 10 95 15 0 46 17 0 117 4 4 8 J 9 10 4 A. B. P. 1,529 3 16 1,621 1 25 708 0 0 726 3 20 £ s. d. 27 2 4 12 1 1 36 5 3 '.'. 16 11 0 13 6 2 1 49 19 0 143 3 9 i 15 A. R. P. 4,706 1 38 19 8 25 461 0 0 £ s. d. 149 11 0 10 8 0 30 0 0 •• 3 4 A. R. P. 1,604 0 0 820 8 20 944 0 0 £ s. d. 37 15 0 16 19 10 19 2 0 ea' 8 o 1 14 0 14 1,282 0 34 Totals 303 ! 45 5,868 1 16 9 3,368 3 20 ! — 73 16 10 81,052 0 1 4,170 12 11 5,270 0 23 191 13 0 Mnd for Settlements — Auckland Hawke's Bay Taranaki Wellington Nelson Marlborough Westland Canterbury Otago Southland 113 67 6 19 4 8 18,457 0 3 30,130 0 6 300 3 16 890 3 4 3,794 0 0 49 1 20 1,414 16 0 6,916 13 10 204 1 6 662 13 4 247 5 6 39 19 0 •■ 4 •• 404' 3 19 330 5 8 ! 3,457 18 0 129 8 8 6 3 i 1,159 1 4 120 2 38 198 13 6 74 15 0 4 4 2 342 0 0 202 2 17 1,763 0 0 207 7 8 166 19 0 88 13 0 - - - 42 3 12 29,062 1 0 3,489 3 16 2,256 2 4 3,148 19 6 372 3 0 590 12 4 22 5 9,003 2 0 520 2 22 0 2 0 98 2 27 2 5 0 35 11 0 1 3,377 "o 12 50-2' 4 0 .. Totals 274 88,430 2 29 13,597 4 0 81 9,929 0 1 3,917 12 4 11 1,379 0 29 311 4 6 11 5,684 2 29 965 3 8 hdinary Crown Lands — Taranaki Wellington i I 14 20 6,757 2 0 1,796 0 28 376 14 9 204 15 0 t 0 10 3 10 0 i 0 1 0 i 2* 15 0 •• 1 Totals r=1 8,553 2 28 178,036 1 18 581 9 9 I : 1 I i 0 10 I 2 15 0 .. 1 0 10 3 10 0 Grand totals 611 18,349 6 8 27 6,649 2 12 I 506 7 6 21 9,053 3 9 1,041 15 6 7G 15,797 1 16 4,060 16 1 • Includes eleven selectors of an area of 4,584 acres 1 rood 36 perches of unsurve: ed land, the aDimal rental of which is ai iroximatel: £111 3s. tid.

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Table 10.—Return of Renewable-lease Lands at Year ended 31st March, 1910— continued.

B—o. 1.

Net Area held on 31st March, 1910. Amount of .ent received during the Year ended 31st March, 1910. Selectors in Arrear, 31st March, 1910. District. IB Si c Area. Annual Mental. On the Year's Transactions. On Past _ t . Transactions. mim. if O Area. Amount. National Endowment — Auckland Hawke's Bay Taranaki Wellington .. Nelson Marl borough Westland Canterbury .. Otago Southland 128 37 20 13 226 26 176 14 46 34 A. R. P. 41,511 3 0 11,619 1 38 11,023 1 27 5,815 1 0 84,621 3 14 8,861 0 0 15,989 2 20 6,298 1 37 6,012 1 24 5,030 0 28 196,783 1 28 £ 8. d. 1,475 11 2 2,979 16 0 847 19 0 485 14 0 1,760 3 5 241 11 3 537 17 0 444 2 8 166 12 2 183 3 4 £ s. d. 350 18 0 534 0 9 384 3 1 310 15 9 531 1 7 112 2 7 301 9 6 103 11 1 74 3 2 80 15 6 £ s. d. 718 14 9 871 10 11 318 6 1 34 8 6 180 16 8 £ s. d. 1,069 1-2 9 1,405 11 8 702 9 2 345 4 3 711 18 3 112 2 7 498 18 5 409 18 4 128 9 5 155 15 8 1 2 4 13 2 10 A. r. p. 33 1 25 343 3 0 2,732 0 0 4,443 0 0 93 0 0 1,392 2 18 £ s. A, 0 10 C 41 12 t 47 14 C 303 12 i 1 0 7 25 0 C 197 3 11 306 7 3 54 6 3 75 0 2 'i 250 0 0 5 0 C Totals 720 9,122 10 5 2,783 1 0 33 2,756 14 6 5,539 15 6 9,287 3 3 224 9 < Land for Settlements — Auckland Hawke's Bay Taranaki Wellington .. Nelson Marlborough Westland Canterbury Otago Southland I I 162 172 7 48 15 11 33,327 2 32 5i,3S9 0 34 311 2 26 5,874 2 19 12,070 0 0 144 2 27 2,064 7 8 15,834 17 4 224 6 6 2,767 6 8 961 1 0 71 5 8 707 8 0 7,614 17 10 162 13 3 582 13 4 1-24 14 9 31 12 10 902 8 3 8,486 12 8 17 8 5 810 15 5 897 11 2 30 2 8 1,609 16 3 16,101 10 6 180 1 8 1,393 8 9 1,022 5 11 61 15 6 3 19 2 707 1 16 3,082 1 19 122' 0 0 55 7 '. 875 10 ( 62 0 ( ■■ 114 111 15 64,801 0 10 76,671 3 28 2,642 0 24 13,231 19 4 13,444 2 0 621 13 4 2,364 19 4 268 6 6 354 5 5 6,250 5 4 8,575 8 3 34 5 2 8,615 4 8 8,843 14 9 388 10 7 25 10,558' 1 0 3,929 10 ] •■ • • Totals 655 247,233 0 0 49,220 19 6 12,211 11 3 26,004 17 4 38,216 8 7 49 14,469 3 35 4,922 7 1] Ordinary Crown Lands — Taranaki Wellington .. 28 99 16,961 2 0 2,736 1 14 889 1 4 463 2 4 351 15 2 136 1 0 367 5 10 104 7 2 719 1 0 240 8 2 4 2 0 0 5 17 ( 127 487 16 2 4 2 0 0 Grand totals 19,697 3 14 1,352 3 8 471 13 0 959 9 2 5 17 ( 1,502 463,714 1 2 59,695 13 7 15,482 8 5 29,233 4 10 44,715 13 3 86 23,759 2 38 5,152 14 t

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58

Table 11 .—Return of Agricultural-lease Lands at Year ended 31st March, 1910.

Expiries Net Area held on 31st during the Year. March, 1910. Amounts received during the Year ended 31st March, 1910. Made Freehold from Commencement of System to 31st March, 1910. Seleotors in Arrear on 31st March, 1910. District. .g c A "S ■ "S • I || -e a . £.£ || Area . Annual J|J ,J| j| || A. E P. i£ s. d. a. B. p. £ s. d. £■ s. d. £ s. d. £ s. d. a. r. p. £ s. d. A. R. p. Auckland .. .. .. .. .. i .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. 67 2,750 0 0 590 5 0 Westland .. .. .. .. .... .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. 32 279 0 15 488 12 11 .. Otago .. .. .. .. .. 3 35 3 37 , 1 11 9 16 521 1 291 22 13 3J 0 12 9 13 14 2' 14 6 11 1,326 131,296 2 8 131,580 12 6 2 |217 0 38 Southland .. .. .. .. .... .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. 50 6,570 1 5 6,570 5 0.. District. g S . Annual j≤ , Annul 1j Area - Rental. |§ Area - Rents S| Total ■° g Area. Amount §-3 realised. ■£• a Area. Amount. A. R. P. £ S. d. 2 317 6 38 8 8 6 "12 i A. R. P. £ S. d. 67 2,750 0 0 590 5 0 32 279 0 15 488 12 11 1,326 131,296 2 8 131,580 12 6 50 6,570 15 6,570 5 0 Totals .. .. .. .. .. 3 35 3 37 1 11 9 16 521 1 29 22 13 3 0 12 9 13 14 2, 14 6 11 1,475 140,895 8 23 139,229 15 5 2 217 0 38 I I I 13 14 2, 14 6 11 1,475 J 140,895 3 23 139,229 15 5 2 217 0 38: 8 8 6 In the Otago Land Distriot three leases over an area of 35 acres 3 roods 37 perches, annual rental £1 11s. 9d., were renewed during the year. Table 12. —Retubn of Mining Districts Land Occupation Leases under Part VIII of the Land Act, 1908, at Year ended 31st March, 1910. Taken up during the Year. Forfeitures and Surrenders during the Year. Exchanges to other Tenures during the Year. Net Area held on 31st March, 1910. Amount received during the Year. Selectors in Arrear on 31st March, 1910. District. "o m Area. Annual Rental. is 3 a> Area. Annual Rental. Si' Area. Annual Rental. 0.2 Area. Annual Rental. On the Year's Transactions. Trans- Total, actions. On Past Transactions. sl I* Area. Amount. \ I i Auckland Nelson Marlborough Westland Otago Southland 17 1 A. B. P. 1,005 0 0 15 0 0 £ s. d. 51 18 -2 9 10 0 1 A. B. P. 284 2 7 100 0 0 £ s. d. 35 3 0 3 15 0 8 7 12 14 A. K. P. £ s. d. 249 0 21 10 18 0 476 1 25 17 5 3 708 0 0 ! 20 11 2 29 3 20; 0 15 0 1,272 0 34j 49 14 0 A. R. P. £ S. d. 177 9,046 3 18. 707 0 2j 37 1,927 3 35, 71 9 6 14! 1,105 0 0 36 4 10 49 547 0 35 56 19 0 273 9,831 1 21 421 11 6 41 1,057 1 13 98 13 0 £ s. d. 25 19 1 6 10 0 t s. d. £ s. d. 699 2 2 725 1 3 72 7 7 78 17 7 47 16 10 47 16 10 12 17 9 99 7 1 466 19 11 473 3 2 94 4 3 95 7 3i I j_ 1.393 8 6 1,519 13 » 13 1 A. R. P.j £ s. d. 649 1 33 28 12 11 40 0 0 0 15 0 19 21 2 191 1 14 846 0 32 10 0 2J 34 5 0 .. 46 15 0 5 2 6 0.. 327 "3 28 11 "i 10 86 9 4 6 3 3 13 0 .. 4 .. 80 1 22 2 3 9 .. 769 3 15; 31 11 8 Totals 60 136 4 2 15 591 23,515 3 2 1,391 18 0 2,067 2 27 712 1 35| 50 2 10 87 12,735 2 20 99 3 5 126 4 8 18 I i !

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Table 13. —Return of Village Settlements at the Year ended 31st March, 1910.

Taken up during the Year. Exchanges to other Tenures during the Year. Made Freehold during Year. Made Freehold from Commencement. District. Tenure. t Area Annual g Area. Rental. 1 A. B. P. £ S. 1 1 1(1 it l\ 1 1A a. L I AreR Amount a Area. realised. i. A. B. P. £ S. ri. 4 5 1 33 ' 185 (j 0 j '% Area. Total Cash o received. A. B. P. £ s. d. 47 47 3 37 980 14 0 7 1] 1 27 , 286 IS 3 Ordinary Grown Lands Auckland . Cash .. Lease in perpetuity Village-homestead special settlement Cash Deferred payment Perpetual lease , Occupation with right of urchase Cash Deferred payment Occupation with right of purchase Cash Deferred payment Perpetual lease Lease in perpetuity ' Village-homestead special settlement : Renewable lease Cash Deferred payment J Cash A. B. P. £ 9. d. 6 6 2 19 ..1 0 2 0 .'. 1 4"3 23 !! ..12 115 3 16 45 6 10 .... A. B. P. £ s. d. .. I 1 40 0 0 1 10 8 Hawke's Bay 1 49 0 0 I 1 10 :: :: :: 6 49 1 39 388 4 0 269 [ 662 0 35 ; 4,295 13 11 110 1,192 3 2 2,706 18 1 9 146 3 1 293 18 1 3 2 10 15 0 0 309 , 853 3 9 6,945 10 9 120 2,289 2 36 10,907 12 11 8 5 3 0 34 10 0 338 500 3 33 3,940 18 5 109 970 2 36 3,789 5 4 28 324 0 33 i 1,035 3 1 9 58 2 22 672 4 0 " •■ Taranaki ■• •• '• Wellington .. ■■ 6 81 "l 7 12 4 4 6 81 1 7 i 12 4 \ Marlborough Westland .. Canterbury.. ,. ; . .. .. Otago Deferred payment Perpetual lease Occupation with right of purchase Cash Deferred payment ; Perpetual lease Lease in perpetuity Cash Deferred payment Perpetual lease if?, f< .. Occupation with purchase Lease in perpetuity !! i 01 0 012 6 :: :: :: :: D Ml 1 V i 12 4 :: :: :: 7 130 1 7 13 15 1 * * '■ •■ •• .. •• "• - - - » ' 4 0 1 1 1 37 20 7 2 3 3 0 0 80 0 0 I 49 2 17 187 16 0 1 6 16 32 10 0 2 I 15 2 6 50 2 11 I 18 130 3 18 , 944 0 1 9 22 1 11 75 - i6 10 5 43 1 20 18 15 0 18 14 1 21 110 0 0 166 1,208 0 1 i 5,481 17 4 522 2,552 0 38 j 21,570 5 3 35 736 3 3 1,579 0 1 103 389' 2 19 1,756° 3 5 103 ' 1,130 0 38 i 2,908 10 7 25 609 2 22 i 1,231 0 0 . 3 . 52 3 5 I 303 15 0 579 ; 2,946 1 28 9,230 10 3 272 1 4,051 2 18 9,680 6 7 52 806 0 38 1,948 14 2 1 0 1 18 7 5 0 2 15 2 6 50 2 11 3,261 22,146 1 37 91,856 4 3 - Southland .. •- •• •■ •■ •• Totals 21 128 0 18 J 45 19 4 128 0 18 I 45 19 4 7 130 1 7 ! 13 15 0 J 18 Land for Settlements — Hawke's Bay Cash i I 1 a 1 1 32 81 5 0 National Endowment L Auckland Hawke's Bay Wellington Westland Otago Southland ands — Renewable lease 18 85 2 34 , 52 8 0 3 24 1 17 22 8 0 1 34 0 0 G 19 4 •2 0 1 31 2 8 0 1 11 2 5 0 12 0 7 j 196 1 14 20 4 0 1 85 2 34 24 1 17 34 0 0 0 1 31 11 2 5 196 1 14 52 8 0 22 8 0 6 19 4 2 8 0 0 12 0 20 4 0 • • ■■ - •• - • TotaU .. 32 352 1 21 ' 104 19 4 92 352 1 21 ' 104 19 4 Grand total.-. I 1 .. ! 53 I 480 1 39 150 18 8 7 ; 91,887 9 3 53 480 1 39 150 18 8 130 1 7 18 16 0 18 130 3 18 944 0 1 3.264 22,147 3 29

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Table 13. —Return of Village Settlements for the Year ended 31st March, 1910— continued.

Forfeitures during tbe Year. Sun ■enders during the Year. Net Area held on 31st March, 1910. rrears on 31st Mi .rch, 1910. District. Ordinary Crown Auckland » • • Hawke's Bay .. Taranaki Wellington Marlborough .. Tenure. Lands — Cash Lease in perpetuity made freehold .. Lease in perpetuity Village-homestead special settlement Cash Occupation with right of purchase .. Lease in perpetuity Village-homestead special settlement Occupation with right of purchase .. Lease in perpetuity Cash Lease in perpetuity made freehold .. Lease in perpetuity Village-homestead special settlement Renewable lease .. .. ■■ Perpetual lease Lease in perpetuity Village-homestead special settlement Lease in perpetuity Perpetual lease made freehold Deferred payment Perpetual lease Occupation with right of purchase .. Lease in perpetuity Village-homestead special settlement Lease in perpetuity made freehold .. Deferred payment Perpetual lease Occupation with right of purchase .. Lease in perpetuity Village-homestead special settlement Perpetual lease made freehold Lease in perpetuity made freehold .. Perpetual lease Occupation with right of purchase .. Lease in perpetuity Village-homestead special settlement Kent ■ and other Payments re- i. | *- £ s. d. a. B. p. £ s. d 263 18 3 .. 185 6 0 .. 157 0 5 .. 234 4 8 .. 40 0 0 .. 6 5 1.. 2,001 9 0.. 53 3 3 . . 1 18 4 .. 9 19 1 .. 27 0 0 .. 388 4 0 .. 1,991 14 4 1 100 04 1C 79 15 10 .. 329 10 5 2 7 0 0 5 17 8 12 6.. 20 16 4 .. 10 0 8 .. 10 7 9 .. 80 0 0 .. 39 8 3 .. 53 2 4 .. 10 7.. 7 16 2 .. 872 4 8 .. 187 10 0 .. 2 18 8 .. 27 17 11 .. 0 13 6 .. 136 6 8 .. 143 16 6 1 39 1 11 2 19 0 32 10 0 .. 50 2 11 ... 118 13 4 .. 0 17 11 .. 432 4 11 .. 115 11 11 .. A. B. P. 10 0 7 0 0 £ s. d. ' .. .. 0 4 10 '.'. ' 5 17 8 '.'. i x Area ' An nual Area - Rental. A. B. P. £ s. d. o Total Area. Annual £ Bental. 55 30 10 71 27 8 10 499 166 121 1 9 8 12 A. B. P. £ h. d. 2,653 0 19 157 7 10 9 1,169 1 1 91 5 2 3 47 3 36 GO 3 .'. 3,883 1 11 1,661 2 10 160 1 18 61 13 4 7 10 2 3 6 1 69 0 8 10 5 8 9,460 2 30 1,511 19 10 33 1,987 3 10 299 7 3 7 800 1 29 473 4 0 7 10 0 0 15 0 153 0 35 22 3 4 58 0 19 7 16 0 1 198 2 17 14 19 4 2 s I I ! Area. A. B. P. 197"o 0 141 1 13 o"3 0 633 0 0 60 0 0 47 0 0 Amount. £ s. d. 418 6 7 2 0 0°2 2 93 10 0 21 5 0 17 16 0 */ ■ • Westla'na '.'. Canterbury .. 6 1 7 0 1 37 2 5 0 1 10 0 Otago •• I - I 6 12 8 18 259 63 1 6 15 5 0 185 2 7 41 13 10 2 2 2!) 4 4 6 8 2 0 8 13 0 8,549 2 34 953 16 0 7 100' 0 0 3"6 0 '.'. 291 2 25 28 17 8 2 1 12 0 12 0 1,641 3 6 140 12 0 1 1,006 2 28 127 13 8 2 11 0 0 181 1 31 40 0 1313 7 .. .. 2 14 3 106 69 24 2 27 21 3 8 00 6 4 16 39 i 11 1 2 19 0 1 4 0 17 7 2 0 0 9 8 2 2 2 Southland 71 3 302 46 963 0 18 125 17 2 2 3 6 1 5 10 4,727 0 6 468 1 6 4 523 3 34 121 8 8 123 0 20 4 2 5 .. .. Totals 8,117 32 2 4 47 1 11 9 16 47 1 11 9 16 ■2 n io 1,946 38,728 0 15 ,362 6 7 72 1,397 3 23 174 6 2 i 11 2 17 I

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Table 13. —Return of Village Settlements for the Year ended 31st March, 1910— continued.

District. Forfeitures during the Year. Surrenders durini the Year. Net Area held on Slat March, 1910. Arrears on 31st Mi .rch, 1910. Tenure. Rent and other Payments received during the Year. I 1 Annual Rental. & Area. Total Annual Rental. 1 ' I Area. Area. Annual Rental. Area. Amount. Cheviot Estate — Canterbury £ s. d. 782 7 5 A. R. P. £ s. d. A. R. P. £ s. d. A. R. P. 2,480 1 0 £ s. d. 870 10 4 A. H. P. 150 1 35 £ s. d. 38 13 8 Lease in perpetuity 9a 6 Land for Settleme Hawke's Bay .. nts— Lease in perpetuity Renewable lease Lease in perpetuity Renewable lease 29 15 4 0 10 3 149 7 5 3 8 11 16 30 1 34 3 0 0 10 403 2 28 9 1 16 24 0 0 12 6 309 12 8 7 13 0 2 6 0 21 3 6 Otago ■ • • • Totals 183 1 11 .. 48 National Endowin Auckland Hawke's Bay.. Wellington .. 448 0 4 342 8 2 6 0 21 3 6 0 •• •■ ent Lands — Renewable lease 53 1 1 1 17 19 7 .. 17 19 6 .. 3 0 0 31 3 7 6 5 0 0 147 3 1 24 1 17 141 1 32 81 1 7 83 8 0 22 8 0 41 11 4 9 17 2 > • - (village homestead special settlement) •• Marlborough .. Westland Otago Southland 44 14 9 .. 2 0 4 ! .. 2 5 8.. 18 16 0 i .. 29 5 6 20 243 3 12 1 0 31 65 3 1 297 2 0 47 16 0 6 0 0 3 6 0 30 10 6 ■■ •• Totals 156 16 11 J 1 5 0 0 3 0 0 •• 107 1,003 0 21 I 244 17 0 I .. ■• Grand totals .. 11 2 17 2 11 10 I 2,193 42,659 2 0 7,820 2 1 ~si 9,239 18 5 5 52 1 11 12 1 6 ■i 1,554 1 39 216 6 4 I

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Table 14. —Summary of Position of Village Settlements at 31st March, 1910.

District. Number of Settlers in Occupation. . , Amounts advanced to Settlers up to Bentalor 31st Maroh - 191 °- Area occupied, SrTl or cultivated. Intere8t on For Houses. Bushfelling, Total. Advances. Grassing, <&c. Amount of Advances which have been repaid to 31st March, 1910. Total Amount of Interest paid to 31st March, 1910. Value of Arrears of Improvements Interest on now on the 31st Maroh, Land. 1910. Resident. N ° n \ resident. For Bushfelling, Grassing, &c. Ordinary Crown Lands — Auckland Hawke's Bay Taranaki.. Wellington Marlborough Westland Canterbury Otago Southland 67 71 16' ' 623t 11 11 240 95 380 18 37 163 7 1 63 99 42 A. B. P. 3,822 1 20 4,091 2 25 76 1 8 12,248 3 29 221 1 14 198 2 17 ! 8,809 2 7 ! 3,042 1 31 6,216 3 24 j A. E. P. 2,354 0 0 2,420 3 15 76 1 8 11,396 0 0 172 0 0 198 2 17 7,911 2 0 2,024 0 0 3,815 0 0 g al d. £ s. d. 248 13 0 958 0 0 1,729 2 10 ! 580 0 0 12 9 2 ! 2,309 18 7 i 3,024 17 6 34 7 0 ' 85 0 0 14 9 4 1,023 12 4 2,460 0 0 301 1 4 1,101 5 0 716 13 2 756 0 0 £ s. d. 1,253 17 6 296 15 9 3,67019 11 18 15 0 £ a. d. 2,211 17 6 876 15 9 6,695 17 5 103 15 0 & 8. d. 1,550 18 1 406 19 0 6,188 7 9 16 0 0 £ s. d. 3,145 12 11 693 4 6 227 18 2 95 18 4 £ s. d. 19,851 0 0 18,598 0 0 892 0 0 126,762 0 0 1,905 0 0 2,465 16 0 30,199 8 2 15,096 0 0 32,100 0 0 £ s. d. 12 2 1 30 0 0 0 10 0 440 0 0 350 2 2 2,460 0 0 1,541 5 0 1,106 2 2 1,207 0 0 393 17 6 243 2 6 2,101 0 1 1,219 16 11 1,011 0 11 10 0 2 7 6 Totals .. .. J I 1,514 431 i ! 38,728 0 15 ! 45 19 7 30.368 1 0 6,390 6 9 i 8,965 2 6 6,030 10 4 14,995 12 10 10,005 4 10 8,494 11 10 ! 247,869 4 2 Clieviot Estate — Canterbury 2,393 3 26 870 10 4 120 0 0 50 12 2,480 1 0 120 0 0 120 0 0 2(1 0 0 15.126 12 0 Land for Settlements — Hawke's Bay Otago 8 21 14 10 35 0 0 413 0 4 31 0 0 288 3 0 25 2 6 317 5 8 482 10 0 3,741 10 0 •• ■ • •• •• Totals I —:- ~- 4,224 0 0 I 24 24 448 0 4 S 319 3 0 342 8 2 .. •• National Endowment Lands — Auckland .. Hawke's Bay Wellington Marlborough Westland Otago Southland j I 24 9 4 2 15 7 3 20 ! 1 4 5 147 3 1 24 1 17 222 2 39 243 3 12 1 0 31 65 3 1 297 2 0 41 0 0 225 0 0 1 0 31 10 0 0 75 0 0 83 8 0 22 8 0 51 8 6 47 16 0 6 0 0 3 6 0 30 10 6 .. .. .. .. 1,050 0 0 •■ 1,488 0 0 575 0 0 106 10 0 570 0 0 - .. .. Totals 244 17 0 1 3,789 10 0 67 40 1,003 0 21 352 0 31 .. Grand totals 1,655 537 42,659 2 0 33,434 0 17 7,848 2 3 9,085 2 6 6,030 10 4 15,115 12 10 10,125 4 in 271,009 6 2 ! 45 19 7 8,620 11 10 I ' * One selector holds two leases. t Includes 73 holdings not reported on. ! Not reported on.

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Table 15. —Return of Special-settlement Associations at Year ended 31st March, 1910.

Tak. in up during the Year. Amount of Rent received during the Year. Total Amount received on Current and Previous Transactions to 31st March, 1910. Made Freehold. Number of Selectors required to reside, and actually residing, From Commence- and Area. During the Yea, m °- £££ Actually residing. No. Area. No. Area. He . | , . I District. I; o Capital Area. ™ue Acre. Actually residing. Area. Ordinary Crown Lands — Auckland Hawke's Bay Taranaki Wellington Nelson Marlborough Westland Canterbury Otago Southland •■ A. R. P. £ s. d. £ s. d. £ s. d. 302 7 10 9,655 14 3 103 13 0 1,086 4 3 787 0 10 1-2.814 14 11 4,368 5 10 162,117 17 3 A. R. P. 52 :: i . 54 J 816 A. B. P. 5,217 0 25 4,809 3 12 HI,331 2 17 25 14 329 r>7 8 317 A. R. P. 10,889 3 V2 600 0 0 575 1 30 70,826 0 0 .. 133 17 8 ! 2,431 3 11 103 0 8 1,791 5 5 :: :: 4 5 10 660 3 11 1,980 0 36 Totals .. " 5,804 5 10 189,897 0 0 : 922 91,358 2 14 374 404 85,532 1 ■■ Land for Settlements — Canterbury 147 1 7 2,275 15 1 1 232 0 ■ Grand totals .. .. 5,951 7 5 L92.172 15 1 922 91,358 2 14 374 405 85,764 1 District. Forfeitures duri] -o o Area. ig the Year. Amount. s » Surrenders during the Year. Net Area held, 31st | g Area. March, 1910. Annual j> .8 Rental. c § ■A™ Selectors in Arrear, 31st March, 1910. Area. Amount. Area. Amount. I I Ordinary Crown Lands — Auckland Hawke's Bay Taranaki Wellington Nelson.. Marlborough Westland Canterbury Otago Southland £ s. d. a. r. p. ; £ s. d. £ s. d. 322 2 8 .. 101 16 0 .. 872 15 2 4 4,666 5 8 9 &. R. p. £ s. d. A. It. P. A. B. P. 11,067 2 12 3,111 0 19 16,202 2 7 79,769 0 18 ■ •• .. ■■ •• 68 14 88 449 803 8 16 23 13 5 1,819 0 0 49 15 0 •• •' .. - 30 14 2,536 2 17 2,765 1 12 14113 8 2 121 2 4 .. 112 0 38 2 18 5 .. Totals .. 663 115,452 1 5 6,214 15 6 2,735 0 14 76 6 10 15 2,735 0 14 Land for Settlements — Canterbury 1. — •• 11 2,114 1 9 162 7 8 .. •• Grand totals 674 2,735 0 14 76 6 10 .. .. •• .. ■• •• 117,566 2 14 6,377 3 2 i 15 2,735 0 14

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Table 16.—Return of Homestead Lands at Year ended 31st March, 1910.

District. Surrenders during the Year. Number of , Selectors. Area " Forfeitures during the Year. dumber of , I Selectors. Area - Net Area held on 31st Made Fre March, 1910. Number of . Number of Selectors. Area ' Selectors. | ihold during the „ Made Freehold since v«lr u n » Commencement of System 6 ■ to 31st March, 1910. ,„„ Number of I ,___ Area. Selectors. | Area - Area. Number of Selectors. | Area. Area. Auckland Westland Otago .. A. R. P. A. R. P. A. R. P. A. R. P. 464 39 2-2 A. R. P. 76,096 3 10 1,480 0 0 2,876 0 1 ■ ' .. Totals .. 525 80,452 3 11 I Table 17. —Return of Small Gkazing-kuns at Year ended 31st March, 1910. District. li S5* 'aken up during the Year. Area. Annual Rental. tj Expiries during the Year. Area. Annual Rental. I Renewal of Leases during the Year. £ , Annual - a Area - Rental. Annual Rental. ,1 a Forfeitures during the Year. -- Are - Annual • I Area - Rental. Area. Annual Rental. Surrenders during the Year. a Ar«n Annual § Area - Rental. T 3 Exchanges to other euures during the Year. I .„. Annual Area. Rental. Area. Ordinary Crown Lands — Auckland Hawke's Bay Taranaki Wellington Marlborough Otago A. R. P. £ s. d. 3 152 10 Oil A. R. P. £ s. d. A. R. P. 8,840 0 0 39,925 3 5 £ s. d. 500 0 0 .. 2,801 10 6 .. ! A. R. P. £ s. d. A. K. P. £ 8. d. A. R. P. £ s. d. - 39,003 0 20 2,444 1 13 7,901 2 39 i 1 294 lb 713 32 14 6 .. 173 19 4 11 2 2,867' 0 0 7,894 1 25 608 5 0 1 2,755 0 0 75 0 I).. 1 334 0 0 4 3 i .'. .. 29,185 0 6 023 11 2 *9 29,185 0 6 621 12 2 .. •• .. .. Totals 2 152 10 0135! 1,125 1 7 34 85,845 0 36 4,531 7 8 1 2,755 0 0 4 3 *.. 2,867 0 0 78,534 0 38 75 0 0 1: 334 0 0i Land for Settlements— Auckland ; 1 6,696 0 0 27 18 0.. .. .. •• " ■• - , _ National Endowment — Auckland Taranaki Wellington Marlborough Otago •• 1 1 41 •• 1,46C>' 0 0 5,577 0 0 288,590 0 0 295,627 0 0 64 0 0 .. 220 0 0 .. 5,183 0 0.. 5,467 0 0.. 5.619 10 0 35 ■• .. •• .. ■■ i 4 16,862 0 0 162 0 0 .. 1 493 "l 26 6 3 4 '.'. ■■ .. •■ .. .. ■■ 43 - 16,862 0 0 162 0 0 1 493 1 26 0 3 *•• Totals - 4 •• .. ■■ Grand totals 45 298,494 0 0 78,534 0 38 1,125 1 7 - 34 85,845 0 36 4,531 7 8 6j 26,313 0 0 - 264 18 0 2| 827 1 26 10 6 6-

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Table 17.— Return of Small Grazing-runs at Year ended 31st March, 1910— continued.

Net Area held on 31st March, 1910. on 3lBt :ar'ch, 1910. Amount received during the Year. >P District. t -1 Ordinary Crown Lands — Auckland Hawke's Bay Taranaki Wellington Nelson Marlborough Westland Canterbury Otago Southland .. Number. Area. \ Annual Rental. A. B. p. £ s. d. 5 26,380 0 0 620 0 0 49 119,937 0 24 5,029 4 9 8 7,605 1 6 104 12 6 80 72,506 1 18 3,938 13 8 9 5,228 3 31 65 16 2 19 39,771 3 21 2,77819 4 85 196,883 0 32 5,419 9 4 Arrears on 31st March, 1910. On the Year's On Past Transactions. Transactions. £ h. d. £ b. d. 250 0 0 412 9 2 5,195 14 1 137 1 11 78 7 0 3,423 8 10 54 10 4 Total. £ s. d. 662 9 2 5,195 14 1 137 1 11 3,501 15 10 Number. 3 Area. A. K. P. 5,702 0 0 Amount. £ s. d. 27 6 9 •• 2 756' 0 0 18 18 (J 54 10 4 2,540 4 1 286 14 0 4,793 12 11 2,540 4 1 5,080 6 11 1 •• 792 1 13 19 16 I) .. Totals • • 255 468,307 3 12 17.956 15 9 1 255 468.307 3 12 17,956 15 9 615 1 0 *"-"-' wo.'jui o la , i(,yoo ld \t ; 16,557 1 4 17,172 2 4 7,250 1 13 66 0 9 Cheviot Estate — Canterbury i 49 45,782 0 7 6,840 5 2 49 45,782 0 7 6,840 5 2 6,208 5 0 6,208 5 0 7 9,040 3 0 707 16 10 Land for Settlements- - Auckland Hawke's Bay Taranaki Wellington Nelson Marlborough Westland Canterbury Otago Southland Totals •• 6 25,947 0 0 346 19 2 16 19,681 0 0 4,440 18 6 7 9,127 0 0 1,795 5 4 31* 54,850 1 16 7,51516 4 44 81,161 0 26 10,882' 6 6 9 10,733 I 31 1,556 11 2 2 2,808 10 201 7 4 115 204,308 0 33 26,739 4 4 346 19 2 4,440 18 6 1,795 5 4 7,51516 4 214 16 11 4,051 5 10 1,701 15 6 6,700 9 6 214 16 11 4,051 5 10 1.701 15 6 6,700 9 6 2 2 8,077 0 0 91 14 6 ,-.. - - , „ « „ .. .. .. .. 4,426 0 0 252 14 4 10,882 6 6 1,556 11 2 201 7 4 9,772 1 8 1.487 6 9 272 16 0 9,772 1 8 1,487 6 9 272 16 0 1 .. 1,683 0 0 136 14 11 - 204,308 0 33 26,739 4 4 24.200 12 2 24,200 12 2 5 14,186 0 0 481 3 9 National Endowment Lands Auckland Hawke's Bay Taranaki Wellington.. Nelson Marlborough Westland Canterbury Otago Southland 12 50,766 2 25 358 9 8 47 156,247 3 8 2,600 13 8 4 4,906 0 0 76 8 8 9 8,610 3 0 275 6 2 9 16,757 3 18 109 1 10 73 200,260 1 22 2,877 1 9 36 93,962 0 38 3,281 11 S 251 817,033 3 23 15,387 10 6 19 64,470 2 13 736 10 2 358 <) 8 2,600 13 8 76 8 8 275 6 2 109 1 10 2,877 1 9 321 9 8 2,481 10 8 84 9 10 33 1 0 106 8 9 99 8 9 110 0 0 2,821 6 11 321 9 8 2,481 10 8 84 9 10 139 9 9 99 8 9 2,931 6 11 — 3 1 ■■ 9,502 3 34 I 4,130 0 0 j •■ 42 7 2 53 0 0 6 11,825 0 0 123 18 0 3,281 11 8 15,387 10 6 736 10 2 2,792 5 4 2,591 10 0 10,510 0 2 747 11 3 2,792 5 4 13,101 10 2 747 11 3 1 16 8 2,840 0 0 I 20,670 1 10 11,071 0 1 44 7 6 216 12 9 45 3 0 Totals i ! ••I 460 1,413,016 0 27 25,702 14 1 1,413,016 0 27 25,702 14 1 2,734 11 0 19,964 11 4 22,699 2 4 30 60,099 1 6 525 3 5 Grand totals 879 2,131,414 0 39 | 77.238 19 4 3,349 12 0 ' 66,930 9 10 70,280 1 10 18 90,576 1 18 1,780 4 9 • Four of these hold ordinary small grazing-runs in conjunction therewith" and are therefore not separate holders."

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Table 18. —Return of Pastoral Licenses at Year ended 31st March, 1910— continued.

Taken up during the Year. " durine t Exchanges to other Tenures during the Year. Forfeitures during the Year. Expiries during the Year. Surrenders during the Year. Number. Number Number of Area. of Area. of Area. Selectors. I Selectors. Selectors. " uurmg \j District. Number Number of Area. Annual Rental. of Selectors. Seleotors. Area. fa A. B. P. £ 8. d. 1 12,110 0 0 25 0 0 4 22,296 2 0 377 10 0 1 282 0 0 3 10 0 '.'. 15 270,625 0 0 190 5 8 11 201,714 0 0 1,737 12 6 30 508,485 0 11 2,506 4 8 6 42,090 0 0 217 10 0 Pastoral Buns. istoral 1 A. Ordinary Crown Lands — Auckland Hawke's Bay .. .•. Taranaki Wellington Nelson Marlborough Westland Canterbury Otago Southland A. R. P. A. R. P. .. 3 i 3 15 22 5 A. R. P. 11,296' -2 0 i .. a. R. p. 5,326 0 0 1 'I 'I . 6,500 0 0 28,550 0 0 2 236,322 0 0 618,062 0 0 I 22,806 0 0 3 923,536 2 0 6 5,005 0 0' 8,024 0 0 Totals 49 18,355 0 0 OS 1,057,602 2 11 5,057 12 10 .. National Endowment Lands — Auckland Wellington Nelson Westland Canterbury Otago Southland 1 1 9 5 23 5 1,760 0 0 10,000 0 0 67,080 0 0 13,467 0 0 444,071 2 34 68,440 0 0 136 0 0 34 0 0 80 4 4 1,005 15 6 4,234 13 6 48 15 0 1 14,275 0 0 •■ .. 9 4 17 3 54,030 0 0 0,867 0 0 659,797 0 31 68,440 0 0 2 1 1 13,080 0 Of 6,600 0 0 49,600 0 0 Totals : 33 44 604,818 2 34 5,539 8 4 10,597 12 14,275 0 0 789,134 0 31 69,280 0 0 Grand totals 112 1,662,421 1 5 82 1 14,275 0 0 1,712,670 2 31 10 87,635 0 0 ( Irdinary Crown Lands — Auckland Nelson Westland 1 8 14 1,865 0 0 1,678 3 U 1,540 0 17 Pastoral Liceru 33 1 6 32 0 8 35 3 0 ses in Mil 1 2 1 ning Districts un 309 0 0 1,145 0 0 237 0 0 ider Specu 2 1 1 ,al Regulations. 151 0 0 500 0 0 99 0 0 •• :: 2 2 946 0 0 214 0 0 100 5 2 4 1,691 0 0 4 750 0 0 _ Totals ■26 5,083 3 31 .. 1,160 0 0 National Endowment Lands — Auckland Nelson .. Westland . I t 75 10 6 79 11 0 3 922 2 35 11 1,987 0 0 17 28 2,987 3 29 3,874 0 1 2 460 0 0 i 50 0 0 Totals 45 6,861 3 30 5 1,382 2 35 11 1,987 0 0 2.737 0 0 I 50 0 0 155 1 6 Grand totals 255 6 8 9 3,073 2 35 I I 15 71 11,945 3 21 .. 1,210 0 0 * Excludes 4,500 acres resumed. t Excludes 750 acres resumed.

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Table 18. —Return of Pastoral Licenses at Year ended 31st March, 1910— continued.

fet rea on 31st March, 1910. Selectors in Arrear on 31st March, 1910. District. Number of Holders. Area, approximately. Average Holdings. Annual Rental. Kent paid during the Year. Number. Area. Amount. Pastoral 'uns. Ordinary Crown Lands Auckland Hawke's Bay Taranaki Wellington Nelson.. Marlborough Westland Canterbury Otago .. Southland 22 15 3 2 31 69 78 174 69 A. B. P. 190,582 2 5 98,377 0 0 99,641 0 0 165,829 0 0 510,344 0 0 640,330 3 20 2,124,557 1 36 2,398,848 3 2 716,258 0 0 6,944,768 2 23 A. E. P. 8,663 0 0 6,558 0 0 33,213 2 26 82,914 2 0 16,462 0 0 9,280 0 0 27,237 3 26 13,786 1 37 10,380 0 0 £ s. d. 377 7 10 1,000 10 6 1,792 14 4 330 0 0 2,632 14 8 544 15 2 13,459 14 2 12,462 14 0 2,505 8 8 £ s. d. 150 13 2 820 10 5 1,862 9 0 330 0 0 2,563 14 8 477 4 8 12,497 18 0 12,117 8 0 2,479 13 2 3 A. It. P. 101,751 0 0 £ s. d. 74 16 3 "" 6,574' 2 9 10 17 6 1 17,500 0 0 2 15 0 Totals . 463 14,999 2 0 35,105 19 4 33,299 11 1 7 125,825 2 9 88 8 9 Cheviot Estate — Canterbury 1,642 0 0 1,642 0 0 193 3 8 193 3 8 Land for Settlements — Otago 121 13 0 2 953 2 38 476 3 19 121 13 0 ■• National Endowment Lands Auckland Wellington Nelson Marlborough Westland Canterbury Otago Southland 'J 17 15 i'J 49 58 ■28 92,935 0 0 31,540 0 16 10,000 0 0 311,140 0 0 212,152 0 0 1,264,977 0 0 1,417,096 9 -21 670,000 0 0 10,326 0 0 1,855 1 7 10,000 0 0 20,743 0 0 4,329 0 0 25,815 3 18 24,018 2 13 23,928 0 0 155 3 6 836 0 0 34 0 0 1,379 13 4 261 15 10 19,493 16 4 11,126 5 8 1,778 17 0 175 5 4 686 3 9 17 0 0 1,455 17 4 223 19 9 18,144 5 10 11,300 18 4 1,735 17 0 1 10,144 0 0 11 3 4 "i 9,616 0 0 21 10 0 Totals 227 4,009,840 2 37 17,664 1 39 35,065 11 8 33,739 7 4 5 Grand totals 693 12 19,760 0 0 145,585 2 9 32 13 4 121 2 1 10,957,205 0 18 .. 70,486 7 8 67,353 15 1 Ordinary Crown Lands— Auckland Nelson.. Westland Totals 69 85 61 215 Pastoral Licenses in Mining Dist\ 16,034 3 14 232 1 0 14,598 0 16 172 0 0 8,510 0 39 139 0 0 39,143 0 29 182 0 9 ■icts under Special Regulations. 320 3 8 190 5 5 292 18 6 314 5 7 196 16 156 7 8 7 11 2,335 2 0 1,632 0 0 43 9 0 54 10 0 809 3 8 660 18 8 18 3,967 2 0 97 19 0 National Endowment Lands — Auckland Nelson.. Westlanci 37 30 85 6,951 0 23 6,317 0 33 11,988 0 1 188 0 0 210 0 0 141 0 0 140 10 8 152 11 6 243 0 6 153 10 8 102 10 1 257 17 10 2 450 0 0 7 3 2 ! •• •• Totals Grand total.-. . 152 367 25,256 1 17 166 0 25 536 2 8 514 3 7 2 450 0 0 7 3 2 367 20 64,399 2 6 1,345 6 4 1,175 2 3 4,417 9 0 105 2 2

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Table 19. —Return of Miscellaneous Leases and Licenses, not otherwise enumerated, at Year ended 3lst March, 1910.

Objects for wl iich leased. Coal and Mineral. Timber-cutting, &c. Flax-cutti ing. Miscellani Total Area . Total leased during Araount re " the Year. -"f^f Ti tal Area in Oei 31st March upation on 1910. Lessees in Ai 31st March rrear on , 1910. District. 9OUS. I ° Area. I I " I i Area. Annual Rental. I Area. Amount received. Amount received. a Area. Annual Rental. 6 5 Annual o Rental 'A Area. Amount. Area. i 1 1 1 £ s. d. 1 1,306 14 2| 2j 1,721 11 11 4 467 2 10 7 1,255 17 11 7 1,487 G 4| 24 1,264 17 10 7 986 4 6 7 3,695 8 2 27 1,261 11 6 .. 984 4 11 .. I. £ s. d. 8 10 0 50 0 O 6 2 10 16 13 0 99 15 3 104 4 8 6 10 0 168 8 0 Ordinary Crown Lands — Auckland Hawke's Bay Taranaki Wellington Nelson Marlborough Westland Canterbury Otago Southland 4 A. H. P. •• I 891 2 18 £ s. d. 1,534 10 10} •• 25 12 6 i 7 ■2 A. B. P. •• 64"o 7 435 0 0! 1,700 0 0; £ s. d. 18,999 17 5 31 15 0 A. B. P. 5 253' 0 0 1 230 0 0 522,525 0 0 1123,008 0 0 £ s. d. 12 14 0 '■ 5 0 0 37 22 15 60 22 15 154 28 97 80 A. B. P. 6,473 3 1 2,778 3 19 142 2 24 7,848 1 22 8,949 3 13 735 0 12 20,974 1 31 2,655 2 4 7,878 2 28 4,777 0 7 £ s. d. 191 8 0 423 8 11 37 9 3 412 11 6 49 0 0 138 6 0 308 7 6 200 0 5 124 11 6 228 4 6 a. B. p. £ s. d.l 6,473 3 123,072 2 7 2,778 3 19 3,347 0 7 206 2 31 530 4 6 7,848 1 22 3,778 14 11 10,529 1 31 1,675 17 11 2,665 0 12 4,696 7 6 43,696 1 31 1,043 14 11 2,701 2 4 3,483 9 11 7,878 2 28 2,232 4 7 4,777 0 7 5,412 13 2' 219J 103! 134. 240 345 155 363 661 838 456 A. R. P. 62,99'J 2 27 38,555 0 21 1,764 2 24 51,710 0 0 144,049 0 28 43,657 0 28 79,687 0 27 92,823 0 14 112,902 1 24 34,862 2 5 A. R P. 15 2 38 133 2 28 119 1 0 15 0 0 £,839 0 0 471 1 20 3,388 3 29 2,729 1 39 "I 197 0 0 9 17 0 2 I 14 19 6 5 0 0 ■ ■ 46 0 0 - •• •• •• •• . " •• •• .. ■■ Totals 1,088 2 18 I j 1,534 10 10}) ,„ 35 9 6 ) l2 I 2,245 0 7 19,046 11 11 22 14 0 63,214 1 1 2,113 7 7j 89,555 3 26 [49,272 10 7 3,514 663,010 3 38 14,431 0 1 85, 12,712 1 34 1 460 3 9 Cheviot Estate— Canterbury :: :: 229 17 5 el ■• 2 153 1 0 86 18 8! 153 1 0! 215 13 9 49 1,269 3 20 167 1 8 26 2 0 •■; -' Land for Settlements — Auckland Hawke's Bay Taranaki Wellington Nelson Marlborough Westland Canterbury Otago Southland 1.176 5 5 •• •• :: :: - "3 ■ 149 1 13 144 2 14 80"l 0 124 6 0 149* 1 13 144 2 14 2,702 16 ll 231 10 1 212 8 7 121 3 5 511 3 5 2 16 8 283 17 5 682 11 5 125 11 10 13 13 8 38 3 44 78 12 793 0 24 327 3 6 43 3 16 184 2 14 545 0 32 32 2 0 1,054 1 8 2,316 0 3 1,425 2 39 73 12 0 .. 144 16 6l .. 44 16 1 .. 131 0 8l .. 240 13 2 S 4 0 0 1 310 19 41 1 378 16 0 4 73 1 6.. •■ 85 2 0 8 2 0 269 3 15 18 3 20 23 0 0 2 0 0 121 12 3 15 1 ■• .. ■■ 1 8 19 0 0 78 0 17 129 3 32 2 0 0 45 4 0 9 5 0 19 0 0 78 0 17 129 3 32 .. .. .. • ■ • • Totals 4,873 13 11 205 1,401 15 3 1 9 147 17 4 u •• 1,176 5 5 •• is — 520 3 36 260 16 0 520 3 36 6,723 0 22 382 2 35 National Endowment Auckland Hawke's Bay Wellington Nelson Westland .. .. •• •• .. I 5,321 3 2 29 7 6 .. 1 2 8 87 15 2 0 3,636 0 0 8,634 0 0 13,145 2 25 15 10 0 107 15 0 30 10 0 143 15 0 15 2 0| 3,636 0 0 9,170 0 0 16,604 2 25 5,370 6 8; 35 19 0 7 10 6 2,418 0 10 7,381 0 8 2 2 202 209 15 2 0 29,210 2 0 3,636 0 0 53,416 3 23 87,666 3 32 15 10 0 .. 35 19 0i .. 107 15 0 .. 953 10 2 16 362 8 0 5 •■ 2 4 0 0 1 15 0 i . 2 4 0 0 1 15 0 7 532 0 (J 34 12 0 .. 'j 3,459 0 0 24 16 8 2,109 0 oj 1,601 2 0; 213"0 6 17 0 0 Totals 7 532 0 0 a 3,459 0 0 54 4 2 98 25,431 0 25 297 10 0 29,426 0 25 15,212 17 8 416 1,475 2 2 21 5,355 15 2 173,945 3 15 3,710 2 0 230 0 Grand totals .. 7;l,092 2 18.1 1,534 10 lOf , 37 4 6 / 19 [2,777 0. 7|25,578 12 6 13 26,467 0 0 76 18 2 648 89,319 2 22 2.758 12 3 119,656 1 7 69,574 15 11 4,184 844,949 3 15 17,537 14 111201 16,972 3 37 864 I I * Includes coal and timber royalty and receipts from State forests. t Royalty on 106,! 13 tons.

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Table 20.—Return of Gross Revenue received during the Year ended 31st March, 1910.

System. Auckland. Hawke's Bay. £ s. d. £ s. d. 3,993 3 5 3,567 10 10 1,318 12 6 219 0 0 5,281 19 8 5,530 f> 6 4,925 6 10 536 9 4 Taranaki. £ s. d. 1,718 4 4 306 0 0 2,856 5 0 997 17 6 Wellington. k. B. d. 4,829 4 11 I 156 8 0 i 7,395 1 3J 375 0 a Nelson. Marlborough. Westlaud. Canterbury. £ s. d. £ s. d. £ s. d. £ s. d. 1,115 0 3 .. 138 17 7 49 19 4 625 9 0 3,770 16 11 '.'. 50 0 0 2,483 13 2 254 2 0 80 0 0 Otago. £ s. d. 930 8 8 317 12 6 266 18 0 Southland. ; Totals. Ordinary Crown Lands. Cash lands Perpetual lease made freehold Occupation with right of purchase made freehold Lease in perpetuity made freehold Village settlement, perpetual lease made freehold Village settlement, occupation with right of purchase made freehold Village settlement, lease in perpetuity made freehold Improved ■ farm speoial settlement, occupation with right of purchase made freehold Improved-farm special settlement, lease in perpetuity made freehold Deferred payment, rural Deferred payment, pastoral Perpetual lease and small areat Occupation with right of purchase Lease in perpetuity Renewable lease* Agricultural lease Mining districts land occupation leases Village settlement, cash Village settlement, deferred payment .. Village settlement, perpetual lease Village settlement, occupation with right of purchase Village settlement, lease in perpetuity Village settlement, renewable lease* Village-homestead special settlement Special settlement association, deferred payment Special-settlement association, perpetual lease .. Special - settlement association, lease in perpetuity Improved-farm special settlement, occupation with right of purchase Improved-farm special settlement, lease in perpetuity Improved-farm special settlement, renewable lease* Small grazing-runs Pastoral runs Pastoral licenses in mining districts under special regulations Coal and mineral leases Prospectors' miniug leases Timbsr licenses and other leases, and sale of timber £ s. d. £ s. d. 3,993 3 5 3,567 10 10 1,318 12 6 219 0 0 5,281 19 8 5,530 f> 6 4,925 6 10 536 9 4 £ s. d. £ s. d. 1,718 4 4 4,829 4 11 306 0 0 156 8 0 2,856 5 0 7,395 1 8| 997 17 t> 375 0 01 £ s. d. £ s. d. 792 4 4i 17,134 13 8 272 8 9 2,590 1 9 331 10 0l 20,108 6 4 1,608 8 4: 11,180 17 2 32 10 0 112 10 0 •• •• .. .. 185 b 0 185 6 0 388 4 0 "" 388 4 01 187 10 0 .50 2 11 811 2 11 33 15 0 7 14 0 127 10 0 745 7 8 84 18 3 19,094 13 8 10,377 12 1 7,854 14 11 3,496 18 3 33 15 0 7 14 0 127 10 0 745 7 8 84 18 3 9,094 13 8 10,377 12 1 7,854 14 11 3,496 18 3 922 6 1 6 16 2 146* t> 8 215 13 8 7,286 4 7 11,847 1 9 6,124 19 5 6,088 J4 4 719 10 240 8 2 146 i> 8 7,286 4 7 6,124 19 5 922 6 1 6 16 2 215 - 13 8 11,847 1 9 6,088 \£ 4 13 8 562 3 2 3410 9 1417 5j 5110 2 100 2 2 858 17 7 354 2 9 558 17 7 239 4 1 1,413 2 1 3,034 8 4 1,106 18 6! 3,837 2 3 137 2 8 25 18 8 990 15 9 1,316 7 6 5,349 14 8 922 6 1 33 15 0 152 16 6 715 11 10 292 7 1 2,676 9 7 2,004 18 4 53,937 19 11 2,120 2 9 40,426 15 6 959 9 2 14 6 11 95 7 3 1,519 13 2 330 18 3 42 6 11 118 13 4 200 16 1 0 17 11 13 15 5 725 1 3 263 18 3 40 0 0 725 13 ORQ Iβ <t i d.1} ft ft 27 0 0 719 1 0 1 240 8 2 97 n n 78 17 7 47 16 10 99 7 1 14 6 11 473 3 2 '.'. 65 1 263 18 3 40 0 0j '.'. 6 5 1 1 18 4 1 18 4 27 0 0| 39 8 3 12 6 .. 53 2 4 4 0 7 2 18 8 27 17 11 0 13 6 157 0 5 2,001 9 0 234 4 8 53 H 3 157 0 5 2,001 9 0 9 19 1 1,991 14 4 329 10 5 79 15 10 9 19 1 1,991 14 4 20 16 4 10 7 9| 7 16 2 136 6 8 432 4 11 4,767 14 8 329 10 5 115 11 11 1,508 17 6 48 4 0 5,756 1 10 302 7 10 103 13 OJ f374 13 7 234 4 8 53 H 3 302' 7 10 103 13 0 787 0 10 4,368 5 10 1,947 'J 11 787 0 10 329 10 5 79 15 10 1 4,368 5 10 10 0 8 .. 872 4 8 '.'. '.'. '.'. 4s' 4 0 85 13 8 143 16 6; 109 0 8j +374 13 7 1,947 9 111 [ 130 3 9 2,452 7 3 131 2 li 2,955 15 4 + 105 6 6 240 18 10 662 9 2 5,19o U 1 150 13 2 820 10 5 190 5 5 + ins « r! wn Ik in 662 9 2 5,19o U 1 150 13 2 820 10 5 190 5 5 1,996 2 3 482 5 8 14 14 9 137 1 11 -3,501 15 10 1,862 9 0 .. 1 OQA •) Q 14 14 9 137 1 11 dS9 R Hi ii 4H52 B 8 1 •3,501 15 10 1,862 9 0 .. 54 10 4 .. 2,540 4 1 330 0 0 2,563 14 8 477 4 8 12,497 18 0 314 5 7 .. 156 7 8 ■■ •• 5,080 6 11 12,117 8 0 14 14 9 17,172 2 4 2,479 13 2 33,299 11 1 660 18 8 1,534 10 10 10 12 0 8,992 2 3 867 8 3 41 0 6 1,547 16 7 '■ 1,534 10 10 444 16 10 .. 392 7 4 112 0 9 870 15 1; 351 17 8: 3,706 8 6 10 12 0 1,804 18 9 15,649 2 8 10 12 0 8,992 2 3 867 8 3 41 0 6 1,547 16 7 576 6 1 1,579 13 2 4 0 0 184 2 1 51 15 0 Carried forward 57,143 19 0 33,269 7 2! 23,142 16 2| 7,143 19 0; 33,269 7 2 2 23,142 16 2 2 48,603 1 9 48,603 1 9 8,274 18 11 11,706 1 11 2,995 18 4 21,364 9 3 8,274 18 11 1 11 11,706 1 11 2,995 18 4 28,550 17 5 28,550 17 5 13,165 3 3248,216 13 2 North lelnuil Main Trunk Railway ei endowment lands I I I .._!__ t Includes repayment of advance*.

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Table 20.—Return of Gross Revenue received during the Year ended 31st March, 1910— continued.

System. Auckland. Hawke's Bay. Taranaki. Wellington. Nelson. Marlborougb. VVestland. Canterbury. Otago. Southland. Totals. I Ordinary Grown Lands— continued. £ s. d. £ s. d. £ s. d. £ s. d. £ s. d. £ s. d. £ s. d. t s. d. £ s. d. £ s. d. 1 £ s. d. Brought forward 57,143 19 oj 33,269 7 2 23,142 16 2 48,603 1 9 8,274 18 11 11,706 1 11 2,995 18 4 21,364 9 3 50 2 0 520 -JO 382 16 0J 126 12 0 77 3 7 2,914 12 0 33 12 9 451 3 2 19 0 3 272 15 1 28,550 17 5 13,165 3 3 248,216 13 2 57 15 0 129 1 10 809 17 10 8,658 10 2 165 12 0 2,258 11 0 5,697 16 7 329 16 6 13,054 6 7 47 16 1 595 4 0 2,388 3 11 15,420 18 10 2,293 15 1 12 0 0 ! 173 1(1 10 Plax-cutting.. Miscellaneous leases Transfer, lease, and license fees, &<• Rents of reserves Miscellaneous Crown-grant fees State forests Survey liens on Native lands Survey fees which do not form part payment of land Survey fees which do form part payment of land Payments of capital value under section 191 of the Land Act, 1908 12 14 0 1,92.3 16 5 520 5 0 227 8 5 3,255 2 8 162 2 2 10,370 18 8 1,455 18 9 2,407 9 6 147 8 0! 65 0 10j 691 14 5 42 19 9 7 3 i) 224 6 1 138 19 9 129 18 0 345 9 3 1,685 3 11 58 1 11 4 15 0 14 4 8 1,125 11 2 269 16 6 750 6 9 5,985 1 4 145 5 11 355 0 5 599 5 7 5 0 0 405 2 10 172 10 0 244 12 2 188 15 10 42 0 5 1 11 4 140 0 6 48 13 0 1,004 5 1 20 9 7 13 6 4 1,970 17 5 1 19 6 1,187 10 2 295 0 6 68 18 6 413 6 5 64 11 2 51 6 4 ■' 101 15 9 41 16 5 17 18 8 197 16 0 55 12 3 30 13 4 25 5 8 66 12 0 278 13 11 97 5 4 .. .. • • .. Totals 9,460 1 7 75,072 5 1 37,053 3 9 25,519 8 8 57,919 15 0 14,905 5 2 4,059 14 8 25,190 8 21 30,718 0 8| 16,976 4 71 296,874 7 4 Lands for Settlements. Cash lands Lease in perpetuity Renewable lease Lease in perpetuity, village Renewable lease, village Special - settlement associations, lease in perpetuity Special-settlement associations, renewable lease Small grazin»-runR Pastoral runs Miscellaneous Payments of capital value under seotion 191 of the Land Act, 1908 164 10 0 17,688 8 5 1,609 16 3 74 13 (I 35,384 8 6 3.285 17 10 16,101 10 G 180 1 8 29 15 4 0 10 3 306 11 3 13,516 7 1 1,393 8 9 485' 7 3 1,022 5 11 10,853 12 2 61 15 6 57 12 6 549 15 6 55,531 1 (5 ; 8,615 4 8 1 1,228 3 0 32,189 14 7 8,843 14 9 149 7 5 a 8 ii 75 0 0 1,906 9 9 10,192 0 0179,676 12 10 388 10 7 38,216 8 7 179 2 9 3 19 2 147 1 7 .. 147 1 7 " .. 214 16 11 4,051 5 10 '.'. 1,595 15 8 212 3 7 1,701 15 6 6,700' 9 6| : 9,772 1 8 1,487 6 9 121 13 0 682 11 5 272 16 0 24,-200 12 2 121 18 0 488 13 2 9,663 7 0 1,340 0 0 2,702 16 1 2,143 16 9 •• 511 3 5 2 16 8 1,328 10 3 1,340 0 0 .. .. .. • • .. Totals 22,380 7 8i 57,237 19 1 3,678 3 1 19,061 19 4i 1,507 13 3 18,127 0 7 552 12 2! 76,786 12 2 44,705 19 10 11,416 19 9 255,455 6 10 Clieviot Estate. Cash lands Lease in perpetuity Renewable lease Village homesteads .. .. ■ Grazing- farms Pastoral runs Miscellaneous leases Miscellaneous Payments of capital value under section 191 of the Land Act, 1908 •• 12 0 0 5,769 10 1 I 12 0 0 5,769 10 1 •• ■• 782 7 5 6,208 5 0 193 3 8 215 13 9 90 12 6 * 782 7 I 6,208 5 0 193 3 8 215 13 9 90 12 6 •• •• •• Totals 13,271 12 5 •• 13,271 12 I

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Table 20.—Return of Gross Revenue received during the Year ended 31st March, 1910— continued.

System. Auckland. Hawke's Bay. Taranaki. Wellington. Nelson. Marlborough. Westland. Canterbury. Otago. Southland. Totals. National Endowment Lands. Gash lands Renewable lease, ordinary Renewable lease, village settlement Renewable lease, improved farm special settlement Small grazing-runs Pastoral runs Pastoral licenses in mining districts under special regulations Goal and mineral leases Timber licenses and sale of timber Flax-cutting Miscellaneous £ s. a.j 1,069 12 9 53 1 1 £ s. d. 1,405 11 8 17 19 7 £ s. d. 702 9 2 £ s. d.l 345 4 3 17 19 6 £ s. a. 711 18 3 £ s. d. 112 '2 7 44 14 9 £ s. d. £ . 8. d. £ s. d. £ s. d. 155 - 15 s\ 18 16 0 £ s. d. 5,539 15 6 156 16 11 39 4 7 22,099 2 4 33,739 7 4 514 3 7 498 13 5 409 18 4 128 9 5| 2 0 4 .. 2 5 8 321 9 8 175 5 4 153 10 8 2,481*10 8 39 4 7j 84 9 10 139 9 9 686 3 9l 99 8 9 17 0 0 102 15 1 2,931 6 11 1,455 17 4 2,792 5 4 13,101 10 2 223 19 9 : 18,144 5 10 11,300 18 4 257 17 10 747 11 3 1,735 17 0 5,340 19 2 29 7 0 25 9 3 523 8 11 1,722 1 5 " 6 10 0 7,031 18 10 35 6 8 307 5 2 1 .. 136 0 0 529 18 11 14,094 19 ft 04 14 2 1,029 14 5 380" 19 0 7'10 6 172 10 6 • • Totals 4,544 1 7 8,363 12 0 21,346 9 6 24,669 3 7 2,657 19 11 78,407 17 2 1,002 1 7 7,168 15 5 4.28G 0 11 826 3 71 1,196 7 9 3,349 2 11 Workers' dwellings, ordinary Crown lands 459 0 li 543 16 142 19 7 517 6 8 •• •■ •• Workers' dwellings, land for settlements j 945 15 6 631 15 7 •• 2,237 16 11 Endowment lands, ordinary 367 9 io| 414 4 'J I 235 0 6| 379 0 4 15,502 3 1 345 3 9' 1,607 9 9 4,648 6 8 2,049 0 0 25,547 18 6 •■ Thermal-springs Districts Act: Rents .. 2,110 5 6 2,110 5 6] ■ • ■• Grand total .. 108,044 19 0 98,991 8 6 37,576 7 I 13,321 2 71138,888 13 1105,258 17 0 30,258 15 10 79,647 18 1 29,819 0 9 33,100 4 8 674,907 6 5 Table 21. —Eetubn of Lands alienated under Acts, without Money Payment, or rbsekved by the Crown for Pubiic Purposes. During the Year ended 31st March, 1910. i Total Area granted under Acts, without • Money Payment, or Di8trict - Crown Lands set apart Area granted Total Area thus reserved for Public for various Public under Special alienated during Purposes from FoundaPurposes. Acte. the Year. T'Vofn r 31st March, 1910. During the Year ended 31st March, 1910. 1 "~ I District. Crown Lauds set apart Area granted Tota for various Public under Special alien Purposes. Acts. tl I I Aores. Acres. A 6,011 145 5,229 989 2,049 6,392 8,273 32 350 692 448 Aores. Acres. Acres. Acres. Auckland .. .. 6,011 .. 6,011 3,572,293 Hawke's Bay .. 145 .. 145 433,752 Taranaki .'. .. 5,229 989 6,218 705,682 Wellington.. .. 2,049 .. 2,049 894,832 Nelson .. .. 6,392 .. 6,392 306,315 Marlborough .. 8,273 .. 8,273 208,428 Westland .... 32 .. 32 205,893 Canterbury.. .. 350 .. 350 1,361,069 Otago .... 692 .. 692 543,220 Southland .... 448 .. 448 3,495,335 Tnr,B.is '29 621 <IR'I 3f> (Sill 11 79.fi H1Q Auckland .. Hawke's Bay Taranaki Wellington.. Nelson Marlborough Westland .. Canterbury .. Otago Southland .. Totals.. 29,621 989 30,610 11,726,819 Totals.. .. 2y,bl21 ytJB 30,610 11,726,819

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Table 22. —Forfeitures and Surrenders during the Year ended 31st March, 1910, showing under each Tenure the Number of Selectors who have forfeited and surrendered their Holdings, and the Area and Rental of such Holdings.

'or; !ei iures. lurrem lers. Tenure. Number. Area. Annual Rental. Number. Area. Annual Rental. Ordinary Crown Lands — Deferred payment Perpetual lease Occupation with right of purchase Lease in perpetuity Renewable lease Agricultural lease Mining districts occupation leases Village settlement, — Deferred payment Perpetual lease Occupation with right of purchase Lease in perpetuity Renewable lease Homestead special settlement Special-settlement associations Improved - farm special settlements Homestead Small grazing-runs Pastoral runs Pastoral licenses in mining districts under special regulations Miscellaneous A. B. P. £ s. d. A. R. P. £ s. d 3 133 483 2 26 43,608 1 4 ll"l 6 1,489 8 6 406 7 4 8 10 0 2 13 1 598 2 0 5,460 0 39 0 1 0 25 0 4 101 2 0 2 15 0 /"» •* f\ i~\ fK *-fc *-\ 50 1 21,228 3 39 0 10 ii 578' 1 7 44 16 4 4 134" 0 28 5' 6 6 1 2 1 10 0 7 0 0 39 1 11 0 4 10 j S 17 8 2 19 0 1 1 4 0 17 7 2 0 0 9 8 2 2 2 1 69' 3 0 5 4 8 1 2,75o' 0 0 75"o 0 1117 0 ! 1 6 4 334 0 0 18,355 0 (I 1,100 0 0 4 3 4 107 19 4 IS 5 6 4 756' 0 0 19 966 2 34 38 18 0 42 14,608 3 5 616 5 5 Totals .. 227 70,488 1 1 2,094 19 10 75 40,662 2 9 880 9 3 Cheviot Estate — Lease in perpetuity Renewable lease Village-homestead special settlement Grazing-farms Miscellaneous • I 1 2 2 28 2 13 6 Totals .. 2 2 28 2 13 6 2 13 6 ,and for Settlements — Lease in perpetuity Renewable leasa Village lease in perpetuity Village renewable lease Small grazing runs Pastoral runs Miscellaneous 29 3,035 3 10 11 1,379 0 29 447 2 10 811 4 6 6 11 37 2 1 5,684 2 29 34 13 8 965 3 8 i 6,696 0 0 27 18 0 2 4 3 37 h"o 0 2 136 - 0 0 61 19 0 Totals .. 43 11,115 3 36 19 5,858 0 30 ; 1,061 16 4 794 5 4 National Endowment Lands — Renewable lease, ordinary Renewable lease, village settlement Small grazing-runs Pastoral runs Pastoral licenses in mining districts under special regulations Miscellaneous 15 1 4 1 11 5,270 0 23 5 0 0 16,862 0 0 14,275 0 0 1,987 0 0 191 13 0 3 0 0 162 0 0 20 0 0 39 10 10 g ] 4 1 8.308 3 20 493 1 26 I 69,380 0 0 50 0 0 73 16 10 6 3 4 270 13 2 1 0 0 2 6,400 0 0 4 0 0 13 2,469 0 10 13 15 2 Totals 44,799 0 23 420 3 10 27 75,661 1 16 370 8 6 34 420 3 10 ! 27 Thermal springs Grand totals 305 126,406 0 8 3,312 2 6 121 122,182 0 15 2,312 14 1 Table 23. — Eeturn of Land taken up within the Thermal Springs District of Auckland at Year ended 31st March, 1910. ihe Thermal Springs District of Auckland at larch, 1910. Net Area held on 31st Selectors in Arrear on 31st March, 1910. . March, 1910. Amount r ii "S ™ received ~ • Locality. ° £ durl the Z g 2% Area. £ n " u * 1 Year. ii S Area. Amount. g_a Kental. £ jo _ A. B. p. £ a. d. £ s. d. a. e. p. i £ s. d. Rotorua .. .. ..806 6,057 0 2 2,158 16 4 2,110 5 6 18 23 2 10 126 10 0

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Table 24.— Return showing Payments of Capital Value under Section 191 of the Land Act, 1908, at the Year ended 31st March, 1910.

I I i Amount deposioed during Tenants whose Deposits in the Aggregate Tenants whose Deposits aggregate 33 or more _ the Year. are under 33 per Cent, of Capital Value. per Cent, of Capital Value. Totals. Amount deposiced during the Year. Tenants whose Deposits in the Aggregate are under 33 per Cent, of Capital Value. p k— * Tenure. ■ PhhiPlililMi 111 I'll ill 3 SO a. •a Iz> 3 a a s> oa J O o " SI go"* oa I ! i I I O'Rdinaby Crown Lands. Lease in perpetuity Village settlement, lease in perpetuity Special-settlement associations, lease in perpetuity Renewable lease sown Lands. a r. p £ g d. a. r. p. £ s. d. £ a. d. £ s. d. a. r. p. fc s. d. £ e. d. £ .. d. a. b. p. £ s. d. £ s d . . •• ;• 1 148 1 9 66 12 0 .. i .. .. .. .. 3 ,748 1 9 14 9 2 162 8 8 6 19 4 3 748 1 91 14 9 2 162 8 8 lease m perpetuity .. .. .. .. j .. .. .. .. 3 30 0 19 6 0 6 64 2 6 3 9 2 3 30 0 19 6 0 6 64 2 6 associations, lease .. .. .. .. a 302 0 0 15 2 0 125 16 8 10 1 4 2 302 0 0 15 2 0 125 16 8 A. R. P. £ S. d. 1 148 1 9 66 12 0 A. R. P. £ s. d. £ s. d. £ s. d. 3 ■2 £ s. d. 6 19 4 3 9 2 10 1 4 Totals • • _J_ ° a ° 30 13 4 .. j .. .. .. .. l 0 1 0 4 12 0 30 13 4 3 1 4 1 0 1 0 4 12 0 30 13 4 2 148 2 9 97 5 4 .. J .. .. .. .. <j 1,080 2 28 40 3 8 383 1 2' 23 11 2 9,1,080 2 28 40~ 3~8> 383 ~1~2 1 0 1 0: 30 13 4 2 148 2 9 97 5 4 2 211 1 261,340 0 0 1 3 14 23 11 2 1 |255 3 0111 17 10 680 0 0 •• 9 1,080 2 28 Land for Settlements. Lease in perpetuity ,ETTL,EMENT8. ;77 17 10 4 372 0 8 2 211 1261,340 0 0 1 |255 3 011117 10680 0 0:77 17 10 4 372 0 8 272 6 41,865 15 8180 0 6] 5 627 8 8384 4 22,545 15 8 Estate. ' ' 257 18 4 Cheviot Estate. Lease in perpetuity •• ■_■ •• •• J ■• •• •• .. 1 j 106 3 0 55 10 2 500 0 0 30 10 2 1 106 8 0 55 10 2 500 0 0 18 •• ■• 4 359 3 351,437 5 4 1 255 3 011117 10680 0 0 77 17 10 14 1,559 136 368 0 2 2,748 10 10234 110 15 1,815 0 36J479 18 0 3~428 1G 10 1 106 3 0 •• 30 10 2 Grand totals 4 359 3 351,437 5 4 1 255 3 0111 17 10680 0 0 77 17 10 11 19 8 I Table 25.— Ebtukn showing the Area of Bush felled on Lands sold or leased by the Grown from 1st April, 1895, to 31si March, 1910. Tessas. JSisss&. --■•« A. R. P. A. B. P. A R P Auckland .. .. .. .. .. 3,730 0 0 12,850 0 0 175,794 0 0 Hawke'sBayt. .. .. .. .. 2,811 0 0 7,672 0 0 147 448 0 0 Taranaki .. .. .. .. .. 923 0 0 3,200 0 0 63,203 0 0 Wellington .. .. .. .. .. 700 0 0 11,200 0 0 713,360 0 0 Nelson , .. .. .. .. .. 625 0 0 6,100 0 0 57,342 0 0 Marl borough .. .. .. .. .. 170 0 0 1,900 0- 0 99.070 0 0 vVestland .. .. .. .. .. . 1,900 0 0 70,020 0 0 Canterbury Otago .. .. .. .. .. 7 0 0 254 0 0 24,125 0 0 Southland .. .. .. .. .. 75 0 0 425 0 0 14,039 0 0 Totals .. .. .. .. 9,041 0 0 45,501 0 0 ! 1,364,401 0 0 • Does not include the Buller and Inangahua Counties, of which no detailed inspections were made. A roueli estimate of the area felled in these counties is an additionall.200 acres.

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Table 26. —Statement of the Number of Selectors on the Books of the Lands Department on 31st March, 1910.

Deferred Payment. Perpetual Occupation with Right of Purchase. Lease in Perpetuity Milling j Districts Land| e - I Occupation s S Leases. - j. 1 1 1 111 I ! fl3, r 5 H III o Village Settlement, Lease in Perpetuity. Villai Bern ;e Settlement, swable Lease. Kenewable Lease. District. a o 5 a J. a a IS O O s a> . q ja 3 Q D 5.2 ■ c≤ 4 3 J i IP if <u o z 5 ft I a 3| I^ 30 l≤ CO a o I ill |1 ~ 00 Auckland Hawke's Bay Taranaki.. Wellington NeUon Marlborough Westland Canterbury Otago Southland Totals 5 1 10 11 31 185 8 11 11 10 4 7 19 168 52 1 2,430 5 307 i 469 664 I 30 106 .. i 24 16 288 11 376 • 6 1,172 206 473 527 520 331 472 245 800 1 336 7 5,082 118 118 (117 23 .. 128 162 426 18 .. 37 172 34 ..28 20 7 303 .. 99 13 48 18 14 .. 226 15 300 .. .. 26 ' 11 27 .. .. 176 ; .. 1,110 68 .. 14 114 r>35 9 .. 46 ' Ill 235 44 .. 34 I 15 3,600 176 127 720 655 16 '.'. 177 10 8 37 78 '.'. '.'. '.'. 14 .. .. 1 49 6 1-2 S 273 .. 2 14 3 41 .. .. 71 3 : . 591 78 I 8 98 39 55 .. .. .. 31 71 Hi .. .. : J . 10 499 .. .. 121 7 12 :: :: :: s 18 lOfi 30 4 .. 6 302 .. .. .. 20 . 1 1 16 i 1 I 16 16 1,082 46 4 121 101 ! 2 I 475 33 4,948 I I Village-homestead Special Settlement. Specialsettlement Associations. Improvedfarm Special Settlements: Small Grazing-ruus. o O Pastoral. , Miecellani JO11S. c 1 Workers' ; Dwellings. i I ss z *j O tr "Cod ■- la A « Total. — r— - District. i 111, I 3 » 23 |B 8 J -IS °| 9 o Ill - o ■OS a: Crowu c Lands. ri Pi Ill a c o si V-s. ill — s .2 p CO 111 IB IP DC a a o s ■J. 11 - ■- ■3! . -I m Auckland Hawke's Bay Taranaki.. Wellington Nelson Marlborough Westlund Canterbury Otago Southland 30 27 .. .. .. 166 '. .' 259 69 .. 46 •■ ■■ 6 ■■ 68 14 88 449 50 16 212 223 68 115 66 36 12 5 6 49 16 8 .. 80 7 "'.) 27 12 12 9 5 9 73 91 15 87 31 130 78 174 69 i .. .. •• •• .. 46 1 ii : 7 15 134 49 r>1) 5 28 7 379 20 219 .. 103 .. 134 .. 240 .. 345 .. 155 .. 363 .. 661 49 838 .. 456 .. 13 1 4 306 13 a 2 .. 1 .. 3 .. 8 2 13 202 356 33 3 209 3 44 .. 16 .. 78 .. 7 .. 12 .. 4 .. 36 5,960 1,586 1,661 12 20 3,631 2,250 1,106 1,696 24 7 3,286 19 4,068 2,232 20 .. •• .. .. .. .. 92 57 30 14 11 19 44 85 9 2 36 .. 49 251 18 19 3 .. 460 40 49 1 :: 2 - - 45 •• I •■ i ■• •• ■■ i I ■ I ! 13,514 49 Totals .. 605 92 C ; 77 i ! 663 ! 11 546 ' 249 : 48 255 111 678 : 1 2 205 416 408 306 j 36 B2 27,476 * Includes ;oral licenses in mining districts under s] ■ial r< ilations.

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Table 27. —Statement showing the Total Number of Crown Tenants, with Area selected or held, the Yearly Rent payable, and Rent in Arrear, on 31st March, 1910.

Tenure. o j Tenants. Total Number ! Total Area held by of such Tenants. Tenants. Total Yearly Rental or Instalment payable. 'otal Amount ol such Rents or Payments in Arrear. )rdinary Crown Lands — Deferred payment .. .. .. 31 Perpetual lease .. .. .. .. 475 Occupation with right of purchase .. 4,948 Lease in perpetuity .. .. .. 5,082 Renewable lease* .. .. .. 127 Agricultural lease .. .. .. 16 Homestead Mining districts land occupation leases .. 591 Village settlements— Deferred payment .. .. .. 8 Perpetual lease .. .. .. 98 Occupation with right of purchase .. 32 Lease in perpetuity .. .. .. 1,082 Renewable lease* .. .. .. 121 Village-homestead special settlementsPerpetual lease .. .. .. 259 Lease in perpetuity .. .. .. 346 Special-settlement associations— Deferred payment Perpetual lease .. .. .. 10 Lease in perpetuity .. .. .• 653 Improved-farm special settlements — Occupation with right of purchase .. |475 Lease in perpetuity .. .. .. t319 Renewable lease* .. ■ • • • 1 Small grazing-runs .. .. .. 255 Pastoral runs .. .. •• •• 168 Pastoral licenses in mining districts under 215 special regulations Miscellaneous leases .. .. .. 3,514 31 475 4,948 5,082 127 16 591 8 98 32 1,082 121 259 346 a. R. p. 14.238 3 24 82,378 0 17 1,091,014 2 34 1,483,312 1 0 19.G97 3 14 521 1 29 23,515 3 2 103 1 0 1 ,450 1 10 02 3 14 22,795 1 12 800 1 29 4,338 1 6 9,117 2 18 £ a. a. 740 1 10 2,903 15 5 76,890 17 3 46,613 1 9 1,352 3 8 22 13 3 1,391 18 0 18 11 0 197 13 8 14 12 6 3,995 5 4 473 4 0 595 8 8 1,067 11 5 t s. d. 54 10 7 2,469 12 9 676 18 4 5 17 0 8 8 6 31 11 8 4 0 1) 0 2 2 104 1 5 17 16 0 42 12 3 5 14 10 "lO 653 669 0 8 114,783 0 37 48' 4 0 0,166 11 6 6' 8 5 75 18 5 f475 t319 1 255 463 215 64,256 2 0 39,823 1 13 255 0 0 408,307 3 12 <;,'.)H ,768 2 23 39,143 0 29 2,880 8 2 2,978 7 10 14 14 9 17,950 15 9 35,105 19 4 809 3 8 113 0 1 158 2 8 00 0 9 88 8 9 97 19 0 3,514 003,010 3 38 14,431 0 1 460 3 9 Totals .. .. .. 19,121 19,121 11,688,424 3 27 216,668 2 10 4,481 7 4 Wieviot Estate — Lease in perpetuity .. .. .. 118 Renewable lease Village-homestead special settlement ..! 9-2 Grazing-farms .. .. . • • • 49 Pastoral runs .. .. . • • • 1 Miscellaneous .. .. .. •. 49 118 91' 49 1 49 24,387 2 2 2,480 I 0 15,78-2 0 7 1,642 0 0 1,269 3 20 6,424 7 0 870 10 4 0,840 5 2 193 3 8 229 17 5 29 4 0 3813 8 707 16 10 26' 2 0 Totals .. .. .. 309 309 75,561 2 29 14,558 4 1 801 16 6 iand for Settlements — Lease in perpetuity .. • • • • 3,600 Renewable lease .. .. • • 655 Lease in perpetuity (village) .. .. 46 Renewable lease (village) .. .. 2 Special-settlement associations .. .. 11 Small grazing-runs .. .. .. Ill Pastoral runs Miscellaneous .. .. • • . • 205 003,364 L '25 194,096 16 8 247,233 0 0 49,220 19 6 438 1 28 333 12 8 9 2 16 8 15 6 '2,114 1 9 162 7 8 204,308 0 33 26,739 4 4 953 2 38 121 13 0 0,723 0 22 1,401 15 3 5,063 14 4 4,922 7 11 3 6 0 481 3 9 14717 4 5,063 14 4 4,922 7 11 3 6 0 481 3 9 147'17 4 Totals .. .. .. 4,632 1,125,144 3 11 272,085 4 7 10,618 9 4 lational Endowment Lands— Renewable'lease — Ordinary .. .. .. •■ 720 Village settlement .. .. .. 101 Village homeetead special settlement .. 6 Improved-farm special settlement .. f48 Small grazing-runs .. .. .. 460 Pastoral runs .. .. • • ■ • 227 Pastoral licenses in mining districts under 152 special regulations Miscellaneous leases .. .. .. 110 1H6.783 1 28 9,122 10 5 921 3 14 234 19 10 81 1 7 9 17 2 7,745 2 14 75 14 7 1,413,010 0 27 25,702 14 1 4,009,840 2 37 35,065 11 8 25,256 1 17 536 2 8 224 9 9 525 3 5 32 13 4 7 3 2 173,945 3 10 1,475 2 2 230 0 6 Totals .. .. .. 2,130 5,827,591 0 39 72,222 12 7 1,019 10 2 ■ VHIIU ■ ■ — — — I — ~ 'hermal springs (Rotorua) .. .. .. 306 306 6,057 0 2 2,158 16 4 126 10 0 Grand totals .. .. 26,498 18,722,779 2 28 577,093 0 5 17,047 13 4 ;ndowments (ordinary) .. .. .. 860 Vorkers , dwellingsOrdinary Crown lands .. .. .. 36 Land for settlements .. .. .. 82 406,710 3 16 {14,601 17 0 300 1 7 C< 0 26 14 1 31 §89 5 1 §188 13 9 80 9 10 92 16 9 North Island Main Trunk Kailway endowment lands. anticipated royalties. 8 Montlily rent. Includes unregistered holdings. ; Excludes £ 10,000

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Table 28. —Endowment Lands (other than National Endowment) taken up during the Year ended 31st March, 1910.

Cash Lar Cash Lands. nds. Renewable Le >ase. Small Grazing-] runs. District. Nature of Endowments. ■32 a≥ Area. Amount realised. 55 Area. Annual Rental. 1 Area. 3 Annual Rental. I A. R. P. i. s. d. A. K. P. j & s. d. A. R P. £ s. d. Wellington Nelson Otago Southland.. .. Wanganui Harbour Board Westport Harbour Board .. Clutha River Trust .. University .. Educational 6 3,087 2 34 63 8* 0 2' 1,646 3 21 "' 59 1 0 5 1 'A 0 40 3 0 2 1,645 3 21 59 1 0 Totals 5 1 3 0 40 3 0 6 3,087 2 34 63 8 0 ! Pastoral Runs. Mining Districts Land Occupation Leases. Miscellaneous Leases. District. Nature of Endowments. V. Area. Annual Instalments. a Area. Annual Rental. Si Area. Annual Rental. Wellington Nelson Otago Southland .. Wanganui Harbour Board .. Westport Harbour Board .. Clutha River Trust .. University .. Educational A. B. P. £ s. d. 4 A. R. P. 90 0 0 U s. d. 5 50 1 13 2' 2 1 A. R. P. 110 203 1 36 4,051 2 19 1 0 0 5 0 0 £ s. d. 3 0 0 64 0 0 114 15 8 10 5 0 1 0 0 •• a* 25,590 0 0 845 0 0 Totals . 2 25,590 0 0 845 0 0 193 0 8 90 0 0 5 5 0 19 4,262 1 15 * Leases renewed during the year.

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Table 29. —Endowments: Return of Revenue received during the Year ended 31st March, 1910.

Table 30. —Summary of Arrears due to the Crown on 31st March, 1910.

Tenure. Kevenve received. Tenure. Tenure. Revenue received. £ 8. d. !ash lands .. .. .. .. 48 2 0 'erpetual lease made freehold .. 28 0 4 )eferred payments .. .. .. 8 3 8 'erpetual lease and small areas .. 313 1 2 >coupation with right of purohase .. 12 0 0 lease in perpetuity .. .. .. 2,077 5 11 Renewable lease .. .. .. 25 4 2 lining districts land ocoupation leaseF.. 87 8 11 'illage-homestead special settlement .. 254 14 11 Village lease in perpetuity Small grazing-runs Pastoral runs Goal and mineral leases and royalty .. Timber licenses and royalties Miscellaneous leases Bents of reserves £ s. d. 21 10 11 1,281 2 11 4,957 4 10 14,546 13 10 410 17 7 541 4 0 935 3 6 Total £25,547 18 8 £25,547 18 8

Exclusive of Current Half-year's Rent or Instalment. Inclusive of Current Rent or Install Half-year's merit. Tenure. _§ B . Amount |S Aiea ' inArrear. "3 <£ -g o Area. Amount in Arrear. Ordinary Crown Lands — Deferred payment Perpetual lease .. .. .. 15 Occupation with right of purchase .. 175 Lease in perpetuity .. .. 129 Renewable lease .. .. .. 4 Agricultural lease .. .. 2 Mining districts land occupation 18 leases Village settlements, deferred payment Village settlements, perpetual lease 2 Village settlements, occupation with 1 right of purchase Village settlements, lease in per- 42 petuity Village settlements, renewable lease 7 Village-homestead special settlements 20 Special-settlement associations .. 15 Improved farms .. .. .. 31 Small grazing-runs .. .. 6 Pastoral runs .. .. .. 7 Pastoral licenses in mining districts 18 under special regulations Miscellaneous (not otherwise specified) 86 A. R. p. £ s. d. A. B. P. ■I'M 0 8 11,774 3 20 189,090 1 3 128,604 2 37 11 0 0 233 0 35 3,774 0 27 £ s. d. 5 7 1 279 17 2 0,995 5 1 2,665 15 11 34 2 0 13 4 3 133 14 8 15 175 129 4 2 18 1,436 2 6 63,956 3 4 30,839 0 33 2 0 0 217 0 38 769 3 15 54 10 7 2,469 12 9 676 18 4 5 17 0 8 8 6 31 11 8 4 76 611 556 21 3 76 "2 1 11 0 0 0 3 0 4 0 0 0 2 2 1 17 1 4 2 10 178 3 23 0 3 0 0 12 2 23 16 2 0 4 5 42 978 1 4 104 1 5 157 3,178 2 28 317 4 11 7 20 15 31 6 7 18 47 0 0 3G0 3 19 2,735 0 14 4,130 2 29 7,250 1 13 125,825 2 9 3,967 2 0 17 16 0 48 7 1 76 6 10 271 2 9 66 0 9 88 8 9 97 19 0 19 57 r>7 95 107 40 47 " 137 0 0 1,307 0 27 10,229 2 14 12,604 0 14 164,992 0 3 501,203 0 38 10,222 3 7 62 13 0 131 3 4 349 4 5 790 10 0 4,073 12 0 481 2 4 201 15 0 85 12,712 1 34 460 3 9 430 67,750 3 4 2,142 11 5 Totals .. .. ..577 577 255,241 0 18 4,481 7 4 2,375 1.105,588 3 18 18,701 15 4 Cheviot Estate — Lease in perpetuity .. .. 1 Village-homestead speoial settlement 6 Grazing-farms .. .. .. 7 Miscellaneous . .. .. 5 1 li 7 5 292 0 0 150 1 35 9,040 3 0 167 1 8 29 4 0 38 13 8 707 16 10 26 2 0 5 8 12 19 1,042 3 2 210 1 35 44,038 1 22 718 1 12 97 10 9 75 10 3 4,002 3 5 105 1 7 Totals .. .. .. 19 1'.) 9,650 2 3 801 16 6 74 46,009 3 31 4,280 6 0 Land for Settlements— Lease in perpetuity .. .. 166 Renewable lease .. .. .. 49 Village lease in perpetuity .. 2 Village renewable leases .. Small grazing-runs .. .. 5 Miscellaneous .. .. .. 9 106 49 2 29,078 2 31 14,469 3 35 6 0 21 5,063 14 4 4,922 7 11 3 6 0 428 96 6 1 15 39 G9.201 1 32 27,030 3 21 10 1 3 0 10 38,370 0 19 891 2 36 12,248 1 9 7,302 5 11 7 15 0 0 11 3 1,257 18 3 332 12 2 "5 9 14,186' 0 0 382 2 35 481 *3 9 147 17 4 Totals .. .. ..231 231 58,123 2 2 10,618 9 4 585 135,504 2 31 21,149 4 4 National Endowment Lands — Renewable lease (ordinary) .. 33 Renewable lease (village settlements) Renewable lease (improved - farm special settlement) Small grazing-runs .. .. 30 Pastoral runs .. .. .. 5 Pastoral licenses in mining districts 2 under special regulations Miscellaneous .. .. .. 21 33 30 5 2 9,287 3 3 60,099 1 5 19,760 0 0 450 0 0 224 9 9 52S 3 5 32 13 4 7 3 2 99 9 1 188 15 16 l'J.165 1 19 50 0 18 191 3 0 593,148 0 30 139,484 0 0 2,966 0 7 712 15 10 4 9 11 8 5 8 5,121 2 6 583 15 10 37 19 10 21 3,710 2 0 230 0 G 63 65,128 0 0 532 6 9 Totals .. .. .. 91 1)1 93,307 2 8 1,019 10 2 391 820,139 1 34 7,000 16 4 Thermal springs, Rotorua .. .. 18 23 2 10 126 10 0 72 266 0 18 364 13 3 Grand totals .. .. 936 416,346 1 1 17,047 13 4 3,497 2,107,509 0 12 01,496 15 8 Workers'dwellings (Crown lands) , .. 10 Workers' dwellings (land for settle- 15 ments* 2 1 24 2 2 21 80 9 10 92 16 9 1C, 31 3 2 18 6 1 28 113 15 6 165 4 9 * Kuad " uioutb'a runt" or " week's rent" in lieu of "half-; 'ear's rent,"

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Table 31. —Return showing Position and Transactions in Improved-farm Settlements from their Commencement to 31st March, 1910.

District. Number Total J of Settlers „ Number of remaining Miimiei Area. Sections inOccu- ,, ' . in the pation on v « rtpm Settlements. :«st March, reslaenl - 1910. Area occupied. m Number. Total Area made Freehold. Potal Area ma Area. ide Fre eehold. Total Amount received. Area felled. Area grassed. Auckland Hawke's Bay Taranaki Wellington Southland i Acres. 25,045 197 118 192 2,025 17 16 64 62,731 482 363 965 46,438 375 301 977 4,862 57 45 139 118 16 363 301 45 192 64 965 977 139 A. 16,091 1,830 51,143 38,282 4,732 A. R. P. 16,091 1 11 1,830 0 0 51,143 3 27 38,282 3 19 4,732 1 16 B. P. 1 11 0 0 3 27 3 19 1 16 3 1 43 ! 3 1 43 A. R. 253 0 86 0 3,258 2 i a. r. p. 253 0 3 86 0 0 p. 3 0 29 £ s. d 216 5 i 272 17 4,355 10 £ s. 216 5 272 17 d. 0 3 d. 0 3 1 Acres 1,96, 1,821 19,71' 20,51' 3,00 Acres. 1,965 1,829 19,719 20,519 3,005 Acres. 3,054 1,829 19,535 20,965 2,861 3,258 2 29 4,355 10 1 Totals 843 141,101 1,128 2,337 112,080 1 33 47 3,597 2 32 4,844 12 4 47,037 48,244 ■ District. Past Ti For Houses. Past Transactions. Amount pa 'ransactions. S For Bushfelling and other Works. Amount paid to Selectors for Improvements. lid t to Selectors for I Duri For Houses. During Year. Improvements, ing Year. For Bushfelling and other Works. Total Payments. DUri ended Year From CommenceSl8t March 1910. ment of S V stem - Kent and Interest paid by Selectors. Value of Improvements no\ on the Land, including those paid for by Government. Auckland Hawke's Bay Taranaki Wellington .. Southland .. £ s. d. 1,457 5 0 159 14 4 3,855 10 0 3,090 15 0 902 i 0 & s. d. 6,390 12 11 1,860 9 5 21,060 3 8 14,367 2 0 11,155 14 2 £ s. d. 257 0 0 £ s. d. 72 13 0 1,698' 2 10 18 0 0 £ s. d. 7,920 10 11 2.020 3 9 26,870 16 6 17,475 17 0 12,057 15 2 £ b. d. 412 1 2 240 18 10 2,050 1 7 2,429 15 7 261 5 10 £ s. d. 3,895 14 7 3,177 4 2 14,410 11 7 23,701 19 10 2,616 10 1 £ s. d. 18,191 5 0 8,141 12 9 67,220 0 0 103,979 16 5 10,295 7 7 Totals 9,465 5 4 54,834 2 2 257 0 0 1,788 15 10 66,345 3 4 5,394 3 0 47,832 0 3 207,828 1 9

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Table 32. —Return of Lands disposed of under the Land for Settlements Acts to the 31st March, 1910.

Area acquired, including ascertained Surplus or Deficiency. Area of Land unlet, including Land forfeited, surrendered, or resumed and not relet, and also Land not yet offered for Selection. New Selections and Additions to Holdings daring the Year. Total Lauds leased at Date. District. Area occupied by Koads and Reserves unlet. Auckland .. Hawke's Bay Taranaki .. Wellington Nelson Marlborough Westland .. Canterbury Otago Southland.. A. R. P. 276,972 2 4 193,404 3 37 4,577 8 17 60,514 2 24 24,326 1 24 114,979 2 21 5,124 3 26 316,925 2 14 202,798 1 14 56,935 3 2 A. R. P. 7,495 8 2 2,035 0 28 50 3 11 846 2 13 112 1 15 2,591 0 1 102 0 22 2,601 0 36 2,456 2 12 827 0 0 A. R. P. 93,765 1 10 177 1 30 153 8 29 5,805 3 1 8,047 0 0 2,450 0 14 113 70 6 24 4 8 1 47+ 6 12 Number of Selectors. Area. A. R. p. 18,457 0 3 30,279 1 19 300 3 16 1,035 1 18 3,794 0 0 49 1 20 19 0 0 29,138 0 27 3,619 3 8 2,256 2 4 Annual Rent payable. £ s. d. 1,414 16 0 6,996 14 10 204 1 0 786 19 4 247 5 6 39 19 0 2 0 0 3,190 3 6 381 3 0 590 12 4 Number of Selectors. 798 644 42 366 28 375* 30 l,322f 766 264 Area. A. R. P. 175,632 0 38 191,167 0 17 4;373 0 17 53,856 0 15 16,167 0 9 109,930 1 16 5,022 3 4 314,116 0 4 199,787 0 35 55,090 2 26 Annual Bent now payable. £ s. d. 20,749 5 0 59,983 11 2 3,510 5 3 li),-263 17 2 1,706 5 10 20,091 16 6 542 11 8 84,496 5 2 50,121 11 8 11,555 15 2 115 3 13 323 2 0 1,002 0 16 Totals 1,256,560 2 23 19,178 2 20 111,840 3 33 291 88,949 1 35 13,854 0 0 1 4 4,635 1 1,635 5 1,125,142 2 21 1,125,142 2 21 272,081 4 7 272,081 4 7 13,854 0 0 4,035 Occupied Land. Amount advanced to Selectors for Buildings, &c. Arrears on Slat March, 1910. m 31st M Area. larch I), 1910. Rent and other Payments received during Kent the Year, in Arrear. Total Receipts from Inception to 31st March, 1910. Yearly District. Land at 31st March, 1910. Number of Houses on Holdings. Number of Souls Value of resident on Improvements. Holdings. During Previous Years. During Year. Total. No. Auckland .. Hawke's Bay Taranaki .. Wellington Nelson Marlborough Westland .. Canterbury Otago Southland.. Totals £ «. d. .. 4,139 6 1 122 9 9 303 14 0 .. 1,507 0 9 359 13 6 192 7 6 243 15 8 55 8 11 146 8 0 .. 7,070 4 2 582 513 41 347 20 251 21 1,125 587 224 2,485 2,221 202 1,493 75 1,085 106 4,997 2,354 998 £ s. a. 784,260 0 0 327,108 0 0 10,112 0 0 142,864 0 0 9,651 0 0 170,329 16 1 13,250 2 0 519,563 8 5 221,290 18 6 72,505 18 5 £ s. d. 1,990 5 0 337 10 0 2,510 0 0 £ s. d. 90 0 0 £ s. d. 2,080 5 0 337 10 o| 2,510 0 0| 31 38 19 30 26 14 A. R. P. £ s. d. 18,187 1 27 1,058 18 0 7,039 0 35 1,571 19 (I 191 15 64 16 10 1,318 0 0 512 10 0 2,199 0 22 543 7 8 6,157 2 9 621 4 7 8 2 0 2 0 0 15,307 2 18 5,373 14 9 4,686 1 32 664 5 1 3,028 1 14 205 13 5 £ s. d. 22,325 12 8 57,237 19 1 ♦3,678 3 1 18,472 3 8 1,507 13 2 18,127 0 7 552 12 2 75,442 6 0 44,705 19 10 11,416 19 9 £ s. a. 133,717 16 2 347,236 11 8 22,616 12 8 123,053 8 6 3,756 17 5 148,643 11 8 5,268 7 1 645,538 0 0 317,142 17 9 78,563 7 3 2,700 10 0 2,76010 0| • • 3,711 16,016 2,270,935 3 5 7,598 5 0 90 0 0 7,688 5 0 231 58,123 2 2 10,618 9 4 253,466 10 0 1,825,537 10 Miscellaneous reoeipts on lands not yet opened for seleotion .. .. .. .. .. .. 648 16 10 4,891 0 Payments of capital value under Section 191 of the Land Act, 1908, on aocount of Land for Settlement lands .. 1,340 0 0 2,545 15 255,455 6 10 1,832,974 6 648 16 10 1,340 0 0 4,891 0 2,545 15 255,455 6 10 1,832,974 6 Includes four holders of small grazing-runs, who also hold ordinary Crown lands in conjunction therewith. t Exclusive of a miscellaneous license over a portion of Walker Settlement containing 2 acres and 30 perches, annual rental £i. ; Includes £ 130 10s. paid on account of a dishonoured cheque credited in last year's transactions.

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Table 33. —Comparative Statement of Selectors and Lands selected under Settlement Conditions for the Ten Years ended 31st March, 1910.

Year ending 31st March, n , Perpetual Cftsh - Lease. No. Area, j No. Area. Lease in Perpetuity. Renewable Lease. Occupation with Right of Purchase. Agricultural I/ease. Mining Districts Land Occupation Leases. Village Settlement Cash. i No. Area. No. Area. No. Area. No. Area. No. Area. No. Area. 1901* 362 Acres. 58,703 a Acres. 2,499 489 Acres. 144,205. Acres. 673 Acres. 262,729 1 Acres. 23 58 Acres. 2,123 35 Acres. 22 1902* 489 27,290 i 10 501 116,125 447 128,893 j 1 28 71 2,507 21 10 1903* 374 17,194 573 161,745 403 118,557 3 36 52 2,434 19 9 1904' 435 22,481 894 194,515 402 146,953 2 13 97 4,972 10 8 1905 , 371 18,990 751 173,811 330 138,206 8 218 40 1,914 2 1 1906* 229 11,132 i 127 706 158,018$ 388 157,432$ 30 1,194 39 40 1907* 447 20,357 597 154,237 412 215,530 26 1,044 15 20 1908* 404 28,519 427 98,367 168 70,535 354 187,799 3 84 73 3,047 3 3 1909*t 371 42,177 193 106,184 692 : 218,005 382 123,116 36 1,490 11 17 1910'f 373 8,874 4 1,011 611 178,036 307 108,152 60 2,068 8 12 174 186 Year ending r 31st March, i">eLLiemeiu : Occupation ■sag. ,1 *"»%£'*■ No. Area. No. Area. Village Settlomei Occupati witli Righ Purchas it: hi of Seti Village Village Vi itlement: Settlement: hoi Lease Renewable S 'erpetuity. Lease. Sett illagi neste pecis ;lem( Specii settleir Asaoeiat alient ;ions. ni] Pi iroved irms. Small 'razing-rmis and azing-farms. Totals. in P. ,1 int. 3. No. Area. No. Area. No. Area. No. Area. No. Area. No. Area. No. Area. 1901* 1902* 1903* 1904* 1905* 1906' 1907* 1908* 1909*t 1910*t Acres. Acres. 96 1,082 1 1 33 456 40 619 1 0J 21 514 1 0J 14 ' 208 2 41 55 1,936 32 1,012 8 8 72 2,302 1 0} .. .. Acres. Acres. 7 376 30 469 .. 34 1,012 29 ..28 272 4 . 8 111 2 Acres. 5,761 729 223 13 30 106 14 Acres. 1,936 1,618 4,032 19,436 1,459 Acres. 35 86,076 30 112,947 45 113,925 58 144,786 45 67,271 1,767 1,632 1,0021 2,053 1,581 Aores. 559,774 390.406J 425,824 534,079 402,412 ■19 287 17 173 1 15 108 168 j 1,167 I 44 468 3 547 34 68,587 51 114,854 1,536 399,342 4 46 5,622 1,644 512,853 3 410 64 226,757 10 28,989 1,089 617,934 1,863 521,145 259 40,005 4;". 298,494 1,712 637,120 * Inclusive of Cheviot Estate, and lands lisposed of tinder the Land for Settle] I Includes 1 selector farea, 52 acres), i uents Act: teferred pi a. aymen + Inclui live of National on lowmen' lands. ;.

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Table 34.— Transactions in Bush, Swamp, and Scrub Lands, under Section 127 of the Land Act, 1908, during the Year ended 31st March, 1910.

Heavy-bush Land. light bush Land. Swamp Land. Totals. District. Area opened during Year. Selections during Year. g i oar. Area Amount of opened during Kental Year, remitted per Annum. Selections during Year. Area. Amount of Kental remitted per Annum. Area opened during Year. Selections dm No. Area. ig Year. Amount Total Area of opened Rental during Year, remitted per Annum. No. Total Selections Area. [uring Year. Amount of Rental remitted per Annum. "\ No. Area. No. £ s. d. £ e. d. A. R. P. A. R. P. £ S. d. A. R. P.j £ R. d, A. B. P. A. R. P. A. R. P. A. R. P. A. R. P. Auckland Hawke's Bay Taranaki Wellington Nelson .. Marlborougb Westland Canterbury Otago .. Southland Totals ;; 35,184 0 0 23 18,466 0 0 2,01718 0 ■■ ■■ '■ ■■ ■ • •• j . . .. ' I .. .. •• .. '.'. 35.184 - 0 0! .. 23 18,466 0 0! J 2,017 18 C .. .. I .. .. •• .. " 35,184 0 0 23 18,466 0 0 2,017 18 0 I .. I 35,184 Q 23 18,466 0 0 2,017 18 I Total Area held at 31st March, 1910. Heavy-bueh Land. Light-bush Land. Scrub Li ,nd. Swamp Land. Totals. District. o! Area held. Annual Rental (remitted). 4 Area held. Annual Rental (remitted). 4 Area held. Annual Rental (remitted). ~5 Area held. Annual Rental (remitted). si Area held. Annual Rental (remitted). A. R. P. 49,038 1 14 1,075 0 0 93,805 2 10 86,028 0 24 114,188 1 6 3,637 0 0 12,256 1 14 £ a. d. 2,150 6 6 20 2 2 3,241 13 8 5,592 12 10 2,119 7 0 72 8 2 212 1 2 A. R. P. 4 749 'i 14 £ a. d. 18 9 8 A. R. P. 748 1 0 £ s. d. 15 14 6 A. B. P. I £ s. d. A. B. P. 50,536 0 28 1,075 0 0 98,739 0 22 86,028 0 24 118,394 0 39 3,637 0 0 20,120 2 11 £ s. d. 2.184 10 8 20 2 2 3,421 1 4 5,592 12 10 2.185 5 4 72 8 2 312 15 4 Auckland Hawke's Bay Taranaki Wellington Nelson .. Marlborough Westland Canterbury Otago .. Southland 118 1 103 90 218 6 49 9 j 4,643 2 12 5 j 3,523* 0 20 17 ] 6,741 2 27 167 15 8 54' 18 2 83* 9 6 ■1 1 i i 290 0 0 349 0 0 734 2 10 11 12 0 5 4 8 13 7 2 *2 1 •• 333' 3 13 388 0 0 515 6 317 6 124 113 90 226 6 71 ■3 12 404 0 10 3,749 1 0 7 11 10 67 10 8 1 230 1 8 18 2,715 3 18 212 6 50 13 2 5*j» 0 •• 4 634 1 18 6,931 1 12 10 4 4 124 0 10 '3 466 0 34 Totals 49 18,604 0 19 6 1,188 0 7 15 10 0 364,181 3 38 13,483 14 0 377 18 8 2,121 3 10 45 18 4 386,095 3 34! 13,923 1 0

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Table 35. —Rebates of Rent granted under Section 116 of the Land Act, 1908, and Section 55 of the Land for Settlements Act, 1908, during the Year ended 31st March, 1910.

Table 36. —Crown Lands proclaimed under the Local Bodies' Loans Acts, the Amount borrowed, and the Amount repaid to the Public Account up to 31st March, 1910.

Land District. Number of Tenants who have been granted Rebate. Area held. Amount of Kebate granted. )rdinary Crown Lands — Auckland Hawke'e Bay Taranaki Wellington Nelson Marlborough Westland Canterbury Otago Southland 3,067 539 972 2,285 232 327 411 201 717 745 A. B. P. 815,260 0 0 290,130 1 17 307,111 0 17 464,418 0 0 72,204 0 14 144,206 3 30 51,269 3 23 26,773 1 4 202,179 2 26 123,215 0 0 £ s. d. 2,094 16 9 1,448 18 2 1,332 10 4 2,441 4 1 67 5 4 356 12 7 141 7 6 511 6 2 671 19 9 338 8 7 Totals .. 9,496 2,496,768 1 11 9,404 9 3 Cheviot EstateCanterbury 451 69,580 1 17 690 10 8 ,aiid for Settlements — Auckland .. Hawke's Bay Taranaki Wellington Nelson Marlborough Westland .. Canterbury Otago Southland 544 572 33 265 7 295 25 1,193 645 185 130,016 0 0 170,777 2 23 3,726 2 10 34,697 0 37 2,042 3 27 99,878 0 8 4,650 0 4 276,300 1 12 178,583 1 7 37,246 0 0 1,513 0 7 4,760 17 5 277 10 8 1,278 4 11 19 19 C 1,799 19 9 46 5 5 6,885 2 4 4,176 1 9 701 7 9 Totals .. 3,764 937,918 0 3 21,458 10 0 National Endowment — Auckland .. .. Hawke's Bay Taranaki Wellington Nelson Marlborough Westland .. Canterbury Otago Southland 57 Iβ 24 15 84 88 12 24 21 20,560 0 0 7,983 2 15 14,669 1 0 3,658 1 9 838 0 31 6,449 1 27 6,271 2 31 3,937 0 36 1,413 0 0 48 11 5 96 11 8 07 4 7 3 18 4 16 9 18 0 4 31 19 3 7 16 11 5 4 10 Totals 286 65,780 2 29 283 7 4 Grand totals 13,997 3,570,047 1 25 31,836 17 3

Land District. Area. Amount borrowed. Amount repaid. Auckland Hawke'e Bay Tatanaki Wellington Nelson .. Marlborough Westland Canterbury Otago .. Southland Acres. 1,034,094 355,758 596,992 657,312 376,246 173,669 35,670 2,135 175,631 126,163 £ s. d. 200,021 0 0 70,061 0 0 162,121 0 0 190,485 0 0 39,165 0 0 21,979 0 0 3,926 0 0 456 0 0 21,481 0 0 ■27,962 0 0 £ s. d. 63,759 3 5 26,390 1 8 73,979 5 1 118,395 9 1 . 2,915 11 8 18,651 8 2 857 1 8 550 1 10 23,755 18 2 13,780 12 5 Totals 3,533,670 737,657 0 0 343,034 8 2

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Table 37. —Crown Grants, Certificates of Title, Leases, and other Instruments of Title from the Crown prepared from 1st April, 1909, to 31st March, 1910.

Table 38. —Statement showing Payments to Local Bodies during the Twelve Months ended 31st March, 1910, from "Thirds" of Deferred-payment, Perpetual-lease, Occupation-with-right-of-purchase, Renewable-lease, and Lease-in-perpetuity Lands, "Fourths" of Small Grazing-runs, and "Halves" of Timber and Flax Royalties.

Approximate Cost of Paper. —Preparation, not given printing; (1,500 copies, including maps), £207 10e.

By Authority : John Mackay. Government Printer, Wellington.—l9lo. Pi ice .)s]

Number. District. Cost. Singly. In Duplicate, i In Triplicate. In Quadruplicate Total Copiee. Auckland .. Hawke's Bay Taranaki .. Wellington.. Nelson Marlborough Westland .. Canterbury.. Otago Southland .. 6 8 9 1 4 4 io 38 92 6 27 77 10 300 63 46 50 257 213 53 196 58 39 22 15 97 98 219 59 50 72 117 5 120 63 1,729 1,062 380 931 800 161 1,146 423 383 448 £ s. d. 90 10 0 53 2 0 9 16 93 2 0 60 0 0 11 13 0 393 2 0 31 14 6 19 3 0 52 0 0 11 Totals 87 709 1,048 716 7,463 813 8 0

District. "Thirds," Deferred-payment, Perpetual-lease, Occupation-with- " Fourths," Small i ight-of- purchase, Grazing-runs. Renewable-lease, and Leaee-in-perpetuity Lands. " Halves," Timber and Flax. Total Payments Auckland Hawke's Bay Taranaki Wellington Nelson .. Marlborough Westland Canterbury Otago .. Southland Totals £ a. a. 7,761 19 2 4,819 16 10 : 2,637 2 7 5,270 5 2 1,067 19 3 i 994 8 0 676 11 6 I 323 1 9 : 1,157 6 11 996 12 0 ; 25,705 3 2 £ s. d. 62 7 8 529 14 7 ! 11 5 6 J 27 13 9 6 11 9 432 10 8 410 14 5 2,424 13 2 115 18 0 J 4,021 9 6 £ e. d. 3,949 2 7 179 4 6 i 12 0 640 4 1 785 7 7 2,815 18 0 79 2 0 28 2 2 976 18 7 9,455 11 6 £ 8. d. 3,949 2 7 179 4 6 1 12 0 640 4 1 785 7 7' 2,815 18 0 79 2 0 28 2 2 976 18 7 S. a. d. 11,773 9 S 5,528 15 11 2,648 8 1 5,299 10 11 1,714 15 1 2,212 6 3 3,492 9 6 812 18 2 3,610 2 3 2,089 8 7 39,182 4 2

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SOUTH ISLAND (TE WAI-POUNAMU) Showing Land Transactions, 1909-10.

NORTH ISLAND (TE IKA-A-MAUI) NEW ZEALAND Showing Land Transactions, 1909-10.

NORTH ISLAND (TE IKA-A-MAUI) (AOTEA-ROA) Showing the Land Tenure, 1909-1910.

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SOUTH ISLAND (TE WAI-POUNAMU) NEW ZEALAND (AOTEA-ROA) soeing the land Tenure, 1909-1910