C—ll.

1913. NEW ZEALAND.

RANGITAIKI LAND DRAINAGE: REPORT FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31st MARCH, 1913; TOGETHER WITH STATEMENT OF ACCOUNTS.

Presented to both Houses of the General Assembly pursuant to Section 10 of the Rangitaiki Land, Drainage Act, 1910.

Sir, — Department of Lands and Survey, Wellington, 2nd June, 1913. I have the honour to submit herewith the report upon the drainage operations in the Rangitaiki Plains for the year ended 31st March, 1913, pursuant to the provisions of the Rangitaiki Land Drainage Act, 1910. The total area affected by the Act is 87,100 acres, the greater part of which is either freehold, leasehold, or Native land. Great difficulty was experienced during the year with the cutting of the Rangitaiki River diversion canal, let to Messrs. Rich and Jeffreys, who finally abandoned the work, which is now being proceeded with by the Land Drainage Branch of this Department, as well as the remaining works in progress. I visited and inspected the operations during November and satisfied myself that the officers in charge and their parties are carrying out the varied works entrusted to them in a highly efficient manner. The expenditure up to date has been as follows : — £ s. d. For the year ended 31st March, 1912 .. .. .. .. 12,140 0 0 1913 .. .. .. .. 15,203 0 0 Total .. .. .. .. .. £27.343 0 0 The detailed report of the Land Drainage Engineer (Mr. J. B. Thompson) sets forth the nature of the operations undertaken and proposed. To that officer and his assistant (Mr. O. N. Campbell), together with their staffs, the greatest credit is due. The accompanying statement of accounts shows the expenditure for the year. I have, &c, John Stratjchon, The Hon. W. F. Massey, Minister of Lands. Under-Secretary for Lands.