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Representation Commission. —Much preparatory work for the use of the Commission in fixing electoral boundaries was performed by the staff in the latter part of the year. Aerial Branch,—The drawings of six 1 : 25,000 sheets have been completed during the year. Three are now at the printers and three are awaiting final check. Two sheets of the Fiji topographical survey were completed and handed to the printer, one sheet being published.. The third and last sheet is well in hand and will shortly be ready for printing. A considerable amount of photogram-metrical work has been carried out for the Forestry, Scientific and Industrial Research, and Public Works Departments. Included in these were two dam-sites calling for more precise work —contours being given at 20-foot intervals. Five hundred and forty photographic items, including prints, enlargements, and pin-up mosaics, were undertaken for various Departments. The area covered by photography for all mapping purposes during the year was approximately 5,500 square miles. A total of 16,575 prints were received, of which the bulk have been recorded. Draughting and Computing Examination. —Owing to so many of the younger members of the staff being absent with the Forces, this examination had not been held since 194*1. It was again instituted this year, when 44 candidates presented themselves, the following numbers being successful: First Grade Draughting, 6 passes; Second Grade Draughting, 5 passes; First Grade Computing, 2 passes; and Second Grade Computing, 8 passes. Many others succeeded in procuring partial passes. Honorary Geographic Board The annual meeting of the Board was held on Thursday, 11th October,. 1945, all members being present. One hundred and twenty-six place names were considered, and 96 of these were approved. It was decided that another bulletin, including all the decisions of the Board, should be prepared for publication. The Board also resolved that steps should be taken to empower it with statutory authority. In conclusion, I wish to express my appreciation of the manner in which all members of the staff have carried out their various duties.

AUCKLAND AND NORTH AUCKLAND LAND DISTRICTS (W. Traill, Chief Surveyor) Field-work Settlement Surveys for Rehabilitation of Returned Serviceman. —These surveys have been given priority, and during the year thirty-four blocks, totalling 36,467 acres, have been topographically surveyed for purchase, development, or subdivisional scheming. Twenty-six blocks, of a total of 15,401 acres, have been surveyed into 119 units, and there are at present under survey, nine blocks, totalling 7,468 acres, being subdivided into sixtyeight units. Four staff surveyors are constantly engaged on this work, and as yet no contract surveyors have been instructed. Other Rural Surveys.—The majority of these surveys have been in connection with the issue of title of portions of Crown land selected by adjoining Crown tenants or owners as additions to their present holdings. Suburban Surveys.—A few small areas, totalling 18 acres, of Crown land in close proximity to towns have been surveyed.

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