No. 9.
Memorandum by Secretary for Crown Lands.
The agreement in the Ngaitahu Deed, is "that it shall be for the Governor hereafter to set apart some portion for us, when the land is surveyed by the Surveyors," of course this meant land fit for their use, i.e., fit for cultivation, and it is equally a matter of course that the Government should put a liberal construction upon its engagements of this kind. This, however, I think is not necessary here. The necessity of a reserve at Taumutu was acknowledged, and a worthless one made, consequently the contract entered into has not been fulfilled by Government.
The Government can fulfil it now under "The Crown Grants Act, 1862," by granting the additional piece the Natives ask for, to them. The grant should be signed by the Governor in Council.
A. Domett.
30th December, 1867.