Report on Petition of Members of the Parawhau Tribe.
The petitioners, who are members of the Parawhau Tribe, residing at Whangarei, state that many years ago a block of land called Kaherutahi, belonging to them, was taken possession of by a European, and has since been granted to him by the Government. But they allege that the block of land in question was never purchased by the Government or ceded by the owners. They therefore pray that an inquiry be instituted into the matter, and that compensation or other redress be afforded them.
I am directed to report as follows:—
That the petitioners have submitted no evidence in support of the allegations of their petition; but the evidence of Major Heaphy, which has been taken by the Committee, goes to show that the block of land in question has been included in deeds of cession duly executed. The Committee therefore cannot recommend the prayer of the petition to the favourable consideration of the House.
John Bryce,
Chairman.