No. 262 of 1881.—Petition of Rotohiki Pootu and 20 Others.

Petitioners state that in 1865, whilst they were absent assisting to carry out the laws, preventing the taking-up of arms, and the sale or lease of lands, their own land at Awangatete and on to Takapau had been sold by Ngaiterangi. They say this sale was informal, and pray that it should be confined to such part as was fairly bought.

I am directed to report as follows:—

This was confiscated land, but returned to the Ngaiterangi Tribe. In 1864 Government opened negotiations for its purchase, and this was completed by May, 1871. The deeds (seven) extend from August, 1866, to May, 1871, and the cost was £8,957. The various sections of the tribe received their shares, and everything was done in the most open way. The Committee cannot recommend the prayer of the petition.