No. 401 of 1882.—Petition of M. W. R. Te Kahuariki and 9 others.

Petitioners say that they are chiefs of the Ngaitahu and Ngatimamoe tribes; that the lands of their ancestors had been sold by the Ngatitoa, Ngatiawa, and Ngatitama wrongfully; and they go into a long history of their wars with the last-named tribes led by Rauparaha, resulting, as they say, in a final victory for themselves. They wish an inquiry to be made as to who finally won, that they may reap the fruit of their final success.

I am directed to report as follows:—

The petition refers to the purchases of the Provinces of Nelson and Marlborough. Petitioners have no claim to be considered in the matter.