No. 522.—Petition of Anaru Te Kahaki and Others.

Petitioners say that they reside at Waiapu, Cook County. They refer to attempts of Europeans to get their lands, and to the various Acts passed for protecting their property. They pray for an Act to secure a town site in connection with petroleum works, and also that the adjoining lands should be reserved from sale, but to be leased for farming and other purposes. They also pray that a Native Committee may be empowered to act in this matter, under the direction of the Public Trustee.

I am directed to report as follows:—

That this petition be referred to the Government for consideration.