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The Pamphlet Collection of Sir Robert Stout: Volume 24

XVIII.—Maoris

XVIII.—Maoris.

No reliable statistics have been obtained as to their numbers, nor as to whether they are increasing or decreasing—the returns of 1858 and 1867 were avowedly mere approximations—though by the aid of the native constabulary the return for 1874 may approach accuracy and afford a basis for comparison hereafter. I give the returns for what they are worth, viz.:—

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Males. Females. Children under 14. Total. 1858 31,677 24,303 — 56,049 '67 15,432 12,708 10,323 38,535 '74 24,763 20,707 — 45,470

In 1874 the numbers in the south island were 1,932, leaving 43,538 for the north island.

The disparity between the sexes originated in the habit which prevailed of female infanticide at a time when there were perpetual intertribal wars, but it has long since ceased.

The land courts established in 1863-64 have worked admirably in preventing disputes, and it is no exaggeration to say that they command the confidence of the Maoris, if possible, more entirely than that of the colonists. The courts are assisted by native assessors, and the proceedings are never called in question.

The tribal ownership of land is fast disappearing, and is in fact the only remains of communism among the natives. Each family cultivates their own patch of land and disposes of the produce as they please, although the land itself vests in the tribe until split up and individualised by the land courts.

This is done on application by the tribe. The title having been first proved and the land surveyed, crown grants are issued and registered devolving the title from the tribe to individuals, who are then enabled to sell or hold their allotments as they please. A great deal of the lands to the north of Auckland are held by the natives under crown grants, and the same practice is spreading to other parts of the island. The natives still possess about 20 millions of acres in the north island, and are turning their attention to agriculture as well as to rearing sheep and cattle.

But the most encouraging circumstance connected with the Maoris is the desire to have their children educated and taught English. In the year 1875 there were sixty-four schools for the purpose, and 1,600 pupils. On the whole, there are gratifying signs of advancement in civilisation; and the notion that they are a doomed race seems to be no longer entertained by those who are best acquainted with them, and most capable of judging; at all events, every means that justice and enlightened policy can suggest will be employed to preserve this interesting people from the fate which has heretofore befallen aboriginal races in contact with the European.