No. 45.
The Under Secretary, Native Department, to Mr. Brissenden.

It has come to the knowledge of the Hon. the Native Minister that there are several considerable blocks of forest land to the north of Auckland, which it is desirable that the Government should procure for public purposes. I am therefore desired to request you that you will proceed to Auckland with as little delay as possible, and endeavour to negotiate with the Natives to purchase on reasonable terms these lands, and any open lands which it may be thought expedient to acquire. On reaching Auckland you will put yourself into communication with Mr. Civil Commissioner Kemp, who is already in treaty for certain blocks of land in the direction of Kaipara and the back of Whangarei district; and you should arrange between yourselves regarding the perfection of these negotiations. Perhaps it will be advisable for Mr. Kemp to complete them and avoid possible complications.

You will be good enough to report to this office from time to time the progress you are making, and the sums of money you will be likely to want for these purchases, being careful to specify the sums required for each particular block. You are also authorized to engage, through Captain Heale, any surveyors who may be required to survey the lands you propose to purchase.

Care should be taken that the plans when complete are submitted for examination and approval to the Inspector of Surveys, and that copies of them are forwarded to this office.

Should you be in want of other assistance, you are authorized to obtain it, reporting to this office the necessity for doing so, and the salary you propose.