On 7th April, 1868, Mr. Moorhouse advised the Provincial Council of his intention to resign the position of Superintendent on account of the pressure of private business. At the consequent election, on the 22nd May, Mr. W. Rolleston was elected Superintendent.

There had been some criticism in the Provincial Council regarding the cost of the railway works, and the manner in which they were being carried on. From time to time questions were asked, resolutions moved, copies of vouchers and correspondence called for, and proposals made for enquiry by the Council, particularly as to the manner in which the contract for the Great South Line was being performed. Finally, on the 19th February, 1868, a select committee of the Council, consisting of Messrs. F. E. Stewart (Provincial Secretary), Hawkes, Wylde, Maskell, Ormsby, Wynn-Williams and J. E. Brown, was appointed to enquire into and report upon the expenditure on the Canterbury Railways. The Committee reported on 26th March, and on 1st April the Council resolved that a respectful address be forwarded to His Honour the Superintendent praying him to give effect as soon as possible to the recommendation of the Select Committee that a Commission be appointed to investigate the matter.