No. 183 of Session II., 1879 (No. 2).—Petition of Te Oti Pitu Mutu and Others.

Petitioners state that in 1868 the Court awarded to them certain lands at Rakaia, Hakatere, Wairewa, and Tarewa; that, though the lands were reserved for their use, no provision has been made to give them possession; that the land is used only by Europeans for feeding cattle; and that on several occasions Government had been asked to interfere, but without effect. Petitioners pray that they may be empowered to lease the reserves for their own benefit.

I am directed to report as follows:—

That the Native Land Court having sat since the date of this petition, and made its award, the Committee has no recommendation to make, except to urge upon the Government the advisability of making an early issue of Crown grants to the owners.