No. 437, Sess. II.—Petition of J. S. Caverhill.

Petitioner states that he is the holder of an agreement to lease land from the Natives situated between the Waiau and Taungatara Rivers, in Opunake District; that, owing to the disturbed state of things at Hawera, he was advised by the Native Minister not to take advantage of it till things were more settled. He took the advice, and now prays that his right to lease may be now recognized.

I am directed to report as follows:—

That it be recommended that the Government take such steps as will enable the West Coast Native Reserves Trustee to grant a lease to Mr. J. S. Caverhill of an area of about 600 acres at a rental of the full present value as ascertained from the rental of similar lands belonging to the Natives in the same neighbourhood; the land to be a part of that in the Opunake South Block for which Mr. Caverhill holds an agreement of lease from the Natives. Before making the grant care should be taken to ascertain the wishes of the Native owners, and no lease should be given to Mr. Caverhill of this land without their express consent.