No. 274, 1890.—Petition of Hemi Waaka and 30 Others.

Petitioners pray that the Government will cause an investigation into their grievances said to have been caused through the actions of Mr. Rees and Wi Pere in connection with the Pakowhai Block and other lands in Muriwai, Gisborne.

I am directed to report as follows: The Committee, having gone fully into the particulars of this case, and having taken the evidence of Hemi Waaka (the principal petitioner), Wi Pere, and W. L. Rees, M.H.R. (the trustees complained of in the petition), and the Hon. Captain Russell, the Hon. G. F. Richardson, and the Hon. J. D. Ormond (printed copy attached, Paper I.–3a), is of opinion that it is absolutely necessary that the Government, considering the position of affairs, should, in the interests of the Natives and others who have just and equitable rights, step in and take, or assist in taking, some action by which relief can be given to the injured parties.