No. 65.
Mr. Commissioner Searancke to the Hon. the Colonial Secretary.
Sir,—
I have the honor to forward herewith an offer from the Native owners of the several islands (as enumerated in the margin)* to sell them to the Government.
The first two are situated at the North Head of Whangarei, and are small bare rocks with a Pohutukawa tree or two on them.
The third is a small green island, of about one acre in extent, near the Nova Scotian settlement at the Heads.
The fourth is the small island near to the land occupied by Mr. Aubrey, about half an acre in extent.
The remaining four are either sandbanks or mangrove swamps in the Whangarei River, of no use or value.
I declined to negotiate with the Natives for these islands, but, on their pressing the sale, and at their request, I agreed to submit their offer for your consideration.
I have, &c.,
William N. Searancke,
District Commissioner.
* 1. Motutahi. 2. Motuokura. 3. Motu Kawau. 4. Motu Karoro. 5. Pouroa. 6. Okoko. 7. Tongamaru. 8. Ko Mapuro.
Minute.
Referred to the Hon. the Superintendent of Auckland. Does he wish this negotiation to be undertaken?
W. Fox.
[minute.]
The islands referred to are of no value; but when the Natives are anxious to sell, if for about £10 or £20, they might be worth negotiating for.
Robt. Graham.
[minute.]
Is Mr. Searancke to be authorized to purchase the islands named in this letter?
H. Halse.
[minute.]
Approved.—
W. Fox.
3rd October, 1864.