COOK AND OTHER ISLANDS. [In contination of Parliamentary Paper A.-3, 1912.]

Appendix to the Journals of the House of Representatives, 1913 Session I, A-03

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1913. NEW ZEALAND.

COOK AND OTHER ISLANDS. [In contination of Parliamentary Paper A.-3, 1912.]

Presented tn both House* of the General Assembly by Command of His Excellency.

INDEX.

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Subject. Page. Memorandum by the Hon, the Minister in Charge 2 Cook Islands. 3 4 5 G 19 21 21 24 27 28 29 29 29 30 30 Annual Report of the Resident Commissioner Reports of the Chief Medical Officer Report of Treasurer and Collector of Customs Report of Auditor Report of Registrar of Courts Vital Statistics Mangaia, Report on Health of Aitutaki, Report on Health of Report of Engineer Report of Fruit Inspector.. Aitutaki Local Ordinance No. 4—Sale of Goods and Produoe Ordinance, 1912 Land taken for Government Buildings, Aitutaki Land taken for Public Cemetery, Mangaia Land taken for Government Buildings and Resident Agent's Residence, Mauke Land taken for Landing-place and Storage-sheds, Mauke Niue Island. 31 47 48 Annual Report of the Resident Commissioner Niue Island Public Health Ordinance, 1912 Nine Island Marriage, Registration, and Divorce Ordinance, 1913

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MEMOBANDUM. Cook Islands Administration Department, Wellington, Bth September, 1913. The reports of the Resident Commissioner at Rarotonga and the Resident Commissioner at Niue are attached hereto. The following features of the reports may be drawn attention to :— Revenue and Expenditure. The revenue in the Cook Islands amounted to £9,420, being an increase of £496 over the previous year. The expenditure for the year amounted to £11,508, or £2,078 in excess of the previous year. Of this amount, £4,362 was expended on public works, the principal items under this head being the improvement of the Avarua water-supply, water-tanks for the outlying islands, drainage of the Maraerenga Swamp, offices and quarters for the Resident Agent at Mauke, and water-services at Aroraugi and Matavera settlements. The balance standing to the credit of the Administration on 31st March last was £2,063. At Niue Island the year's operations have resulted most favourably, the revenue of £2,680 being a record, and £383 in advance of the previous year. The expenditure amounted to £2,320, or £230 more than was expended in the year 1911-12. A sum of £1,126 was expended on public works. One technical school has been built, and under the supervision of Mr. W. C. Smith, school-teacher, much progress has been made by the Native boys in this branch of education. A hospital and quarantines ite has been purchased and quarantine buildings erected, and useful work has been done under the direction of the Resident Commissioner, Mr. Cornwall, in the making of roads and the erection of much-needed water-storage tanks. Trade, etc. In both the Cook Islands and Niue trade has steadily progressed. In the Cook Islands, as pointed out in the report of the Treasurer, the year has been an exceedingly good one for both growers and traders. Imports amounted to £93,812, as against £89,623 in 1911. Of this amount, goods to the value of £73,704 were imported from New Zealand. The total export trade was £101,708, or £10,632 in excess of the previous year. The trade at Niue has been equally satisfactory. The imports for the year amounted to £19,119, as against £9,838 in 1911. Of this amount goods to the value of £15,990 were imported from New Zealand. The total exports for the same period amounted to £15,709, or £3,662 in excess of the previous year. Health of the People. In the Cook Islands the health of the people is receiving full attention, and both the Chief Medical Officer and his assistant are doing good work. As shown by the figures supplied in the report of the Chief Medical Officer, there is a growing appreciation of the benefits of the hospital treatment provided at Rarotonga amongst both the European and Native people of the community. A permanent Medical Officer has recently been appointed at the Island of Nine, and the Government has considered it expedient this year to increase the subsidy for the medical service at this Island. Education. The system of education established at Nine Island has worked very satisfactorily, and it is proposed to appoint an assistant teacher to enable the work to be extended. M. Pom are.

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COOK ISLANDS. REPORT OF RESIDENT COMMISSIONER. Sir, — Cook Islands Administration, Rarotonga, sth June, 1913. I have the honour to report as follows for the year ended 31st March, 1913. Finance. The year was commenced with a balance in hand of £4,151, of which £2,000 had been set aside in former years as an insurance fund against possible hurricane or other disaster. The revenue for the year was £9,420, showing an increase over 1912 of £496. The expenditure amounted to £11,508, being in excess of that for 1912 by £2,078, and exceeding the estimated expenditure by £2,527. £4,362 was expended on public works, while the contingent accounts and Hospital Account together absorbed £2,653, the latter being £459 in excess of the estimated expenditure, and £648 in excess of the previous year. The Contingencies Account was swollen by the necessity of a Land Court Judge attending from New Zealand. I append copy of report of Mr. W. J. Stevenson, which shows fully the receipts and expenditure. Public Works. I append copy of report of Mr. H. M. Connal, Government Engineer, which shows that several important works were successfully carried out or being proceeded with. The system of road-maintenance is, in my opinion, very unsatisfactory. The present law as to free labour being given by Natives under the direction of the Arikis produces very little real work on the roads, and I think it would be preferable to institute a tax for the special purpose, and have the work done by contract or by paid labour supervised by the Engineer. Fruit Industry. I attach copy of report of Mr. G. Esam, Fruit Inspector, who has been transferred to New Zealand, and whose place has been filled by Mr. E. A. Reid, who, having on a previous occasion filled the same position on the island, is no stranger to the needs of the fruit industry. The Administration has acquired an area of land which by the expenditure of a considerable sum thereon on very necessary drainage will be well suited for the purpose of agricultural experiments, and these, I hope, under the conduct of Mr. Reid, will prove an advantage to growers and exporters, both Native and European, and will, I trust, arouse the Natives from their apathy. Europeans are eager to secure land, but the Natives are reluctant in granting leases, and yet they do little or nothing to improve their lands and make them more productive. Some severe means of compulsion will have to be adopted, otherwise Native lands will rapidly degenerate into mere jungle, and the export of fruit rapidly decrease. It is only due to the extraordinary natural productiveness of these islands that exports have reached their present high level, but the figures only remotely indicate the possibilities under systematic cultivation. Water-supply. Water has now been laid on to all the settlements in Rarotonga, except Muri and Titikaveka, and provision has been made to convey it to Titikaveka this year ; and, I hope, next year will see Muri also supplied, after which funds will be available for much-needed improvements in other islands. In Aitutaki bores have been successfully put down, resulting in a good supply of wholesome water. The Islands of Manihiki, Rakahanga, Penhyrn, and Mangaia are now all provided with large concrete tanks, meeting the requirements of the inhabitants. Atiu. The year has seen the completion of a road round the island, eighteen miles in length, constructed under the supervision of Major J. T. Large, Resident Agent, by free Native labour. This will greatly facilitate the conveyance of produce to the wharves from every part of the island. Health op the Islands. The vital statistics show the population of the Group as a whole increases slightly, but in three districts in Rarotonga, one village in Aitutaki, and in the Islands of Manihiki and Rakahanga deaths exceeded, births in number. In the whole Group the excess of births over deaths was only sixty during the year 1912. The report of the Chief Medical Officer is appended. Appended hereto are also two reports by Dr. A. R. Maclurkin, Assistant Medical Officer, who visited the Islands of Mangaia and Aitutaki. These reports show that frequent medical visitation and supervision is imperatively necessary, owing to the great amount of disease among the Native inhabitants, largely due to their neglect and apathy as to cleanliness and sanitary matters. In my opinion a third Medical Officer should be appointed, who would visit each island as opportunity offers, staying at each some weeks. This would involve an expenditure at present beyond the means of the Administration, and I must leave the matter to the consideration of Cabinet as to whether assistance in this pressing need can be given to the Administration.

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Rainfall. Records of the rainfall have now been kept for many years —at Ava.-ua by Mr. Connal, Government Engineer ; at Titikaveka by Mr. Percy Brown ; and at Aitutaki, Mangaia, and Atiu by tiie Resident Agents. To all of these gentlemen the thanks of the Administration are due for this voluntary and important service. Maraerenga Lagoon. The drainage of this lagoon has proved an unqualified success ; and, in addition to reclaiming an area of valuable lands, should prove to be an important contribution towards the general health of the district, and enormously abate the mosquito nuisance. Land Titles Court. Judge MacCormick disposed of a large number of applications during his recent visit, but a considerable number —which is constantly being added to —now awaits hearing. It is unfortunate that this very necessary work entails such a great expense upon the Administration, and seems likely to do so for very many years. Outlying Islands. I regret that, as I only assumed the Resident Commissionership in March last, I have had neither time nor opportunity to visit any of the outlying islands, and cannot, therefore, remark as to their progress and prospects. In a few months I anticipate an opportunity will offer of making myself personally familiar with the inhabitants and their requirements. Audit. The annual audit of the accounts of the Administration was concluded on the 9th May, and I append the report of the Auditor. I have, &c, H. W. Northcroft, Resident Commissioner. The Hon. the Minister in Charge, Cook Islands Administration, Wellington.

Reports of Chief Medical Officer. Sir, — Rarotonga, 15th June, 1913. I have the honour to present my report on the year's work of the medical division. Except for a number of cases of a dysenteric type during the months of April and May, there has been no disease of an epidemic nature. There have been the usual cases of a syphilitic type, mostly constitutional, and a considerable number of tuberculous forms, many being pulmonary. The number of attendances at the dispensary was 3,710, and the number of visits paid was 429. On the 31st March, 1912, there were seven patients in Hospital ; seventy-seven have been admitted, three have died, and twelve were left at the 31st March, 1913. All of the islands except Mitiaro have been visited during the year by myself or by Dr. Maclurkin. Separate reports of these visits have been sent in. A fresh case of leprosy was found at Aitutaki. The patient came from Manihiki about two years ago, and evidently was infected before leaving there, as he had no chance of being exposed to infection on Aitutaki. This gives another family of suspects in Manihiki, hitherto not known. Of lepers in other islands, one in Palmerston is dead ; three in Manihiki and one in Rakahanga also are dead. I wish again to draw attention to the urgent necessity of some means of transport, so that the necessary frequent visits may be made to the other islands. I wish also to again urge the necessity of having some central place where the known and the suspected cases of leprosy can be brought for treatment or observation. In the light of recent discoveries leprosy cannot be looked on as an incurable disease ; but under existing circumstances these poor wretches have no chance, as we have no opportunity of carrying out any definite plan of treatment. Except at Penrhyn, there is no provision made for their food, and, as their relations seem to discard them when they are taken to the Morokai, they are entirely dependent on what can be collected for them by the Resident Agent. One case lying dormant so long in Aitutaki indicates the possibility of there being other cases which have not yet developed, and offers a very strong argument for more frequent visits. The Hospital accommodation will soon have to be increased, as during the months of January, February, and March every bed was occupied. The present building is not one which can be enlarged, and any permanent extension will have to be in the nature of an extra pavilion. Accommodation can be made for six or seven beds by putting up a separate building for a dispensary, with a room for outpatients and consulting-rooms. At the present time all cases have to be attended to in what is intended to be the operating-room, and, as the majority have suppurating sores, any operations have to be conducted under great difficulties. Another need is a laboratory for bacteriological work. Most of the apparatus is at hand, and only the building is required to enable research-work to be carried on. I wish to draw attention to the unsatisfactory system of registration of deaths, and to suggest that a system be adopted which would enable statistics to be compiled. I have, &c, G. Pearce Baldwin, The Resident Commissioner. Chief Medical Officer.

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Sir, — Rarotonga, 16th June, 1913. The Hospital has been opened for the reception of patients for-two years. During that time there have been admitted 151 patients—l3B Natives and 13 Europeans. The number of deaths has been 5. The Native cases came from the different islands as follows: Aitutaki, 12;. Atiu, 2; Mangaia, 25 ; Manihiki, 8; Mauke, 4 ; Niue, 4 ; Palmerston, 3 ; Penrhyn, 6 ; Rakahanga, 2 ; Rarotonga, Natives or permanent residents, 74. I have, &c, G. Pearce Baldwin, The Resident Commissioner. Chief Medical Officer.

Report of Treasurer and Collector of Customs. Sir, — Rarotonga, Cook Islands, 6th May, 1913. I have the honour to enclose statements of revenue and expenditure for the financial year ended 31st March, 1913, and trade returns for the year ended 31st December, 1912. The revenue for the year amounted to £9,420, which, with the balance in hand on 31st March, 1912, £4,151 2s. 3d., made a total of £13,571 2s. 3d. available for the working of the Administration. As compared with last year the revenue shows an increase of £496 Is. Id. The principal increases comprise stamp-sales, £233 ; Land Titles Court fees, £223 ; High Court fees and fines, £221 ; traders' license fees, £129 ; Court fees, Rakahanga and Manihiki, £46 ; Court fees, Atiu, £38 ; interest, £35 ; and water rates, £31. The only decreases of any magnitude are Fruit Fumigation and Inspection Account, £387 ; Customs duties, £150 ; and cash profit from the sale of liquor, £69. The expenditure (summary appended) amounted to £11,508 45., being £2,088 in excess of the revenue. £ s. d. Public works .. .. .. .. .. .. 4,362 12 6 Salaries .. .. .. .. .. .. .. 3,626 17 5 Contingencies .. .. .. .. .. .. 1,394 8 7 Hospital supplies and attendance .. .. .. .. 1,259 18 10 Fruit-fumigation Account, deficit .. .. .. .. 263 12 8 Subsidies .. .. .. .. .. .. .. 161 7 6 Compensation for land resumed .. .. .. .. 145 0 0 Ammunition Account, Dr. .. .. .. .. .. 98 13 10 Maintenance, lepers . . .. .. .. .. .. 69 4 4 Maintenance, lunatics .. .. .. .; .. 66136 Rents and house allowances .. .. .. .. .. 36 5 0 Law-books for High Court .. .. .. .. .. 23 9 10 £11,508 4 0

The contingent expenditure of £906 18s. in connection with the Land Titles Court is very high, but this includes the charges for Judge MacCormick's services while in the islands as Judge of the Land Titles Court and Acting Resident Commissioner. Liquor Account: The liquor sales for the year amounted to £96 2s. 9d., compared with £194 12s. sd. during the previous year. Waterworks Account: The amount expended to date on waterworks in Rarotonga is £4,567 lis. lid., being apportioned as follows : Avarua, £2,488 14s. 2d. ; Ngatangiia, £837 lis. ; Arorangi, £706 3s. Id. ; and Matavera, £535 3s. Bd. The latter system was installed during the year. The rates collected from the first three systems amounted to £260 9s. Fruit Fumigation and Inspection Account: This account shows a deficit of £263 12s. Bd., owing to the New Zealand Agricultural Department calling upon the Administration to refund the sum of £529 ss. Id., being balance of salaries and expenses of Fruit Inspectors while stationed at Rarotonga, to 31st March, 1912. The fees collected from the fumigation and inspection of fruit amounted to £750 17s. 9d., and the expenditure, excluding the £529 ss. Id. refunded to the New Zealand Agricultural Department, totalled £486 3s. Bd. Postal : The volume of work in this Department is increasing yearly. 1,098 money-orders, value £13,429 ss. Id., were issued, and 988, value £17,893 os. 7d., were paid at the Rarotonga Post-office. Postal notes to the value of £411 14s. 9d. were issued. A savings-bank was opened on the Ist July last. The deposits for the nine months totalled £1,207 6s. Bd., and the withdrawals £141 lis. 7d. Trade : The year has been an exceedingly good one for growers and traders, as almost all island products have been commanding exceptionally high prices. The total oversea trade of the Group for the year is valued at £195,520 —imports £93,812, and exports £101,708. This represents an increase of £14,821 compared with the previous year —imports £4,189, and exports £10,632. The increase in exports is largely due to the rise which has taken place in the price of pearl-shell, thus enabling traders to give remunerative prices to the divers. The output for the year amounted to 85 tons, compared with 5 tons in 1911. Fruit-exportation is slightly on the decline as regards quantity. Copra decreased by 355 tons. The orange output is practically the same as last year, being 106,878 cases, as against 107,612 cases in 1911. Bananas decreased by 14,300 cases and 4,000 bunches, the respective figures being 108,520 cases 6,441 bunches and 94,108 cases and 2,135 bunches. 4,000 cases were lost owing to the Maitai " being unable to take them in February, 1912, so that the shortage for the year is about, 10,000 cases.

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Fruit prices have been so good during the last few seasons that the Natives are not planting and attending to their lands to the same extent as formerly, and, as a result, a decreasing output is inevitable. Should prices decline, the Administration will suffer from a revenue point of view, for a decrease in exports must eventually affect the revenue. Every effort should be made to encourage landowners to cultivate all suitable waste land by planting bananas, oranges, and coconuts. The majority of the orange-trees on Rarotonga are getting old and bearing small, inferior fruit. Suitable varieties of young trees for distribution among planters and Natives who are willing to attend them should be imported from Australia or America. In a few years these trees would take the place of the present ones, producing not only a larger but a better quality of fruit. Prospects for the coming year are very promising, and the volume of trade should equal that of the year just closed. I therefore do not anticipate any decrease in the revenue. I have, &c, W. J. Stevenson, The Resident Commissioner, Rarotonga. Collector of Customs and Treasurer.

Report of Auditor. Sir,— Rarotonga, 9th May, 1913. I have the honour to inform you that I have audited the accounts of the Cook Islands Administration for the year ended 31st March, 1913, and find them to be correct. I have also audited the books of the High Court and Land Titles Court, and find that all moneys recorded as received by the official receipt butts and statements from Resident Agents have been duly accounted for. I have, &c, A. G. Clarke, Auditor. The Resident Commissioner, Cook Islands Administration, Rarotonga.

Cook Islands Administration. Estimated Expenditure for the Year ending 31st March, 1914. Salaries — - . £ s. d. Registrar, High and Land Titles Courts .. .. .. .. .. 350 0 0 Assistant Medical Officer .. .. .. .. .. .. .. 450 0 0 Engineer and Surveyor ... .. .. .. .. .. .. 300 0 0 Interpreter and Printer .. .. .. .. .. .. .. 250 0 0 Hospital Nurse .... .. .. .. .. .. .. 150 0 0 Foreman of works .. .. ■ ■ .. .. .. .. 150 0 0 Draughtsman .. .. .. . • • • .. .. .. 120 0 0 Island allowance, Resident Commissioner .. . . .. .. .. 100 0 0 Collector of Customs .. .. .. 150 0 0 Cadet, Registrar's Office . . .. . . .. .. .. " . . 60 0 0 „ Post-office 60 0 0 Resident Agent, Mangaia .. . . .. .. .. . . . . 225 0 0 Atiu .. .. .. .. .. .. .. 225 0 0 Aitutaki.. ... .. .. .. .. .. 225 0 0 Mauke .. .. .. .. .. .. .. 225 0 0 Penrhyn .. .. .. .. . .. 200 0 0 ~ Rakahanga and Manihiki . . . . .. .. .. 100 0 0 European policeman, Rarotonga . . .. .. .. .. .. 150 0 0 Native policemen, Rarotonga .. .. .. .. .. .. 115 0 0 Aitutaki .. .. .. .. .. .. 39 0 0 Mangaia ~.'.. .. .. .. .. 41 0 0 Atiu .. .. 17 0 0 Mauke 12 0 0 Mitiaro .. .. .. .. .. .. 600 „ Rakahanga and Manihiki .. .; .. .. 24 0 0 Native assessors, Aitutaki .. .. .. .. .. .. 15 0 0 Mangaia .. .. .. .. .. .. 20 0 0 Atiu .. .. .. 800 Mauke .. .. .. "... 5 0 0 Mitiaro .. .. .. .. .-.. .. .. 6 0 0 „ Rakahanga and Manihiki .. .. .. .. .. 800 Clerk of Court, Mitiaro .. .. .... ..... .. 3 0 0 Postmaster, Mitiaro .. .. .... ...... ... ~ 300 Subsidies — Cool chamber .. .. .. . • • • • ■ • • • • 100 0 0 Boatman, Mangaia .. .. .. .. .. .. .. 10 0 0 Aitutaki .. .. .. .. .. 9 0 0 Atiu • • • • 3 0 0 Carrying mails .. .. .. .. . • • • • • • • 20 0 0

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Cook Islands Administration — continued. Estimated Expenditure for the Year ending 31st March, 1914 —continued. Contingent expenditure— £ s. d. General .. .. .. .. .. .. .. 300 0 0 High Court .. .. .. .. .." .. .. .. 150 0 0 Land Titles Court .. .. .. .. .. .. .. 150 0 j[o Miscellaneous — Hospital supplies and attendance .. . . .. .. .. .. 800 0 0 Education, Rarotonga .. .. .. .. .. .. .. 250 0 0 Maintenance, lunatic Donaldson .. .. .. .. .. .. 40 0 0 lepers .. .. .. .. .. .. .. 50 0 0 Rents— £ s. d. Wharf-site .. .. .. .. .. .. ..500 Post-office site .. .. .. .. .. .. .. 8 15 0 Registrar's residence .. .. .. .. .. ..500 18 15 0 5,712 15 0 Estimated public-works expenditure, as per schedule .. .. .. 3,625 0 0 £9,337 15 0 H. W. Northcroft, Rarotonga, Cook Islands, 23rd May, 1913. . Resident Commissioner.

Cook Islands Administration. Estimated Expenditure on Public Works during Year ending 31st March, 1914. £ s. d. Tanks, outlying islands .. .. .. .. .. .. .. 600 0 0 Residence and offices, Aitutaki .. .. .. .. .. .. 500 0 0 Upkeep, Government Buildings .. .. .. .. .. .. 100 0 0 Takutea Island, planting and cleaning .. . . . . .. .. .. 200 0 0 Roads and bridges, Rarotonga.. .. .. .. .. .. .. 200 0 0 Maraerenga Swamp .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. 500 0 0 Titekaveka water-supply .. .. .. .. .. .. .. 850 0 0 Moorings, Avarua Harbour .. .. .. .. .. .. .. 100 0 0 Registrar's residence, purchasing .. .. .. .. .. .. 125 0 0 ~ renovating .. .. .. .. .. .. 200 0 0 Hospital improvements .. .. .. .. .. .. .. 150 0 0 Flooring shed .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. 75 0 0 Public Works store, Rarotonga, additions .. .. .. .. .. 25 0 0 £3,625 0 0 11. W. Northcroft, Rarotonga, Cook Islands, 24th May, 1913. Resident Commissioner.

Cook Islands Administration. Statement of Expenditure for the Year ended 31st March, 1913.

Service. Voted. Expended. 1. Assistant Medical and Health Officer 2. Registrar, High Court 3. Engineer and Surveyor 4. Collector of Customs, Island allowance .. 5. Interpreter and Printer 6. Draughtsman.. 7. Cadet 8. Fruit Inspector 9. Hospital Nurse LQ. Resident Agent, Mangaia .1. „ Atiu 2. „ Aitutaki 3. „ Mauke 4. „ Penrhyn 5. „ Rakahanga and Manihiki £ s. d. 400 0 0 365 0 0 300 0 0 100 0 0 250 0 0 120 0 0 60 0 0 250 0 0 50 0 0 225 0 0 225 0 0 225 0 0 225 0 0 200 0 0 100 0 0 £ s. d. 400 0 0 365 0 0 300 0 0 100 0 0 250 0 0 120 0 0 60 0 0 100 0 0 94 11 8 225 0 0 225 0 0 225 0 0 225 0 0 200 0 0 100 0 0

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Cook Islands Administration— continued. Statement of Expenditure for the Year ended 31st March, 1913 —continued.

■ ■ Rarotonga and Cook Islands, Bth April, 1913. W. J. Stevenson, Treasurer. Audited and found correct. —A. G. Clarke, Auditor.

Service. Voted. Expended. 16. Foreman of Works 17. Police, Rarotonga, European 18. „ „ Native 19. „ Aitutaki 20. „ Mangaia 21. „ Atiu 22. „ Mauke 23. „ Mitiaro 24. Assessors, Aitutaki 25. „ Mangaia 26. „ Atiu 27. „ Mauke 28. „ Mitiaro 29. Clerk of Court, Rarotonga 30. „ Mauke.. 31. „ Mitiaro 32. Postmaster, Mauke 33. „ Mitiaro .. .. 34. Subsidy, cool chamber.. 35. ,, Tereora School 36. ,, Destruction of flying-fox 37. ,, Boatman, Aitutaki 38. „ ,, Mangaia 39. Carrying mails in Group 40. Contingencies, General.. 41. • „ High Court 42. ,, Land-titles Court 43. Hospital supplies and attendance 44. House allowance, Registrar, High Court .. 45. Maintenance, lunatic Donaldson 46. „ Penrhyn lepers 47. Law-books for High Court 48. Rents, post-office and wharf sites 49. Mauke offices and quarters 50. Upkeep Government Buildings 51. Avarua water-supply 52. Tanks, outlying islands 53. Takutea Island 54. Drainage, Maeraerenga Lagoon 55. Roads and bridges, Rarotonga 56. Shed, Aitutaki 57. Mauke road grant 58. Cells Live-stock Grand Eastern Pacific Hotel Fruit Fumigation and Inspection Account, Dr. Arorangi Waterworks Account, Dr. Ammunition Account, Dr. Salary, Cadet, Post Office Maintenance, lunatic Te Akatoe Compensation for land resumed Reclamation Avatiu Swamp ,, land leased to Mr. Grieves .. Matavera waterworks .. ; Salaries, Judges, Rakahanga and Manihiki „ Police „ Registrar's residence, repairs £ s. d. 150 0 0 150 0 0 81 15 0 29 0 0 29 0 0 15 0 0 6 0 0 4 0 0 15 0 0 10 0 0 8 0 0 5 0 0 5 0 0 5 0 0 3 0 0 3 0 0 3 0 0 3 0 0 100 0 0 200 0 0 50 0 0 10 0 0 10 0 0 30 0 0 400 0 0 250 0 0 200 0 0 800 0 0 30 0 0 53 0 0 50 0 0 25 0 0 13 15 0 550 0 0 100 0 0 500 0 0 300 0 0 100 0 0 500 0 0 500 0 0 300 0 0 100 0 0 200 0 0 £ s. d. 150 0 0 182 10 9 80 3 0 34 0 0 35 0 0 16 0 0 8 2 0 5 0 0 15 0 0 10 0 0 8 0 0 5 0 0 5 10 0 5 0 0 3 0 0 3 0 0 100 0 0 21 17 6 9 10 0 10 0 0 20 0 0 265 5 3 222 5 4 906 18 0 1,259 18 10 22 10 0 36 13 6 69 4 4 23 9 10 13 15 0 624 9 8 155 14 0 582 16 4 599 2 2 118 14 1 312 19 5 500 0 0 463 7 8 15 16 11 273 18 1 10 5 3 263 12 8 80 2 9 98 13 10 40 0 0 30 0 0 145 0 0 22 1 0 19 17 9 535 3 8 8 0 0 24 0 0 48 3 9 Total expenditure Balance, including investments 11,508 4 0 2,062 18 3 13,571 2 3

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Cook Islands Administration. Revenue for the Year ended 31st March, 1913. £ s. d. £ s. d. Balance, Ist April, 1912 .. .. .. .. .. .. .. 4,151 2 3 Customs duties, net —Rarotonga .. .. .. .. .. 4,736 16 3 ~ „ New Zealand .. .. .\ .. 1,658 4 0 Traders' licenses . . . . , . . . . . . . . 698 10 0 Stamps .. '.. '.. .. .. 703 12 1 Fees and fines, High Court . . . . . . .. .. 390 1 3 R.M. Court, Aitutaki .. .. .. .. 71 15 0 Mangaia . . . . .. . . 110 15 0 Atiu .. .. .. .. .. 64 3 0 „ . „ Mauke .. .. .. 26 19 0 ~ ~ Rakahanga and Manihiki . . . . 60 16 6 ~ Arikis' Court, Mitiaro .. .. .. .. 413 4 Fees, Land Titles Court .. .. .. .. .. .. 340 17 0 Water rates, Avarua . . .. . . . . .. .. 163 0 0 ~ Arorangi . . . . . . .. . . . . 58 9 0 Ngatangiia . . . . . . . . . . . . 39 0 0 Shipping fees and forms .. . . . . . . . . . . 8 18 0 Rents .. .. .. .. .. .. .. 137 5 0 Interest . . . . . . .. .. . . 75 0 0 Post-card sales .. .. .. .. .. .. .. 19 18 7 Labour agency fees, Aitutaki .. .. .. .. .. 300 Ngatangiia Waterworks Account, refunds . . .. .. .. 32 8 0 Hall licenses .. .. .. .. .. .. .. 500 Miscellaneous .. .. .. .. .. .. .. 855 Liquor Account, cash balance .. . . .. .. .. 213 7 9,420 0 0 £13,571 2 3 Rarotonga, Cook Islands, Bth April, 1913. W. J. Stevenson, Treasurer. Audited and found correct. —A. G. Clarke, Auditor.

Cook Islands Administration. Details of Vote 40, General Contingent Expenditure. £ s. d. Boatmen, Rarotonga .. . . . . . . .. .. 29 5 0 Atiu .. .. .. .. .. .. 600 Boat-repairs .. .. .. .. .. .. 2 17 11 Boat-oars . . . . . . . . .. .. .. 3 19 6 Boat-shed repairs . . . . . . .. .. . . 1 14 5 Salary, Printer .. .. .. .. .. .. 53 10 0 Stationery .. . . . . . . . . .. . . 69 19 4 Audit expenses . . . . . . . . . . . . 12 18 0 Wireless station, expenses .. .. .. .. .. 300 Travelling-allowance, Resident Agent, Atiu . . .. . . 9 0 0 Aitutaki . . .. .. 5 17 6 Mauke .. .. .. 810 0 Travelling-expenses Engineer inspecting Atiu landing . . .. 610 0 Landing-expenses, Judge, at Atiu . . . . . . . . 1 17 0 House-rent, Aitutaki .. .. .. .. .. .. 300 Funeral expenses, James Harrison . . . . .. .. 216 1 Office furniture . . . . .. . . .. .. 3 19 1 Packing furniture, late Resident Commissioner . . .. . . 3 2 9 Horse-trough .. .. .. .. .. .. .. 1 16 10 Freight, sample sponges .. .. .. .. .. 020 Labour, cleaning Government grounds . . . . . . .. 4 3 6 Gate, Collector of Customs' residence . . . . . . . . 14 9 Flags .. .. .. .. .. .. .. 376 Photographs for annual report, 1911-12 . . . . .'. .. 018 0 Newspaper subscription.. .. .. .. .. .. 2 16 0 Freight on stove to Aitutaki . . . . . . . . .. 0 10 0 Telegrams . . .. .. .. . . . . .. 010 10 Flagstaff-repairs . . . . . . . . . . .. 014 9 Charts .. .. ~ .. ~ ~ ~ 080

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Cook Islands Administration — continued. Details of Vote 40, General Contingent Expenditure —continued. £ s. d. Clearing Kapuangi Creek .. .. .. .. .. 2 10 0 Toilet requisites .. .. .. .. .. .. 0 510 Washing Post-office .. .. .. .. ... .. 015 0 Overtime, Post-office .. .. .. .. .. .. 014 0 Fencing Government grounds .. .. .. .. .. 512 10 Compensation paid for pig destroyed .. .. .. . . 0 5 0 Lawn-mower and miscellaneous tools .. .. .. .. 4 2 7 Cleaning Ngatipa .. .. .. ..- .. .. 3 0 0 Material for Government grounds .. .. .. .. 116 Postage-stamps for Minister's office .. .. .. .. 10 3 Outhouse, Aitutaki .. .. .. .. .. .. 160 Mangaia Reef, freight .. .. .. .. .. .. 036 £265 5 3 Rarotonga, Cook Islands, 10th April, 1913. W. J. Stevenson, Treasurer.

Cook Islands Administration. Details of Vote 41, High Court Contingent Expenditure. £ s. d. Meals, prisoners and police .. . . . . .. 61 3 3 Passages, prisoners .. .. . . . . . . ..960 Travelling-allowances, police .. .. . . . . .. 30 3 0 Interpreter's fees .. .. .. .. .. ..440 Uniforms, police .. .. .. .. .. ..972 Canes, police .. .. .. .. .. .. 012 0 Salary, relieving policeman .. .. .. .. ..550 Stationery .. .. .. .. .. . . ..110 Buggy-hire .. .. .. .. .. .. ..140 Passage, Judge and Interpreter .. .. .. .. ..434 Policeman, Mangaia .. .. .. .. .. ..1100 Native Assessor, Mangaia .. .. .. .. .. ..1000 Material .. .. .. .. .. .. ..148 Balance salary, late Registrar .. .. .. .. .. 64 16 11 Passage, late Registrar .. .. .. .. .. ..1850 £222 5 4 Rarotonga, Cook Islands, Bth April, 1913. W. J. Stevenson, Treasurer.

Cook Islands Administration. Details of Vote 42, Contingent Expenditure, Land Titles Court. £ s. d. Travelling-allowance, Chief Judge.. .. .. .. 35 9 6 Judge .. .. .. .. .. 247 10 0 Salary, Judge .. .. .. .. .. .. .. 282 17 3 Travelling-allowance, Surveyor .. .. .. .. .. 47 12 6 „ Interpreter .. .. .. .. 25 10 0 Passages survey party to Aitutaki . . . . .. .. 15 0 0 ~ Judge and Interpreter .. .. .. .. .. 868 Travelling-expenses (landing) .. .. .. . . . . 13 17 8 Passage Judge to New Zealand .. .. .. .. .. 1300 Interpreter's fees (relieving) .. .. .. . . .. 9 9 0 Camping-outfit .. .. .. .. . . .. .. 218 0 Tent .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. 4 19 4 Stationery .. .. .. .. .. .. .. 803 Instruments .. .. ~ .. .. .. .. 6 12 4 Labour .. .. .. .. .. .. 104 0 0 Material .. .. .. .. .. .. 16 18 0 Chain-repairs .. . ; .. .. .. .. .. 0 5 6 Salary, Assistant Draughtsman .. .. .. . . . . 63 12 0 Buggy-hire Kg. . 10 0 £906 18 0 Rarotonga, Cook Islands, llth April, 1913. W. J. Stevenson, Treasurer.

10

11

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- Cook Islands Administration. Details of Vote 43, Hospital Supplies and Attendance. Dr. £ s. d. ! Or. £ s. d. Drugs .. .. .. 296 4 9 Sale of horse .. .. .. 26 0 0 Instruments and appliances .. 63 12 2 Payments of patients . . .. 6 0 0 Utensils .. ' .. .. 12 7 6 Sale of drugs .. .. .. 9 4 9 Groceries .. .. . . 29 9 2 Refund of passages .. .. 5 17 0 Potatoes .. .. .. 12 5 11 Balance charged against general Cabin-bread .. .. .. 12 7 6 revenue .. .. .. 1,259 18 10 Eggs .. .. .. .. 0 18 4 Canned meats .. .. .. 12 5 6 Frozen meats .. . . .. 77 19 8 Butter .. .. .. 10 1.1 8 Bacon .. .. . . 115 6 Rice . . .. . . . . 6 10 0 Matches .. .. .. 0 4 6 Beer . . .. .. .. 0 4 3 Brandy .. . . .. 0 1.0 0 Canned fish .. .. .. 23 16 11 Ice .. .. .. .. 0 5 2 Jams .. .. .. 110 3 Tea 5 11 4 Hour 1 17 6 Canned fruits .. .. . . 3 6 0 Onions .. .. .. 2 10 3 Bread .. .. .. 19 0 4 Sugar 15 3 8 Milk 19 2 8 Stationery .. . • • • 2 10 Drapery .. .. . - 16 4 6 Kerosene .. .. - ■ 3 17 6 Charcoal 0 9 8 Coal 18 6 6 Soap 5 8 10 Brooms . . .. • • 15 3 Horse-feed .. .. .. 35 0 0 Horse-hire .. .. .. 7 5 0 Buggy-hire .. .. - - 1 10 0 Purchase of horse . . .. 35 9 4 Compensation for horse disabled . . 12 0 0 Harness and repairs .. . . 9 6 6 Laundry . . .. - - 15 15 8 Buggy-repairs .. . . . • 10 5 0 Tent' 11 3 0 Bicycle .. .. .. 10 10 0 Rent, Assistant Medical Officer's residence .. .. . ■ 40 0 0 Shoeing 2 0 0 Native assistance . . .. 50 7 8 Cook 39 5 9 Bonus, acting-nurse . . . . 10 0 0 Labour, Public Works Department 73 11 6 Material, Public Works Department 47 17 0 Grounds, attendance .. . . 110 0 Tools _• 19 4 Travelling-allowances, Chief Medical Officer .. .. •• 24 5 0 Travelling - allowances, Assistant Medical Officer .. .. 34 5 0 Passages, Medical Officers .. 93 3 0 Nurse .. .. 15 18 4 Professional assistance . . .. 2 2 0 Landing-expenses, Mangaia . . 7 17 6 Atiu .. 0 8 0 Aitutaki .. 1 17 0 Freight, Chief Medical Officer's effects from Lyttelton .. 1 13 3 Freight, drugs to Group .. 2 2 0 Magic heater ...... 10 14 0 Screens (2) .. .. 2 6 0 £1,307 0 7 £1,307 0 7

Net cost of administration, £1,259 18s. lOd. Rarotonga, Cook Islands, 7th April, 1913. W. J. Stevenson, Treasurer.

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12

Cook Islands Administration. Table showing Amounts expended on Public Works from Year 1902 to 31st March, 1913. 1902-3 .. \. .. 1,623 9 10 1903-4 .. .. .. .. .. 1,163 9 10 1904-5 .. .. .. .. .. 607 15 7 1905-6 .. .. .. .. .. 1,159 12 3 1906-7 .. .. .. .. .. 2,644 19 11 1907-8 .. .. .. .. .. 2,134 I 5 1908-9 .. .. .. .. .. 1,320 14 6 1909-10 .. .. .. .. .. 3,807 14 2 1910-11 .. .. .. .. 3,223 1 2 1911-12 .. .. .. .. .. 4,195 16 2 1912-13 .. .. .. .. .. 4,362 12 6 Rarotonga, Cook Islands, llth April, 1913. W. J. Stevenson, Treasurer.

Cook Islands Administration. Statement of Liquor Account for Year ended 31st March, 1913. £ s. d. £ s. d. Stock, Ist April, 1912 .. . . 54 0 5 Sales .. .. .. 96 2 9 Supplies .. . . .. 50 18 11 Stock, 31st March, 1913 .. .. 61 15 7 Duty .. .. .. .. 39 7 0 Freight .. .. .. 3 3 3 Balance .. .. . . 10 8 9 £157 18 4 £157 18 4 Profit and Loss Account. £ s. d. £ s. d. Stock .. .. . . 61 15 7 Balance, Ist April, 1912 .. .. 54 0 5 Cash transferred to general revenue 213 7 „ 31st March, 1913.. .. 10 8 9 £64 9 2 £64 9 2 Rarotonga, Cook Islands, Bth April, 1913. W. J. Stevenson, Treasure^

Cook Islands Administration. Statement of Receipts and Expenditure, Fruit-fumigation Account. £ s. d. £ s. d. Labour .. .. .. 238 12 8 Fees received .. .. .. 750 17 9 Stationery .. .. .. 14 0 Wages unclaimed .. .. 0 7 4 Material .. .. .. 20 19 1 Discount on chemicals .. .. 0 11 0 Tents .. . . .. 62 12 0 Balance, charged against general Buggy-hire .. .. .. 16 8 0 revenue .. .. .. 263 12 8 Chemicals .. .. .. 40 3 11 Travelling-expenses . . .. 13 18 6 Destruction, lantana-weed .. 40 13 0 Fencing .. .. .. 34 8 9 Passage, Inspector's family .. 10 10 0 Fruit purchased .. .. 3 2 6 Battens .. .. .. 3 11 3 Refund of Inspectors' salaries paid by New Zealand Government .. 529 5 1 £1,015 8 9 £1,015 8 9

. .. . I Rarotonga, Cook Islands, llth April, 1913. W. J. Stevenson, Treasurer.

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Cook Islands Administration. Port of Rarotonga. — Return showing Value of Imports for Year ended 31st December, 1912.

13

Article. Whence imported. Value. Total. Agricultural produce, not otherwise enumerated .. New Zealand United States America.. £ 1,052 39 £ Animals, living, — Cattle .. Horses 1,091 Fowls Pigs Sheep New Zealand Tahiti" New Zealand .. ,, 356 33 35 30 48 30 Apparel and slops 502 United Kingdom Victoria New South Wales Germany United States America.. Hong Kong Tahiti 2,389 1,054 5 13 121 116 21 455 Arms, ammunition, and explosives 4,174 New Zealand .. United Kingdom New South Wales 96 2 -15 Arrowroot Bags and sacks Tahiti New Zealand United States America.. Tahiti 1,290 18 32 113 54 Bamboo, for hat-making Beer and stout ,, .. New Zealand United Kingdom New South Wales Germany .. 41 107 3 29 1,340 237 Beverages, non-alcoholic Biscuits, cabin, bread Bicycles, tricycles, and parts New Zealand .. ,, *. Victoria United States America.. Tahiti 417 6 1 3 180 97 4,313 Boots and shoes New Zealand United Kingdom Canada Hong Kong Germany United States America.. Tahiti 923 41 30 3 1 102 12 427 Building-material, not otherwise enumerated New Zealand United States America.. Tahiti 809 100 1 1,112 Butter and cheese Carriages, carts, &c, and parts of same.. New Zealand .. ,, New South Wales United States America.. Tahiti 214 42 1,368 4 9b 1,43Cement Coal Cinematographs and accessories, also hire of films New Zealand .. 1,628 713 78 New South Wales United Kingdom United States America.. Tahiti 1.708 14 22 135 868 2,74'

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Cook Islands Administration — continued. Port of Rarotonga. — Return showing Value of Imports for Year ended 31st December, 1912 —continued.

Article. Whence imported. Value. Value. Total. ! Confectionery New Zealand New South Wales United States America.. Tahiti £ 153 5 3 28 Cordage and twine New Zealand United States America.. Tahiti 290 132 24 189 Cotton piece-goods 446 New Zealand United Kingdom New South Wales United States America.. Tahiti 768 4,404 18 513 439 Drapery New Zealand United Kingdom New South Wales Germany Japan United States America.. Tahiti 2,961 934 13 170 118 37 78 6,142 Drugs and ohemicais .. . 4,311 New Zealand United Kingdom New South Wales United States America.. Tahiti Tonga 613 34 10 4 22 3 686 Earthenware and glassware New Zealand United Kingdom New South Wales Germany United States America.. Japan 414 51 2 33 21 1 Fancy goods and toys New Zealand United Kingdom New South Wales France Germany United States America.. Tahiti 369 93 25 24 40 137 93 522 Pish, preserved New Zealand United Kingdom British Columbia United States America.. Germany Tahiti 923 81 429 120 80 15 781 Flour 1,648 New Zealand United States America.. 2,912 529 3,441 Furniture New Zealand United Kingdom New South Wales Germany United States America.. Tahiti i 1,027 49 88 110 5 10 Hardware New Zealand United Kingdom Victoria New South Wales Germany United States America.. Tahiti 1,735 185 54 19 100 158 • 50 1,289 1,735 185 54 19 100 158 ■ 50 2,301

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Cook Islands Administration — continued. Port of Rarotonga. — Return showing Value of Imports for Year ended 31st December, 1912— continued.

15

Article. Whence imported. ValueTotal. £ Hats and caps New Zealand United Kingdom New South Wales Tahiti £ 499 17 1 16 Iron, — Bar, bolt, rod, and galvanized sheet New Zealand Victoria Tahiti 1,522 80 4 5& Pipes New Zealand New South Wales 1 279 828 1,606 Wire 1,107 New Zealand Germany 213 28 241 Machines, sewing New Zealand New South Wales United States America.. Tahiti 134 167 102 119 Matches New Zealand New South Wales Germany 231 14 342 52: Meats, — Frozen Preserved Salted .. Milk, preserved Nails New Zealand .. ,, i 587 474 7,069 645 437 ,, . . . . Canada 529 112 Oil, — 641 Kerosene and benzene Other kinds New Zealand United Kingdom New South Wales Germany 175 45 4 17 1,058 Paints and varnish New Zealand United Kingdom New South Wales United States America.. Tahiti 246 36 9 47 5 241 Perfumery and toilet prepaiations New Zealand United Kingdom Germany United States America.. 10 56 10 7 343 Photographic goods Provisions not otherwise enumerated New Zealand .. ,, United Kingdom New South Wales Victoria Hong Kong United States America.. Tahiti 2,288 74 1 49 3 130 69 83 14 Rice New Zealand United States America.. 654 425 2,614 Saddlery and harness 1,079 ! New Zealand United States America.. Tahiti 332 174 1 507

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Cook Islands Administration — continued. Port of Rarotonga. — Return showing Value of Imports for Year ended 31st December, 1912 —continued.

W. J. Stevenson, Rarotonga, Cook Islands, 10th March, 1913. Collector of Customs.

Article. Whence imported. Value. Total. Silks Silks £ New Zealand .. .. 78 Hong Kong .. .. 51 Japan .. .. 169 Tahiti .. .. 73 ■Soap New Zealand .. . . 1,104 United States America.. 14 371 1,118 13,667 Specie Spirits,— Brandy Gin and geneva Rum Essences, spirituous flavouring Methylated Perfumed Whisky Sugar .. .. Kmber, — Fruit-box Sawn robacco, cigars, and cigarettes. fools New Zealand .. .. | ,, .. ,, *. United Kingdom 55 United States America.. 9 Tahiti .. .. 6 New Zealand .. .. 197 United Kingdom .. 12 New Zealand .. 1,603 New South Wales .. j 10 United States America. . 1,054 Tahiti .. .. 159 New Zealand .. .. 716 United Kingdom .. 77 New South Wales .. 174 Tahiti .. .. 14 Holland .. .. 14 India .. .. 14 New Zealand .. .. 192 United Kingdom .. 49 New South Wales .. 27 United States America 81 Tahiti .. .. 21 9 19 28 103 26 70 209 2,527 7,916 2,826 1,009 frees and plants Wines, — Claret Victoria .. . . 8 Tahiti .. .. 2 New Zealand .. .. 15 Victoria .. .. 68 United States America. . 12 Tahiti .. .. 22 370 10 Ginger Port .. Sparkling New Zealand Victoria United Kingdom 117 12 5 24 Woodenware Miscellaneous New Zealand 262 United Kingdom .. 24 Victoria .. .. 6 New South Wales .. 101 United States America.. 30 Tahiti .. .. 33 183 456 Total 93,812

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Cook Islands Administration. Port of Rarotonga.—Return showing Value of Exports for Year ended 31st December, 1912.

W. J. Stevenson, Rarotonga, Cook Islands, 2nd May, 1913. Collector of Customs. Cook Islands Administration. Return showing Total Values of Imports and Exports for Year ended 31st December, 1912. IMPORTS. 1912. 1911. £ £ New Zealand.. .. .. .. .. .. 73,704 United Kingdom .. .. .. .. .. 7, 526 United States of America .. .. .. • • 5,623 Tahiti .. ..- 3,002 New South Wales 1,603 Victoria .. .. .. .. .. •• 281 Germany .. .. .. .. .. .. 1,081 France .. .. .. .. .. .. 24 British Columbia .. .. .. .. ■ • 429 India .. .. .. .. .. . • 14 Canada .. .. .. .. . • •■ 142 Japan .. .. .. .. .. • • 288 Hong Kong .. .. .. .. .. • • 78 Holland .. .. .. .. •• •• 14 Tonga .. .. .. • • •• • • 3 £93,812 £89,623 1 . .. "■'■'. I ■■imiijui ii mi]

3—A. 3.

Article. Fruit, fresh — Bananas Where exported. Quantity. Value. Total. £ £ 32,940 260 New Zealand 94,108 cases 2,135 bnchs. Oranges Pineapples Unenumerated >> • • 106,878 cases 5,110 „ 51 „ 335 tons 772 „ 129 „ 113 ,, 33,200 16,060 501 ,, • • Copra 3, - - United Kingdom United States America Tahiti 5 6,365 15,816 2,400 1,695 Coffee, raw Coconuts i— ; 2fi 97fi 26,276 New Zealand 1,340 tons 66,800 lb. 110,812 number 546,543 „ 1,950 ,y • • United States America 490 2,391 2,881 Pearl-shell United Kingdom Tahiti 657,355 number: 56 tons 29 „ 8.200 2,320 Candlenuts Vanilla.. Animals, living pigs Mats Copper, old Fruits, preserved. . Bags and sacks . . Fish, preserved .. Matches, wooden Specie 10,520 85 tons New Zealand United States America Tahiti New Zealand 31 tons 629 lbs 465 187 5 10 37 58 20 20 35 9,478 yy Tahiti" *> • • New Zealand Total 101,708

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Cook Islands Administration — continued. Return showing Total Values of Imports and Exports\for Year ended 31st December, 1912 —continue ! 1912. 1911. EXPORTS. £ .£ New Zealand.. .. .. .. ..' .. 68,619 United Kingdom .. .. .. .. ..24,016 United States of America .. .. .. .. 4,978 Tahiti .. .. .. .. .. .. 4.095 £101.708 £91,076 W. .1. Stevenson, Rarotonga, Cook Islands, 2nd May, 1913. Collector of Customs

Cook Islands Administration. Table showing Total Values, Imports and Exports, from Year 1902 to 31st December, 1912. imports. „ Amount. Increase. Decreasß. * ear - £ £ £ 1902 .. .. .. .. .. 27,623 1903 .. .. .. .. .. 34.866 7.263 1904 .. .. .. .. .. 33,399 .. 1,487 1905 .. .. .. .. .. 36,993 3,594 1906 .. .. .. .. .. 41,437 4,444 1907 .. .. .. .. .. 50,756 9,314 1908 .. .. .. .. .. 55.021 4,265 L 909 .. .. .. .. .. 67,737 12,716 191,0 .. .. .. .. .. 83.795 16,058 1911 .. .. .. .. .. 89,623 5,828 1912 .. .. .. .. .. 93,812 4,189 exports. 1902 .. .. .. .. .. 34,821 1903 .. .. .. .. .. 34,740 .. 81 1904 .. .. .. .. .. 38,248 3,508 1905 .. .. .. .. .. 34,890 .. 3,358 1906 .. .. .. .. .. 45,925 11,035 1907 .. .. .. .. .. 51,578 5,653 1908 .. .. .. ' .. .. 60,652 9,074 1909 .. .. .. .. .. 73,653 13.001 1910 .. .. .. .. .. 90,749 17,096 1911 .. .. .. .. .. 91,076 327 1912 .. .. .. .. .. 101,708 10,632 W. J. Stevenson, Collector of Customs

Cook Islands Administration. Principal Exports from each Island in the Cook Group for Year ended 31st December, 1912.

W. J. Stevenson, Rarotonga, Cook Islands, 14th March, 1913, Collector of Customs.

Island. Rarotonga .. Aitutaki Mangaia Atiu Mauke Mitiaro Ba,uanas. Cases, j Belies. C . 89,522! 2,135 5( 987 .. 1' 3,571 .. U 28 .. Li i CO o DC a ee •h O Cases 10,84 7,36 .4,27 4,72 8,86 7e 6 a X © a o ° ! in a o o o o 6 SB o O o 5 o tH I I © o S 3 3 a Manuae Penrhyn Manihiki Rakahanga .. Palmerston .. Suarrow Pnkapuka Takutea Cases. 50,848 17,387 14,279 14,722 8,882 760 Cases. 712 4,032 366 Cases. 48 3 I Tons. .Number lb. Tons. 160 64-1,335 34,650 i .. 273 ! 9,38(1 141 i 6,640! 31,000 i .. 149 .. 900 ■ .. 166 i .. 250 ! .. en 105 I 29 I .. .. 27 70 .. .. 48 57 75 26 ! .. .. 10 25 [ .. 3 1.. I i : Cases. ' Tons. 14 .. j 1,209, .. 31 ! Totals, 1912 94,108 2,135 106 106,878 6,87 5,110 51 1,340 ,657,355 66,800 j 85 1,223 : 31

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Cook Islands Administration. Statement showing Cargo shipped by the Auckland aiul Wellington Steamers from Rarotonga during the Year ended 31st December, 1912. hi ~ Auckland. Wellington. Month. ™ m 6 1 ons. lons. January .. .. ... .. .. .. 660 437 February .. .. .. .. .. 394 105 March .. .. .. .. .. ..372 368 April .. .. .. .. .. ..976 824 May .. .. .. .. .. ..551 735 June .. .. .. ... .. ..476 276 July .. .. .. .. .. ..514 346 August .. .. .. .. .. .. 357 270 September . . .. .. .. .. 266 324 October .. .. . . .. .. 296 381 ~ (second trip) . . . . .. .. .. .. 313 November .. .. .. .. .. .. 417 408 December . . . . .. .. .. 483 341 5,762 5,128 W. J. Stevenson, Rarotonga, Cook Islands, 10th March, 1913. Collector of Customs. •

Cook Islands Administration. Statement, in Tons, of Cargo shipped from the undermentioned Islands in the Cook Group during the Years ended 31st December, 1911 and 1912.

W. J. Stevenson, Rarotonga, Cook Islands 10th March, 1913. Collector of Customs.

High Court of the Cook Islands. Sir, — Registrar's Office, Rarotonga, llth April, 1913. I have the honour to report as follows on the work of the High Court for the year ending 31st March, 1913. The number of cases heard in its criminal jurisdiction was 284, as follows :— 1912-13. 1911-12. Adultery and illegal cohabitation .. .. .. ..11 13 Drunkenness and manufacture of bush-beer . . . . .. 125 56 Assault .'. .. .. .. .. .. ..20 26 Theft ..41 23 Trespass . . .. .. .. .. .. .. 6 II Wandering animals . . . . .. . . . . .. 2 12 Breaches of Licensing Act .. . . .. .. .. 2 6 Breaches of Customs Act .. .. .. .. .. 1 4 Breaches of Fruit Regulations .. .. .. .. 16 14 Miscellaneous petty offences .. .. .. .. 60 29 284 197

Month. Mangaia. Aitutaki. Atiu. Mauke. 1911. 1912. 1911. 1912. 1911. 1912. 1911. 1912. January February March.. April May June July August September October November December 43 93 150 161 161 117 149 173 148 45 70 269 7 17 95 172 192 164 90 120 207 212 168 105 166 66 152 210 347 223 183 261 296 15 154 107 267 339 294 421 235 161 36 214 394 218 131 198 144 I I 201 261 ( 386 528 346 Totals.. | 1,296 1,579 1,549 1,904 1,993 957 342 462

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The increase in drunkenness, it may be desirable to explain, is more apparent than real; the number of offenders being 125, while in the previous year the number (fifty-six) represented groups of cases totalling 113 defendants. In its civil jurisdiction the Court heard 188 cases, of which the following are particulars, as compared with the previous year :—- -1912-13. 1911-12. Damages .. .. .. .. .. .. .. 25 Debt .. .. .. .. .. .. ..24 9 Divorce .. .. .. .. .. .. .. 26 8 Breach of contract .. .. .. .. .. . . 6 2 Probate and administration .. .. .. .. .. 3 2 Miscellaneous .. .. . . . . . . . . 4 2 88 23 The fees and fines collected and paid to the Treasury during the year amounted to, — 1912-13. 1911-12. £ s. d. £ s. d. Criminal jurisdiction .. .. .. 336 9 3 151 10 6 Civil jurisdiction .. .. .. .. 53 12 0 12 10 6 £390 1 3 £164 1 0 Fines to the amount of £58 4s. 6d. are outstanding, and are being collected by instalments. During the year five offenders were sent to Manuae Island to serve their terms of imprisonment. I have, &c, The Resident Commissioner, Rarotonga. H. H. G. Ralee, Registrar.

Cook Islands Land-titles Court. Sir,— Rarotonga, 7th May, 1913. I have the honour to report as to the work of the Land-titles Court for the year ending 31st March, 1913, as follows : — Fees. The fees outstanding on the 31st March, 1912, amounted to £422 4s. Since that date fees have been imposed amounting to £445 7s. 6d., while the fees collected and paid into the Treasury amounted to £341 125., leaving the amount of fees outstanding £528 4s. 6d., as follows : — £ s. d. Rarotonga .. .. .. .. .. .. .. 259 10 0 Aitutaki .. .. .. .. .. .. .. 100 16 0 Mauke.. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. 130 0 0 Rakahanga . . .. .. . . .. . . 21 3 6 Mangaia .. .. .. .. .. .. .. 900 Mitiaro .. .. .. .. .. .. .. 550 Atiu .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. 1 15 0 Manihiki .. .. .. .. .. .. .. 0 15 0 £528 4 6 The total amount of fees paid into the Treasury since the inception of the Court is £4,046 6s. lid. Sittings of the Court. Sittings of the Court were held as follows : At Rarotonga, 72 days ; at Aitutaki, 22 days ; and at Mangaia, 7 days. Ordeis were made as follows :At Ratotonga —Investigation of title 16 ; partition, 28 ; confirmation of alienation, 15 ; amendment, 26 ; succession, 148 ; appointment of trustee, 1 ; probate, 1 ; restriction, 1 : at Aitutaki —Investigation of title, 78 ; partition, 13 ; succession, 14 ; confirmation of alienation, 12 ; restriction, 1 ; amendment, 1 : at Mangaia —Investigation of title, 2 ; confirmation of alienation, 2. New Applications. The following were lodged during the year : Rarotonga—lnvestigation of title, 7 ; partition, 9; succession, 12 ; exchange, 2 ; reinvestigation,!; amendment,!: Aitutaki —Investigation of title, 88 ; partition, 6 ; succession, 1 ; confirmation of alienation, 1. The total number of applications awaiting a sitting of the Court is 373. I have, &c, The Resident Commissioner, Rarotonga. 11. H. G. Ralfe, Registrar.

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Cook Islands Administration. Vital Statistics for Year 1912.

Report on the Health of the Island of Mangaia. Sir,— Rarotongo, 29th July, 1912. I beg to submit my report upon the health of the Island of Mangaia, with details of the work done during my visit in June-July of this year. I arrived on the island on the 19th June, and left on the 18th July, having thus a period of four weeks in which to carry out the inspection. In this time I was able to see and treat practically all the cases of serious disease among the inhabitants, but I may say here that I am strongly of opinion that a more frequent visitation will be necessary if the health of the population is to be cared for in a satisfactory manner. The amount of disease is considerable, and many of the cases require periodical supervision and attention. If proper travelling facilities were available it would be of inestimable benefit to the island if visits at monthly or six-weekly intervals could be instituted, and if at each visit five or six days were spent in seeing and treating the cases of disease these would be kept well in hand, and in course of time the Natives would be educated to take care of their skin and other diseases in a proper manner, and to understand the nature of contagion and infection, so that the spread of disease would be materially checked.

island and Village. lirtl is. Deaths. >cai is. j i Marriages. ! Rarotonga— Avarua Arorangi Titikaveka Ngatangiia Matavera 67 16 12 13 9 34 24 15 22 7 19 5 3 9 4 Totals 117 102 40 Aitutaki — Arutanga \ Reureu I Nikaupara j Amuri ) Vaipae Tautu .. 48 28 10 8 2 4 14 4 1 Totals 58 46 15 Mangaia — Oneroa Tamarua Ivarua 39 II 14 39 10 7 8 5 4 Totals 64 56 17 Penrhyn 11 13 Manihiki 21 Rakahanga 10 20 12 Palmerston Island Atiu 36 20 12 Mauke— Oiretumu Kimiangatau 9 11 7 4 4 2 Totals 20 11 H. H. G. iALFE, Registrar.

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I would strongly recommend to the consideration of the authority the various suggestions, particularly with regard to the water-supply, which I have thought it my duty to embody in this report. The report is prefaced by a short description of the island, the peculiar configuration accounting for some of the conditions affecting the health of the inhabitants. I am indebted to the Rev. J. Hutchin, of the London Missionary Society, for kindly placing at my disposal a room for use as a dispensary. My most sincere thanks are likewise due to Takapi, the Native missionary at Mangaia, who was able to assist me in many ways. Area of Island; Physical Features; Water. The area of Mangaia is about 30 square miles, circumference about 30 miles. A fringing reef encircles the island at a short distance from the shore, there being practically no lagoon. At a varying distance inland from the shore an almost perpendicular wall of dead coral rises —the so-called " Makatea." This wall of coral runs right round the island, and is of an average height of about 100 ft. The top of the Makatea averages about a mile in width. The interior face descends precipitously in some places, or slopes down gradually in others into a valley of swamp land, and from this the land rises again in a succession of low hills to a central plateau about 650 ft. high. The interior of the island is well watered hj streams, which percolate through the base of the Makatea and pass into the sea by underground channels. There are no streams traversing the flat'belt of land between the Makatea and the sea. Settlements; Population. There are three settlements or villages in the island —Oneroa, Ivirua, and Tamarua. At the last census (April, 1911) the total population of the island was 1,466, of which 916 were adults and 550 children under fifteen years of age. The following synopsis of the census figures shows the distribution of the population in the three settlements : — Adults. Under fifteen. „, . , Males. Females. Males. Females. J- 0 "" 1 *- Onerua ... ... ... ... 242 264 163 159 828 Ivirua ... ... ... ... 109 111 87 55 362 Tamarua... ... ... ... 98 92 42 44 276 449 467 292 258 1,466 ~~916~ ~~ 550~ Housing. The majority of the Native houses are purau, but there are a few concrete and a certain number of wooden houses. The purau house is, in my opinion, the ideal one for Native dwellings; the thick pandanus thatch keeps the house cool, and the free ventilation and plentiful admission of light probably soon destroys any pathogenic organisms. In addition, these houses are not costly to erect, so that there is no temptation to overcrowding, and, when old and possibly insanitary, destruction does not involve any material loss. Wooden and concrete houses have many disadvantages as compared with the purau house. The) ait- usually dark, and the ventilation is poor, especially at night, when the Natives are accustomed to close all windows and doors. The rooms being dark, it may be inferred that they are dirty in the majority of cases, and as such houses aire costly to erect the tendency is to overcrowd. The roof is usually of corrugated iron, so that the house is hot, and this combination of heat, bad ventilation, and darkness must profoundly affect the health of the inhabitants, at the same time furnishing many of the conditions necessary for the multiplication of the organisms of disease. Water-supply. Water for drinking is derived almost entirely from rain collected from roofs in tanks of various kinds. On the beach at Onerua a well has been sunk, and water tapped at a distance of 15 ft. below the surface. This well affords a useful supply, of washing-water to a certain number of the inhabitants of this settlement, but as the water is brackish it is not much use for drinking purposes. The European residents and some of the Natives possess proper galvanized-iron tanks, suitably screened to prevent the entrance of obnoxious material, but in many instances the water is collected in old barrels, kerosene and biscuit tins, &c, open at the top, so that it is frequently seen to be polluted by dead cockroaches, decaying leaves, &c, while the larvae of mosquito and other insects are usually numerous. As few of the Natives possess tanks of sufficient size or sufliciently numerous to provide water for washing purposes, the women arc accustomed to carry the soiled clothing over the Makatea to the central valley beyond, where at most seasons the water is plentiful. From the arduous nature of the journey it may be surmised that as little washing is done as possible, and it is a fact that many of the adults and the majority of the children are attired in garments which are, to say the least, very dirt}-. The scarcity of water in settlements, with the consequent lack of cleanliness of the Natives, is, of course, answerable for much of the ill health among them. The majority suffer from a form of body-ringworm which is propagated by filth, and a large proportion have sores of various kinds, which, being rarely or never bathed, give rise to loathsome and evil-smellin" discharges, attracting the numerous flies which assist in spreading the diseases.

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From these considerations it is evident that the question of providing a constant and plentiful supply of water is one which from the standpoint of public health demands immediate attention. The provision of large concrete tanks for the collection of rain-water might prove sufficient, but it might be possible to locate some of the underground channels carrying water under the Makatea from the central valley to the sea, and if this were done wells could be sunk and the water brought to the surface by means of pump's. As mentioned above, this has been found possible in one instance in the village of Onerua, where, however, the well has been sunk too near the sea, and consequently at high water the water is more or less salt. Disposal of Excretal and other Refuse. The houses of the Europeans are provided with dry closets, but the Maoris follow the usual Native custom of utilizing the bush or seashore for the deposition of the excreta. Owing to the activity of the purifying influences of the sun, wind, and rain in a climate such as that of Mangaia, and probably more particularly on account of the action of the nitrifying organisms which flourish in a rich soil containing much organic matter, offensive material is soon oxidized and rendered inoffensive, so that this habit of the Natives cannot be said to constitute a nuisance. It is probable that the introduction of privies or closets would be from some points of view more objectionable, at any rate at the present time. Domestic refuse is usually thrown down in the vicinity of the dwellings, and, although remnants of food are soon disposed of by the numerous pigs and fowls, tins, coconut-shells, &c., are left lying about in a very unsightly manner, and by forming receptacles for stagnant water offer a breeding-place for mosquitos. A useful regulation might be made dealing with this question, in. view of the importance of destroying all mosquito breeding-grounds, it being now well established that the insects act both as carriers of disease and as the host of some of the parasites causing disease in man. Leprosy. No case of this disease was observed. Elephantiasis. This is not of very common occurrence in the island; probably not more than 1 per cent, of the adult population show manifestations of filarial infection, a very small proportion as compared with, say, the Island of Huahine, where seven-tenths of the adult male population are affected. Yaws. This disease is very common, and probably the majority of the children pass through an attack sooner or later. Owing to the want of cleanliness of the Natives, and to the slight regard which they pay to this condition, extensive sores are frequent, and in several instances cases came under my observation in which the subsequent cicatricial contraction had led to crippling of the limbs so serious that in two cases affecting young men there was absolute inability to walk of some years' duration. Syphilis. A considerable proportion of the population suffers from this disease. Treatment is usually sought only when tertiary lesions of the skin, Arc, manifest themselves, and the disease is rarelyseen in its earlier stages. Hereditary syphilis is frequently observed. Other Diseases. Muscular rheumatism is of frequent occurrence, as are also chronic bronchitis and asthma. It is probable that the laborious work entailing exposure to chill in connection with the extensive taro swamps acts as a powerful predisposing circumstance with regard to these diseases. Skin-diseases : As mentioned above, the majority of the Natives are affected with a form of body-ringworm (Tinea versicolor). Other skin-diseases are common. Arrangements made for the Treatment of the Sick. A room suitably fitted with shelves for use as a dispensary was placed at my disposal through the kind offices of the Rev. J. Hutchin, of the London Missionary Society. At this dispensary the sick were attended to each morning except on Tuesdays and Fridays, which days were set apart for visits to the settlements of Ivirua and Tamarua. In the afternoons 1 was able to visit at their homes those who could not attend the dispensary. Cases requiring Hospital Treatment. In addition to diseases for which immediate curative treatment could be instituted, a certain number of cases were seen requiring hospital care, and for which only palliative treatment could be given at the time. Some of these cases refused to undertake the journey to Rarotonga, being naturally diffident about exhibiting their infirmities on board a public steamer; in other cases of loathsome or contagious skin-disease I did not, for obvious reasons, consider it advisable to recommend the journey. I am convinced, however, that if proper transport facilities were provided for such cases much good would be done by taking advantage of the well-equipped Hospital at Rarotonga. Number of Gams treated,. In all 547 visits were made to the dispensary, comprising 337 new cases and 210 second and subsequent attendances. One hundred and sixty-one patients were visited in their own homes in Invirua and Tamarua, and 39 irr Oneroa. I am, &c, A. R. Maclurkin, Assistant Medical and Health Officer. The Chief Medical and Health Officer for the Cook Islands,

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Report on the Health of the Island of Aitutaki. Sir, — Rarotonga, 23rd December, 1912. I beg to submit my report, upon the health of the Island of Aitutaki. I arrived at the island on the 4th November, and left again on the 2nd December. In the intervening four weeks I was able, in addition to examining and treating the sick, to make a complete inspection of the island from a hygienic standpoint, paying special attention to the questions of housing, sanitation, and water-supply. I also visited, along with Mr. Hawk, the Resident Agent, the islet on which the lepers are segregated, and inquired into the conditions under which they live and are cared for. It would be well if my recommendations with regard to the provision of suitable accommodation and water supply for these sufferers could be carried out. at the earliest possible opportunity. In the meantime, and pending further instructions, I have advised Mr. Hawk to take such steps as may be possible with the limited resources at his command to alleviate their misery. A very large portion of the population of Aitutaki suffers from disease in some form or other, and in many cases of a very serious nature, so that in order to cope with it a frequent visitation of the island by one of the Medical Officers will be necessary. The remarks on this subject which I embodied in my report on Mangaia apply equally well for this island. A visit of a month at a time, with a long interval between visits, can have very little permanent effect in educating the Natives to appreciate the importance of various hygienic measures connected with the home, and only by repeated instructions and exhortation can they be taught or persuaded to take proper care of the sores and contagious skin-diseases which form such a prominent and loathsome feature of Native life. I would especially call your attention to my remarks re housing, having regard to the number of cases of phthisis in these islands. Measures should also be taken at once to deal with the mosquito plague. Area of the Island. The area of Aitutaki is about 7 square miles. In addition there are several islets on the barrier reef and in the lagoon, one of which is used as a leper settlement. Villages. On the western side of the island the four settlements of Arutanga, Reureu, Nikaupara, and Amuri form practically one long village. On tin- eastern side are the settlements of Vaipae and Tautu. The site of the old village of Tauta having been condemned as unhealthy on account of the marshy nature of the soil, most of the houses have been pulled down, and the new village is now being built on higher ground further inland. Population. At the last census (April, 1911) the total population of the island was 1,222, comprising 613 males and 609 females. These figures include eight male and three female Europeans. The following synopsis of the census figures shows the distribution of the population in the various settlements : —

Housing. In my report on Mangaia I stated my reasons for regarding the purau house with leafthatched loof as the ideal one for Natives in these islands. Unfortunately, most of the houses in Aitutaki are built of concrete and usually of faulty design. Although more pretentious than the purau house, these concrete houses are undoubtedly less healthy. The window-space is almost invariably inadequate, the windows being small, low, and in many cases not made to open. In very many instances I found that where the window-panes were broken a sheet of galvanized iron had been placed over the window, or the windows boarded, up, thus shutting out light and air from the dark noisome interior. In other cases wings have been added to the original houses, so that the main rooms have only secondary lighting and ventilation.

Village. Over Th Yei lirtj -five a.rs. Betweej andTh i Fifteen irty-five. Under Yei Fifteen .rs. Euro leans. Totals. .rutanga . . teureu likaupara .muri 'aipae 'autu .raura School M. 31 61 19 46 37 21 F. 30 11 16 32 32 11 M. 46 15 22 60 31 27 9 F. 49 17 23 70 44 36 2 M. 43 16 19 54 32 12 49 F. 56 17 28 58 30 27 17 M, 6 1 F. 3 264 92 127 321 206 135 77 1 170 132 210 241 225 233 1,222

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It would be well if a regulation were made providing that before any new building be erected or any extensive structural alteration made to an existing building the Resident Agent be notified, so that by his advice many of these evils could be prevented. I made a close inspection of many of the houses, and am firmly convinced that some sort of supervision is necessary in order to deal with existing insanitary dwellings, and to prevent their erection in the future. It might even be advisable to frame building regulations which would guide the Natives in such matters as lighting and ventilation. Water-supply. As at Mangaia drinking-water is derived almost entirely from rain collected from roofs in tanks of various kinds. In most months of the year a sufficient supply is obtainable from this source. A regulation should be made, however, prescribing the forms of tanks to be used, and making it compulsory to have all receptacles suitably screened to prevent the entrance of insects. At present all sorts of vessels are used for storing water, and most of the houses are surrounded by a fringe of old barrels, kerosene and biscuit tins, &c, the water in which is alive with mosquito-larvae. In some of the settlements large concrete tanks have been provided, and in the new village of Tautu the Resident Agent is arranging to sink a well. Water for washing is obtained in part from springs. Personal Hygiene. It cannot be denied that with some exceptions the personal habits of the Natives leave much to be desired, and it is certain that an improvement in this respect would be rapidly followed by an improvement in the health of the community. Clothing : Although considerable sums are spent by the Natives in the purchase of expensive silks, satins, and ribbons, the clothing made from these materials is reserved as a rule for high days and holidays, and on most days of the week the dresses of the women present a slatternly and bedraggled appearance, and are mostly the reverse of clean. On week-days also the tattered and filthy singlets and trousers of the men and the dirty garments of the children sufficiently indicate the fact that these people have no proper appreciation of the virtue of cleanliness. Vermin : As might be expected among such people, body and other forms of lice are frequently observed. The majority of the women and girls have nits in their hair, and even a superficial search will usually reveal specimens of the head-louse. Scabies is also of frequent occurrence. Teeth : The Natives pay little attention to their teeth, so that, unlike other coloured races, who are mostly very particular in this respect, the Maoris are not remarkable for the beauty of these useful ornaments. Dental caries is common, partly no doubt owing to the nature and mode of preparation of the food, contributed by the absolute neglect of any precautions in the way of brushing the teeth or even rinsing out the mouth after a meal. Many of the adults suffer from Pyorrhoea alveolaris. Food : The staple articles of food on the island are kumaras, taro, and arrowroot made into poi. These starchy foods are cooked soft, and swallowed without much previous mastication or insalivation. Meals also are taken at irregular times. It is not surprising, therefore, that dyspetic ailments are exceedingly common. The hands are rarely washed before a meal, and much of the food is taken up by the fingers from dishes or leaves laid on the floor on which the diners sit. As at all times the Natives have the habit of expectorating freely on the floor, it is not difficult to account for the spread of many diseases. Disposal of Excreta! and other Refuse. My remarks on this subject in my report on Mangaia sufficiently indicate the conditions prevailing at Aitutaki. Disposal of the Dead. The dead are buried in small cemeteries, of which there are many on the island, usually at some distance from the villages. The Aitutakians do not follow the objectionable custom common in Rarotonga of burying the dead in the immediate vicinity of dwellinghouses. Mosquitoes. These dangerous pests are very numerous in Aitutaki, which is not to be wondered at, considering the facilities afforded for the development of the larvae. In view of the prevalence of elephantiasis in this island the question of reducing the numbers of the mosquitoes is a very important one. Mosquitoes breed as a rule close to the houses where the adults find their human food. They tend to be strictly local in their habits, and to abound most where they can the most likely find food, shelter, and stagnant water for themselves and their larvse. In most cases therefore, when mosquitoes are plentiful in a house they are being bred in tins or other vessels containing stagnant water in the vicinity of the dwelling. The idea that the insects travel or are carried by the wind from distant marshes has little evidence in its favour; as a matter of fact, directly a strong wind begins to blow mosquitoes take shelter. It is a matter of common observation that one house may swarm with mosquitoes and another a few yards distant may have comparatively few. If, therefore, all stagnant water, such as collects in empty meat-tins broken bottles, coconut-shells, gutters, wells, pits, drains, &c, be removed from the neighbourhood of dwellinghouses, and all tanks and cisterns for collecting or storing water be screened with mosquito-proof covers, the adult mosquitoes—which must have water to drink and to lay their eggs in—soon fly away. They continue to breed, of course, in collections of water such as taro swamps and marshes which cannot be got rid of, and a few may wander into the settlements from

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outside, but these facts need not prevent a stop being put to the proliferation of the insects as much as posible. There seems no reason why a by-law should not be made compelling all occupiers to keep the vicinity of their dwellings clear of stagnant water, and to screen their water-tanks; no hardship would be inflicted, and I am of opinion that the mosquitoes could be reduced in the villages by 90 per cent, with corresponding benefit to the community. Active operations against mosquitoes are now being undertaken in most tropical British or American colonies, and it is certainly advisable to take the matter very seriously in hand in these islands. Leprosy. Before visiting the leper islet I discovered one case of leprosy in the settlement of Arutanga. This was the case of a youth about twenty-one years of age, born in Manihiki, but who had resided in Aitutaki for one year and seven months. From the history of the case the disease had probably been contracted in Manihiki, although the patient had not noticed any abnormal symptoms until after he had been some months in Aitutaki. His parents and a sister and brother are said to be alive and well on the Island of Manihiki. On visiting the leper islet I found, in addition to the above patient whom I had sent there, three reputed lepers (male), and one woman who was not diseased, but who had elected to accompany her husband into exile. Two of the men were without doubt lepers, but the husband of the woman just mentioned I did not consider leprous, and I therefore directed that this man and his wife be allowed to return to the main island. There are at present, therefore, only three lepers on the islet, all males. The conditions under which I found these unfortunate people living when I paid my visit were regrettable. No accommodation whatever has been provided for them. They themselves have erected some low huts made of coconut and pendamus leaves, much inferior to a purau house. There is no roof of size sufficient to form a collecting surface for rain-water, which consequently has to be brought from the main island. This water is stored in a small zinc tank open at the top, and only large enough to hold the drinking-water. At my visit there was only a small quantity of somewhat dirty water at the bottom of the tank, with several dead insects floating on the top. Of water for washing or for bathing sores there is none. The condition, therefore, of the lepers as regard cleanliness needs no description. In these days when leprosy is not by any means regarded as an absolutely incurable disease it seems very wrong that these people should be confined under the above conditions and removed from all medical attention, which they are as much entitled to as sufferers from any other malady. Until more satisfactory arrangements are made with regard to the lepers in these islands, the least that can be done is to satisfy their requirements in the way of shelter, water, food, and clothing. A shelter, which need only be made of purau, could be put up at little cost, and if roofed with galvanized iron to serve as a collecting surface for rain-water, and a suitable tank erected, the first two items would be sufficiently provided for. With regard to food and clothing, the present unsatisfactory system is to leave the provision of these to the friends and relatives. It would be well, therefore, if the Resident Agent could see his way to visit the islet from time to time, and observe for himself if the people concerned were doing their duty in this respect. Arrangements made for the Treatment of the Sick. On my arrival on the island a dispensary was set up in the Courthouse, at which the sick were attended to daily. On Tuesdays and Fridays visits were paid to Vaipae and Tautu. In all, 727 visits were made at the dispensary, comprising 522 new cases and 205 second and subsequent attendances. 199 visits were paid to patients at their own homes. Summary of Diseases treated. Diseases of the alimentary system ... ... ... ... ... 85 Diseases of the respiratory system ... ... ... ... ... 67 Diseases of the circulatory system ... ... ..." ... ... 9 Diseases of the nervous system ... ... ... ... ... 23 Diseases of the lymphatic system ... ... ... ... ... 8 Diseases of the urinary system ... ... ... ... ... 5 Diseases of the female organs of generation ... ... ... ... 41 Diseases of the male organs of generation ... ... ... ... 5 Diseases of the connective tissue ... ... ... ... ... 9 Diseases of the female breast ... ... ... ... ... 8 Diseases of the eye... ... ... ... ... ... ... 11 Diseases of the ear... ... ... ... ... ... ... 3 Diseases of the nose ... ... ... ... ... ... j Diseases of the teeth .. ... ... ... ... ... 37 General diseases ... ... ... ... ... ... ... 24 Syphilis ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... 21 Elephantiasis ... ... ... ... ... ... ... 17 Leprosy ... ... ... .... ... ... ... .. 3 Diseases of the skin ... ... ... ... ... ... 71 Diseases of the organs of locomotion ... ... ... ... ... 74 I have, &c, A. R. Maclcrkin, Assistant Medical and Health Officer. The Chief Medical and Health Officer for the Cook Islands.

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Report of Engineer. g IR Rarotonga, Ist May, 1913. I have the honour to submit the report on public works for the year ended 31st March, 1913. Survey of Lands. The principal part of the surveying done during the year was at the Island of Aitutaki, where we spent three months, and surveyed some two hundred small sections for the Land Court. I forward a tracing of the Island of Rarotonga showing all the land surveyed and dealt with to date by the Land Court, and submit that two hundred copies of this tracing be litho graphed. I also forward a chart of the Cook Group, and ask that a hundred copies of this chart on the same scale be lithographed. The lithographs might be offered for sale to the public. Meteorological. The total rainfall at Avarua, on the noithern side of Rarotonga, for the year 1912 was 8474 in., which was above the average. The average for the last fourteen years is 81'12in. At the settlement of Titikaveka, on the southern side of Rarotonga, the total rainfall for 1912 was 95-15 in. Average for five years, 100-70 in. I append a summary showing the rainfall for the year 1912, and the averages at the five stations at which we have rain-gauges. The highest reading of the Fahrenheit thermometer in the shade for the year was 88-5° on the 3rd February, and the lowest 55-5° on the 19th June. The mean of the maximum for the year was 79-6° and the mean of the minimum 693° in the shade at Avarua. The lowest reading of the barometer at sea-level was 29 - 56 in., about midnight on the 3rd March, at Avarua, Rarotonga. The monthly meteorological returns have been forwarded to New Zealand and to the German Government at Samoa as usual. Mauke Office and Quarters. A wooden building was erected on the Island of Mauke, containing five rooms with verandas and outhouses, for a Government office and Resident Agent's quarters. Vp-keep, Government Buildings. The Resident Agent's quarters at the Island of Mangaia were painted throughout, and the Government Buildings kept in a good state of repair. Avarua Water-supply. Avarua water-supply was improved by laying another 1,000 ft. of 6-in.-diameter pipes, taking the water from a better place higher up the creek. The head from, intake to main road at Government offices is now 188 ft., and the total length of 6-in.-main pipe is now 7,300 ft. 2,800 ft. of 2 in. pipe was replaced by pipes of 3 in. diameter along the main road, and some 2,000 ft. of 2-in.-main pipe was laid down to better the supply along the main road; also several new service conections were made to houses. The settlement of Avarua is now well supplied with water for domestic purposes, and should be sufficient for several years to come. What is now required is to have an area of land reserved round the intake on creek and have a filter-bed something after the style of the one in Tahiti or other suitable filter. Matavera Water-supply. The settlement of Matavera was supplied with water from the Ngatangiia water-supply by means of 6,000 ft. of 3-in.-main pipes laid along the main road, also 1,200 ft. of 2-in.-main pipes, and some forty-four houses were connected with service-pipes. Arorangi Water-supply. The Arorangi water-supply was improved by replacing 2,000 ft. of 2 in. by 3 in. main pipes. In the Island of Rarotonga the settlements of Avarua, Arorangi, Ngatangiia, and Matavera are now supplied with water. There remain two settlements yet to supply, Muri and Titikaveka. Drainage, Maraerenga Swamp. The main drain for the Maraerenga Swamp has been cut to nearly the proper depth, but there still remains a good deal to do in the way of widening the drain. Four small wooden bridges have been built across the drain where it cuts the roads. The drain seems to answer well, as in heavy rain no water lies where the swamp was. We have still to deal with the creek beyond the Hospital, which in continuous heavy rains overflows. The area of land taken by the Government has still to be arranged for with Natives as to the value, and to be paid for. Roads and Bridges. The main road in the settlement of Avarua has been kept in repair by the Government, also the bridges round the island. Ido not think that the Natives have done their share in the upkeep of the roads. I think that the Maoris should work on the roads as formerly, or pay some sort of tax as suggested in my report of last year. Shed at Aitutaki. A shed 80 ft. long, 30 ft. wide, and walls 10 ft. high, was erected at Aitutaki. The shed is half enclosed for inward cargo and copra. The new shed was connected to the wharf by tramwaylines, and four new trucks with roller bearings were provided. I have, &c., The Resident Commissioner, Rarotonga. H. M Connal, Engineer.

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Report of Fruit Inspector. Sir, — Rarotonga, llth April, 1913. I have the honour to submit my report on the fruit industry for the year ending 31st March, 1913. Progress and Prospects. Fruit exports show a slight decline, bananas falling away considerably. The drop is due to a stiff blow experienced in April last year doing great damage to banana-plantations. The shortage of bananas in Fiji during the last three years, coupled with the influence of supply and demand, kept up the price of this fruit; a good average price throughout being maintained. Oranges locally did not do so well, heavy shipments in the early part of the season causing a glut, the market taking a long time to recover. The reported hurricane at Fiji make prospects very bright the coming year. Natives are lax in planting, only a few of the more enterprising extending their plantations. This is to be wondered at in view of the handsome returns for bananas the last three years, and the high prices of copra. Export Inspection. The packing and general appearance of fruit from Rarotonga is all that can be desired when it is considered how brief the period is since this was instituted. A drastic change in the method of dealing with infected lines of oranges will have to be made to reduce the risk of fly-infected fruit being shipped. Last year there were heavy condemnations in New Zealand. In the past it has been the custom to allow shippers to sort over infected lines, and submit the fruit for inspection a second time. This on no account should be allowed, as indicated in my report two years ago. It is not fair to the Inspector or shipper, as sufficient time does not elapse between the two inspections for egg-infection to develop and become apparent. The greatest care must be exercised when packing oranges. With the right of repacking a Native is very lax —he thinks nothing of repacking a hundred cases. Not onlycare in packing is needful, but Natives must learn to leave an interval of at least three or four days, and longer if possible, betweeu picking and packing, for the maggots to develop. A Native does not help himself or the Inspector by placing his fruit for inspection at the earliest opportunity after gathering, as has been the custom in the past. . Ihe inspection of coconuts for shipment to America was brought under this heading last November. Earlier in the year a shipment of nuts was quarantined at San Francisco for being infected with maggots. To assist the trade, inspection has since been carried out, and the risk of maggoty nuts being shipped under inspection is reduced to a minimum. Fumigation. All fumigation this past year was done under large oiled canvas tents in the Union Steamship Company's sheds. This innovation has proved advantageous, and has saved much handling of the fruit. Fruit-fly. In addition to the fruits mentioned in previous reports I found fruit-fly maggots in coconuts and alligator pears, and have since reared the adult fly from both. I have only reared seven flies from coconuts, but nevertheless it shows that in fighting this pest the coconut has also to be considered. Infection takes place in coconuts through decayed eyes; infection in alligator pears took place in open wounds. Plantation-inspection for the control of this pest was continued during the year. With only Native assistance one, cannot look for the best results. Constant European supervision is most essential: a Native will not perform his duties faithfully, fearlessly, and without favour. With inspection of coconuts the Inspector's time is taken up on the wharf for practically three weeks out of four during the orange season, the period that plantation-inspection requires most attention. In company of a planter I counted twenty-seven fruit-flies on one orange-tree. One female was observed to pierce an orange with her ovipositor. The oranges under the trees were found to be fly-infected. This example alone illustrates the absolute necessity of destroying all fallen fruit, thus preventing the fly breeding. The orange crop last year was very heavy : this provided the fly with abundance of food to carry on its work of propagation. This year the crop is the other extreme—the comparative scarcity of food will probably mean a decided reduction of the pest. Outlying Islands. Schooner arrangements allowed me to pay two visits of inspection to Atiu, also one each to Aitutaki and Mangaia. Atiu. —The condition of oranges at this island on my visit was poor, cases badly made, and improperly and loosely packed. Practical demonstrations in packing and handling were given, the result being very marked. The following shipment was all that could be desired, the packing and general conditions being splendid. Aitutaki. —The Aitutakians are the best orange-packers in the Group—a very pleasing feature of the industry of this island. The banana-packing could be much improved. Mangaia. —A good deal remains to be done at Mangaia to bring packing and general condition up to reasonable standard. Periodical visits at irregular intervals to the outlying islands would have a good effect if they could be arranged without unduly interfering with the work at Rarotonga. Fruit-fly, Outlying Islands. —l found fruit-fly at Atiu both in the maggot stage and on the wing, and at Mangaia in the shipment; also in a transhipment of oranges from Mitiaro. I have, Arc, The Resident Commissioner, Rarotonga. Gordon Esam. Fruit Inspector.

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SALE OF GOODS AND PRODUCE ORDINANCE. Sir, — Cook Islands Administration, Rarotonga, 22nd October, 1912. I have the honour to forward herewith, in duplicate, for submission to His Excellency the Governor, an Ordinance passed by the Aitutaki Island Council and approved by me, the short title whereof is the Sale of Goods and Produce Ordinance, 1912. I have, Arc, Chas. E. MaoCormiok, Judge, Acting Resident Commissioner. Captain J. Eman Smith, Secretary, Cook and other Islands Administration, Wellington.

Sir, — Cook Islands Administration Department, Wellington, 7th March, 1913. Referring to your letter (AI/1912/434) of the 22nd October last, I have now the honour to return to you herewith Aitutaki Local Ordinance No. 4, the Sale of Goods and Produce Ordinance, 1912, which received the assent of His Excellency the Governor on the 24th January last. I also enclose six printed copies of the Ordinance in question. I have, Arc, F. G. Twiss, The Resident Commissioner, Rarotonga. Acting-Secretary for the Cook Islands.

Aitutaki Local Ordinance No. 4.—An Ordinance concerning the Buying and Selling of Goods or Produce. Whereas it has been found advisable to restrict the buying and selling of goods and produce to the confines of the various settlements at Aitutaki : Be it therefore enacted by the Island Council of Aitutaki as follows :— 1. The Short Title of this Ordinance is the Sale of Goods and Produce Ordinance, 1912. 2. From and after the publication of this Ordinance in the Cook Islands Gazette it shall not be lawful for any one either Native or European to buy, sell, or barter goods or produce at any place outside the boundaries of the various settlements. 3. All imported goods shall be sold on premises duly licensed under the Trading Licenses Ordinance, 1909, and all produce for sale shall be brought into the settlements and there disposed of; provided always and it is hereby expressly declared that nothing in this Ordinance shall prevent any sale or contract for the sale of growing crops of oranges, pineapples, coconuts, or any other fruit or produce to be gathered by the purchaser so long as such sale or contract for sale is made or entered into within the confines of a settlement. 4. Any one committing any breach of the provisions of this Ordinance shall be liable on conviction to a fine not exceeding five pounds (£o) for each offence Passed by the Aitutaki Island Council this seventeenth day of August, one thousand nine hundred and twelve. E. F. Hawk, Approved. President, Island Council. Chas. E. MacCormick, Judge, Acting Resident Commissioner. Assented to in the name and on behalf of His Majesty, 24th January, 1913. Liverpool, Governor.

TAKING LAND FOR PUBLIC PURPOSES. Sir, — Cook Islands Administration, Rarotonga, 28th October, 1912. I have the honour to forward herewith, for submission to His Excellency the Governor, the undermentioned draft Orders, in duplicate, taking land for public purposes :— (1.) Land at Aitutaki to link up the present two areas owned by the Crown there. (2.) Land at Oneroa, Mangaia, taken for a public cemetery. I have already reported in regard to these two areas. (3.) Land at Avarua, Rarotonga, being the area on which is situated the Fumigation Building. You are acquainted with the position of this matter. I have, &c, Chas. E. MacCormick, Judge, Acting Resident Commissioner. Captain J. Eman Smith, Secretary, Cook and other Islands Administration, Wellington.

Sir,— Cook Islands Administration Department, Wellington, 7th April, 1913. I have the honour to return to you herewith a notification duly signed by His Excellency the Governor taking land for Government Buildings at Aitutaki. I also enclose six printed copies of the notification. I have, Arc, F. G. Twiss, The. Resident Commissioner, Rarotonga. Acting-Secretary for the Cook Islands.

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Land taken for Government Buildings at Aitutaki, Cook Islands. Liverpool, Governor. Whereas the land mentioned in the Schedule hereto is required to be taken, under the Cook Islands Government Act, 1908, for a certain public work, to wit, for Government Buildings at Aitutaki, Cook Islands : Now, therefore, I, Arthur William de Brito Savile, Earl of Liverpool, Governor of the Dominion of New Zealand, in pursuance and exercise of the powers and authorities vested in me by the said Act, and of every other power and authority in anywise enabling me in this behalf, do hereby notify that on the date of the publication hereof in the Cook Islands Gazette the land mentioned in the Schedule hereto is hereby taken for the purpose of Government Buildings at Aitutaki, Cook Islands. schedule. All that piece of land, containing 8 ars, more or less, being part of Section 2, District of Arutanga, Island of Aitutaki, starting at the north-east corner of Section 1; thence south-easterly along the southern side of the main wharf road, 39 meters; thence south-westerly, 27 meters; thence north-westerly, 30 meters; thence northerly, 248 meters, to the starting-point. As witness the hand of His Excellency the Governor, this twenty-third day of January, one thousand nine hundred and thirteen. M. Pomare.

Sir, — Cook Islands Administration Department, Wellington, 7th April, 1913. I have the honour to return to you herewith a notification, duly signed by His Excellency the Governor, taking land for the purpose of a public cemetery at Oneroa, Mangaia. ' I also enclose six printed copies of the notification. I have, Arc, F. G. Twiss, The Resident Commissioner, Rarotonga. Acting-Secretary for the Cook Islands.

Land taken for Public Cemetery at Oneroa, Mangaia, Cook Islands. Liverpool, Governor. Whereas the land mentioned in the Schedule hereto is required to be taken, under the Cook Islands Government Act, 1908, for a certain public work—to wit, for a public cemetery at Oneroa, Mangaia, Cook Islands : Now, therefore, I, Arthur William de Brito Savile, Earl of Liverpool, Governor of the Dominion of New Zealand, in pursuance and exercise of the powers and authorities vested in me by the said Act, and of every other power and authority in anywise enabling me in this behalf, do hereby notify that on the date of the publication hereof in the Cook Islands Gazette the land mentioned in the Schedule hereto is hereby taken for the purpose of a public cemetery at Oneroa, Mangaia, Cook Islands. schedule. All that piece of land, containing 28 ars, more or less, being Section 14, District of Oneroa, Island of Mangaia, starting from a point which bears 187° 35', and is distant 67 - l meters from concrete block 5; thence southerly along the eastern side of the Main Road, 482 meters; thence easterly, 75 meters; thence northerly, 30 meters; thence north-westerly, 75 meters, to the starting-point. As witness the hand of His Excellency the Governor, this twenty-third day of January, one thousand nine hundred and thirteen. M. Pomare.

Sir, — Cook Islands Administration, Rarotonga, 10th October, 1912. I have the honour to forward herewith, for submission to His Excellency the Governor, two draft Orders taking land at Mauke for Government purposes. These are the areas fixed by me on my recent visit to Mauke. I have, Arc, Chas. E. MacCormick, Judge, Acting. Resident Commissioner. Captain J. Eman Smith, Secretary, Cook and other Islands Administration, Wellington.

Sir, — Cook Islands Administration Department, Wellington, 7th March, 1913. Referring to your letter (L 2/1912/409) of the 10th October last, and to subsequent correspondence, I have the honour to return to you herewith two notifications duly signed by His Excellency the Governor; one taking land for the purpose of landing-place and storagesheds at Mauke, and the other taking land for the purpose of Government buildings and Resident Agent's residence at Mauke. I also enclose six printed copies of each of the notifications referred to. I have, &c, F. G. Twiss, The Resident Commissioner, Rarotonga. Acting-Secretary for the Cook Islands.

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Land taken for Government Buildings and Resident Agent's Residence at Mauke, Cook Islands. Liverpool, Governor. Whereas the land mentioned in the Schedule hereto is required to be taken, under the Cook Islands Government Act, 1908, for certain public works, to wit, for Government Buildings and Resident Agent's residence at Mauke, Cook Islands : Now, therefore, I, Arthur William de Brito Savile, Earl of Liverpool, the Governor of the Dominion of New Zealand, in pursuance and exercise of the powers and authorities vested in me by the said Act, and of every other power and authority in anywise enabling me in this behalf, do hereby notify that, on the date of the publication hereof in the Cook Islands Gazette, the land mentioned in the Schedule hereto is hereby taken for the purpose of Government Buildings and Resident Agent's residence at Mauke, Cook Islands. schedule. All that piece of land in Tauuganui, Island of Mauke, containing 32 ars, more or less, starting at a post which bears southerly and is 625 meters distant from concrete block sa; thence southerly 522 meters along the western side of the main road to a peg; thence westerly 559 meters to a peg; thence northerly 64 meters to an utu tree; thence westerly 55 meters to the startingpoint. As witness the hand of His Excellency the Governor, this thirtieth day of January, one thousand nine hundred and thirteen. M. Pomare.

Land taken for Landing-place and Storage-sheds at Mauke, Cook Islands. Liverpool, Governor. Whereas the land mentioned in the Schedule hereto is required to be taken, under the Cook Islands Government Act, 1908, for certain public works, to wit, for landing-place and storagesheds at Mauke, Cook Islands : "Now, therefore, I, Arthur William de Brito Savile, Earl of Liverpool, the Governor of the Dominion of New Zealand, in pursuance and exercise of the powers and authorities vested in me by the said Act, and of every other power and authority in anywise enabling me in this behalf, do hereby notify that, on the date of the publication hereof in the Cook Islands Gazette, the land mentioned in the Schedule hereto is hereby taken for the purpose of landing-place and storagesheds at Mauke, Cook Islands. schedule. All that piece of land at Taunganui, Island of Mauke, containing 43 ars, more or- less, exclusive of main road, starting from the south-east corner of the present landing-stage; thence southwesterly 21 meters to a puka tree; thence south-easterly 65 meters to a peg; thence north-easterly 31 meters to a peg; thence northerly 15 meters to concrete block sa; thence northerly 54 meters to an utu tree; thence north-westerly 15 meters to a coconut tree; thence westerly 402 meters to the concrete block at the north-east corner of the present landing-place; thence along the eastern boundary of the present landing-place to the starting-point. As witness the hand of His Excellency the Governor, this thirtieth day of January, one thousand nine hundred and thirteen. , M. Pomare.

NIUE ISLAND. REPORT OF RESIDENT COMMISSIONER. Sir, — Niue Island Administration, Niue, 15th April, 1913. I have the honour to forward herewith my report for the year ended the 31st March, 1913, together with Statement of Revenue, Statement of Expenditure (with substatements C, D, and E), Statement of Liquor Account, Return of Imports, and Return of Exports. I have, &c, H. Cornwall, Resident Commissioner. The Hon. the Minister, Cook and other Islands Administration, Wellington.

Finance . The receipts from all sources amounted to £2,679 16s. Id., and the expenditure to £2,320 Is. lOd. The receipts, which constitute a record for the island, exceeded those for the preceding year by £882 12s. Bd.; Customs duties increased by £394 195., trading licenses by £40, and stamp sales by £533 10s. lid. The Native annual contribution of £150 towards the cost of the medical service was not received until after the close of the year, and consequently does not appear in this year's account. The expenditure was £230 10s. lid. greater than that for last year, but a

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larger proportion than usual was expended on useful public works. The transactions for the year resulted in a surplus of £359 14s. 3d., and the balance at credit of the Administration on 31st March, 1913, amounted to £1,849 lis, 2d. The expenditure may be classified as follows : — £ s. d. General administration; including school and medical service ... 1,194 8 11 Public-works expenditure ... ... ... ... ... 1,125 12 11 £2,320 1 10 Full particulars of the receipts and expenditure will be found in statements A and B and the supporting statements. The annual-recurring expenses of the Administration, exclusive of public works, now amount to about £1,250, while the revenue for the past six years has averaged £1,836 per annum. It will thus be seen that the present average amount available to meet the pressing extra requirements of the Administration and necessary public works is but £600 per annum. During the past five years a total sum of £4,705 16s. 4d. of the island revenue has been expended on public works. This gives an average of £941 per annum. Very many useful works have been carried out, but much remains to be done, and it is obvious that the present income of the Administration falls short of requirements. The question as to how any extra revenue may be raised naturally arises. The Natives have a rooted objection to direct taxation, and it is almost hopeless at present to expect the Island Council to pass any Ordinance providing for the imposition of direct taxes, therefore it appears that the only means remaining is by an increase in the Customs duties on one or more of the articles on which the duties were reduced by Order in Council. By this means sufficient additional revenue could be raised to enable the Administration to continue a progressive policy for some years to come. Trade. The trade for the year easily constituted a record. The value of the imports was £19,119, as compared with £9,838 in 1911, an increase of £9,281; while the exports were valued at £15,709, as against £12,047 worth exported during the preceding year, an increase of £3,662. The total external trade of the island for 1912 amounted to £34,828, as compared with £21,885 during 1911, an increase of £12,943. During the year a record coconut crop was harvested, notwithstanding an exceedingly dry season. 792 tons of copra were shipped during the year, as against 520 tons exported during the preceding year, an increase of 272 tons. The exceptionally dry weather, and the continual failure of the Native food crops, resulted in a much greater quantity of coconuts being used for food and drinking purposes than is usual, otherwise the copra crop would have been heavier. The trade in plaited hats, which has formed a considerable item in the exports in previous years, fell in 1912 to 1,416 dozen, valued at £731, the lowest on record. The drought to some extent affected the imports, larger quantities of foodstuffs being imported than usual. But an analysis of the items discloses the fact that while the food items increased by £3,810 as compared with the previous year, the items for articles other than food increased by no less than £5,471. It will thus be seen that while the Natives were forced to a larger extent than usual to live on imported foods, yet they had plenty of money to spare for other things. The principal increases were —Flour, £586; rice, £645; biscuits, £875; meats, £888; fish, £440; sugar, £144; horses, £198; carriages, £238; saddlery, £80; apparel and»slops, £1,134; cotton piece-goods, £579; drapery, £410; hats and caps, £121; bags and sacks, £226; hardware, £-187; fancy goods, £159; soap, £111; tobacco, £262; and specie, £975. The commercial spirit has now thoroughly seized hold of the Niueans, and during the past year or two very many Natives have commenced business as storekeepers. In nearly every instance failure has resulted, and it has been painfully brought home to the people that without capital, education, and experience they cannot hope to succeed in competition with the regular traders. There are now in Niue fourteen trading-stores owned by Europeans, and nine stores owned by Natives, while, in addition, there are four Native bakeries. Unlike the Cook-Islanders, the Niueans are not large tea-drinkers, and there are no tea-shops. Trade Prospects. The trade prospects for 1913 do not appear to be quite as good as they did twelve months ago. The dry spell during the latter part of 1912, and the excessively heavy rainfall experienced during the first three months of this year, when a fall of 52-20 in. of rain was recorded, has considerably affected the coconut-trees, and it is certain that the output of copra will be much smaller than that of last year. There are, however, indications that the trade with New Zealand in plaited hats will improve during 1913. Many attempts have been made by the local traders to introduce these excellent hats into the Commonwealth and other countries, but it is found that the heavy Customs duties effectually prevent business being done. As regards the import trade, I am of the opinion that the returns for 1913 will also show a falling-off as compared with 1912. The local traders are nearly all carrying fairly heavy stocks, and their requirements for the year are almost certain to be less than those for last year. I regret to state that, owing to the exceptionally dry weather at the latter end of last year, it was found useless to plant cotton, consequently another year has been lost. The record prices for copra that prevailed throughout last year, and still continue, have to a large extent been the means of diverting the minds of the Natives from this new industry, but I still have strong hopes of persuading the Natives to take up cotton-planting as a permanent thing. The results of the experiments made during the last year or two amply justify such a course.

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Public Works. During the year £1,125 12s. lid. was expended on public works, particulars of which are given hereunder : — Technical School, Tufu. —The .erection of this building, which was in progress at the end of last year, has been completed. The total cost of the building was £124 4s. 5d., of which £63 6s. sd. falls into this year's account. Particulars of the building were given in last year's report. Roadside Tanks. —A sum of £24 17s. Id. was spent on material necessary for the erection of more drinking-tanks, as outlined in my last report, but owing to the non-arrival of the tanks the work has been unavoidably delayed. A -supply came to hand in March last, and I am now preparing to erect twenty-three of these roadside drinking-tanks, which, with the seven erected in 1911-12, will make thirty in all. Quarantine Station. —A piece of land comprising some 3| acres, with a sea frontage to Alofi Bay, situated about one mile and a half south from the centre of Alofi, was secured on a twentyyears lease. It was impossible to secure the freehold at the time owing to dissention on the part of the owners, but recently the owners agreed to sell the freehold for £100, and I accordingly secured it at that price. The land will prove a valuable asset to the Administration. Two small buildings of a makeshift character have been erected on the land for quarantine purposes, at a cost of £140 ss. 6d. The land is admirably adapted as a site for a hospital. Hakupu—Liku Road. —Distance, 6 miles 48 chains. An excellent road, 16 ft. wide throughout, has been made. About three miles of the road was very rocky and necessitated much blasting. The work, which took nearly three months to complete, cost £331 7s. lOd. Tuapa-Hikutavake Road. —Distance, 1 mile 64 chains. This work proved the most difficult piece of roadmaking yet attempted in Niue. With the aid of a plentiful supply of explosives and the enthusiastic work of the Hikutavake people, who have hitherto had to travel over an extremely rocky bridle-track to their village, the many difficulties were made light of. A good road 14 ft. wide throughout has been made at a cost of £213 lis. 4d. Tufukia-Amanao Road. —Distance, 42 chains. With the acquirement of the quarantine station and hospital-site it became necessary to make a road into the land from the main road near Tufu School. The course of an old Native track was followed, and the work was completed at a cost of £34 7s. 2d. Tuapa Hill Road (completion). —The regrading of this dangerous piece of road, which was partially carried out in 1910-11, has now been completed. The total cost of the work amounted to £130 ss. lOd., of which £61 4s. 6d. falls into this year's account. Peta Hill Road. —This road, which is the terminus of the roads from Lakepa, Liku, and Hakupu, on the eastern side of the island, is very steep and dangerous for vehicular traffic, and it has been decided to regrade and widen it. It is very rock)', and a great deal of blasting will be necessary. The expenditure in this year's account —viz., £27 —represents explosives purchased for the work, which will be commenced in a few weeks. Avatele-Fatiau Road.— Distance, 1 mile 60 chains. A commencement has been made with this work, but only a few chains had been completed at the end of the year. The expenditure up to the 31st March, including necessary explosives, amounted to £25 14s. Alofi-Liku Road. —This work will be commenced after the completion of the Peta Hill. Road. £21 ss. 7d. has been expended on explosives. Improvement of Live-stock. During the year an attempt has been made to improve the breed of the pigs and fowls. A purebred Berkshire boar and two purebred Berkshire sows, also two white Plymouth Rock cockerels and ten hens, were purchased on the recommendation of Mr. C. J. Reakes, of the New Zealand Agricultural Department. The stock arrived at Niue in September in good condition, but, notwithstanding great care and attention, the trying tropical climate proved too much for the boar, two cockerels and two hens, all of which succumbed. Through the death of the boar the increase has been smaller than I could have wished, but nevertheless twenty-four young pigs have been reared and distributed throughout the island. From latest reports I gather that they are all doing well. With regard to the fowls partial success only has been attained. The birds with their heavy New Zealand plumage suffered very much from the heat, with the result that we have succeeded in rearing but few young birds. I have recently asked that another boar and two cockerels be sent to Niue as soon as possible to replace those which have died. The total cost of the pigs and fowls, together with food and attendance, amounted to £72 6s. 3d. Furniture for Medical Officer's Residence. With the' view of cutting down the cost of transporting furniture, Arc, to and from Niue with every change of Medical Officer, and making everything as easy and convenient as possible, it has been decided to furnish the Medical Officer's residence. Orders have been sent to New Zealand for the necessary furniture, which should arrive shortly. A sum of £6 16s. 9d. has already been spent on articles obtained locally. Proposed Public Works. During the year 1913-14 works already authorized will be completed.—viz., Avatele to Fatiau Road, IJ miles; Alofi to Liku Road, 9J miles; Alofi to Hakupu Road, 7A ::iiles; Peta Hill— widening and regrading, \ mile,

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In addition to the aforementioned the following works will be undertaken as soon as funds permit: — Liku to Mutalau Road (7\ miles). —This road, which was originally made by the Natives, has been open for vehicular traffic for some years, but it is very narrow and in some places rough. It is proposed to widen the road throughout to 16 ft, The work does not present any difficulites. Quarantine and Hospital Reserve. —A stone wall is to be built round this land on three sides. As there is plenty of material on the spot the cost will probably not exceed £25. Teacher's Residence, Tufu. —An additional room and other conveniences are required at an estimated cost of £100. Roadside Tanks. —An effort will be made to complete the roadside-tank system. At the time of writing eight additional tanks have been erected, making with those erected last year fifteen altogether. Preparations are now being made to erect fifteen more tanks. Office Accommodation. —The present accommodation, which is situated in the northern part of the Residency, and consists of three rooms, two of which are very small, is altogether inadequate for the'present requirements of the Administration. The largest room is used for Court sittings, Council meetings, and also serves as a public office, while, of the other two rooms, one is used by my assistant and the other by myself. The location of the offices in the Residency is very inconvenient, apart from the fact that they are some distance from the jetty and Customs sheds, where most of the business is conducted. In the near future a more suitable site must be acquired and better accommodation provided. Additional Residences. —It will also be necessary in the near future to acquire land on which to erect a residence for my assistant and a residence for the European Inspector of Police, who is to be appointed shortly. Provision will also have to be made for the erection of a suitable lockup. The foregoing is a list of the more urgent works which require to be undertaken as soon as funds permit. In another place in this report I have drawn attention to the fact that the present revenue of the Administration is inadequate, and recommended a course which, if approved, will provide sufficient additional funds to enable these works to be carried out within a reasonable time. Education. I am pleased to report that Tufu Government School has had another successful year. Everything has worked very smoothly, and the boys have made excellent progress under Mr. W. C. Smith and Mrs. Smith. However, the work of the school has grown to such an extent that the services of an assistant teacher are urgently required. Technical classes are carried on almost every day after the ordinary school-work, and that branch of the institution has undoubtedly contributed very largely to the success of the institution as a whole. The matter of appointing an assistant was brought before you recently, and is still under consideration. I hope that before the close of 1913 arrangements may be completed whereby several of the senior boys, who are now sufficiently advanced, may be appointed to take charge of elementary schools in their respective villages. By the gradual extension of this village-school scheme Tufu School will ultimately become a school for the boys who have passed with credit through the village schools. But it will necessarily be some years before a sufficient number of boys can be trained as village teachers and the scheme launched in its complete form I append hereto a report furnished by Mr. W. C. Smith on the present position at Tufu School and his anticipations as to the future. I may say that I fully agree with the statements and opinions therein expressed. Sir,— Tufukia, Niue, 12th April, 1913. I have the honour to submit the following report on education in Niue: — Since its reopening in August, 1911, Tufu School has been open full time, and has established itself in the Native mind as a' permanent institution. The course of instruction is that laid down in the New Zealand syllabus, and the present attainments of the pupils range from Standard V through all the lower classes to the preparatory. New admissions from the villages make the work very heavy, as they have all to begin with the rudiments, but recently some who have been passed on from the missionary's school at Alofi were found to have made admirable progress : this indicates how much more effective the work of Tufu can be made when the lower classes can be dispensed with and only those pupils taken who have passed through elementary English schools in their villages. The present roll number is sixty, ages ranging from, seven to twenty-two. Every village in the island is represented among the pupils, and these display a laudable desire to take home all books for display in their villages, and to gather facts and knowledge for the same purpose, numerous questions being asked with this end in view : thus it may be inferred that the influence of the school is not confined to its pupils, but is being exerted throughout the whole island, and must tend to the general enlightenment of its people. In this way too the New Zealand School Journal, which is in general use, will prove not only a valuable auxiliary in the education of the boys, but a means of disseminating knowledge among their parents and friends. At the end of_ each term an examination is held for the purpose of testing individual progress and to stimulate interest in the class-work. The results well repay the extra, work involved, and the added incentive to effort and care is one that appeals strongly to the Niue boy, an honourable place in the mark list being highly valued; indeed, copies of the lists may be seen displayed on walls of Native houses in the villages. Niue boys are very amenable to discipline, and there is no misconduct, but • tactful and sympathetic dealing is required to avoid wounding their susceptibilities or setting them in opposition. Their industry and their determination to make progress are most praiseworthy, while many of the elder boys (young men, really) have a certain nobility of character and a dignity which

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commands the admiration of any one who becomes intimate with them. That boys accustomed to the untrammelled and irresponsible life of the Native should submit to the restraints of boarding-school life with so little friction, and maintain their interest after the novelty has worn off, speaks well for their desire for knowledge, and for their future prospects of success. Their progress is very gratifying, and their response to any effort on their behalf is most encouraging. The establishment of the Technical School has done much to popularize Tufu among the Niueans, for the practical nature of its results is readily seen by them. During the year the following articles have been completed : Four double carpenters' benches (with vices, Arc), two racks for chisels, one grindstone-stand (with water-box), also nail-box, oilstone-box, Arc, for Technical School; four clothes-racks, one form, one teacher's high desk, one teacher's high stool, one T square (large), fifteen pairs dumb-bells, five cleats for maps, all for school use; also sundry repairs to school desks, beds, apparatus, Arc. The following articles have been made by the pupils for themselves : One bedstead, two sets sofa-legs, nine doors, one chair, one low ironing-table, four blackboards, four easels, one towelhorse, one sofa, two tables (with drawers to lock), several small clothes-racks and several waterglasses for fishing purposes. The following are now in course of construction : One double carpenters' bench, six bedsteads, five tables (with drawers), two blackboards, one easel, one chair, one sofa, one food-safe; and many requests for further articles have to be held over. Much still remains to be done in making benches, cupboards, and tool-racks for the workshop, but the greater part of the available time is given to articles the boys desire for their homes. They pay 7 the cost of materials with a small addition for wear-and-tear of tools. The introduction of these articles will improve the homes of the boys and aid in the general uplifting. Blackboards and easels are for use in the village schools. The enthusiasm for the work is great, and quite beyond the power of one teacher alone to satisfy, taking the work after the ordinary school-hours. With two hours' technical work following upon the ordinary school day, there is not much energy left for supervision in the evening, especially in a tropical climate. However, the work has been necessary in order to establish the school on a firm footing, and it is being continued only in the hope that assistance will be available shortly. In consequence of last year's drought the food problem has pressed heavily, many boys experiencing the greatest difficulty in keeping up attendance, while others have had to leave in consequence. Though supplies are now increasing it has not yet appeared advisable to witharaw the concession granted in March, 1912, of allowing boys to go home from Friday afternoon to Monday morning, the relief afforded by this concession being that less than two-thirds of the usual quantity of food need be carried down, and that the boys can assist the parents in procuring the food, thus saving them the extra work and the journey bringing the food. The relief to parents has been highly appreciated, and there is no doubt that under a continuation of this arrangement parents will be willing to leave the boys at school for a much longer period. The health of the boys has not suffered by it; indeed, when sickness has occurred the sick boy has remained at home, thus preventing risk of contagion, and there has been far less illness at the school than formerly. The matter of absence from causes other than illness or want of food has not been serious, and while the popularity of the school continues, with a full roll and others waiting to join, it will not be serious, the penalty of losing the place being sufficient deterrent. The Niue people are awaking to a sense of their limitations through want of education, and parents are keen on getting their boys admitted. The future of Tufu School is assured; but assistance is urgently needed to allow of its work being carried on in the most effective manner, for the extension of the technical work, and for the establishment of village schools to relieve Tufu of the elementary work. Some of the senior boys are now quite capable of taking charge of such schools under the supervision of the head teacher, who would require to visit them frequently to assist and settle difficulties. These young men should teach for four days a week, returning to Tufu for the other day for further training, and arranging of their programmes for the following week. Each year the most promising of their pupils would be passed on to Tufu, which, thus becoming the prize for diligence and proficiency, would be valued accordingly. In the establishment of village schools the co-operation of the parents can most probably be secured, and this would reduce very considerably the cost of necessary buildings, and but little furniture or apparatus would be required. To ensure their success would doubtless involve very tactful dealing with the parents and village magnates. The number of such schools and the extent of their operations would depend on how far the Government is prepared to go towards a complete education system for the island. The number of children of school-age (five to fifteen) is, in round numbers, 800. The figures shown in the census of October, 1911, are : — Male. Female. Total. Alofi .. ... ... ... ... ... 95 76 171 Makefu ... ... ... ... ... 35 12 47 Tuapa ... ... ... ... ... 48 36 84 Hikutavake ... ... ... ... ... 23 38 61 Mutalau ... ... ... ... ... 50 49 99 Lakepa ... ... ... ... ... 29 18 47 Liku ... ... ... ... ... ... 29 27 56 Hakupu ... ... ... ... ... 46 33 79 Fatiau ... ... ... .-. ... 11 10 21 Avatele ... ... ... 48 32 80 Tamakautoga ... ... ... ... ... 25 27 52 Totals ... ... ... 439 358 797

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By making seven or eight the age for commencing school these numbers would be somewhat reduced, but it will be seen that even then the education of these children is no small matter, and can be met only by appointing more than one teacher in villages that require it, or, if only one can be appointed, for him to take boys and girls on alternate days, or in villages too large even for this, to make four divisions, senior and junior boys and girls, each division receiving one day's instruction per week. Small as this may seem, it would be a great advance upon that now given by the Native pastors, and this modest foundation of an education system would ensure that no child should grow up without at least the rudiments of an English education. I have, Arc, The Resident Commissioner, Niue. W. C. Smith. Public Health. On the 10th September last the Island Council passed an Ordinance entitled the Niue Island Public Health Ordinance, 1912, which was assented to by His Excellency the Governor on 12th September last. Power is given under this Ordinance to more effectually prevent the introduction of diseases to the island, and to prevent as far as possible the spread of dangerous infectious and contagious diseases within the island. The Ordinance was supported by the Medical Officer, who found he was considerably hampered in his work through the absence of necessary legal authority. I very much regret that Dr. Schumacher, our first Medical Officer, was compelled to resign his position on the 27th August last, on account of continued ill health. During his fifteen months term in Niue he did much to prevent the introduction and spread of disease, and his work was generally appreciated. Dr. Buck, M.P., arrived in Niue on the 13th December last to act in the capacity of locum tenens until a suitable man could be secured to permanently fill the position of Medical Officer. During his stay he has worked very hard in his endeavours to alleviate the sufferings of the afflicted, and as a consequence has become very popular with both Europeans and Natives. In January I arranged for a complete medical inspection of the island, and I myself accompanied Dr. Buck on a journey lasting a fortnight and embracing the whole of the eleven villages. During the journey Dr. Buck found little time for other than professional work, and succeeded in treating no less than 1,001 cases, major and minor, in the fortnight. With the information acquired during his stay Dr. Buck will be in a position to furnish a very valuable report on the health of the people of Niue. I sincerely trust that you will be successful in securing the services of a suitable man to take up the position before or soon after Dr. Buck leaves Niue. During the period from the 27th August to the 13th December we were without the services of a Medical Officer, but the Rev. Gavin Smith, the resident missionary, who has a considerable knowledge of drugs, kindly offered to dispense medicine to the people until a new doctor arrived. I accepted the Rev. Smith's generous offer, and I wish to place on record my appreciation of the valuable work rendered by him to the Administration during that period. With the view of making matters as comfortable as possible for the Medical Officer, it has been decided to furnish the Medical Officer's residence. Orders have gone forward to New Zealand for the necessary furniture, which is expected to arrive in June next. The cost of the Niue medical service during the year 1912-13 was as follows : — £ s. d. Medical Officer's salary ... ... ... ... ... 330 3 7 Travelling-expenses, Arc, ... , ••• ••■ ••• ••• 85 11 0 Medical supplies and assistance ... ... ... ... 165 7 0 £581 1 7 Less contribution by New Zealand Government (six months) ... 50 0 0 Cost to Niue Island Administration ... ... ... ... £531 1 7 I may mention that the second annual contribution of £150 from the Natives of Niue was not received until after the close of the financial year, therefore it does not appear in this year's accounts. Taking that contribution into account, the net cost of the medical service is reduced to £381 Is. 7d. Marriage, Registration, and Divorce. Ever since the inauguration of the Government considerable difficulty has been experienced in Niue owing to the absence of any divorce laws similar to those in force in most other islands. Under section 3 of the Cook Islands Government Act, 1908, provision is made that all laws, customs, and usages of the Native inhabitants in force at the time the Government took over the control of Niue shall continue until other provision is made. In the year 1903 the Niue Island Council passed an Ordinance entitled the Niue Island Marriage, Divorce, and Registration Ordinance, 1903, in which it was sought to give to the people of Niue, inter alia, a law of divorce similar to that in force in Rarotonga. The Ordinance was disallowed in New Zealand, and it was returned to Niue with the suggestion that it be repassed by the Island Council omitting all reference to divorce. The Island Council acted upon the suggestion and passed the Niue Island Marriage and Registration Ordinance, 1904. The old practice in the matter of divorce, which held good in the absence of any statute law, was to give the missionary absolute discretion. Since the Government came to Niue the people have not been satisfied with the continuance of the old practice, and have continually appealed to me to assist them in the matter.

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The Technical School, Tufu, Niue, showing Articles made by the Pupils .

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The Medical Officer's Residence and Dispensary, etc., Alofi, Niue.

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King's Warehouse and Examination Shed, Alofi, Niue .

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The Reservoir, Alofi, Niue. This is one of twelve similar reservoirs built by the Niue Administration. The one shown in the picture holds approximately 13,000 gallons, and receives its supply from the Alofi Church roof and part of the Residency roof. The method of obtaining water from the reservoir by means of a pump is clearly shown.

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On the 7th January last an Ordinance entitled the Niue Island Marriage, Registration, and Divorce Ordinance, 1913, was passed and forwarded for the assent of His Excellency the Governor. Under that Ordinance the registration of births, deaths, and marriages is taken from the resident missionary of the London Missionary Society and his Native pastors, and placed in the hands of the Administration; also, provision is made for divorce similar to the law of divorce in Rarotonga. Every Native Magistrate will become a Deputy Registrar under the Ordinance. I may say that the change as regards registration of births,.deaths, and marriages is welcomed by the resident missionary, who has for a long time past taken exception to the duties imposed upon him under the Niue Island Marriage and Registration Ordinance, 1904, whereby the resident missionary for the time being was appointed Registrar for Niue. Vital Statistics. The following are the number of births, deaths, and marriages for the year 1912-13 as compared with the four preceding years : — Births. Deaths. Marriages. 1908-9 ... ... ... ... ... ... 115 95 56 1909-10 ... ... ... ... ... ... 104 79 40 1910-11 ... ... ... ... ... ... 80 93 46 1911-12 ... ... ... ... ... ... 100 77 44 1912-13 ... ... ... ... ... ... 106 99 45 The number of deaths during the past year was slightly larger than usual. Subsidized Service. The three-3'ears contract for a service between Auckland and Niue, by a vessel of not less than 80 tons, expired on the arrival of the " Kereru " at Auckland on the 9th January, 1912. The " Kereru " was kept on the service during the whole of 1912 under a temporary contract, and succeeded in making six direct return voyages. It has been amply demonstrated that the vessel is not large enough for the Niue trade. Full cargoes were brought from Auckland nearly every trip, while the produce offering at Niue was almost invariably more than the vessel could carry. I may mention that the steamers " Baroona " and "Dawn" called at irregular intervals during the year and took away between them a total of 250 tons of copra. The following is a schedule of the voyages made by the " Kereru " : —

Auckland to Niue.

Niue to Auckland.

* Local time one day behind New Zealand time. Average per trip, 1883 days. Tenders were called at the latter end of 1912 for a new service between Auckland and Niue, but owing to an extension of the time for closing tenders and the non-receipt of a mail at Niue since the 3rd March (Auckland, 28th January), I am not aware that arrangements have been entered into. Emigration and Immigration. During the year 151 persons, including thirteen Europeans, left Niue for other places, while 177 persons, including twenty-two Europeans, arrived in Niue, the gain being twenty-six persons.

Left Auckland. Route. Arrived Niue.* Number of Days. April 1 May 29 July 17 Sept. 6 Oct. 26 Dec. 16 Direct April 19 . . June 10 July 31 .. Sept. 19 .. Nov. 14 .. Dec. 29 •• 19 13 15 14 ' 20 14 * Local time one day behind New Zealand time. Average per trip, 15' 13 days.

Left Niue.* Route. J Arrived Auckland. Number of Days. Lpril 25 une 15 Lug. 7 Sept. 25 fov. 21 an. 2, 1913 .. Direct ! .. j May 15 ' .. . . ' July 5 .. Aug. 24 .. .. Oct. 16 .. .. Dec. 9 .. .. Jan. 25, 1913 19 19 16 20 17 22

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The following are the particulars of the departures and arrivals: —

Of those who went to Tonga and Maiden Island twenty and seventy-three respectively were indentured labourers under contract to be returned to Niue during 1913. During the past two years I have succeeded in making more satisfactory contracts for Niuean labour in Tonga and Maiden Island, whereby at least 50 per cent, of the total wages earned must be paid to the men when they reach home. Under this system the Natives are returned promptly to their home at the end of the contract period, while the wives and dependents participate in the distribution of at least half of the wages earned. This practice is giving satisfaction to all concerned. Meteorological. The following is a summary of the meteorological readings for the year 1912 : —

The rainfall was the smallest recorded for seven years. Preservation of Native Birds. The time has arrived, I think, when an effort should be made to prevent the native pigeons, doves, and parrakeets from becoming extinct. Nearly every Native has a sporting shot-gun of some kind, and the reckless destruction of the birds for food purposes that is constantly going on must result in their speedy extermination, unless sOme preventive measures are taken to save them. On several occasions I have brought the matter under the notice of the Island Council and the people generally, but they are averse to any protective laws being enacted. Under the Niue Island Arms Ordinance, 1903, it is illegal for any one to sell or give to any Native rifled arms and revolvers, or any ammunition therefor, but there is no restriction placed on the importation, sale, or gift of sporting shot-guns and ammunition. As it is hopeless to expect the Island Council to legislate with the view of preventing the indiscriminate destruction of the birds, I think it is a matter which calls for assistance from the Government of New Zealand. Under section 17 of the Cook Islands Government Act, 1908, the Governor has power to deal with a position such as I have indicated by prohibiting or regulating the importation of anything which in his opinion is likely to be injurious to the inhabitants, and I recommend this course for your consideration. I have, Arc, H. Cornwall, Niue, 15th April, 1913. Resident Commissioner.

Place of A rrival ,11 fi from or 'eparture to. Departures. Arrival ,1s. New Zealand Tonga German Samoa American Samoa Papua New Guinea.. Cook Islands .-,... Maiden Island £j.. I Totals ]^.. id 22 30 9 13 4 17 39 34 6 13 3 65 73 151 177

temperature m ide. Ra fall. Highest. Month. Lowest. Month. Mean Mean Mean ? Maximum Minimum Range I ,/, for Year. for Year. I for Year, \\-d~: t u Fall for the Year. Deg. Fahr. 97 Deg. Fahr. January 58 October Deg. Fahr. Deg. Fahr. - Deg. Fahr. 85-4 69-3 16 1 161 Inches. 66-07

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(A.) Niue Island Administration. Statement of Revenue for the Year ended 31st March, 1918. £ s. d. £ s. d. Ist April, 1912—Balance ... ... ... ... ... ... 1,489 16 11 Customs duties collected in New Zealand ... ... ... 284 1 1 Customs duties collected in Niue ... ... ... ... 1,374 8 4 Emigration fees ... ... ... ... ... ... 23 0 0 Court fines and fees... ... ... ... ... ... 107 19 0 Trading licenses ... ... ... ... ... ... 108 3 3 Stamps sold ... ... ... ... ... ... 676 12 6 Shipping fees ... ... ... ... ... ... 5 19 0 Interest on investments ... ... ... ... ... 41 6 0 Sundry receipts ... ... ... ... ... ... 7 12 5 Contribution from New Zealand towards Niue medical service ... 50 0 0 Profit on liquor-sales ... ... ... ... ... 0 14 6 2,679 16 1 £4,169 13 0 H. Cornwall, Niue, 15th April, 1913. Resident Commissioner.

(B.) Niue Island Administration. Statement of Expenditure for the Year ended 31st March, 1913. Salaries— £ s. d. £ s. d. Assistant ... ... ... ... ... ... 88 14 11 Councillors ... ... ... ... ... 131 4 6 Magistrates ... ... ... ... ... 51 13 3 Police ... ... ... ... ... ... 60 12 5 — 332 5 1 Medical Officer's salary ... ... ... ... ... ... 330 3 7 Medical Officer's travelling expenses and allowance ... ... ... 85 11 0 Medical supplies and assistance ... ... .. ... ... ... 165 7 0 Quarantine-station rent ... ... ... ... ... ... 600 Printing and stationery ... ... ... ... ... ... 38 18 6 Tufu School working-expenses, as per statement C ... ... ... ... 53 10 9 Public Library ... ... ... ... ... ... ... 579 Miscellaneous services, as per statement D ... ... ... ... ... 73 17 2 Maintenance jetty, boats, Arc. ... ... ... ... ... ... 814 8 Maintenance Government Buildings ... ... ... ... ... 53 17 4 Maintenance reservoirs ... ... ... ... ... ... ... 27 19 3 Cost of collection of Customs duties in New Zealand ... ... ... 3 17 10 Customs tide-waiter ... ... ... ... ... ... ... 8 19 0 Public-works expenditure, as per statement E ... ... ... ... 1,125 12 11 Total expenditure ... ... ... ... £2,320 110 Balance, 31st Match, 1913— Cash ... ... ... ... ... ... 500 18 1 Account current, Bank of New Zealand ... ... 348 13 1 Fixed deposit ... ... ... ...' ... 1,000 0 0 1,849 11 2 £4,169 13 0 H. Cornwall, Niue, 15th April, 1913. Resident Commissioner.

(C.) Niue Island Administration. Details of Item "Tufu School. — Working-expenses." £ s. d. Caretakers (Native couple) ... ... ... ... ... 36 10 0 Lighting . ... ... ... ... ... ... 214 11 Stationery ... ... . . ... ... ... 516 5 Repairs to food-house ... ... ... ... ... 5 19 3 Sundries ... ... ... .., ~. ... ... 2 10 2 £53 10 9 H. Cornwall, Niue, 15th April, 1913, Resident Commissioner,

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(D.) Niue Island Administration. Details of Item " Miscellaneous Services." £ s. d. Boat-crew ... ... ... ... "... ... ... 660 Interpreter ... ... ... ... ... ... 506 Rent of gaol-site ... ... ... ... ... ... 0 12 0 Porterage, errands, &c. ... ... ... ... ... 356 Commission and exchange ... ... ... ... ... 152 Food for Native labourers ... ... ... ... ... 12 13 7 Native assistance ... ... ... ... ... ... 13 9 2 Charing and cleaning ... ... ... ... ... 3 15 0 Grass-seed ... ... ... ... ... .. 613 Weighing-machine for cargo-shed ... ... ... ... 13 10 6 Weeding Government grounds ... ... ... ... 3 18 6 Council meetings ... ... ... ... ... ... 400 £73 17 2 H. Cornwall, Niue, 15th April, 1913. Resident Commissioner.

(E.) Niue Island Administration. Statement of Public Works Expenditure for the Year ended 31st March, 1913. £ s. d. Erection of Technical School, Tufu ... ... ... ... 63 6 5 Roadside tanks ... ... ... ... ... ... 24 17 1 Quarantine buildings ... ... ... ... ... 140 5 6 Purchase of hospital and quarantine site ... ... .... 100 0 0 Experimental cotton-cultivation ... ... ... ... 3 10 6 Hakupu-Liku Road ... ... ... ... ... 331 7 10 Tuapa-Hikutavake Road ... ... ... ... ... 213 11 4 Avatele-Fatiau Road ... ... ... ... .. 25 14 0 Tufukia-Amanau Road ... ... ... ... ... 34 7 2 Tuapa Hill Road (completion) ... ... ... ... 61 4 6 Peta Hill Road (explosives) ... ... ... ... ... 27 0 0 Alofi-Liku Road (explosives) ... ... ... ... ... 21 5 7 Improvement of live-stock ... ... ... ... ... 72 6 3 Furniture, Medical Officer's residence ... ... ... 6 1.6 9 £1,125 12 11 H. Cornwall, Niue, 15th April, 1913. Resident Commissionei

(F.) Niue Island Administration. Statement of Liquor Account for the. Tear ended Slst March, 1.918. £ s. d. F£] s. d. £ s. d. To Stock on hand, 1st April, By Sales .. . . .. .. 4 16 0 1912— Supplies 2 13 0 Freight .. ..020 Duty .. .. ..166 4 1 6 Balance .. .. 0 14 6 £4 16 0 £4 16 0 Profit anil Loss Account. £ s. d. £ s. d. To Stock— Balance, 31st March, 1913 .. . . 0 14 6 Cash transferred to general revenue 0 14 6 £0 14 6 £0 14 6 H. Cornwall, Niue, 15th April, 1913, Kesident Commissioner,

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Niue Island Administration. Port of Alofi.—Return of Imports for the Year ended 31st December, 1912.

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Article. Whence imported. Value. Total. Agricultural produce, not otherwise enumerated .. New Zealand Australia £ 54 2 £ Animals, living— Horses .. New Zealand Tonga 56 18 359 Hgs Goats Fowls Apparel and slops New Zealand .. 377 44 1 5 ,, . . . . ,, 1,412 92 39 61 142 140 ,, Australia United Kingdom Tonga German Samoa United States Arms, ammunition, and explosives New Zealand Tonga German Samoa United States America.. 255 17 4 2 1,886 Bacon and hams New Zealand United Kingdom 10 1 278 Bags and sacks Beer and stout 11 373 New Zealand .. jj • • Tonga Australia German Samoa 8 6 2 3 Beverages, non-alcoholic New Zealand Australia .. German Samoa 19 30 3 2 Bicycles, and parts of same Biscuits New Zealand .. >j • • Australia Tonga German Samoa United States United Kingdom 1,080 38 5 59 6 3 35 37 Boots and shoes New Zealand Australia German Samoa United Kingdom 92 3 2 2 1,191 Building material, not otherwise enumerated Butter and cheese New Zealand .. 125 1 99 79 jj • * • ■ United Kingdam 126 Carriages, and parts of same New Zealand Tonga 376 12 Cement and hydraulic lime Confectionery 388 34 New Zealand . . Australia United Kingdom German Samoa 16 1 1 4 Cordage and twine New Zealand Australia Tonga German Samoa 38 22 3 3 22 66

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Niue Island Administration— continued. Port of Alofi.—Return of Imports for the Year ended 31st December, 1912—continued.

Article. Whence imported. Value. f i Total. Cotton piece-goods New Zealand .. Australia United Kingdom Tonga German Samoa £ 1.223 297 175 68 248 j Drapery | New Zealand Australia Tonga United Kingdom German Samoa 2,011 785 97 46 2 176 Cotton, sewing New Zealand .. Australia 51 11 1,106 62 Drugs and chemicals .. New Zealand .. Australia United Kingdom 169 57 2 Earthenware and glassware 228 New Zealand .. Australia German Samoa 65 5 11 Fancy goods and toys New Zealand .. Australia United Kingdom Tonga German Samoa 165 10 1 12 13 81 Fish-hooks New Zealand .. German Samoa 48 3 201 Fish, preserved 51 New Zealand .. Australia Tonga United Kingdom United States German Samoa I 615 1 13 2 4 9 Flour i New Zealand .. Australia Tonga German Samoa ' 644 747 47 17 30 FruitsFresh Preserved New Zealand .. 31 2 2 841 4 jj ■ • United Kingdom German Samoa Furniture New Zealand .. Tonga Austraha Maiden Island 26 23 2 6 31 Hardware New Zealand .. Australia Tonga German Samoa Maiden Island 57 467 36 6 7 4 Hats and caps 520 New Zealand .. Australia German Samoa 96 37 6

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Niue Island Administration— continued. Port of Alofi.—Return of Imports for the Year ended 31st December, 1912—continued.

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■in! le. Whence imported. Value. Total. Hops Hosiery Instruments, musical New Zealand £ £ 10 14 ,, . . . . jj German Samoa 31 2 33 593 4 6 IronGalvanized corrugated Pipes and fittings Wire New Zealand jj • • • • Jams jj • • • . jj • • • • United Kingdom 37 3 Jewellery Launches and boats Machines, sewing New Zealand German Samoa New Zealand German Samoa Maiden Island 40 9 42 51 12 3 Matches New Zealand Tonga United Kingdom German Samoa 66 238 22 I 18 279 MeatsPreserved New Zealand Australia Tonga German Samoa New Caledonia United Kingdom United States America.. Maiden Island 1,224 7 3 4 3 12 3 10 Salted .. Milk, preserved .. 1,266 99 New Zealand jj • • Australia United Kingdom 82 2 10 Nails 94 New Zealand Australia 49 1 Oils50 Kerosene and benzene New Zealand Australia Maiden Island German Samoa 114 7 1 20 142 Not otherwise enumerated New Zealand Australia Tonga German Samoa 41 8 3 5 Paints and varnish 57 New Zealand Austraha 35 7 Paper .. .. New Zealand Austraha 42 19 1 20 Perfumery New Zealand Australia 43 17 Photographic goods 60 New Zealand Tonga 26 8 34 Pipes, tobacco New Zealand Austraha 40 10 50

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Niue Island Administration— continued. Port of Alofi.—Return of Imports for the Year ended 31st December, 1912—continued.

Artici le. tence importei lue, 'otatoes and onions New Zealand .. Australia Tonga German Samoa £ 53 2 2 2 •"revisions, not otherwise enumerated New Zealand Australia United Kingdom German Samoa 137 2 21 5 51 lice New Zealand Australia German Samoa Maiden Island United Kingdom 638 27 70 10 1 161 74Saddlery and harness New Zealand . . Australia Tonga 139 1 4 Salt Silks New Zealand .. 14. ,, ... Tonga Australia 54 2 8 Soap New Zealand Australia Maiden Island United Kingdom Tonga German Samoa 234 14 1 2 3 5 Specie Spirits — Brandy New Zealand .. 25£ 1.800 j» • • 1 4 Tonga Gin and Geneva New Zealand .. Tonga German Samoa 2 6 2 Whisky New Zealand .. Tonga German Samoa 2 2 2 Methylated New Zealand .. Australia 1 6 Perfumed New Zealand .. Australia United Kingdom Tonga German Samoa 40 13 1 12 7 Stationery and books New Zealand .. Australia United Kingdom 105 9 1 Sugar New Zealand .. Australia Tonga German Samoa United Kingdom 201 4 10 1 3 115

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Niue Island Administration— continued. Port of Alofi. — Return of Imports for the Year ended 31st December, 1912 —continued.

Total Values. £ New Zealand .. . . .. 15,990 Australia . . . . . . . . .. 950 Tonga .. .. .. .. .. .. •• 730 German Samoa . .. . . . . .. .. 969 New Caledonia . . .. . . . . .. .. 3 Maiden Island .. . . . . . . .. . . 35 United Kingdom . . . . .. .. .. .. 287 United States of America .. .. •. . • .. 155 £19,119 H. Cornwall, Niue, 17th January, 1913. Resident Commissioner.

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Article. "Whence imported. Value. Total. Tanks, iron New Zealand .. Australia German Samoa £ 22 2 1 £ Tea.. New Zealand .. Australia Geman Samoa United Kingdom 46 2 4 1 25 Timber, sawn 53 New Zealand . . Samoa 216 20 236 Tobacco, cigars and cigarettes New Zealand .. Australia German Samoa 825 18 2 Tools 845 New Zealand .. Australia 51 9 Trunks— New Zealand .. Australia German Samoa 60 15 8 2 25 Wine — Claret .. New Zealand .. German Samoa 1 9 Port Wooden ware j? New Zealand .. Australia Tonga German Samoa 51 2 1 2 10 8 Miscellaneous .. 56 6 New Zealand .. Total 19,119

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Niue Island— continued. Port of Alofi. — Return of Exports for the Year ended 31st December, 1912.

Summary. ~ New Zealand .. .. .. .. .. .. .10,922 Tonga .. .. .. .. .. .. .. 2,405 German Samoa .. .. .. .. .. .. 1,430 American Samoa .. .. .. .. .. .. 345 Australia .. .. .. .. .. .. 578 Fiji 6 United States .. .. .. .. .. .. 23 £15,709 H. Cornwall, Niue, 17th January, 1913. Resident Commissioner.

Article. Where exported. Quantity. Value. Total Australia Tonga 1,075 lb. 2,240 „ £ 15 28 £ Arrowroot Bananas Baskets and kits .. 3,315 „ 43 New Zealand 110 cases 8 3 42 ,, - ■ Tonga II Copra New Zealand Australia Tonga German Samoa American Samoa 5421 tons 20 „ 137| „ 74i „ 18J » 9,984 360 2,327 1,325 322 Cotton piece-goods Curios German Samaa New Zealand American Samoa 792J „ "7 21 14,318 99 Fancy goods 28 Australia Tonga 2 13 15 131 15 Fungus Fish, preserved .. Hats, plaited New Zealand j, - * 1,330 doz. 13 „ 10 „ 10 , 3 ., 50 „ 686 8 6 6 2 23 ,5 - * Tonga Fiji German Samoa American Samoa United States 1,416 „ 731 Specie Tobacco Australia New Zealand 172 48 Yams Australia Tonga 216 lb. 6,720 „ 8,178 „ 1 29 26 15,114 „ 56 Total . . 15,709

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NIUE ISLAND ORDINANCES. NIUE ISLAND PUBLIC HEALTH ORDINANCE. Sir, — Niue Island Administration, Niue, 12th September, 1912. I have the honour to forward herewith an Ordinance entitled the Niue Island Public Health Ordinance, 1912, which was passed by the Niue Island Council on the 10th instant. Two copies of the English version and two copies in the Niiie language are being forwarded.. When the Ordinance has been assented to by His Excellency the Governor, I should be glad if you would cause a hundred copies of each version to be printed and forwarded to me. I have, &c, H. Cornwall, Resident Commissioner. The Hon. the Minister in Charge, Cook and other Islands Administration, Wellington.

Sir, — Cook Islands Administration Department, Wellington, 26th March, 1913. I have the honour to forward to you herewith the Niue Island Public Health Ordinance, 1912 (Maori and English), which received the assent of His Excellency the Governor on the 18th November last. I also forward a hundred printed copies of each version as requested. Your letter of 3rd inst. (193/7/26) on this subject has been duly received. I have, &c, F. G. Twiss, The Resident Commissioner, Niue. Acting-Secretary for the Cook Islands.

Ordinance No. 28.—The Niue Island Public Health Ordinance, 1912. Be it enacted by the Niue Island Council as follows : — 1. The Short Title of this Ordinance is the Niue Island Public Health Ordinance, 1912. 2. In this Ordinance, if not inconsistent with the context, " Medical Officer " means the Resident Medical and Health Officer, or any person for the time being acting in that behalf, or any duly authorized agent of the Resident Medical and Health Officer or Acting Medical and Health Officer. 3. The Resident Commissioner may from time to time, by Proclamation, appoint any place in Niue to be a quarantine station at which passengers and goods from a ship may perform quarantine. 4. (1.) Whenever a ship is ordered into quarantine, then the provisions of the Public Health Act, 1908, of New Zealand, sections 113 to 149, both inclusive, and the regulations made thereunder, shall apply where practicable and where they are not inconsistent with any law in force in Niue. (2.) Notwithstanding anything herein, or in the Public Health Act, 1908, or in the Niue Island Quarantine Regulations Ordinance, 1906, it shall not be obligatory on the part of the master or other person in charge of a ship to keep his ship at anchor at Niue during the period of quarantine, and such master or other person in charge may take such ship to sea for the whole or any part of the period of quarantine. (3.) All penalties provided under the Public Health Act, 1908, of New Zealand, sections 113 and 149, both inclusive, may be imposed and recovered in the Resident Commissioner's Court. 5. (1.) The Resident Commissioner may, by Proclamation, appoint any place, village, or district, to be a place where persons affected with any dangerous, infectious, or contagious disease shall be isolated, and during the currency of such Proclamation it shall be unlawful for any person to enter or leave such place without first obtaining permission from the Medical Officer. (2.) Any person who infringes the provisions of this section shall be liable on conviction to a fine not exceeding twenty pounds, or hard labour with or without imprisonment for a term not exceeding six months. 6. (1.) The Medical Officer is hereby empowered to take all necessary action with the view of preventing the spread of any dangerous, infectious, or contagious disease, and may order to be destroyed any clothes, bedding, or other things that have been exposed to infection or contagion. (2.) In the case of things destroyed by order of the Medical Officer, reasonable compensation shall be paid by the Niue Island Administration. (3.) Any person who wilfully disobeys any order given by the Medical Officer under this section shall be liable on conviction to a fine not exceeding twenty pounds, or hard labour with or without imprisonment for a term not exceeding six months. 7. For the purposes of sections five and six hereof the decision of the Medical Officer as to what are dangerous, infectious, or contagious diseases shall be final. 8. Upon the issue of any Proclamation as prescribed in sections three and five hereof all members of the Island Council, Magistrates, and Police shall be deemed to be and shall be officers appointed under this Ordinance to generally assist the Medical Officer in the prevention of the spread of disease, and shall at once report themselves to the Medical Officer for duty.

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9. Any officer appointed under this Ordinance who wilfully neglects his duty, or disobeys, or causes others to disobey, any order of the Medical Officer shall be liable on conviction to a fine not exceeding twenty pounds. 10. All proceedings for the prosecution of offences under this Ordinance shall be commenced in the name of the Medical Officer. 11. In the case of any Proclamation issued under this Ordinance it shall be sufficient if such Proclamation is exhibited in the English and Niue languages, in a conspicuous place, at the office of the Resident Commissioner. Passed by the Niue Island Council this tenth day of September, one thousand nine hundred and twelve. Togia, Approved. President of the Niue Island Council. H. Cornwall, Resident Commissioner, Niue. Assented to in the name and on behalf of His Majesty. 18th November, 1912. Islington, Governor.

NIUE ISLAND MARRIAGE, REGISTRATION, AND DIVORCE ORDINANCE. The following Ordinance to provide a necessary amendment to the law relating to marriage and the registration of births, deaths, and marriages at Niue was passed by the Niue Island Council on the 7th January, 1913, and duly received the assent of His Excellency the Governor in the name and on behalf of His Majesty on the l9th June, 1913 : — Ordinance No. 29.—The Niue Island Marriage, Registration, and Divorce Ordinance, 1913. Whereas it is desirable that the law relating to marriage, and registration of births, deaths, and marriages, be amended, and that provision be made for divorce : Be it enacted by the Niue Island Council as follows :— 1. The Short Title of this Ordinance is the Niue Island Marriage, Registration, and Divorce Ordinance, 1913. 2. In this Ordinance, where not inconsistent with the context, — ".Officiating minister" means a person authorized under this Ordinance to solemnize marriages : " Parents " means the natural parents in cases where they have brought up and maintained their child; otherwise the term " parents " shall mean foster-parents or guardians, as the case may be : ■',' European " shall include half-castes living as Europeans. 3. Every minister of religion who desires to solemnize marriages in Niue shall apply in writing to the Resident Commissioner to have his name placed on the Register of Officiating Ministers, stating the religious denomination or society to which he belongs : Provided always that in the case of Native pastors who desire authority to solemnize marriages between Natives such applications shall in every case be covered by a favourable recommendation from the head of his particular denomination or society. 4. Upon receipt of such application as prescribed in the preceding section, the Resident Commissioner shall place the applicant's name on the Register of Officiating Ministers, and shall notify such applicant accordingly. 5. The Resident Commissioner is hereby empowered to solemnize marriages, between persons who do not desire a religious ceremony. No marriages solemnized in Niue shall be legal unless solemnized by one of the officiating Ministers or by the Resident Commissioner. 6. Persons desirous of being married shall apply in person to the Magistrate of their district, or to the Resident Commissioner, giving at least three clear days' notice, and stating in writing when, where, and by whom they desire to be married. They shall pay a fee of two shillings, and make a declaration in writing to the following effect : — (a.) That they are of legal age : (b.) That they know of no legal objection to their marriage : (c.) That they are entering into the marriage contract of their own free will. In all cases where the persons are under twenty years of age the consent of the parents must be given in writing. 7. With the consent of the parents, male persons who have attained the age of eighteen years, and female persons who have attained the age of fifteen years, shall be competent to marry. 8. Except with the consent of the parents, no person who has not attained the age of twenty years shall be competent to marry. 9. (1.) Persons of the Native race of other islands who have settled in Niue may have their marriages recognized in Niue on making a declaration before the Resident Commissioner, stating the place and date of marriage, by whom solemnized, and that they know of no reason why such marriage should not be legally recognized in Niue. '.'"''

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(2.) No Native of any other island who arrived in Niue after he or she became of marriageable age may be married in Niue until he or she shall have procured a statement under the hand of some constituted authority of his or her home to the effect that such individual is unmarried ■and of the age of twenty years, and that there is no known objection to the marriage. 10. Immediately after a marriage ceremony the officiating minister shall execute a certificate of marriage and forward it, together with the two declarations, without delay, to the Magistrate of the district. 11. (1.) Marriages between Europeans, or where one of the parties is a European, shall not be solemnized by any Native officiating as minister. Such marriages shall only be solemnized by a European officiating minister. (2.) A European shall not be competent to marry unless he or she has resided in Niue for at least three calander months, except as provided under section thirteen (13) hereof. The parties shall give at least three clear days' notice to the Registrar, and inform him when, where, and by whom they desire to be married. They shall also make a declaration in the terms of section six (6) hereof. The Registrar shall then issue to the applicants a license authorizing any duly authorized officiating minister to marry the parties after the expiration of three clear days. (3.) Immediately after a marriage ceremony the officiating minister shall obtain the signatures of the contracting parties to a marriage certificate; such signatures must be attested by at least two European persons, and the certificate signed by the officiating minister. The certificate so completed must be then forwarded to the Registrar without delay. 12. All marriages must be publicly solemnized in the presence of two or more witnesses between the hours of six in the forenoon and four in the afternoon. 13. In cases where, in the opinion of the Registrar, the surrounding circumstances are of an exceptional character he may dispense with the three clear days' notice and the residential qualification, and authorize any marriage to be solemnized at any time after six hours' notice., 14. In any case where persons of the opposite sexes are living together to the scandal of the community owing to the refusal of their parents to consent to the marriage, and where such persons, although of marriageable age, have not yet reached the age 'of twenty years, the Resident Commissioner may order that the consent of the parents may be dispensed with, and authorize the marriage. 15. Children born of unmarried parents shall become legitimized on the subsequent intermarriage of their parents. 16. Any person who shall wilfully make any false declaration under this Ordinance shall be liable to a fine not exceeding five pounds or imprisonment with hard labour for a term not exceeding one month. Registration. 17. The Resident Commissioner shall be the Registrar, and every Magistrate shall be a Deputy Registrar of Births, Deaths, and Marriages. 18. It shall be the duty of every Native officiating Minister to promptly forward to the Magistrate of his district a certificate of every marriage solemnized by him, on the form provided for the purpose. 19. In the case of every birth and death a declaration shall be made before the Magistrate of the district in which the birth or death took place, at "the Magistrate's house, on the forms provided for the purposes. 20. It shall be the duty of the father or mother in the case of a birth, and the next-of-kin to the deceased in the case of a death, to make the respective declarations prescribed in the preceding section. 21. Immediately after the end of every month every Magistrate shall forward to the Registrar all declarations of births and deaths, and certificates of marriages, that have been received by him during the preceding month. 22. Any person failing to make a declaration as to a birth or death within one month shall be liable to a fine of five shillings. 23. The Resident Commissioner is hereby empowered to cancel the registration of any officiating minister if it is proved to his satisfaction that such person wilfully ignores the requirements of this Ordinance, or if the head of the denomination or society to which such person belongs recommends such a course. 24. A certified copy of any registered entry of a birth, death, or a marriage shall be supplied by the Registrar on payment of a fee of two shillings and sixpence. If an applicant for a certified copy of an entry cannot supply information sufficient to enable the entry to be readily located, a search fee of two shillings and sixpence shall be paid in addition. Any registered entry may be inspected at the office of the Registrar on payment of a fee of one shilling and the search fee where necessary. 25. If at any time the magisterial staff is so altered that it is no longer convenient for Magistrates to be Deputy Registrars under this Ordinance, the Resident Commissioner may make such new appointments as he deems necessary. Divorce. 26. Any man who has been living apart from his wife, or any woman who has been living apart from her husband, for a period of three years may apply to the Resident Commissioner's Court for a divorce, and if he or she can show that the circumstances of the case are such that they are entitled to relief the Court will grant a divorce.

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27. Any act of adultery committed by either husband or wife shall entitle the aggrieved and innocent party to apply to the Resident Commissioner's Court for a divorce. ~ 28. Continuous acts of cruelty shall entitle a wife to obtain a divorce. 29. In any case where a husband and wife voluntarily live together subsequent to an act which would entitle the aggrieved and innocent party to a divorce, it shall be held that the offence has been condoned by the aggrieved and innocent party, and such party shall thereby forfeit all claim for a divorce. 30. A fee of one pound shall be payable for a decree of divorce, and in no case shall the costs of such a suit exceed one pound six shillings and sixpence. 31. The Niue Island Marriage and Registration Ordinance, 1904, is hereby repealed. Passed by the Niue Island Council, this seventh day of January, one thousand nine hundred and thirteen. - Togia, Approved. President of the Niue Island Council. H. Cornwall, Resident Commissioner, Niue. Assented to in the name and on behalf of His Majesty. 19th June, 1913. Liverpool, Governor. Approximate Cost 0/ Paper. —Preparation, not given ; printing (1,200 copies), including illustrations, *40.

Authority : John Mackay, Government Printer, Wellington.—l9l3.

Price Is.}