IN NATIVE DISTRICTS.

11

F.—No. 6.

True as this may be, these changes cannot be carried out, and impressed off-hand, as it were, on unwilling minds, in direct opposition to prejudices and old customs that have existed for ages. These have, to some extent, to be tolerated for a time —in some instances, perhaps for several generations. The most independent are often the tardiest at first to commence, feeling, as they do, a pride in their own nationality, and a repugnance to submit at once to those whom they are perfectly aware are their superiors. The Maoris of Taupo have offered land for school purposes, in accordance with provisions of " The Native Schools Act, 1867," and are anxious to have their children taught. Tho great difficulty in respect to this matter is the scarcity of money among them. The Natives are anxious that a cheaper way could be devised of passing their lands through the Lands Court, for the purposes of leasing, as they are obliged to let their lands in large blocks for grazing purposes, and have not the means to pay for the survey ; afterwards, when they have received rents, and sell portions or subdivisions of their claims, a proper survey has to be made. I have, &c, The Hon. the Native and Defence Minister, Wellington. S. Locke.

No. 8. Mr. Halse to Mr. Locke. Sie,— Native Office, Wellington, 19th August, 1871. I have the honor, by direction of Mr. McLean, to acknowledge the receipt of your letter of the 21th July, reporting on progress of your district. I have, &c, S. Locke, Esq., R.M., Napier. H. Halse, Assistant Native Secretary.