51

E.—l

The main purpose for which the line at present open was constructed will shortly, in a measure, be realized by the extension across the Eimutaka Range to Featherston, and no doubt the access to the Wairarapa District will result in a very largely increased traffic; but it wall be done at the cost of greatly increased expenditure by reason of the very heavy grades, which wall have to be worked by Fell engines specially imported. The engines, rolling-stock, and permanent way are in good working order, and when the line is extended, and a full complement of engines, &c, obtained, I hope to be in a position to afford better facilities for both passenger and goods traffic than exists at present. New Plymouth Line. The total receipts for the year on this section amounted to £4,930 7s. 3d., being an increase of £2,288 Bs. 2d. over the previous year. This line, like the Kaipara section, is too much isolated at present to expect great results ; still, it is progressing very satisfactorily. The engines are too light for the grades on some partions of the line, and provision has been made for two of a better class to be supplied, as well as an increase of rolling-stock, especially timber trucks. The wants referred to have been subject of public complaint for some time, and I think with good reason. The road and rolling-stock are both in good order, and, upon the whole, the line has been properly worked with the inadequate means at the manager's disposal. In conclusion, I have great pleasure in bearing testimony to tho zealous co-operation of the managers and employes generally, who, during my tour of inspection, afforded every information and assistance necessary to give me an insight into the working of the lines, and the peculiarities of their respective districts. Attached herewith you will please find the following tables: — Statement showing dates of opening tho several lengths of line ... ... 1 Statement of classified receipts and expenditure... ... ... ... 2 Statement of passenger and goods traffic ... ... ... ... 3 Statement of revenue and expenditure for wharves ... ... ... 4 Statement of accounts for sections ... ... ... ... ... 5 General statement of accounts for northern lines ... ... ... 6 Return of accidents... ... ... ... ... ... ... 7 Return of locomotives and rolling-stock ... ... ... ... 8 Return of miscellaneous stock ... ... ... ... ... 9 I have, &c, J. Lawson, Commissioner of Railways, North Island. The Hon. the Minister for Public Works.

Enclosures in Appendix H. TABLE 1. NEW ZEALAND RAILWAYS.—NORTH ISLAND. STATEMENT showing the NUMBER of MILES of ROAD OPENED for TRAFFIC during the Year ending 30th June, 1878.

Designation of Line. Date when Opened. Length. Eemarks. .uckland 13th August, 1877 19th Dec., 1877... 14th June, 1878... M. ch. M. CH. 31 2 10 33 9 24 33 ." ... 33 ... ... 50 59 rapier ... 25th Jan., 1878 ... 5 00 Wellington 1st Jan., 1878 ... 5 60 7 43 Wanganui 21st Jan., 1878 ... 4th Feb., 1878 ... 22nd April, 1878... 7 43 2 71 9 10 18 0 ,, ... ... ew Plymouth 30th Nov., 1877... 30 1 8 60 8 60 Total opened ... 102 63