D.—J.','

1879. NEW ZEALAND.

IMMIGEATION TO NEW ZEALAND. (LETTERS TO THE AGENT-GENEEAL.)

Presented to both Houses of the General Assembly by Command of His Excellency.

No. 1. The Hon. the Ministee for Immigeation to the Agent-Geneeal. Sib— Immigration Office, Wellington, N.Z., 23rd July, 1878. Referring to my letter of the 12th instant,* in which I informed you that your suggestion as to sending young men to the School of Agriculture, about to be established at Canterbury, would be communicated to tho promoters of the institution, I have now the honor to enclose copy of a letter, dated the 16th instant, from the Chairman of the Board of Governors of the Canterbury College, which affords full information respecting the proposed school. I have, &c, The Agent-General for New Zealand, London. J. Macandrew.

Enclosure in No. 1. The Chaieman, Canterbury College, to the Hon. the Ministee for Immigeation. Sir— Canterbury College, Christchurch,N.Z., 10th July, 1878. I have the honor to acknowledge receipt of your letter of the 12th instant, with the accompanying extracts from recent correspondence with the Agent-General in London, with reference to young men in Great Britain availing themselves of the facilities offered by the School of Agriculture at Christchurch, for acquiring a practical knowledge of agricultural pursuits in this colony. In reply, I beg to state, for your information, that a School of Agriculture is now being established in this provincial district, at which instruction will be given to young men desirous of engaging in agricultural pursuits. The Board has purchased a farm of 402 acres within fifteen miles of Christchurch, near the Lincoln Railway Station. The quality of the soil varies from rich swamp land to a light loam, being admirably adapted for an experimental farm. A gentleman has been engaged as director, who has had large experience in practical farming, aud is also well qualified to give the students the scientific instruction required. A plan has been prepared, and tenders called for the buildings. There will be accommodation for twenty students, with laboratory, lecture-hall, &c. The charge for boarding will be £50 per annum for each student. It is expected that the buildings will be completed and ready to receive students within twelve months. I nave» &c> The Hon. the Minister for Immigration. W. Montgomeey, Chairman.

No. 2. The Hou. the Ministee for Immigeation to the Agent-Geneeal. Sib,— Immigration Office, Wellington, N.Z., 7th August, 1878. Referring to your letter of the sth June last (No. 495), I have the honor to enclose for your information a copy of "a circular which has been addressed to Immigration Officers throughout the colony, respecting the acceptance of nominations for free passages. I have, &c, The Agent-General for New Zealand, London. Robeet Stout. *No. 26, D.-1., 1878. I—D. 1.