65

α-i

The following summary shows the areas cultivated, and the nature of the crops, during the year:—

Resolution Island. I regret that, owing to the uncertain communication with the West Coast, I have been unable to procure from Mr. Henry, the Curator, a succinct report of his operations during the year in time for presentation herewith. I have, however, received from time to time a few notes of his movements and observations in the locality of Resolution Island, in hunting for birds and exploring the country, which I forward. Conclusion. In concluding this report I have to remark that the volume of administrative and office work has in no way lessened, but rather increased during the year, notwithstanding the fact that the number of new selections has been comparatively smaller than a few years ago. The transactions in connection with lands already selected and held by Crown tenants are gradually becoming more numerous, involving a yearly increasing amount of time and attention, and it gratifies me to be able to state that in the work of administration I am efficiently supported by the staff at my disposal. D. Barron, Commissioner of Crown Lands.

SOUTHLAND. The results of the transactions of the past financial year may on the whole be considered satisfactory, as, although the gross revenue falls below that of the preceding financial year by over £4,000, the number of selectors over all classes is increased by seventy; the number of forfeitures and surrenders has decreased by twenty-one, and the number of selectors in arrear with rent has decreased by fifty-five, as compared with the year 1901-2. 9—C. i. App.

Settlement. Oats. Wheat. Barley. Root crops. Total. Ardgowan Barnego Earnscleugh Elderslie Janefield Maerewhenua Makareao Makareao Extension Momona Pomahaka Puketapu Tahawai Teaneraki Tokarahi Windsor Park Windsor Park No. 2 Duncan ... Acres. 653 788 35 1,544 9 1,085 163 53 31 885 26 8 59 1,469 387 Acres. 258 22 1 941 3 1,120 87 20 2* Acres. "89 10 Acres. 316 493 1 89 16 821 32 76 27i 495 20 Acres. 1,227 1,303 37 2,663 28 3,036 282 149 61 1,380 46 8 89 2,857 840 "776 336 102 12 30 510 105 Totals ... 7,195 3,5664 213 3,031* 14,006