H.—3l

Orchard and Kitcheh Garden. —Reorganization was effected on Mr. Brace's recommendation in September last. The staff was increased to three —one head'gardener and two assistant gardeners being appointed. Although considerable quantities of fruit and vegetables have been supplied to the institution, we cannot expect good results until next season. It is anticipated that next year the whole of our vegetable-supply will be provided by our Swn kitchen-garden. The orchard is now in a very clean condition, and a very fine crop of apples has been gathered this season. Farm. —Despite excessive drought conditions prevailing in this district, the supply of milk and cream from the farm has been well maintained, surplus butterfat being sold during the flush of the season. Seventy gallons of milk of exceedingly good quality is the average daily supply to the institution. I have to thank the Superintendent of Government Farms for much helpful advice throughout the year in the matter of the control of the farm and its activities. Poultry Section. —All our requirements have been met, and, in addition, during the greater part of the year eggs have been supplied to King George V Hospital, Rotorua. To the Otaki Sanatorium 120 laying-birds were supplied. The total output is shown at 9,500 dozen eggs for the year. Fourteen dozen eggs have been supplied daily for the institution's needs, while 1,000 dozen have been preserved. This effort speaks for itself. In passing I desire to very highly commend the work of our Poultry Overseer in producing such fine results in such an essential service. Red Gross. —No report would be complete without mentioning the very great contribution made to the welfare of all patients by the activities of the Red Cross Society. Week by week we have been in receipt of a considerable quantity of gifts from the various branches of the society in this district, as well as receiving much financial help from the executive of the Red Cross in Wellington in procuring moving-picture films, tobacco, &c. Wireless. —The wireless receiving-set, provided for from the Patients' Recreation Fund, and erected towards the end of 1924, continues to give good service to the patients. The fact that most of the broadcasting programmes commence late in the evening, after the patients' bedtime, somewhat limits its usefulness. During the year the institution was frequently visited by the Director-General of Health, and on one occasion by Dr. Watt as Acting Director-General of Health. The various inspecting officers of the Department have also visited the institution and given helpful advice. My thanks are due to Dr. Valintirie particularly for very much help and advice again this year.

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