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G. —10.

Oaonui. Two miles from Oaonui is situated this scheme, which comprises a total area of 189 acres. The whole property is practically flat, well watered, and will be all ploughable when cleared of scrub and light bush. The soil is mostly of a light volcanic loam of good quality. There are two settlers now established as dairy-farmers, and the scheme supports four adults and three children. These settlers have not yet had the benefit of a full year's supervision and instruction, but both are particularly keen and energetic, and are anxious to make a success of their holdings. Live-stock as at 31st March comprised 45 dairy cows, 21 other dairy stock, and 2 horses. A house was erected for one settler, and another dwelling will be provided during the ensuing year. Further work undertaken included 59 acres of clearing, 12 chains of new fencing, and the erection of a cow-shed. Okaiawa. Comprising a total area of 60 acres, this scheme is situated two miles from Okaiawa Township. The whole property is practically flat and is all ploughable. There was a small area under fern and blackberry, but this has been cleared, and other noxious weeds are being eradicated. The occupier has now been established as a dairy-farmer, and he supports two adults and two children. He and his wife are young and energetic and are quite capable of making this property into a first-class dairy farm. Live-stock as at 31st March comprises 44 dairy cows, 4 other dairy stock, and 2 horses. During the year a cottage was erected, and as there was already a six-bail cow-shed on the property, the position as regards buildings is very satisfactory. Work undertaken included the clearing of 28 acres, 41 chains of new fencing, and 28 acres of grassing. Tikoratigi. This scheme is situated five miles from Waitara, and comprises a total area of 117 acres, of which 55 acres consist of rich loam and river-silt, while practically the whole of the remaining area is easy rolling country, all ploughable. There are two settlers now established as dairyfarmers, supporting nine persons. The health of the Natives in this district has been reasonably good and there have been no outbreaks of disease. The pastures are fairly good, but some resowing will be necessary during the coming year. Live-stock as at 31st March comprised 41 dairy cows, 15 other dairy stock, and 3 horses. One settler requires a new house, while the dwelling of the other requires additions. This will be attended to before the winter, sets in, and both settlers will then be suitably housed. This is the only scheme in this locality at present, and its progress will naturally be closely watched by other Natives in the district. Whangaehu. Situated up to five miles from Whangaehu Railway-station, and comprising a total area of 367 acres, this scheme contains about 205 acres of rich river-flats, while the balance is mostly hilly. With the exception of some steep faces on one section, the whole area is ploughable. There is a portion of 40 acres to 45 acres in light bush and scrub, and 50 acres in gorse, all of which will be cleared during the coming season. There are three settlers now established as dairy-farmers, and these, together with eighteen labourers, support ninety dependants. The area formerly subject to flooding has now been drained and ploughed, and when sown in pasture will greatly increase the carrying-capacity. The block is situated in one of the most fertile areas on the west coast, and owing to its close proximity to a dairy factory, railway-station, and main road, will develop into very valuable holdings. Ragwort and other noxious weeds are in evidence, but are under control and will gradually be eliminated. The year's work included 4 acres of clearing, 88 chains of fencing, 65 chains of draining, and the erection of one house and one cow-shed. Live-stock as at 31st March, 1938, comprised 35 dairy cows, 4-99 ewes, 15 rams, and 2 horses. The cows are of a particularly good stock, while the ewes were purchased from the well-known Morikau flock. With such good stock to commence with, and with careful management, the success of the project should be assured. The experiment of making concrete posts was first tried on this scheme, with very successful results. Apart from being considerably cheaper than the totara posts formerly used, the appearance of the fences is much improved, those upon this property exciting the admiration of all who have seen them. The three settlers are young, keen, and most energetic, and are very anxious to make the venture a success. It is probable that more Natives in this locality will come under the developmental policy in the near future. Ohinepuhiawe. Located half a mile from Bulls Township, this farm comprises a total area of 96 acres which is all flat, being mostly river-silt, while gravel is fairly close to the surface on 15 acres to 20 acres. There are two settlers now established as dairy-farmers, supporting five adults and four children. This is a healthy locality, and there have been no outbreaks of disease. Except for a small area under gorse, which it is not proposed to eradicate owing to the close proximity

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