Latest Information from the Settlement of New Plymouth

First published by Smith, Elder and Co. in 1842

Digitised and made available online by the University of Auckland Libraries and Learning Services.

Epub © 2013 Early New Zealand Books Collection

ISBN 978-1-927279-40-3

[FRONTISPIECE]

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VIEW OF THE SITE OF NEW PLYMOUTH.

VIEW OF THE SITE OF NEW PLYMOUTH.

THE COMPANY'S STOREHOUSES TO THE RIGHT. – HOLSWORTHY HILL ON THE LEFT.

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LATEST INFORMATION
FROM THE SETTLEMENT OF
NEW PLYMOUTH,

ON
THE COAST OF TARANAKE,
NEW ZEALAND.
COMPRISING
LETTERS FROM SETTLERS THERE;
WITH
AN ACCOUNT OF ITS GENERAL PRODUCTS,
AGRICULTURAL AND COMMERCIAL CAPABILITIES,
&C.

PUBLISHED UNDER THE DIRECTION OF THE
WEST OF ENGLAND BOARD OF THE NEW ZEALAND COMPANY.
LONDON:
SMITH, ELDER AND CO., 65, CORNHILL.
1842.

[TITLE VERSO]

London:

Printed by STEWART and MURRAY,

Old Bailey.

LATEST INFORMATION FROM THE SETTLEMENT OF NEW PLYMOUTH.

LATEST INFORMATION

FROM THE SETTLEMENT OF

NEW PLYMOUTH.

THE following pages, which have been compiled from the latest official despatches and private letters, will enable the reader to form as correct a judgment of the resources and prospects of the New Plymouth Settlement as the very short time which has elapsed since its original formation renders possible. The settlers all lament the want of a harbour, but there is no difference of opinion as to the extraordinary fertility of the soil, and the great promise which is held out to agricultural settlers. The general wish expressed for moorings had been anticipated by the Directors, who sent out in the Timandra, in October last, two sets, capable of holding the largest ships.

In a commercial point of view, the settlement will necessarily be secondary to Wellington, which, from its superior harbour, must be the great commercial entrepot. An exceedingly intelligent settler, however, writes to a friend in London, "that there is a good opening for goods, and from all appearances there will be for some time, as the parties principally coming out are agriculturists." This gentleman says that the goods he brought with him from England

TARANAKE.

have averaged two hundred per cent. profit. There appears to be a spirit of enterprise growing up, evidenced by the rapid erection of houses, and the clearance and cultivation of land; in addition to which, a whaling company is projected, and about to be formed.

The opinions of the labouring class are favourable, as will be seen from that portion of the work which contains extracts from their letters; and the whole will present a continuous statement of proceedings connected with the settlement, from the date of the surveyors' tour of discovery in January 1841, to the arrival of the Oriental at New Plymouth, on the 9th of November last. The advantage of this general view will excuse a little repetition.

On the 26th of December, 1840, Mr. Carrington, the principal surveyor for New Plymouth, was recommended by Colonel Wakefield to visit Taranake, Tasman's Gulf, and Queen Charlotte's Sound; and, accordingly on the 7th of January, he embarked on board the Brougham for Taranake, and steered for the Sugar Loaf Islands, at that place, where he arrived the following evening. There, on the mainland, Col. Wakefield thought would be the best location for the town of New Plymouth.

On the 8th of January, the surveyor writes:

"We had a fine view of the coast of Taranake and Mount Egmont. We kept close to the coast all day, and had a clear view of the country for sixty miles, in which distance we saw only one hut and seven natives; the country the most magnificent I ever saw for agriculture; the slope gradual from the mountain to the coast, with sufficient undulations in other directions, which make it naturally drained.

THE SUGAR LOAF ISLANDS.

Not more than a mile and a half from shore, we came to an anchorage half a mile E.N.E. of the centre Sugar Loaf. Nothing here worthy of the name of harbour, nor could a perfect one be made without considerable expense; but much good could be done by a breakwater, which is very practicable, abundance of materials being on the spot. The anchorage is a hard sand and clay – could not be better."

The following is an account, by the Surveyor, of the Sugar Loaf Islands and the anchorage there: –

"All the rocks which compose the Sugar Loaf Islands are very hard – a kind of granite; the one which joins the main land is five hundred feet high, the centre one about three hundred feet, and the outer one about two hundred and fifty feet; they are all of them more or less covered with vegetation, flax, evergreens, &c.; beside these, there are high rocks or islands; there are also several other rocks, some of which are under water, and some never covered, even at high water. The average depth of water round the islands and rocks is about seven fathoms, except from the centre Sugar Loaf to the main, which is about two fathoms and a-half; and if a breakwater was made here, we should seldom or ever have any swell upon the beach, and vessels might come alongside, discharge, and take in cargo. The length of breakwater required would be little more than a furlong." – Surveyor's Journal, Jan. 10.

There is a difference of opinion amongst the agents of the Company as to the possibility of forming a breakwater; but a jetty, affording great shelter and accommodation to small coasters, appears quite practicable, and was contemplated by the settlers.

The surveyors now proceeded along the Taranake coast; and, having arrived off the mouth of the river

RIVER WAITERA.

Waitera, "sounded the entrance, and found in the shallowest place on the bar seven and a-half feet; this was out of the channel of the river. The tide had fallen three feet in the channel – at spring-tides there is thirteen and a-half feet water. Directly over the bar is three and four fathoms water, in a basin formed by the river. We pulled up the Waitera for about three miles; a most beautiful country. The vegetation is beyond description. Fern trees and numberless evergreens, and fern-flax, and grass from ten to twenty feet in height. The country, the whole way from this to the Sugar Loaves, just the same character; except where it is intercepted by large timber, which joins the great forest round the base of Mount Egmont, and radiates in places nearly to the coast. Indeed the whole country, as far as the eye can reach, appears generally fertile, except the summit of Mount Egmont, which is covered with snow.

"The soil, a rich dark mould. I thought this a most valuable piece of country; but there was no harbour for a ship. I looked, and re-looked at the river; its parallel banks, where boats might be brought alongside, and take in or discharge cargo. Its bar, I thought, might be improved by small piers being run out on either side. This was my first visit; the sea like a mill-pond, and every thing most satisfactory, but the one great essential – a harbour. I remarked to Mr. Barrett, it was open to the north-west, and perhaps ships would not like to bring up there on that account. He assured me the north-west wind was by no means frequent, and lasted but a few hours when in that quarter, which I have since found to be correct." – Surveyors Journal, Jan. 11.

As far, therefore, as the surveyor had already seen, the deficiency of a commodious harbour was the only

BLIND BAY AND ASTROLABE ROADS.

drawback to Taranake, as the site for a settlement; and in anticipation of that quarter being selected for its natural advantages, Mr. Carrington next visited the opposite harbour of Port Hardy, and minutely examined the port.

"Arrived and anchored in Port Hardy (south arm, fourteen fathoms water) at a little after six o'clock, P.M. Almost immediately after, we were visited by two canoes, with three or four natives in either. Soon after anchoring, pulled round the harbour to see if any place would do for building store-houses; saw but few. Ground, almost every place, steep to the water edge. The best spot would be on the north-east beach of the east arm, directly you enter this branch of the harbour: in other words, half a mile south of Castle Head. There is much timber here; but I expect it will not be found valuable for building any thing beyond small craft. The evergreens are by no means so plentiful as in many other places which I have seen in this country. The scenery, however, is truly grand; and the harbour being so safe, must, some day, be of great value to the opposite coast of level country (Taranake). – Surveyor's Journal, Jan. 15.

Mr. Carrington now proceeded to examine the country round Tasman's Gulf, on the north coast of the South Island, where he arrived on the 16th of January. At dusk, on the same evening, he reached Adele Island, and next morning, Sunday, entered

"Astrolabe Road (more properly, Harbour.) – It is perfectly safe, and sheltered from all winds, owing to its position with Adele Island, Fisherman's Island, and the main land. At ten o'clock I went on shore with Mr. Barrett, and took a walk for several hours over the ground, all of which is much too steep for

QUEEN CHARLOTTE'S SOUND.

cultivation, and a great portion of the hills are little better than rock. There are here, on the main land, several truly beautiful coves and ravines, with about an acre or so of level land, where might be built a gentleman's house with garden and pleasure ground, but nothing beyond this. I had a fine view of the level land towards the south of the bay. There appears much of it, with a small river running through its centre; it also appeared as if a great mass was flooded at certain seasons of the year." – Surv. Journal, Jan. 17.

The Surveyor-general's impression of this place appears, from an extract from one of his private letters to Mr. Woollcombe, to have been, on the whole, very favourable: –

"Next to Taranake, Tasman's Gulf possibly may prove the best part of the New Zealand Company's land for a settlement. But should it be contemplated at any time to form one there, a surveyor who understands the sketching and drawing of hilly ground ought to be sent with several labourers some months before settlers, to see if it is practicable to find a road from where the town must be (at the harbour) to the agricultural part of the country, which is distant about seven miles. In my journal of the 18th January, I have stated that I thought it a bad place for a settlement, as the land which I had that day been over was so much intercepted by marsh, and upon the following day I found it was flooded for some considerable way every rise of the tide; but seeing the great extent of level land which I did on the 20th of January, I could not help thinking but there must be some valuable country."

Last of all, Queen Charlotte's Sound was visited, with regard to which it is observed: –

TARANAKE. – QUALITIES OF SOIL, ETC.

"Its localities have been commented upon by so many different persons, that it is useless my endeavouring to afford further information respecting the place. It is an immense, splendid, and safe harbour, with water varying from seven to twenty-five fathoms. On either side, all through the Sound, you find the most beautiful little coves with small patches of ground, just enough for a cottage and garden. Jackson's Bay, where is a whaling establishment, and the next Bay, where is a native settlement, are the only places favoured with a few level acres. The hills in every direction are particularly steep, and covered with an endless variety of foliage, even to the water. It is therefore quite out of the question seeking for any extent of land worth cultivation in this part of New Zealand." – Surveyor's Private Letter, Jan. 17.

Final Choice of Taranake.

On a general review of the capabilities of the various districts he had thus visited, the portion of Taranake, between the rivers Enui and Ewatoki, was finally fixed on as the site of New Plymouth; and as far as agricultural qualities are concerned, the propriety of this choice will appear from the following quotations, in addition to the numerous testimonies which have been already published.

"If New Zealand is to prosper, this must become the great granary, from its possessing such an immense extent of land fit for agriculture – many millions of acres. I looked to this, and also to its position with the Australian and other colonies; and I thought I could not do better than fix the settlement here.

"And now, after having been here some few months, I feel much pleasure in being able to assure the Directors, that I do not see that the selection could be

QUALITIES OF SOIL, ETC.

bettered as regards the site of the town or settlement in general.

"I have made a drawing of the grounds of a great portion of the town, but cannot complete it till I have finished my cuttings. By the next ship I hope to send it home, when you can have a model made from the drawing, which will at once show those unacquainted with topography the exact formation of the land. I shall, therefore, only say that a more beautiful and promising country for agriculture is perhaps not to be found. A more healthy climate I believe there is not: myself and family lived in a native hut for five months, a great portion of the time without either door or window; the shed was so small that it was impossible to erect any kind of bedstead without taking up all the spare room; we, therefore, slept upon native mats on the ground (and occasionally a little rain), yet, for all this we were blessed with the best of health.

"A steam tug would be an invaluable acquisition to this place, as we could then discharge large ships with great facility; and during many months in the year she might be employed in many ways for the good of the colony, and in bad weather she might lie at the Waitera." – Surveyor's Private Letter.

Opinions of Settlers.

On the arrival of the Amelia Thompson at Port Nicholson, the greatest dissatisfaction prevailed amongst the passengers at the intelligence that no harbour existed at Taranake, and it was said by one of the most influential settlers whose subsequent letter will te presently referred to, "It is the intention of most of us to enter the settlement under protest, leaving the matter open to redress." The following extract, how-

ever, will shew that a personal examination has materially altered the writer's views.

"I am happy now to give you a more favourable account of the settlement, than reports at Port Nicholson when there, enabled me. The absence of a refuge for shipping will always be a serious matter, but the land is so fine, at least compared with Port Nicholson, Cloudy Bay, and all the coast of New Zealand I have seen, that I have not the least idea of the failure of the place. I am sorry, or rather glad to differ with some residents here, who argue ill of the settlement, and I seriously trust for all concerned, that time will prove them wrong and me right. It has too many recommendations to go to the ground, and it is hardly to be expected that the New Plymouth, or rather the New Zealand Company, are merely a money-making set, and that they would now abandon us, after such proofs of confidence on our part, having actually left our homes for this distant settlement before its locality was even known to them or to us. I think, moreover, that the government to whom they are indebted for their charter would expect them to make every effort for us. You will be pleased to hear that Captain Liardel is at the helm of affairs – he is a man of spirit, and fitted to uphold every thing he undertakes. He is an old shipmate of Captain Hobson's, and that circumstance cannot be unfavourable to us.

"You will be pleased to hear that I am one of the five magistrates. The governor, however, made a sad mistake in not insulting me with two or three hundred a year. He thought from – – – 's letter that I came out as a gentleman. A sad delusion, I am only working hard to become one." Private letter from W. H. H. Esq: dated 13th Nov.

The same gentleman writes to another party at the same date as follows:

"We must now speak of our settlement, and of the natives. You have long since heard that it is on the western coast of the Northern Island, but the charts are all wrong which we brought with us from England. As nearly as we can ascertain, the exact position of the town, or rather the site, is in lat. 39 deg. 3' S., and 174 deg. 20' E., and about twenty-five miles north of Eg-mont, a mountain of great height, covered with eternal snow, at times distinctly seen, but generally lost to view in the clouds. The district of Taranake in appearance much resembles a park, and when cleared of fern will be considerably improved. The land is comparatively level, the soil rich and fertile, the climate delightful (at this time the temperature ranging in our marquee from 65 to 86), and the land well watered with two rivers (the Ewatoki and Enui), streams, and frequent rains. Governor Hobson told Capt. Liardet, on meeting him at Port Nicholson, that Taranake was the garden of New Zealand, and that he hoped soon to see a road between it and Auckland, his seat of government, and that he should visit us the ensuing summer. The want of a harbour will, at all times, be a drawback; but, as Mr. Carrington observed to us, he had three places to choose from, and he selected land without a harbour in preference to a harbour without land, – alluding to the mountainous country round Queen Charlotte's Sound; and we hope that, as art can effect many improvements in the place, the New Zealand Company, so rich in capital, will make an effort for so fine a part of New Zealand, particularly as so many have staked their interest in the success of it. We are glad that the Waitera river, about twenty miles to the northward, is secured to us, and that the boundary of our settlement is fixed on the other side of it. The Waitera river is of great importance, as by

ANCHORAGE.

removing some obstacles, and deepening its mouth, it will be capable of receiving vessels of small burden."

Mr. C – n, a gentleman who went out in the first expedition in the William Bryan, writes on the subject of the anchorage, that it is quite practicable to form a jetty for landing goods nearly opposite the town, where some rocks run out some distance. He states that a settler who has lately arrived from Van Dieman's Land calculates that it might be done for 500l.

This gentleman, in remarking on the rivers Enui and Ewatoki, states, that "though not navigable, they will be very useful as affording water power for mills."

As to the Anchorage, the surveyor states: –

"We have got the garden of the country, and though perhaps 80 or 100 miles in extent, here is the only landing-place for cargo. We have now safely discharged (with small boats) three ships at different seasons of the year, and while the place is in a perfect state of nature. Much can be easily done to improve the accommodation for large ships, and facilitate landing. A mooring ought to be here, also a jetty, which I suppose we shall quickly have, and then this place will go a-head; and if a steam-tug, we shall be all right." – Surveyor's Journal, Sept. 1841.

"The Company's Store 1 is built in a valley on the north side, with several other houses adjoining. Capt. King's residence is at present on the south side, at a short distance from the most suitable spot for the landing-place, at which they talk of running out a jetty; which, if carried into effect, will enable ships to land their passengers and cargoes with much greater safety and ease; it would also be a saving of an

infinite deal of trouble and expence. The other landing point is at Moturoa or Sugar Loaves, two miles from the town: cargo landed there has to be transported this distance over a sandy beach, compelling the owners to incur additional expence, which might be avoided if landed at the town." – Private Letter from H. R. Aubrey, Esq., Sept. 26.

The following extracts from letters give the impressions of Mr. C – -n, whose letters we have before quoted, immediately on his arrival in May, and subsequently in August 1841. After a most glowing description of the impression made on him at his arrival by the beauty of the scenery, the writer says: –

"You will say this would do all very well for a landscape; but what of the country as regards cultivation? From what I have seen of it, I think it very good, and likely to become a very flourishing settlement. Generally speaking, the land can be cleared for 10l. an acre; of course, I now mean put in a good state for cultivation, for I would undertake to clear it sufficiently for a crop for half that sum. The forest land will cost more to clear, but then you have a set-off in the value of the timber, which I think will pay well; the town and the greatest part of the country land being covered with fern and shrubby wood."

In August, the writer says: – "From what I have seen of this district, I have no doubt the settlement will succeed well, particularly for capitalists coming here; and I am glad to find some are expected by the next ship. A mill and steam-engine is to be brought out by one of the colonists, and will be a valuable acquisition. I wish you were here to see my establishment: I have quite a little farm-yard

PROBABLE EXPORTS.

within my fence – a hen-house, goat-house, and pig-stye – and, better still, have occupants for them. I have been exceedingly busy fencing and building, and am now going to prepare some land for potatoes, &c."

Before proceeding to a resume of affairs in the settlement, from the final decision of the surveyors and the landing of the stores in the month of March, to the latest advices in November, we subjoin a few miscellaneous extracts on the subject of the natural qualities of the soil and probable articles of export from the colony, and also on the character and disposition of the natives.

"In the course of twelve months' time I expect we shall be able to export to England from New Plymouth. Whales are very numerous close to the shore, and it is said that next season the fishing will be carried on with spirit. We have a great variety of wood quite handy; I cannot attempt to give you the different names, they are too many. Suffice it to say, it is most valuable for all kinds of building and furniture. Also the most pure black dye from the bark of the hinau; it is a large tree, and very plentiful. Fruit trees, I have no doubt, will here flourish in great perfection. I know peaches will. We have two large trees, planted by a native, from stones brought from Sydney about twelve years since; they are five or six miles inland from the town, and were loaded with fruit last season." – Surveyor's Private Letter.

"New Zealand, however, in my opinion, will make quite different returns from the Australian colonies. There, rapid fortunes are made by certain parties in sheep-farming. Not so here; people who come to

OBSERVATIONS ON VEGETATION, ETC.

this country must be content to settle down for some years. There is much labour to be done in clearing, and this of course will go on progressively, consequently it will take a few years before you can get great returns; but ultimately the value of land here will be infinitely beyond that in sheep countries, and there will always be found a good market for this place." – Mr. Carrington's Letter, Sept. 1841.

"Went this morning, with Mr. Aubrey and two of the labourers, to the Enui River, the proposed eastern bounds of the town; – walked inland along the bank of said river for about a mile. It is extremely beautiful, and clothed on either side with copse, timber, innumerable evergreens, and tree ferns. The soil, just the same, equally good, every place inclosed which I have yet purchased. The river is about 20 yards wide, and keeps a parallel width. I expect it will prove valuable, some day or other, to bring down timber from the forest through which it runs." – Surveyor's Journal, March 20.

"Early this morning, I walked into the country for two miles, at the back of Nga Motu, through a fine flat fern country, the fern on which only requires to be cut and burnt, to set the plough at work. Some thousands of acres might be tilled here at a trifling cost. The surface soil is a fine, black, light mould, but at spade's depth, a rich loam. In New Zealand, every part is covered with vegetation – either fern, scrub, or wood. The fern grows to various heights, from one to twenty feet, but, generally, on good land, open to the weather; it averages from three to five feet, and is so thick that it is impossible to walk through it. There is but little grass, so that it will be necessary to cultivate it before any quantity

TIMBER. – STONE.

of cattle can be maintained." – Mr. Cutfield's Journal, April 11.

"The karaka, (Corynocarpus Levigata,) kohekohe, and kow-wiri, are the prevailing trees in this part of the wood; the two first are not in good repute, and the latter is too hard for general use. Mr. Carrington was shewn some fine kikatea trees, this morning, by a native. The kikatea is a species of white pine, and well adapted for all purposes of house and boat building." – Ibid, April 12.

"This morning, with one man, I cut through the fern from the wheat land to the wood, about three quarters of a mile distant, in an easterly direction, in search of pine. Found fine karaka, towa and tawariva (commonly called honeysuckle), but no pine. The towa is a fine wood, something between the ash and the oak, and will prove a useful wood for the boat and ship builder, as well as to the wheelwright." – Ibid, May 21.

"The kikatea timber lies in a valley, near the banks of the Enui; many of the trees measure 5 feet in diameter. There are also, near the same place, fine kikatea and towa trees; so that, having formed our saw-pits, we can furnish ourselves with a large quantity of plank of either sort; and, when a nearer cut is made to the town, it will not be more than 1 1/2 mile to the store-house, a point which we at present calculate distances from." – Ibid, May 22.

"Having examined every piece of stone which has come in my way since landing, I have been unable to discover any other than sand and iron stone, and granite; indeed, the country appears to be ill supplied with stone, except on the sea-shore, where there is plenty of very hard granite. From certain indications, iron, I apprehend, will be ultimately found in

WHALING.

large quantities in this neighbourhood." – Ibid, June 18.

"Stones on the land are scarcely to be met with; but as there are plenty in the beds of all the rivers and streams, it is reasonable to suppose they will be met with in places at some distance under the surface. But should this not be the case, large quantities of stone may be collected on the coast from the beds of the rivers, for road-making." – Ibid, July 4.

"The whale which Mr. B. anchored on the 30th June, rose, and drove to sea. To whale here with success, six boats at least should be employed; and to form a six-boat establishment a capital of £3000 would be required. To allow the Sydney merchants to form establishments would be folly on the part of the settlers, because Sydney would derive all the profit, which is great, and all the trade incident to whaling, by sending whaling gear, slops, and provisions, and taking away the oil; whereas the oil ought to be an article of export. Lines and cordage might be made, and boats built here, as easily as at Sydney. It is to be hoped that as soon as a few persons of capital collect, a joint-stock whaling company will be established. Had there been a six-boat party here, six or eight whales might by this time have been taken, even at this early part of the season." – Ibid, August 3.

It will be seen that this object has been since accomplished, as one of the early settlers writes, on the 13th August, – "We are going to form a whaling company here. It is an excellent place for it, and will be highly advantageous to the colony. It is a natter of policy to support this undertaking ourselves, otherwise most of the profit will go out of the colony to Sydney, &c. The capital proposed is £5,000,

THE NATIVES.

which would fit out six boats. A great number of fish frequent this place; the other day, when one was towing home, I saw several playing about."

"On my first arrival here the inhabitants were very few, perhaps sixty or eighty, (in the Plymouth district they are now more numerous, perhaps three hundred). Many are constantly returning from captivity. The Waikato tribe, whose slaves they were, having embraced Christianity, permit them to return to their native land. Not twenty years since, there were ten thousand fighting men between the Sugar Loaves and the Waitera river; but the continuous wars have reduced them to their present state.

"Though these people have fixed habitations, they are continually on the tramp from place to place, and appear to think no more of walking across the country or along the coast for 150 or 200 miles, than we should in England of going from one village to another. Some of their houses are neatly made, particularly those which are lined with reeds placed in a vertical position. They are, however, for the most part, very rude, being constructed by a certain number of poles placed in the ground, about four or five feet high, and from four to six feet apart. At right angles to these poles, and distant from ten to fourteen inches, they tie a certain number of long sticks, to which they again place, in a vertical position, flags or rushes. The roof is constructed in a similar way, and is always covered with an outside layer of coarse grass: generally speaking, these roofs are impervious to rain. In their cabins there is neither door nor window, but a square hole is left, for the threefold purpose – access and egress of themselves, smoke, and light. During the winter months, and in the evening, they make a fire on the earth, in the centre of their

building, around which they squat, lounge, and sleep. Their usual occupation in-doors is making articles of clothing, of which they make a great variety, chiefly from the flax, prepared in various ways; this work is principally performed by the women. Their food is mostly vegetables; occasionally a little fish, and seldom pork or birds. These are always cooked out of doors in an oven made in the earth. A hole is made, from two to four feet in diameter, and about fifteen inches deep, which is carefully paved with smooth stones, spurious granite got on the shore: a fire of wood is made on these stones till they are nearly red-hot, when all the ashes are carefully removed; and a quart or two of water being sprinkled on the hot stones, a great steam is created, when they instantly place whatever they have to cook upon them, and quickly cover all up with small mats and different gum plants; these are again covered with earth, and effectually prevents the escape of steam. Things cooked in this way are excellent.

"Their idea of cultivation is curious; they seldom plant twice in the same ground, saying it is no good. About two months before they intend sowing, they leave their homes in small parties for a day or two, walk a little inland, and select a lonely spot in the wood or bush, but never in the fern land. Soon after this, the weather proving favourable, they commence cutting down all the timber or bush which is on the spot chosen, except the karaka, which is carefully preserved, on account of its producing food; the fruit of this beautiful evergreen is in appearance like a date. The trees are all cut down about four feet from the ground, and the stumps are never disturbed. About a week or two after this, if dry weather, it is burned and carelessly cleared away, and with a

pointed stick they make the earth a little loose, and put in their seed. Potatoes will do well in New Zealand, if planted from the beginning of September till March. Water-melons, pumpkins, and various other vegetables, are planted by the natives early in November. They have a name for every bird, fish, insect, or plant, that I have here yet seen, and are much pleased if you cannot readily furnish the same.

"The majority of the men are athletic, well proportioned, and above the ordinary stature, particularly the chiefs or "rangatiras," in whose appearance you generally see a marked superiority. Many of them, though so much tattoed, are remarkably handsome, having fine Roman features, and beautiful teeth. The women are by no means so pleasing in their appearance; now and then you may chance to see a good-looking one or two, but it is rare; all, however, have very fine teeth, eyes, and nails. Those who have embraced the Gospel, cease to tattoo either themselves or children. I expect in a few years it will be quite exploded. It is a long and painful operation. The natives tell me it takes six or eight years to complete a face that is full tattooed; and at every operation, which is once or twice a year, the swelling is enormous, and, now and then, they die from the effects. This work is performed by the men.

"Their wood-carvings are now very rare; occasionally you may see an elderly man so occupied, but never the young people. I expect, in the course of a few years, this art will be lost among them. Writing in the hurried way in which I now am, I will not add more upon the customs and manners of the people. I send the above from observations, as I do not recol-

lect having seen them mentioned." – Mr. Carrington's Letter, Feb. 8, 1841.

"In England, we were favourably impressed with the natives; but we find them a much better race of people than we had imagined. As far as our experience goes, and what we have ascertained of them, an extraordinary change (chiefly effected by the Missionaries) has taken place among them within the last few years. Formerly savages, warring against each other, frequently annihilating whole tribes, and many among them cannibals; they have exchanged those dreaded characters, and become religious and peaceable men. They are nearly all missionaries, and carry with them their bible (translated in the native tongue), which they carefully protect from injury, and are constantly praying. On Sundays they wholly abstain from work, and we have watched them proceed to the native chapel in the most orderly manner, and fall down in reverence before the door, with their faces covered, and almost crawl in, us if they felt their utter worthlessness. What a lesson to many Europeans! The natives are a very fine race of people. Their dress generally consists of a mat made of flax, or a blanket; some of them have adopted different articles of European costume. The natives being now busily employed in planting their potatoes, few of them are here, and not any temptation will induce them to neglect this staple article of food. Some of the women are very good-looking, and most of the men handsome and athletic. They have all, without exception (and it is extraordinary), jet black hair. Most of them are tattooed; but this absurd and painful custom is fast falling into disuse. The men and women of caste dye their lips blue; and, during the period of our residence here, we have never seen a

single instance of a man or woman showing the least signs of impropriety. The men appear attached to their wives – they to their husbands – and the single women generally conceal their faces in their mats, on the approach of a stranger. Their pigs are docile, and follow their owners like dogs. We have got nine pigs, which we have branded, and turned adrift in the bush, where they fatten, and increase on fern root. We procured from the natives, a short time since, a very finely woven mat, which we shall send you at a future period." – Messrs. Halse's Letter, Nov. l3,1841.

Fern Tree of New Zealand.

1 Vide Frontispiece.

GENERAL REVIEW OF THE PROCEEDINGS IN THE COLONY.

GENERAL REVIEW

OF THE

PROCEEDINGS IN THE COLONY,

UP TO THE

ARRIVAL OF THE ORIENTAL, IN NOVEMBER, 1841.

(Where not otherwise stated, the Extracts are from the Journal of Mr. Cutfield, the Emigration Agent.)

THE Settlement having been thus finally chosen, "All hands, also four natives, commenced on the morning of the 9th of March, to build a house upon the bank of the Ewatoki."

Agreement with the Natives.

On the 10th, Mr. Carrington writes, I took an interpreter with me the first thing this morning, and clearly explained to the natives who were upon the spot where I wished to build the house, and about the land being sold to the white people, which they all admitted. I then drew squares upon the ground, and made them comprehend the value of their reserves, with which they were very much pleased, and immediately went to work for me, cutting and clearing the wood. I agreed to pay them with tobacco.

GENERAL REVIEW OF PROCEEDINGS IN THE COLONY.

Arrival of the William Bryan with the Pioneer Settlers.

March 30. – The men employed in removing their luggage from this place to the town. At ten o'clock A.M., I was told a vessel was in sight (the William Bryan), – went to the commanding rocks, and tried to make out her flag – could not – too far off – saluted her with a couple of guns as she opened the anchorage; she was distant at this time about four miles. I immediately took Mr. Barrett's whale-boat and crew, went off to her, and at six o'clock P.M., she was safely anchored about three-quarters of a mile north-east of Centre Sugar Loaf. Fine clear day, with fresh breeze from south-east.

Landing of Passengers and Stores.

On the 1st of April the passengers and stores were landed from the William Bryan, and, next day, a meeting of the agent and the emigrants was held to determine the rate of wages, which were finally fixed at 5s. per day for labourers, and 7s. for mechanics.

Allotments of Land to the Labourers.

On the 21st Mr. Cutfield moved one of the tents from Nga Motu, to a piece of ground near the town, which he named Holsworthy Hill; 2 and in order to encourage the workmen in the Company's service, on this hill I have allotted each man in the expedition a small spot for building a house, with permission to hold it for two years, at a rental of 6d. a year. At the expiration of two years, the land to be given up, or a superior rent demanded by the Company's agent.

Trade with the Waicato Tribe.

May 7. – A Waicato chief, and some of his people, who have been here for some time, building two houses on speculation, offered them to me for a certain quantity of goods, or in New Zealand phraseology, 'trade.' At the appointed time, between twenty and thirty natives, men and women, assembled round the storehouse door, where, having seated themselves, they remained with great composure till the different articles were brought out and shewn them. The 'trade' offered for one house consisted of two pair of blankets, a double-barrelled gun, six shirts, three red caps, two pair of trousers, and a camblet cloak. After thoroughly examining the 'hentro' (price), and holding a consultation with the women, they complained of there being nothing for the females; they, however, modestly requested in addition, four pair of blankets, some iron pots, and some pieces of print. This was quite out of the question, and on its being intimated to them, five or six rose and carried the different articles into the storehouse, and the business was at an end.

As the chief Terobia was to leave the next morning, and being a man of considerable influence with his tribe, I thought it advisable to stand well with him, considering the reports which are in circulation relative to the tribe coming down 'for no good.' I therefore consulted with Mr. Barrett, on the propriety of making him a present. This he advised me to do, observing that it would be returned in some way or other on a future day. I accordingly made him a present of the cloak, requesting Mr. Barrett to say, that, notwithstanding we could not make a bargain, we were not to be the worse friends.

Terobia is a fine man, very quiet in his demeanour, but has been a great warrior.

First Whale for the Season.

May 18th. – The weather getting very cold in the evening. The thermometer standing generally at 8 P.M. about 40 deg. Mid-day warm and pleasant. The first whale for the season made its appearance between the Sugar Loaf Islands.

Preparation of the Ground for the Wheat.

May 22. – Commenced turning up the ground for the wheat. The soil is rich in the extreme. Our old agricultural labourers say there is no gentleman's garden in England anything to surpass it. It is not, however, merely this spot: every part which I have yet seen, for some miles round, is the same; there is no choice of soil, only locality.

The best tool for clearing the fern-root is what our labourers call 'bittocks,' or 'mattocks,' similar to those sent out under the name of 'potatoe-axes.'

Weather on 30th of May, (corresponding to 30th Nov. in England.)

May 30. – A most delightful day, and warm enough to induce us to sit out of doors after an early dinner, enjoying the beautiful scenery around.

Progress of Vegetable Growth in Two Winter Months.

June 23. – It will be remembered, that on the 21st of April, I sowed, for experiment sake, various seeds in the cleared piece of ground in front of the Store-house. I will now state what success I have met with. The radishes are very good, and fit to

draw. Of fine plants which have met with a favoured spot, one is as large in circumference as a shilling, the others something less; but the generality of the plants are as large as any one could wish, for the table. The turnips are progressing very well, and some will be fit to draw in about three weeks from the present time. The onions are small, but I think will stand the winter, and come in early in the spring. The mustard and cress came tolerably well, and would have succeeded much better with a little temporary shelter from the cold winds. The lettuce plants will stand the winter, and come in early like the rest, in the spring. The ground on which the Store-house stands not having been chosen for the sake of the land, but for situation, was perhaps one of the worst for the experiment, being of too sandy a nature, and open to the N.W. winds.

A "Strike" amongst the Workmen.

July 19. – This morning, at the hour of going to work, the labourers assembled in a body at the Store, and demanded an increase of wages, on the plea that provisions had risen in price, particularly flour. Flour has hitherto been sold at 3 1/2d., fresh pork at 7 1/2d., and sugar at 4d. Flour is now selling at 4d., fresh pork at 5d., sugar at 6d.; tea, of which we have but little, at 4s. 6d. It will be seen that I have purchased American flour from the Lapwing at 35l. per ton, and Colonial at 25l.; these I had mixed, and sell at 4d., it having cost the Company 3 3/4d. nearly, leaving a farthing per lb., or 2l. per ton for landing and drawing to the Store. Being perfectly satisfied that wages, when compared with the price of provisions and the number of hours the men work, are too high rather than too low, I declined entertaining

the slightest idea of a rise in wages, at the same time explaining to the men that flour, sugar, &c., were sold at the lowest possible price. After much grumbling they left me, and I observe that nearly all, instead of taking the road to the wood, returned home. From this I understood it to be a 'strike.'

July 21. – At the usual hour for work four men, who were at work on the 19th, came as usual for orders, much to my surprise, for I had been given to understand that no man dare go to work on pain of having his house pulled down. These men intimated that they had no intention, and never had, of refusing to work. At 10 the remainder of the people came down for a parley. Having called together the Company's officers, and Messrs. Baynes and Douglas (settlers), we met them; and, after an hour's conversation, pretty well convinced them of their error, and further, that they had been too well treated.

Effects of Frost.

July 30. – This unfortunate frost, after so much rain, has cut off all my English potatoes, planted on the 7th of May, which were six inches above the ground, and looking well. This is a convincing proof that potatoes cannot be grown here in the winter months, at least with any degree of certainty. Turnips and radishes, however, thrive well, and may be sown at any season.

Capture of a Whale.

Mr. Barrett's boats were after a whale this morning, which was killed; but sinking, it was anchored about 4 miles from the land, till decomposition causes it to rise, which is generally the case in about 48 hours.

TEMPERATURE AND WEATHER.

For the last two days there has scarcely been a wash on the shore. This fortunately does not agree with Col. Wakefield's dispatch, 'that Taranake cannot be approached from the sea except after a long calm.' Experience tells me, that one day, with the wind off the land after a N.W. gale, and which is generally the case, makes the shore practicable for landing goods.

Mr. Weekes, the Colonial Surgeon, writes on November 13th, 1841: –

The following abstracts from my Journal, which I have made for your inspection, will perhaps enable you to form some idea of the weather we have experienced since our arrival in this Colony.

The first table contains the temperature and quantity of rain; the second, the state of the winds. The thermometer was kept at the south end of an apartment without a fire place. The white frosts were always dispelled with the rising sun. The winds which render the roadstead dangerous are the N. and N.W. The best winds for landing boats are from S.W. to N.E. inclusive. The months of September, October, and November, are more windy and unsettled than those at any other period of the year.

As Medical Officer to the Company, I have merely to add that the climate is very healthy, and very little sickness has occurred, notwithstanding the damp houses most have hitherto been obliged to live in. Two deaths only have occurred; the one from a kick of a horse, the other from excessive drinking.

[Temperature and weather.]

WINDS.

WINDS.

AMELIA THOMPSON AND REGINA.

Arrival of the Amelia Thompson and Regina.

On the 4th of September, the Amelia Thompson reached the settlement, and just in time, it would appear, from Mr. Aubrey's account.

Sept. 4. – "The Amelia Thompson reached this on the 4th inst. We hailed her arrival with delight, the provisions of the William Bryan being nearly exhausted; and, had not Mr. Cutfield succeeded in purchasing some from a small schooner that was trading round the coast, I scarcely know what might have been the consequence. No flour had been served out for more than a fortnight previous, and we were beginning to be very anxious for the safety of the ship, as she was due long before she made her appearance." – Mr. H. R. Aubrey to Mr. Woollcombe, Sept. 26, 1841.

It happened most unfortunately that both the Amelia Thompson, which arrived on the 4th Sept., and the Regina, on the 3d of Oct., reached the settlement in the most tempestuous season that the natives remembered to have seen. The consequence was that much delay took place, and much risk incurred in landing the passengers and goods from both vessels; and when the last advices were dispatched, it was doubtful whether the Regina would be got off from a bank, on which, missing stays, she had been stranded. No doubt the deficiency, in respect of shelter, must be taken into account; but the opinion of all, who have yet written home, seems to be, that in ordinary seasons mooring-chains and a jetty would be amply sufficient to guard against accidents of the above kind. It is by no means clear that the accident to the Regina is to be attributed entirely to bad weather.

SURVEYS.

It appears from the official report that she was lying within half a mile of the shore, and that when the anchor was hove up, she canted the wrong way, and struck on the rocks. The probability is, that had she slipped and stood out to sea in time, no accident would have occurred.

Captain Liardet writes to the Directors: – "I am told by every one here, that the weather has been unusually bad this month; so much so, that several people who have been from seven to ten years at Taranake, state that they have never seen any thing like it before. Mr. Barrett (well known to the Company) is amongst the number."

In the meantime, the work of laying out the town and suburbs appears to have been forwarded briskly: the surveyor writing, on the 13th of October, –

"The suburban lands will, it is possible, be ready for clearing in a month or six weeks, – certainly not before. Lines now extend from two to three miles at the back or south of the town, and nearly the same distance south west.

Suburbans will soon be opened for choice there, and for early numbers those will be the most desirable situations; but the undulating country to the north, will, I think, be found the best suited to those who have late choices. It is a most beautiful district; the whole distance between the Enui (the limit of the town to the north) and the Waitera, is ten miles distant, well irrigated by innumerable streams, and, for the most part, covered with beautiful shrubs, a certain indication of good soil. The rural land will come in at Waitera, and it is said that a second township will be formed there hereafter. The district of Waitera certainly possesses many advantages; the

greatest is the size of the river, which, although it has a bar at the mouth, is capable, in fine weather, of admitting vessels of small tonnage.

I shall give out the town in a few days, as soon as the vessels are gone. I have as yet given out only six of the suburban, but in a fortnight or three weeks shall be able to give out many. I have several miles of cutting done."

On the subject of the surveys, and of the different localities for town and suburban allotments, the following remarks of Mr. H. Aubrey will be found worthy of attention.

"The town sections immediately on or in the vicinity of the Ewatoki river, are, as far as I can judge at present, likely to be the most sought after. Some of the individuals holding early choices, talk of selecting theirs at the back of Holsworthy, 3 where I had at one time an idea of fixing mine: that situation possesses, with the exception of the timber, every advantage which it is possible to have here. The clearance may be effected at a comparative trifling expense, and the soil equals any I have seen. Had I chosen my section there, I should not have thought of bringing it into cultivation. Its vicinity to what is likely to be the most flourishing part of the town would cause it to be eagerly sought after by persons in business for their storehouses and dwellings, &c.; and the course I should have pursued would have been to divide it into a quarter or half acre allotments, and reserved or sold each allotment, as might have been found most advantageous." – Mr. H. R. Aubrey, Letter to Mr. Woollcombe, Sept. 21, 1841.

PROSPECTS.

On the 10th November the town was all given out, and it was then anticipated that within a few weeks the suburban lands would be also ready.

Arrival of the 'Oriental.' – Prospects.

The last accounts from the Colony are contained in the following announcement in the Messrs. Halse's letter, from which we have already quoted: –

"On the 7th November, the Oriental arrived; and Captain King, who boarded her, returned immediately with Captain Liardet, to our surprise and pleasure. He is a man of spirit and talent. One hundred and five emigrants landed from the Oriental. Captain Liardet had come from Port Nicholson, and the mate (Watson) of the Amelia Thompson, came from the same place, and intends to settle. Dawson, the captain, intends to return to settle; and besides the mate, his steward, second mate, and three or four of the crew, are already in the colony. All this looks well for the settlement."

2 Vide Frontispiece.

3 This is the spot on which the labourers of the Pioneer Expedition built their huts.

EXTRACTS FROM LETTERS OF THE LABOURING CLASSES.

EXTRACTS FROM LETTERS OF THE LABOURING CLASSES.

EXTRACTS FROM LETTERS OF THE LABOURING CLASSES.

New Plymouth, New Zealand,
June 21st, 1841.

DEAR FATHER AND MOTHER,
New Plymouth is situated on a rising eminence between two hills, and commands a full view of the sea; but the worst fault is, there is no harbour for vessels. As for the sort of country it is, the climate is far superior to that of England; the land is well wooded and watered, but rather mountainous in some parts; but wherever the sea reaches, the shrubs and trees are beautiful; the soil is very deep and free, so that you can almost turn it up with your fingers; there is no kind of reptiles here whatever; but plenty of dogs, rats, pigeons, and wild ducks. There is a mountain about thirty miles inland, called Mount Egmont, whose summit is always covered with snow; it is 9,000 feet above the level of the sea, and sometimes has a magnificent appearance. The natives are a fine race of people, the men being very tall, but the women shorter, and would be very good looking if they were not tattooed so much; they are very gentle in their manners; but when once roused, they are unmanageable, and never forget an insult once offered them. Their dress consists of a rug or blanket,

thrown loosely round them; they are also very lazy, not doing any kind of work. Their food is principally potatoes, pumpions, and crackers, – a sort of nut resembling our beechnuts; they are also very fond of anything showy, but set a great value upon a blanket. We have had one excursion among them: there were four of us taken from our work by Mr. Carrington, to go with him surveying, – it was Ned, myself, and two others; we went about seventeen or eighteen miles, to a place called the Waitera; it was where the town was first intended to have been. We slept at night with the natives in their huts, sometimes two or three hundred around us all the night; we were wanting about a fortnight when our own provisions was done; we lived with them on fish, ducks, and potatoes. All the others were very much exasperated at our being chosen to go with the surveyors; but we don't mind that. I have been working all the time with the rest of the labourers, cutting roads, at 5s. per day; but now the shop is just finished, and I expect to go into work in about a week, when I shall be more comfortable. The wages for carpenters, 7s. 6d. per day; hours the same. The hours are from eight in the morning to four in the afternoon; – stop an hour at dinner.

Your dutiful and affectionate Son,
PETER F. HOSKIN.

New Plymouth, New Zealand,
Nov. 13th, 1841.

DEAR FATHER AND MOTHER,
I now write about the wages; that is, carpenters, 7s. 6d. per day; blacksmiths, 7s. 6d. to 8s. per day; also the labouring men get 5s. per day, and the hours

are from half past seven in the morning until half past four, for the Company; but the men that are thinking of leaving the Company, they are looking out for more wages; but as for myself, I work for the Company; for we are six smiths in New Plymouth, and the other five are in the bush to work, getting 5s. per day, and I am getting 7s. 6d. to 8s. a-day. Also the price of pork 7 1/2d.lb.; flour, 4d.; butter, 1s. 6d.; sugar, 10d.; figs, 10d.; tea, 7s.; coffee, and we can get board and lodging from 10s. to 12s. per week. Do write to me every opportunity, and let me know how you are getting on, also my brothers and sisters; and tell them, I hope that whenever I return to old England, I hope I shall find them doing well; my dear brothers and sisters, be sure and keep good company, and mind yourself. I shall always be glad to hear from you. I wish I could once a-week. I must be contented as it is; but do send so often as you can, and always be good to your father and mother, and they will be a friend to you. I little thought that ever I should leave my native land; but I hope and trust it is all for the best; for now I have got a house of my own given to us for two years, (the William Bryan emigrants,) and garden, which stands on twenty yards of ground. My house is sixteen feet broad, and twenty-four feet long; that is large enough for my two brothers and myself; but when we came to New Zealand first, we made our bed on fern; but when the Amelia Thompson came, we had got up houses for them; but the rent that we make of them is from 6s. to 8s., and from that to 10s. a-week. Please to tell Mrs. Woodley that I am a teetotaller again, and I find it is the best; for the spirits in New Zealand is killing the men; – and upon my last letter I wrote you the account of the country: it is very fine

land; but the farmers will be obliged to pay out a great deal for clearing it before they will gain anything by their farms. There is nothing particular more to say at present, but remain,

Your affectionate Son,
PETER F. HOSKIN.

New Plymouth, Taranake,
31st October, 1841.
New Zealand.

DEAR FRIENDS,
It is with great pleasure that we can inform you of our having arrived here safe, after ploughing the ocean for 20,000 miles, having had to contend with contrary winds, in consequence of which, we have travelled 4,000 more than the direct course; however, thank God we are at our destination at last, after a long and tedious voyage of 163 days from the time we left Plymouth Sound. Labourers get 5s. per day, mechanics 7s. 6d.; household servants 20l. a-year. Of course, the necessary articles of apparel are clear, but let me remind you, that every one, almost, has saved something, that came out in the last ship, and they are all quite independent. Edwin has sold a house which he built, to Mr. Veale for £15. They, the last ship, had all spots of land for two years. I never, thank God, was so happy and comfortable in my life. We are situated in almost a shrubbery, with a stream winding its way round our garden; and although it's in the winter, we can sit in the open air in the evening and enjoy domestic happiness. The natives are now a very inoffensive race; no signs of cannibalism shown to the European; but I have no doubt they retain their savage and

barbarous practices towards each other when engaged in war. They are very indolent, but very crafty; full six feet and upwards in height, but one Pakeha, or European will beat two of them; notwithstanding, they are strong for the first round; we must not strike them in the face, only about the body, for then they would demand payment, and we should be pestered with hundreds of them daily. With our united love to all brothers, sisters, relations, friends, and every one; hoping in God that this will find you and every one in perfect health, is the prayer of ever affectionately yours
JOHN AND GRACE MEDLAND.

Holsworthy, New Plymouth,
Taranake, New Zealand,
Nov. 14th, 1842.

MY DEAR FATHER, BROTHERS, AND SISTERS,
I am happy to sit down to inform you of my safe arrival at this beautiful country. We had a most pleasant voyage before we came in sight of this land. We made sight of it on the 27th of July, and made Cloudy Bay on the 31st, and Port Nicholson on the 2nd of August, and staid there until the 13th, and from that went to Port Underwood, where we took in ballast for the ship, and made this place on the 3rd of September. Dear father, this is a beautiful country, I should say one of the finest in the world. I do not think that England was ever so good for cultivation as this. I have seen earth on the cliffs twelve or fifteen feet deep, and the depth in the country is not yet found out; the soil is black; no rocks or stones have yet been found in the land. The potatoes which I brought out with me are growing

well, and all the garden seeds. There is wheat and barley growing well, and Indian corn; there is fine timber growing, and white and red pine; the red pine is very much like cedar, and the white like the American, but much better; the strongest wood we call the towa, something like the English ash. The timber is fine, but not as fine as it is about thirteen miles down the West.

Our harbour is very bad: that is all against this place, for the land is what the natives call the Garden of New Zealand. The land is leveller than any I have seen; we have some beautiful hills and valleys, and plenty of water. I have seen the south and a great part of this north island, but there is no part so well and so good as this. You may see the grass and trees growing on the cliffs in this country. Trees as large round as a man's waist. I am happy that I left home. I would not live in England again if you would give 30l. a-year and find everything. You told me before I left, I was going into a country of cannibals. But I can tell you, I would rather live with the natives than with a great many of the English, for they are quite honest and trustworthy; it is but few that will steal any thing from any one. Their language is easy to be learnt; they very often sleep at one house three or four of a night. They like me very much; they know me for miles, and come to see me, although I have been here so short a time; they are fond of blankets, combs, scissors, knives, needles, their and our clothing; they like shirts very much, they wear guernsey shirts and blankets, or some of the mats of their own making, one of which I shall send you home as soon as it is made for me; one of the natives is making of it; they make it of flax, and have some sort of wood which they dye it with. This is our

spring, the winter is but short. We are near Mount Egmont; it is covered with snow, and is about 9,000 feet from the level of the sea, and about twenty-five miles from us. Wages is 7s. 6d. for the Company for the day, and 8s. for others: now the work for labour men have 5s. a day; servant girls get from 25l. to 30l. a-year. I think Grace and Mary were foolish not to have come with me, for there is not a good servant to be got. I am sure if they were here they would get 30l. a-year. Flour is 4d. per lb. fresh pork 6 1/2d. to 7d., salt do. and beef 7 1/2d. per lb.; tea 5s., coffee 2s., soap and other things is just as you get it. I am living in lodgings the best in the place. I have one good room to myself, and they find me meat, drink and room for 12s. a week; women that go out to washing get 2s. 6d. to 3s. a day and their meat; dress makers from 5s. to 5s. 6d. for cotton gowns, and 8 . for silk. You talk about people coming out here to be transported; but let me tell you we are not so much so as you are, for here we speak our own words, but you cannot, for you are afraid of the gentlemen; as for them they are obliged to come under us instead of us coming under them. The labouring class is as well off here as the nobs are at home. I am thinking of going to Sydney by the first vessel to buy the things to make blacking, and also to get an agent to sell for me; I think it will be a good thing. A person has a little chance to do something in this part of the world, and that is more than you can do at home. I cannot tell how you young people can stay at home, for they may work hard all their life time, and at last be starved almost, for the money is in the hands of the great, and they will keep it; but here the money must come out, or else the great cannot live. I think I shall have some cloth, I have sent after

some: I have bought some already; a man will do well if he will keep himself sober, but if he drinks all is over with him; spirits is just as it is at home. Beer is 1s. 6d. a quart. I wish brother Henry was here; if he was, he would do well, as he has been always with cattle. We expect a ship laden with bullocks and sheep and horses from Sydney every day: at least he would get from the Company 1l. 10s. a-week, to work in the bush, and he would be found meat for 10s. a-week, so that he would be making 1l. a-week, and at home he can get but 6l. or 7l. the year with his meat. I think if he and one or two of my sisters would come out, it would be the best thing they can do. I am sending you the truth; I would not send a lie if I did know it. I shall never expect you, for the family is young, and it is a deal of trouble to take a family at sea; only I wish you was here. We have plenty of fish, both salt and fresh water; the fresh water fish is not as the English, but something like a trout, and eels; we have not any soles here as yet, but there is some in this island, and lime stones: there is not any thing like venomous reptiles; there is the little harmless lizard, that is all. We have plenty of dogs, some of the natives and some of the English. We had seven deaths on the voyage, two women and five children; and our women turned out like bricks, for we had seven births to keep the number up. We spoke to six vessels on the voyage, three bound to Sydney with emigrants. When I came here I found all my friends well, except poor Bailey; he is dead; he died about ten months before I came. Edwin Woodland built a house against we came out, for John and Grace to live in; but as it is some way from Captain King, he has taken a house the next to Captain King, but Edwin has sold his

house to Mr. Veal. Peter Hoskin is building one; all the other young men have houses, as well as all married. They have been very busy since they have been here; they have built two boats, one very large; it takes nine men to man that boat, and five the other: one bridge is built across a fine river close to the sea: they have cut many roads. I cannot think of more news to tell you, only that I have plenty of work. Dear father, give my love to brothers and sisters, and should they be living away, send and let them know that you have heard from me: I often think about you. Give my love to all uncles and aunts, and Mary Ann Shepherd, Thomas Brown and family, and tell him I will write to him as I promised, and also Uncle Abraham and Uncle Forster. Give my love to all my young friends. Tell Mr. Brown I am not come to a country of cannibals. Our place lies between the Bay of Islands and Port Nicholson. Dear father, give my love to all. Your affectionate son,
JOHN SHEPHERD.

New Plymouth, Nov. 14th.
DEAR FRIENDS AND SHOPMATES,
According to promise I have written you a few lines, hoping it will find you, your wives and families, relations and friends, all in good health, as it leaves us at present, thank the Lord for it. After six months' voyage we have arrived at the place of our destination. We found Peter, Ned, N. Reed, and all the emigrants quite well. We was sent on shore Sept. 5th. Peter had engaged a house for me and Arthur, so that we are quite comfortable to what a great many were.

We had the best treat that evening for supper, that I ever had in my life; there was plenty of roast pork, potatoes and greens, and soft bread, and we did not forget to sign our names to it, after eating salt junk so long. I thought at one time we should never reach our destination.

With regard to the country, I think no one can dislike it. Labour here comes very high, labouring men work for the Company, and earn 5s. a day; go to work at half-past seven, and leave off at four o'clock; therefore, the men will not leave the Company without extra wages. My brother Peter is working for the Company, and earns 7s. 6d. a day in the same quantity of hours. With regard to my own trade, it will be a good opening for me; no doubt you will be surprised when you see the price of men's high shoes, 1l. 4s.; women's shoes 10s. 6d. per pair; children's in proportion. There is no one here but myself to speak of; there was one that went out in the William Bryan, but he had worked up all his leather when we came out. I have bought all that I took out for Capt. King, you will be kind enough to tell them so. I can put my hand on more money already than I could in England, for when I left Plymouth Sound we had but 1s. 6d., but on the voyage I earned more than seven pounds; that I think was not bad. Soon after we landed I bought a pig to salt in, before the hot weather set in; it cost 6 1/2d. per pound, it was 125 pounds. The Natives are very civil indeed; they are much better than I expected, but we have to thank the missionaries for it; the preacher's name is Creed; he is a very good man; I never hear him preach, but what I think of John Hoskin, I think we shall have no reason to regret leaving England; after a little time I expect to be

more comfortable, and should now, if Elizabeth was more reconciled about her father; that causes all the trouble. Be so kind as to give our love to aunt Wonnacott, and believe me to remain your sincere friend,
JOSIAS HOSKIN.

New Plymouth, 13th Nov. 1841.
DEAR JOHN,
Having arrived at the place of our destination, I sit down to inform you of our passage from Plymouth to New Zealand. [Here the details of the voyage are given.] We arrived at New Plymouth, our place of destination, where we arrived on the 5th of September, and landed as emigrants with our beds, and some things besides, and the rest was sent us in boats; the people that went out in the last ship, put up some houses, so we could get a room for three shillings a-week; since that Mr. B. has bought the house, and we rent of him; but we are going to build one for ourselves. George works with Capt. King, and the wages is 5s. per day, from half-past seven till half-past four, so there is plenty of time to get several shillings overtime. Our provisions are not so very dear; we can get flour 4 1/2d. per pound, beef and pork 7 1/2d., sugar 8d., loaf sugar 1s. per pound. Potatoes are rather scarce at present, but we shall have them soon, plenty; and there is plenty in the ground. Soap 7 1/2d. per pound; we can buy every thing here just as plentiful as we could in England. The natives are very kind; they have got two chapels, and there is a missionary here, Mr. Creed, who preaches to them in their own language in one of the chapels, and he preaches to us as well. The natives build them for

us, and they are very attentive to the place of worship; they do not like for any one to work on Sundays, they say it's "no good;" we cannot get them to build any houses, they say they will build no houses but one for God, that is a chapel; so they are going to build us a larger one, soon as they have put in their potatoes. Mr. J. Jury desired me when I did write to give my kind love to you, and to inform you that he would not be home again for a thousand pounds. I should be glad to see you here with us, but I never persuade no one; but I think if you did know how we get on, you would not abide in England long. I should wish for you to shew this letter to George Scown, &c.; and tell them that this is the place for labouring men.
Your affectionate Sister,
SALLY GIDDY.

FROM MATTHEW AND ELIZABETH JONAS TO THEIR RELATIONS.

Port Nicholson, New Zealand,
October 24th, 1841.
MY DEAR MOTHER, BROTHERS, AND SISTERS,
With great pleasure I have to inform you that we have arrived safe in this harbour at last, after a long and pleasant voyage: we never put into any place at all; we have had no storms at all. Port Nicholson is a beautiful place, and they say that New Plymouth is far superior; it is the beautifullest woods that ever was seen; there is none such in England: I believe the woods are close by the sea side. I wish you was all of you with us. Dear friends, all I hope this will find you all well, as it leaves us all, thank God for it; we have not been ill at all. The children are im-

proved very much in growth. I cannot say anything about New Plymouth yet this time, but I hope to be able to give you a good account soon. There is a post goes out here two or three times in a week for Sydney: so it goes round to India, and round to England. The Amelia Thompson arrived in this harbour from New Plymouth, after discharging her cargo: we are going to remain here a week or ten days: it is twelve hours' sail with a fair wind to New Plymouth. We are longing to leave the ship; we want to go on shore: we have had very good living, and the water has kept very well indeed: we are allowed to bake every fifth day, which is a great treat; if you did but see the dishes we make up, you would be delighted. If any of you come out to see us, be sure to bring some pepper and some onions and oatmeal to make gruel, for it is very good when you are sick; I was very sick for a fortnight or more. Fred. Smith, the mason of Launceston, came on board as soon as we,arrived here; he is quite well and likes it very much indeed. Matthew has been cook almost all the voyage: I can assure you he is a very good cook now. There is several gentlemen wants to engage with him, but he won't engage with no one until he arrives at New Plymouth. Labouring men are getting 1l. 10s. a week at Port Nicholson; they say there is better wages given at New Plymouth; and we can buy things as cheap here as at home. Sugar 6d. per pound, and tea 4s. and 5s. per pound; soap 7d. lb., and meat 7d. and 8d. per lb.; shoes are dear; clothes very dear. Tea cups and saucers are 6s. a dozen, but I can do without it for some time. We have a lot of rice, peas, biscuits, coffee, and butter underhand, so we shan't be without some victuals when we land, and we shall have two or

three weeks victuals from the Company when we land: so now I must conclude with all our kind loves to you; we all wish you health and happiness: their children all send you their loves, and little Mary, and all their cousins: so no more from your loving brother and sister,
MATTHEW AND ELIZABETH JONAS.

New Plymouth, New Zealand.
Nov. 15th, 1841.
DEAR MOTHER, BROTHERS, AND SISTERS.
With great pleasure, I sit down to send these few lines, hoping it will find you all well, as it leaves us all, – thank God for it. Dear friends, I hope you will receive the letter I sent from Port Nicholson before this can arrive. We staid at Port Nicholson twelve days, and we arrived at this place on Sunday last. We anchored in the morning, and we were all landed before night. We went off in the first boat, and I thought the people would have eaten us all; for they were so glad to see us. As soon as I was taken out of the boat, I saw Sally Jackson, that was, &c. &c. They all pressed us very hearty to go to their houses; but I could not go but to one, so we went with Sally Giddy. They were all so happy. They say they would not be in England again for the world; for they want for nothing now. Matthew is in work for Mr. Cutfield, at 5s. per day. They leave off at half-past four, so he works two hours over-time; so he makes 6s. per day, which is most so much as he used to get in a week at home. I wish you were all here. It is the prettiest place in all the world, I should think. They get 4s. a-day on for washing, and soap is not but 7d. per pound, and it is beautiful

water for washing; so I hope we shall be able to do very well. Carpenters do very well; and shoemakers, if they come out, they must bring out leather; they then would soon make their fortunes; but other things are not very dear. The natives are very civil, poor souls! They come to see us with potatoes, and greens, and onions, or anything they can get. They part with it for a few trinkets. Good servants get from twenty to thirty pounds a-year, that is to say servants that get eight or ten in England; for there is not any furniture or bright grates to clean here. I hope to be able to send you some very good accounts when I write again. I hope you will send as often as you can, as I shall be able to send a letter to you sometimes, it will only cost threepence to free them from here to England, so I shall send as often as I can get the chance. We have not got any house yet, and Mr. Cutfield told us we should stay until he got us a house, so we have not any rent to pay here. Where we be it is just like gipseying; we go out of doors to cook our victuals, as there is hardly any chimneys, as the houses are all so low, and built with wood; so it would be dangerous to have chimneys in them. I wish you were all out here with us; for it must be very cold with you now; and it is our summer now. It will be our Christmas in the summer, here. It is beautiful weather now with us. I should like to see dear mother out; she would bear the voyage very well. There was some as old as she came out with us. So now I must conclude, with all our kind loves to you all, and the Lord bless you all. So no more from your loving brother and sister,
M. AND E. JONAS.

NEW ZEALAND COMPANY.

NEW ZEALAND COMPANY.

GOVERNOR. – JOSEPH SOMES, ESQ.
DEPUTY-GOVERNOR. – HON. FRANCIS BARING, M.P.

WEST OF ENGLAND BOARD.

PRESIDENT. – THE EARL OF DEVON.
VICE-PRESIDENT. – SIR ANTONY BULLER.

Members of Local Board.

John Buller, Esq. (Morval.)
CAPT. BULKELEY, (Stonehouse.)
JOHN CROCKER BULTEEL, Esq. (Fleet.)
CHARLES BIGGS CALMADY, Esq. (Langdon Hall.)
N. DOWNE, Esq. (Stoke.)
R. FILLIS, Esq. (Plymouth.)
T. GARDNER, Esq. (Plymouth.)
WILLIAM JOHN GILBERT, Esq. (Lichfield.)
JOHN HINE, Esq. (New Zealand House, London.)
GEORGE LEACH, Esq. (Penlee Villa, Stoke.)
SIR CHARLES LEMON, Bart. (Carclew.)
SIR WILLIAM MOLESWORTH, Bart. (Pencarrow.)
E. W. W. PENDARVES, Esq. M.P. (Pendarves.)
EDWARD ST. AUBYN, Esq. (Devonport.)
R. HIPPESLEY TUCKFIELD, Esq. (Shobrooke Park.)
D. J. S. THORBURN, M.D. (Plymouth.)
Thomas Woollcombe, Esq. (Managing Director.)

LOCAL BANKERS. – DEVON AND CORNWALL BANKING COMPANY, PLYMOUTH.
SECRETARY. – WILLIAM BRIDGES, Esq. OFFICE, 5, Octagon, Plymouth.

The Court of Directors of the New Zealand Company hereby give notice, that the future sales of land in the Settlement of New Plymouth, in New Zealand, (so far as the same are made in England) will be confined, until further notice, to actual Colonists, on the following terms: –

PROSPECTUS OF THE NEW ZEALAND COMPANY.

1. – With a view to distribute, as generally as may be practicable, the advantage to be derived from the possession of preliminary lands, no application from an individual Colonist will be entertained for more than eight allotments of land, each allotment containing one section of town land, and one section of rural land.

2. – The residue of two hundred and fifty allotments set apart for sale, as above mentioned, may be purchased at the price of 75l. for each allotment, and applications for the same are to be made in writing in the form annexed, which, if accompanied by a deposit of 10l. in respect of each allotment, will entitle the applicant to receive separate land orders for each town and rural section, with such priorities and rights of selection as hereinafter mentioned, in exchange for the residue of the purchase money.

3. – The numbers signifying the priority of choice for the town sections have been selected on a fair average from the 1,000 numbers of choice, which fell to the Company in the first general ballot. These selected numbers, (particulars of which may be obtained at the office in Plymouth, or at the New Zealand House, London) are deposited in a wheel, from which the purchaser's numbers will be drawn, in the presence of three Directors and of the applicant, if he shall think proper to attend, either in person, or by his agent.

The purchasers will be entitled to such town sections as may have been chosen by the Company's Agents, in virtue of the priority of choice signified, by the numbers so respectively drawn, as last mentioned. The purchasers will also be entitled to select the rural sections from any land in the Plymouth

Settlement, surveyed and declared open for choice as rural sections, at the time, and according to the order of presenting the land order in the Colony, subject only to the regulations of the land office there, for preserving fairness and regularity of choice.

4. – The sum of 50l., in respect of every 75l. received for an allotment, as above, will be transferred to the Emigration Fund, and a purchaser to the extent of 300l. will be entitled to an allowance from the said Fund towards the passage of himself and family to the Colony, at the rate of 25l. per cent, on the amount of his purchase money; subject to the regulations of the Court of Directors, for confining this allowance to bona fide Settlers, as embodied in the Special Land Orders for the Settlements of Nelson and New Plymouth. Provided that no party will be entitled to a larger allowance on the above-mentioned account than will pay his own passage, and that of his family, (if any) according to the rates which will be issued from time to time by the Court of Directors. The residue of the Fund will be expended in the conveyance of labouring emigrants to the Settlement.

5. – The residue of the land, consisting of 750 town sections, 136 suburban sections, and at least 750 rural sections, will be sold by auction in the settlement, in such portions, and at such upset prices, as will from time to time be declared by the Company's Agents there; the minimum price being in no case less than the uniform price required by the Government for Crown Lands in New Zealand.

6. – It is the intention of the Company, in reference to the minimum price named in the last paragraph, that a portion of the purchase money obtained by means of auction sales, equal at the least to 15s. per

acre, shall be set apart for the exclusive purposes of emigration to the settlement; but as it may reasonably be presumed that the sales by auction will produce a much larger average price per acre, if the lands are judiciously selected and offered for sale, the Emigration Fund will in that case be augmented; it being the confident opinion of the Court, as expressed in the instructions which have been given to their officers, that the prosperity of the Colony no less than the interests of the Company depend on the proportion per acre, in which the appropriation of land as private property shall conduce to emigration.

7. – Any person who may wish to proceed to the Settlement, with a view to purchase land at an auction sale on his arrival, will be entitled to a certificate from the Court of Directors stating the amount he may have paid for the passage-money of himself and his family, (not being money allowed under the preceding regulations) and the party to whom such certificate may have been granted will be entitled to a drawback, not exceeding 25 per cent, on whatever may be the price of land so bought at auction in the Settlement, towards the repayment of the amount specified in the certificate.

8. – Any intending purchaser who shall deposit with the Company in England a sum of money towards the purchase of land, at auction, in the Settlement, will, if such purchase be completed within twelve months from the date of deposit, be allowed a drawback of 10 per cent. exclusive of the passage allowance before mentioned; and if such purchase be not made, will be entitled to have the deposit money returned without interest.

9. – Any intending purchaser making a deposit as

last provided, will be allowed to nominate labourers and their families, who come within the Company's Regulations, for a Free Passage to the Settlement, in the proportion of three adults for every 100l. deposited.

10. – For the encouragement of practical Agriculturists with small capitals, who may purchase any less number than four allotments of land, a special allowance will be made, in the discretion of the Court of Directors, towards the Free Passage of the purchaser and his wife, in the steerage; but such allowance will in no case exceed 20l. on a single allotment, or 40l. in the whole, and will be subject to the same conditions as set forth in Sec. 4 of the Regulations of 16th September, 1841.

The Children of such purchasers will be allowed free steerage passages, if coming within the rules for Emigrants of the labouring class.

By Order of the Court,
JOHN WARD. SECRETARY.

New Zealand House,
Broad-Street Buildings,
13th January, 1842.

FORM OF APPLICATION.

FORM OF APPLICATION.

184

I beg to apply for _______________ allotments of Land, subject to the foregoing terms of purchase, hereby declaring, that it is my intention to be a resident settler at New Plymouth; and I therefore, now request to he allowed the benefits of the regulation respecting Passage-money, to which it may appear that I have any claim.

The Deposit required by the 2nd Regulation, amounting to £ ________ , has been paid to _______________ .

State the manner of Payment

_______________ Christian and Surname of purchaser in full.

_______________ Residence and Profession.

To the Secretary of
The West of England Board of the New Zealand Company,
Plymouth.

N.B. – Parties may remit their Deposits or Purchase-money in Cash, or by Bills on a London Banker, payable to the order of the Managing Director, at not more than seven days after date; but all remittances are to be at the risk of the party making the same. If the application is made through an Agent, he must sign the application: – A.B. Agent for C.D.; setting forth the Christian and Surname, &c. in full.

London: Printed by STEWART and MURRAY, Old Bailey

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