together with my own contributions , the collections gradually grew 
so numerous , that at last I was scarcely able to find room for them 
in my lodgings. Most readily, therefore, the Government fitted 
up a neat little house close by for my museum. It was open to 
the public at all times on my return from excursions, and I was 
always favoured there with numerous kind visitors, who were desirous 
of seeing what there Avas iacav and remarkable in Ncav Zealand. 
It is with the deepest sense of gratitude that I state, that 
both the Colonial , and the ProA r incial Governments of Auckland did 
all in their power to further my plans. Numerous friends , amongst 
them the most influential and experienced men of the colony — 
men , whose names I shall have frequent occasions to refer to — 
were ever eady to aid me by word and deed. Their kind recom- 
mendations accompanying me on my various excursions, Avere al- 
ways certain to procure me the most hospitable reception Avherever 
I went. But I Avas particularly fortunate here in meeting Avith a 
true and trusty German, who became henceforth my inseparable 
travelling companion, the faithful participant of all the toil and 
troubles as Avell as my pleasures during my peregrinations through 
NeAV Zealand; I am speaking of my friend, Julius Eaast. A sin- 
gular chance had brought him in an emigrant-ship to the coast of 
New Zealand the very day before the arrival of the Novara. He 
had come for the special purpose of becoming acquainted with the 
country and its inhabitants, and sounding to what extent New 
Zealand was adapted to German immigration. With youthful 
enthusiasm he entered at once into all my plans, duly apprecia- 
ting the importance of the task before me; Avith unfeigned friendly 
devotion and an unwavering cheerfulness of mind he stood ever 
at my side , aiding and furthering my projects and labours until 
we separated on my departure from Nelson. lie remained behind, 
and lias since acquired a well-earned fame and distinction by his 
bold and persevering explorations of the Avild, mountainous districts 
of the South Island . 1 
1 Dr. J. Hnast is at present Government geologist of the Canterbury Province. 
