Mind the Gap

The Herald ran a lengthy feature on trans-Tasman cultural differences prior to the Australian elections, claiming that “geologically, the land masses are creeping together again. However, all other evidence points the other way.” According to the writer, the shift in national identities began with NZ’s anti-nuclear stance in the 1970s and has been exacerbated by such recent issues as the war in Iraq. “NZ sees itself as a country that wants to make its own judgement,” says Foreign Minister Phil Goff. “Not just to be an echo of another nation.” The “browning” of NZ – its move towards a distinct Pacific/Asian identity – is another major factor.