AUSTRALIA AND NEW ZEALAND: two hearts not beating as one

The centenary of Australian federation is an appropriate moment to reflect on New Zealand's decision to stand aside from that important development in 1901. Geographical differences, the impact of differing landscapes and settlement patterns, differences in the natures of, and treatment of, the aboriginal inhabitants — all contributed to the emergence of distinct styles and character in the two countries. The Anzac bond cemented a genuine mutual respect, but did not provide the foundation for any kind of political consolidation. However similar the two countries might seem, the process of making differences between the two countries has gone on too long for there to be any prospect of their unification without huge social and political upset.