Aussies and Kiwis: A Unique Sibling Bond

Are Aussies and Kiwis friends? The answer is a resounding yes, although we take each other’s accents and cultural quirks with a bit of banter.

Typical Siblings, Atypical Friends

We get along like typical siblings—sometimes squabbling over minor matters, but loyal to each other when someone else makes life difficult. Our rites of rivalry are often seen on the sports field, especially in rugby union, cricket, and netball. However, after the final whistle or the last wicket, we usually come together for a post-match drink and yarn, which essentially means a chat.

The Blood Bond

The close bond between Australia and New Zealand was formed more than a hundred years ago. As joint members of the Australia New Zealand Army Corps (ANZAC), our troops fought side-by-side in a heroic but ultimately doomed attempt to invade Turkey at Gallipoli during World War I. This event, often referred to as Anzac Day, is commemorated on April 25th in both countries. Although the invasion ended in heavy casualties, the ANZAC legacy has fostered a profound sense of camaraderie and respect between the two nations.

Ancient Ties and Modern Strains

While the significance of Anzac Day has persisted, the relationship between Aussies and Kiwis has faced challenges in more recent times. Changes in immigration policies, particularly under John Howard’s tenure, led to New Zealanders feeling uniquely abandoned during the Covid-19 pandemic. The subsequent deportation policies of the Morrison government, which deported people with serious criminal convictions back to New Zealand and other Pacific Island countries, where they had lived and grown up, has further strained the relationship. The tragic assassinations at the Christchurch mosques, perpetrated by an Australian, have also left a significant mark on the relationship.

Loyalty and Favoritism

Despite these challenges, New Zealand still shows a better disposition towards Australians. For example, New Zealand allows Australians to vote once they have lived there for a short period. Crucially, New Zealand does not deport people back to Australia if they committed crimes there and grew up in New Zealand. This is a stark contrast to the Australian policy under the Morrison government, which has left New Zealanders feeling abandoned.

The Great Rivalry: Food and Culture

Our rivalry extends to trivial matters such as the origin of certain food items. Both nations claim to have invented the Pavlova, a dessert based on meringue with fruit and whipped cream, and the Anzac biscuit, a cookie developed during World War I for its nutritious and durable properties. Jokes and jests about each other are common, often light-hearted, as seen in the example: “We take the joke out of each other all the time.”

A Lasting Friendship

In the end, despite our occasional squabbles, the enduring bond between Aussies and Kiwis remains unbreakable. The Anzac Day spirit of camaraderie and sacrifice serves as a constant reminder of our unique friendship and the sacrifices made by our forebears. While the relationship may face occasional turbulence, the core of our friendship runs deep, tempered by blood, loyalty, and the enduring bonds of kinship.