The Anzus Rift: The Politics of the Matter

The New Zealand-United States military relationship has been in a state of suspension for some 14 years, with no change in sight. This is due entirely to the New Zealand anti-nuclear legislation of the mid 1980's. However, the world has changed significantly over the last decade, significantly enough to have seen the US conducting exercises with former Warsaw Pact enemies, while exercising with New Zealand-a previous ally-is forbidden. As we approach the twenty-first century, can the two governments resolve their differences? Even within current national policies there is room to accommodate or even restore the military ties, yet neither side will initiate the first crucial move. Change may not necessarily mean a restoration of the ANZUS Treaty, but at least some normalization of the military relationship would be welcomed. Until that move is made, the ANZUS rift will remain. This is the politics of the matter. This paper traces the history of the ANZUS rift, highlighting the slow progress made during this decade, the anomalies of the situation, and the need for military cooperation in an uncertain multi-polar world. The paper concludes with how, why and when a change should occur.