Discuss the relationship between New Zealand and the Pacific Island states in the second half of the 20th century.

Candidates are required to offer a considered and balanced review of the relationship between New Zealand and its Pacific Island neighbours in the stated timeframe. Candidates may suggest that the relationship evolved gradually or that it was subject to other forces that precipitated unexpected developments. Whichever response is provided, the opinions therein should be clear and supported with appropriate evidence.

Indicative content

• New Zealand annexed the Cook Islands in 1901 and Niue in 1905 and administered them as colonies. New Zealand was also given Western Samoa as a protectorate after the First World War. The Tokelau Islands have been territories of New Zealand since 1948.
• Western Samoa was granted independence in 1962. The Cook Islands and Niue became self-governing in free association with New Zealand in 1965 and 1974 respectively.
• New Zealand was instrumental in establishing, in 1971, the South Pacific Forum that consisted of New Zealand, Australia, Nauru, Western Samoa, Tonga, Fiji and the Cook Islands. It expanded to include other Pacific Island states and, in 1999, it became the Pacific Island Forum.
• This group met annually to discuss issues of mutual concern to the region such as economic development, tourism, trade, security and education.
• New Zealand’s foreign policy towards the Pacific Island states did not vary greatly and there was a degree of consensus among the major political parties.
• Much of New Zealand’s foreign policy was focused on the Pacific region and economic assistance was given to projects in the South Pacific Island states.
• In the late 20th century, New Zealand followed an increasingly isolationist policy and a strong anti-nuclear stance opposed to French and US policies in the region.
• The New Zealand way of life was also shaped, by the end of the 20th century, by immigration of large numbers of Pacific Islanders, and governments faced the challenge of dealing with the resultant issues of employment, poverty and discrimination.

The above material is an indication of what candidates may elect to write about in their responses. However, the list is not exhaustive and no set answer is required.

Examiners and moderators are reminded of the need to apply the markbands that provide the “best fit” to the responses given by candidates and to award credit wherever it is possible to do so.

[20 marks]