Intergovernmental environmental cooperation between Australia and New Zealand : an exploration

Abstract

Australia and New Zealand have a close relationship, stemming from their similar dominant cultures, histories and colonial backgrounds. Well known cooperative ventures include Closer Economic Relations and involvement in the Australia and New Zealand Army Corps. Less is known about intergovernmental environmental cooperation between Australia and New Zealand, a topic which this study seeks to explore.

Existing forms of environmental cooperation are described and assessed. Analysis of the relationship is based on interviews with people involved in cooperation in order to assess its significance and likely future development.

Findings suggest that the nature of environmental cooperation differs between agencies, and between the level and type of cooperation that is occurring. Overall, while cooperation is generally not seen as critical, interactions with Australia are highly valued by New Zealand policy makers and are seen as providing benefits to both nations. Environmental cooperation is likely to become more important in the future due to factors such as increasing public interest in environmental issues, possible worsening of environmental issues, problems worsening of environmental problems, and the impacts of environmental issues on other issue areas such as trade.