International Relations: New Zealand's Search for Security 1945-85

Map showing main areas of conflict

Case Study: NZ Forces in Asia after the Second World War

This case study examines why and how New Zealand became increasingly involved in Asia after the Second World War. With particular emphasis on military involvement in Korea, Malaysia and Vietnam, this case study will provide teachers with:

• Activities to develop student understanding of this aspect of New Zealand's search for security in the period after Second World War
• A context with which to describe the causes and course of this historical development as well as the consequences of these developments (achievement standard 1.5)
• An opportunity to examine the influences, events and issues that led to the shaping of the identity of New Zealanders (achievement standard 1.6)
• Historical sources relating to this theme (achievement standard 1.3)

Most of the activities can be completed with reference to the feature New Zealand Forces in Asia 1949-72. New Zealand's participation in the Cold War was not always about confronting communism 'over there'. War on the wharves - the 1951 waterfront dispute places the bitter waterfront dispute that crippled New Zealand ports for 151 days in 1951 into a Cold War context. This is essential reading for these activities. Where appropriate other resource material has been provided.