Story: Self-government and independence

Debating joining Australia

Debating joining Australia

During the 1890s New Zealand debated whether it should become a state in the new federation (or commonwealth) of Australia. This cartoon published on the eve of Christmas in 1900 shows Father Christmas making a 'federal plum pudding'. While all the Australian colonies have been put into the mix, the cook eyes the New Zealand ingredient still sitting on the shelf. Will it also be put in the mixture? New Zealand rejected the invitation to federate with Australia.

Using this item

Alexander Turnbull Library
Reference: J-040-008
Cartoon by Scatz

Permission of the Alexander Turnbull Library, National Library of New Zealand, Te Puna Mātauranga o Aotearoa, must be obtained before any re-use of this image.

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How to cite this page:

W. David McIntyre, 'Self-government and independence - Political independence', Te Ara - the Encyclopedia of New Zealand, http://www.TeAra.govt.nz/en/cartoon/32940/debating-joining-australia (accessed 29 March 2024)

Story by W. David McIntyre, published 20 Jun 2012