What was the difference between the colonization of New Zealand and Australia?

Answer 1

Whilst Britain colonised both countries, the essential difference is that Australia was a convict settlement from the first day, whereas New Zealand was populated by free settlers, mainly whalers, sealers, and missionaries. New Zealand became a British colony in 1840 with the signing of the Treaty of Waitangi: after this, many more free settlers from Britain arrived in New Zealand. The difference between this arrangement and that with Australia was that free settlers were free to come, along with the First Fleet (had they wanted to), and certainly after that. Whereas Britain recognised the rights of the Maori people, and saw the need to establish a treaty with them before they colonised the country, they did not recognise the rights of the Australian Aborigines, and settled the country regardless.

Answer 2

The colonization of New Zealand was characterized by more treaty agreements between the native Maori people and British settlers, such as the Treaty of Waitangi. In contrast, the colonization of Australia involved more violent conflicts and dispossession of the indigenous Aboriginal population. Additionally, New Zealand gained self-governance relatively peacefully in the 19th century, while Australia remained under direct British control until 1901.