Islands of the Empire

A study of New Zealand's military relationship with the United States from the end of World War II until the beginning of the ANZUS crisis in 1985

Islands of the Empire, 1985

A film by Alister Barry, Rod Prosser, Russell Campbell
Music: Matthew Fisher

Interview subjects include: Rona Bailey, Amster Reedy, Tim Shadbolt, Owen Wilkes, Christine Dann, Marie Leadbeater

60 minutes, Exempt

Awards: New Zealand Media Peace Award, 1985

A study of New Zealand's military relationship with the United States from the end of World War II until the beginning of the ANZUS crisis in 1985. Islands of the Empire documents New Zealand's support for the Western military alliance dominated by the US, and consequent active involvement in Asian wars, the provision of military and intelligence facilities, and participation in the American nuclear defence strategy. It also provides a stirring account of protest movements against this alliance, and in particular the concerted and ultimately successful campaign against visits by nuclear warships.

Winner of the Media Peace Award.

Screenings: Islands of the Empire screened on 4 September 2009 in a programme with No Spy Waihopai (1988) as part of the Vanguard Films 30 Years Retrospective held at the Film Archive from 2-12 Septemer 2009.