New Zealand's foreign policy in the post-1945 era differed from Australia's in several respects. While both countries sought closer ties with the United States, New Zealand took a more independent approach, especially highlighted by its anti-nuclear stance in the 1980s. This policy led to strained US relations and a suspension from the ANZUS treaty, unlike Australia, which maintained strong US ties. Additionally, New Zealand placed a greater emphasis on multilateral diplomacy and international law, actively engaging in United Nations peacekeeping missions. Its approach to foreign policy was also characterised by a strong commitment to environmental and indigenous issues, which were less prominent in Australian policy.

Economic considerations played a pivotal role in shaping New Zealand's foreign policy towards China. Recognising China's rapidly growing economy and its potential as a major trade partner, New Zealand sought to strengthen economic ties. This strategy culminated in the signing of the China-New Zealand Free Trade Agreement in 2008, making New Zealand the first developed nation to enter into such an agreement with China. The deal was significant for New Zealand's dairy, meat, and wood industries, and it represented a strategic move to diversify its economy and reduce its historical economic reliance on Europe and the US.

Britain's entry into the European Economic Community (EEC) in 1973 had significant implications for Australia and New Zealand, particularly in terms of trade. Both countries had historically depended heavily on the UK as a market for their agricultural exports. The EEC's Common Agricultural Policy and the resulting tariffs and quotas drastically reduced their access to the British market. This prompted both nations to diversify their economies and seek new trade partners, notably in Asia and the Pacific. The situation accelerated their economic realignment and played a key role in their foreign policy shift towards greater engagement with Asia, marking a decisive moment in their economic and diplomatic histories.

The 'Pacific Solution', implemented in 2001, had a significant impact on Australia's international image. This policy, which involved the offshore processing of asylum seekers in Pacific Island nations, was criticised by various international bodies and human rights organisations. It was seen as Australia shirking its international responsibilities under the Refugee Convention. The policy sparked debates on human rights and Australia's commitment to international law, leading to criticism from the United Nations and strained relations with some Pacific nations. However, supporters of the policy argued it was necessary to combat people smuggling and maintain the integrity of Australia's borders.

Australia's decision to participate in the Vietnam War was influenced by several key factors. Foremost was the commitment to the ANZUS Treaty and the desire to strengthen its alliance with the United States, viewing it as crucial for its security in the Cold War context. Additionally, the 'Domino Theory', which posited that the fall of one Southeast Asian nation to communism would lead to the fall of others, heavily influenced Australian policy makers. There was a genuine fear of the spread of communism in the region, and Australia sought to counter this through its involvement in Vietnam. This decision was also partly a continuation of its historical policy of 'forward defence', aiming to confront threats far from its shores.