Second, in sport, people of all ages, income streams, ethnicity and culture play and watch games together.
Melbourne is rich with cultural events, parks, markets, libraries, food outlets and parent groups at which people from every strata of society mix freely.
In the CBD one sees those of less advantage being given an opportunity to sell The Big Issue and scores of publications highlight social issues. The Melbourne MP is a Green and the state election this month will likely return a Labor government. Neither could be accused of the separatist elitism referred to in de Boni's article.
The head of the ANZ is well paid but still gets much less than he might earn elsewhere. The ANZ website says: "Annually the charitable funds managed by ANZ Trustees generate around $70 million for charitable distribution and make grants to over 1600 Australian charities and not-for-profit organisations."
The Australian concept of a fair go is not dead. It is the fundamental principle that underscores all thinking, culture and business. Surely the "decent person" test in New Zealand is much harsher, because once transgressed, unlike Australia, no redemption is possible. To lump all Australians with "obscenity" because they embrace capitalism which has brought untold wealth is no more accurate than imputing the values espoused in the cafes of Remuera to all Kiwis. Australia's tax system is not perfect, for example, the need to increase GST. However, it has qualities absent in New Zealand, like a capital gains tax, which transfers wealth from the so-called rich to the poor.
De Boni is right, Australia must do better in indigenous affairs. But it is not from lack of goodwill at all levels of society. There was a recent government apology for wrongs and constitutional recognition will follow. A drive through Ngaruawahia or Huntly, or study of educational achievements or prison records in New Zealand reveal people in glasshouses should not throw stones.
Kiwis have long predicted the downfall of Australia. But Aussies with their resilience, can-do attitude, social togetherness, inventiveness and diversity have continually improved their lot.
If de Boni was to drive along Seacliffe Ave in Belmont on Auckland's North Shore, with its gated uber-rich mansions, or holiday at Pauanui, she could be left with the same impression she gives us of Melbourne. But it would be wrong.
Australia and New Zealand, despite some cultural and economic differences, remain joined at the hip by the Anzac spirit, our English-speaking heritage and our future in Asia.
• Paul M. Southwick is a freelance journalist based in Melbourne.
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