There is definitely a difference in the presence of aboriginal cultures in Australia and New Zealand. While in Australia, we rarely saw the aboriginals, except for in Cairns. However, in New Zealand, most signs not only have English, but also the Maori translation of the words. For example, although there was a Maori section at the Te Papa Museum, the entire museum had Maori translations, not just the section dedicated to their history.
When we watched Rabbit Proof Fence, I was shocked at the mistreatment of the aboriginal people. I expected them to be welcomed with open arms in today’s modern society and given recognition for the awful things done to their families. However, the aboriginals seemed to be somewhat ignored by the rest of Australia’s citizens while the Maori people seem much more present in day-to-day life.
-Danin Greusel
Down Under Cinema: Film Studies in Australia and New Zealand 