New Zealand after nuclear war: the analysis of a study

Abstract

This thesis is an analysis of a study: the New Zealand Planning Council's investigation, New Zealand After Nuclear War (cited henceforth as the Report). This thesis conducts a detailed examination of the Report, and the sources of information from public submissions to it. The large number of submissions, 219 all told, provided a great deal of information. A report on submissions was also produced which contained information about a wider programme of public consultation including regional seminars and talkback radio sessions. This report was also useful in the preparation of this thesis. The main Report concluded that there should be an attempt made to improve public knowledge of the effects of a nuclear war; that contingency plans be prepared to cope with its aftermath; and that steps be taken to reduce New Zealand's vulnerability to the effects of a nuclear war. In addition, it is recommended that funding for a follow-up to the Report come from the budget of the Ministry of Defence. Some military and communications facilities could be removed from New Zealand to decrease the chances of the country being directly targeted.