New Zealand policy on the Ross Dependency has changed over the years. There have been few dramatic shifts, but over time, changes in emphasis are evident. From reluctant beginnings in 1923 through to assertive leadership in 1999, New Zealands involvement in Antarctica has had direction from government policy. The themes Of New Zealand policy that I have highlighted in this report show New Zealands changing outlook, and the changing place of the Ross Dependency in New Zealand. Within each theme, there are both consistent elements, and divergences. In this report, the terms Ross Dependency and Antarctica Will be used extensively. The Ross Dependency is that part of Antarctica claimed by New Zealand. Antarctica or the Antarctic, is the whole continent or region. New Zealand laws primarily relate to activities in the Dependency, but sometimes also to activities by New Zealanders in Other parts of Antarctica. New Zealand policy relates both to the Ross Dependency and should happen there, and to the Whole Antarctic region. New Zealand policy on the Ross Dependency has changed over the years. There have been few dramatic shifts, but over time, changes in emphasis are evident. From reluctant beginnings in 1923 through to assertive leadership in 1999, New Zealands involvement in Antarctica has had direction from government policy. The themes Of New Zealand policy that I have highlighted in this report show New Zealands changing outlook, and the changing place of the Ross Dependency in New Zealand. Within each theme, there are both consistent elements, and divergences. In this report, the terms Ross Dependency and Antarctica Will be used extensively. The Ross Dependency is that part of Antarctica claimed by New Zealand. Antarctica or the Antarctic, is the whole continent or region. New Zealand laws primarily relate to activities in the Dependency, but sometimes also to activities by New Zealanders in Other parts of Antarctica. New Zealand policy relates both to the Ross Dependency and should happen there, and to the Whole Antarctic region.