There was actually a bit of decent leftism in NZ pre cold-war (and partially through it). I personally wouldn't consider the current government that progressive, especially considering their backtracking on the right to identify bill and the capital gains tax. They are neolibs through and through. I think it is definitely hard for us to start as plus bigger imperialist countries have absolutely demonized the word to hell and back.

But if we don't organize and try then we are idly moping as the descent to more criminal austerity and fascism continues.

Anyway I'm commenting here so I can remember to reply with some more info tommorow on NZ lefty history (unless you're not interested, then all good). :)