As a prelude to the planned harmonization of building codes in Australia and New Zealand, this paper illustrates the seismic hazard in the two countries for discussion purposes. Hazard maps for peak ground acceleration for a 475 year return period are presented, and also for 2500 year return period in New Zealand, along with typical response spectra. It is shown that the hazard in the least seismic parts of New Zealand is similar to that of the more seismically active parts of Australia. The eventual harmonized loadings code would accommodate regional differences in hazard by using different response spectra and zone factors appropriate to the different regions of the two countries.