eagle27, shakari and jwm I feel have perfectly captured the cross cultural perspective on tipping.
The fact is this is a good thread as it encompasses a subject that we have had input from three different cultures concerning a sport we all hold dear.

I think the Aussies definantly go one furthur than the Kiwis in our ignorance of tipping. 11% of Aussies are descended from convict stock (including my bride, which I love to remind her of ..he..he..) I guess tipping was not continued initially as nobody had anything to tip with. The early colony of New South Wales in the late 1700's and early 1800's almost failed numerous times. Even the landed gentry and officers sent out to administer the colony were usually 3rd and 4th sons of the landed gentry who did not have enough influence or money to secure a 'better' post in a 'better' colony such as India.

I have a bit to add later to clear up some points. GTG