Yes, it is interesting and even disappointing as an Aussie because at their best they do play some great cricket and we could have a really good "local derby" clash going down here on the regular.
I'm not sure if there is a psychological or cultural element to it. New Zealand cricket has always put out this "little brother needs to prove a point" vibe to Australia (you can hear it in the way their ex-cricketers commentate) and maybe they're just putting too much pressure on themselves to beat us they're psyching themselves out.
On the positive side I am hearing the first four days of the Wellington test sold out a month ago.
RE: Test Cricket : Australia Tours New Zealand