 The British Medical Association rules precluded this, however, and the Ophthalmological Society of New Zealand was formed as a separate body.Despite this setback, the relationship continued between Australian and New Zealand ophthalmologists, culminating in 1997 with the joint decision to form a New Zealand Branch of the College.The final change occurred in November 2000, with the change of name to The Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Ophthalmologists.