It doesn't take long for visitors to Australia and New Zealand to become acquainted with the running rivalries between those two Island nations.  To find out for yourself, just ask them who was responsible for creating the dessert, pavlova.  The Aussies claim it.  But, the New Zealanders declare that the case has long been closed and they have the correct answer.  I found myself in the middle of that discussion more than once.



Billboard in Christchurch, New Zealand

I took this photo for my friend, Mike Shepherd.  He will love to see this advertisement, enticing New Zealanders to holiday in Brisbane.   Okay Mike, don't misquote me to my Brisbane friends and cause me any more trouble!  :)

The New Zealanders are not ones to give up easily as they are fully equipped for the debates.  As one friend was orienting me to New Zealand, he informed me that New Zealand has a North Island and a South Island.  He went on to inform me that New Zealand also has a West Island, that some call Australia.

The primary contest I'm interested in is the "best fish and chips."  In fact, the Fergusons (from the Madison Church) who are accompanying us on this trip, have declared this tour, the "South Pacific Praise & Harmony, Awesome God, Fish and Chips Tour."



Gold Coast of Australia

We'll keep you updated on our progress.  I'm attempting to stay neutral in these discussions, but it's difficult.