WHAT WE SEE:
God has shown us along with many others that He wants to pour into the people of Christchurch, transform lives and bring revival in a huge way—something that will be an example to the rest of the country and affect all the thousands of travelers coming through this major city. We believe God has spoken on this over the years and is looking for Christians to step up and be used to do His work here. Christchurch is a very unique city like no other around the world. Though it’s the second largest city in New Zealand, it’s strangely small and everyone is connected. Word gets around quick like it does in small towns. If something happens, everyone knows. I believe when God starts shaking things up, it’s going to spread fast. With the major earthquake we had in September (that was prophesied about in January this year), people’s foundations are literally shaking. We are praying that through the earthquakes the CHURCH is waking up and the people of the city are softening their hearts toward a God who truly loves them and wants relationship with them. He is their only true foundation.

THE BASICS:
New Zealand or Aotearoa (OwTareRowAh)—translated in the native tongue of Maori means: “The Land of the Long White Cloud”.  It’s a diverse landscape of beaches, jungles, farmland and mountains—a landscape that’s beckoned travelers for some time. Many know New Zealand as a traveler’s paradise and the filming location of some epic movies, but obviously there is much more to this nation.

Two main islands far off the coast of Australia, in the southern hemisphere. A parliament government under the crown of England. Current Prime Minister: John Key. Two distinct people groups: Native Maoris + emigrated Europeans, now called Kiwis (Maoris call the Kiwis “Pakeha” meaning white skinned). Most people associate NZ with travel, Lord of the Rings, Flight of the Conchords and the All Blacks rugby team.

THE PEOPLE: Though there are two main people groups, migrants and refugees are slowly changing the demographics here. There are some distinct New Zealand traits that characterize most New Zealanders: 
Egalitarian (They aren’t fans of heirarchy, systems or the traditional boss role. Ex: When traveling here, don’t expect good customer service. The customer ISN’T always right.) 
Practical (Hardworking, DIY, inventive, cold homes, small cars, easy going.)

THE NATION: It’s a young country, established officially in 1840 through the Treaty of Waitangi. Internationally it ranks high in the areas of  education, economic freedom and lack of corruption. Its cities are also considered among the world’s most livable. The south island abounds with sheep, rolling hills, epic mountains, glacial lakes, small towns and gorgeous coasts. The largest city is Christchurch, followed by Dunedin. The north island, which is more densely populated, has the largest city in NZ—Auckland—and the capital, Wellington, a lovely port city.

OUR RECOMMENDS: If you are coming to visit us and want to get some travel in, we suggest traveling first. Plan for at least one or two full weeks to see one island and then visit with us in Christchurch. There is heaps to experience.

More To Come…