New Zealand is the 'Milhouse of Australia' - Simpsons

Fans of The Simpsons will know just how offensive this remark is. Milhouse Van Houten is the ultimate nerd and crybaby - and a running joke in the cartoon series.

So just what sparked this outrageous claim?

In a new episode of the series, which screened on US television this week, Bart and Milhouse are seen discussing The Hobbit and film-maker Sir Peter Jackson.

Bart says: "The Hobbit taught us every dragon has a chink in its armour."

Before his nerdburger besty replies: "It also taught us that New Zealand's beautiful landscapes and attractive tax credits add up to a film maker's paradise. For more information visit www.nzfilmhere.nz".

Subtitles then pop up with the ultimate insult: "New Zealand (The Milhouse of Australia). www.nzfilmhere.nz"

It's not the first time the cartoon comedy has turned to Sir Peter for inspiration - last year, the family embarked on an epic journey through middle-earth in one of the most elaborate couch gags ever featured on the show.