But they have nothing on the Smelvins facing the Cartons, a long-running struggle which takes place on the shore of Lake Aviemore at the turn of each new year.
Each summer, hundreds of people travel to camp at the Waitaki Lakes.
For many years the Smiths, Pelvins, Cars and Hamiltons have set up at the same spot, enjoying the sunshine and each other’s company, but since 2014 the families have been battling it out in their caravan kitchens to prove their culinary prowess.
Lisa Pelvin said the annual Aviemore cook-off champion competition was a way to have a bit of fun with the families staying at the campsite next to theirs.
Wind often channelled through just one part of the area, so they would often head over to the Car and Hamilton camp to take shelter, while the other families would spend time at the Smith and Pelvin camp if the wind struck them.
Mrs Pelvin was best friends with Rachel Smith and they both came from Timaru, so their families teamed up to form the Smelvins, while the Cars and Hamiltons became the Cartons.
This year the giant two-dimensional spoon trophy was awarded to the Smelvins for their chocolate cherry trifle.
A serving of the dessert was offered to the Otago Daily Times for a second opinion, and came in a yellow camping bowl topped with a generous portion of cream.
The dish was moist and flavourful, but not overly heavy or sweet and was welcomed by a hungry reporter.
The trifle broke a four-year winning streak by the Cartons, who presented a cherry tart as their entry.
The winning team had to keep the large wooden spoon in their caravan until the next year.
Mrs Pelvin said the weather had been temperamental over the new year, with wind being the biggest nuisance.
"One minute you’re wrapped up in your jacket, and next you’re in your damn shorts."
Yesterday was one of the calmest and nicest days they had had, which they spent enjoying the desserts and playing in the water, she said.
The four families also had an annual drinks day, with the theme this year being cocktails.
