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'There are boundaries': Madonna outrages Catholic officials ahead of her New Zealand tour for using 'sexy nuns' and crucifixes as props on stage

By Sophie Goulopoulos For Daily Mail Australia

Published: 00:09 EST, 5 March 2016 | Updated: 10:05 EST, 5 March 2016

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In her career spanning three decades, Madonna has never been one to opt for the 'safe' option when performing on stage.

But ahead of the New Zealand leg of her Rebel Heart tour, the Material Girl has once again rubbed the Catholic Church the wrong way.

The 57-year-old has a history of using Christian symbols in her performances, but Auckland bishop Pat Dunn has told Stuff there's a 'fine line' about artistic expression on Saturday.

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'There are boundaries': Madonna has angered New Zealand Catholic officials ahead of her tour for using Christian symbols as props in her performances

'There's always a fine line ... about artistic expression and how free artists can be,' he said.

During an interview with RadioLive on Thursday, he added: 'I find it hugely offensive. I think there are boundaries, especially in our society in New Zealand now.

'We have such a mix of cultures and faiths, that artists have to be a little bit sensitive to values that are held by people in our society.'

See the latest Madonna updates as she outrages Catholic officials ahead of her NZ tour

'I find it hugely offensive': Bishop Pat Dunn has explained that there is a 'fine line' for between artistic expression and offensiveness

'Madonna is an artist': Presbyterian Minister Glenn Cardy was more understanding of the singer

Raised a Catholic, many officials of the church have accused the pop icon as 'insulting' her faith by using symbols in a 'provocative' manner.

However, upon her arrival to Auckland on Tuesday, she received a warm welcome by Presbyterian Minister Glenn Cardy, who acknowledged her artistic freedoms.

'My personal opinion is that Madonna is an artist and uses her experience and understanding of her culture in her work,' he told Stuff.

Holy roller: A fan dressed as the Pope watches on during her Rebel Heart tour

'Provocative': Raised Catholic, the pop icon has often been accused of sexualising her faith

Madonna's conflict with the Catholic church began in 1989 with her video of Like A Prayer, which featured strong religious references, flaming crosses and a black Jesus.

The Pope forbade her from entering Vatican City, but this didn't appear to discourage listeners as it's one of the most successful singles of all time.

In 2006, she ruffled feathers again for her Confessions tour which resulted in officials calling for her to be ex-communicated.

Cardinal Ersilio Tonino, speaking with the approval of Pope Benedict XVI said: 'This time the limits have really been pushed too far.

'This concert is a blasphemous challenge to the faith and a profanation of the cross. She should be excommunicated.'

Madonna plays Rod Laver Arena in Melbourne on March 12 and 13, Brisbane's Entertainment Centre on March 16 and 17, and Sydney's Allphones Arena on March 19 and 20.