Nice folks

The reputation of Kiwis is that they are welcoming, and that has totally been the case.  We haven't met anyone who wasn't completely welcoming and helpful.   They meet your eyes and smile at you when passing on the street, they give good (and accurate) directions when transiting from a bus to another location.

This family was picnicking under this huge tree and I took a quick snapshot because it looked so idyllic.  When I put my phone down, I realized they were smiling and waving at me (and it didn't feel like it was in jest either).