From there we jumped straight into all the boring stuff: setting up a local bank accounts and mobile numbers, and applying for an IRD number (for taxes). Then we hit the grocery store to get some food for the week, including some old school no-cream-removed super fatty milk we couldn't resist buying. We made oatmeal with it that turned out tasting like pudding. Delicious!
If you're reading this from home, it's already tomorrow here. We're cozied up right on the other side of the international date line, and cool fact I learned today: in summer (so, around New Year's) New Zealand is the first place on earth to see the light of day.
Here's an article that explains more:
http://www.nzherald.co.nz/nz/news/article.cfm?c_id=1&objectid=10776581
We haven't gotten to know many Kiwis yet, but they seem like our kind of people. While I was cleaning up our breakfast one of the bowls slipped from my hand, bounced off the counter, and crashed onto the floor with that loud breaking sound that always stops a room in its tracks. Instead of leaving me to awkward shame, everyone cheered in solidarity. I started picking up the pieces, and a guy came out with a broom like he was on parade. It was amazing. I hope that rubs off on me.