Random thoughts on New Zealand so far

• Gas is expensive in New Zealand.  Over 1.80 CAD/litre.  Something to take into account when doing a driving tour of New Zealand.  We did not.  It's costing a fortune on gas.
• We're driving a Holden Captiva SUV.  While it's the perfect size and quite a nice vehicle, it's a total POS when it comes to gas mileage.  About 12 L/100 km.  That's horrible for any vehicle.  Our Altima at home is about 6.5 L /100 KM on the highway.
• Diet Coke is very expensive in NZ.  A 600 ml bottle is $4 NZD, about $3.60 CAD.  At home we can get six 710 ml bottles for less than 3 bucks.  About 850% more expensive here.
• Overall, things are a little more expensive than back home, but not by a lot.  Restaurant prices seem a lot higher at first glance, but you have to remember that the prices include all taxes and tips.
• People here all seem friendly and helpful.
• Unless you're in town, almost all roads here are 100 km/h.  Even small, twisty turny small roads.
• While NZ lamb is much desired in North America, and there are 6 sheep per person in NZ, it's hardly ever on the menu anywhere.  Seems like locals don't eat it, at least not in restaurants.
• On the North island we saw cows and sheep everywhere.  And I mean everywhere.  The whole island is covered in cattle and sheep farms.  The only crop we saw was a little bit of corn.
• Only on the South Island for two days, but we have seen many produce farms so far.
• Early thoughts are that the South island is much more scenic.
• Ketchup is called tomato sauce.
• Cormorants here are called shags.  Must make for interesting conversation.