It was our last day in New Zealand (Queenstown) and we had a couple hours to kill before our flight home that afternoon. We needed somewhere to go that was convenient, inexpensive and could keep our 7 year old twin daughters entertained and occupied. The answer, of course, was McDonalds! Location was convenient, food was economical, menu items were familiar and they had an indoor play structure (which is hard to come by - at least in Hawaii - nowadays)!!!
So, why bother writing a review for a McDonalds (and a 4 star review at that)? Because, in addition to the amenities (play structure, TV with a kid's movie playing, clean interior, ample seating, clean bathrooms, McCafe, self-serve kiosks, menu items you don't normally have at home, etc.), this was, by far, the BEST CUSTOMER SERVICE we have ever had at a McDonalds or any other casual dining restaurant . . . EVER!
The manager's name was Shaney. So, I don't know if this was just a Shaney thing or a New Zealand thing or what, but Shaney needs to stop managering and start training restaurant workers on exemplary customer service.
First, they brought your order to your table. Also, they asked what drinks you want and offer to go fill them for you. Then, they come by and check on you a couple times to see how you are doing (like a sit-down restaurant, not a fast food place). The manager also made sure to check in with the girls (not just the grown ups) and gave them a couple high-fives as they played. We asked her if this was typical McDonalds behavior because it is definitely not what we are used to at home. She was sincere in wanting the customers to feel welcome and to enjoy their stay . . . WHAT?!?!?!
Needless to say, we easily and happily spent our morning here and were well fed and well rested for our long flight home. read more