Hey there. Im a newbie to the site as well and I see what ya mean by the culture. My advise on the bike thing... Let it come to you. You will know when the right bike comes up. The last bike i wanted to own was a Bandit... almost the last... anyway after taking one for a ride it just grew on me. So let the bike find you and of course the missus and enjoy them when you do.
Look forward to seeing you on those Canterbury roads and beyond!