How to scare Finnish people

Finns are quiet reserved people who specialise in minding their own business. They are helpful, not unfriendly, but they do not engage in casual conversation like New Zealanders. Talking to a stranger scares them and they actually jump in surprise! If you have a map in your hand and ask for directions, then that is fine, that has some purpose, but friendly chat is something else.

In a quiet street, two women were admiring a vintage Volvo and I stopped to take a look as well (it was in great condition and at a guess it was from the 1950s). When I said that I thought the car was great, they were visibly startled (there was no one else around) and when I continued talking one of the women straightened up, faced me directly and in a very formal tone said 'Can I help you with something?' It was so funny that I had to laugh which really puzzled her even more. I explained that I, like them, was admiring the car. She then asked where I was from and when I said New Zealand, she relaxed. Clearly my strange behaviour was now explained, but they were still disinclined to chat.