by Ruby from Auckland asks Santa about Christmas pajamas, learns about New Zealand’s two islands, and hears the Maori Christmas greeting
Dear Santa, my name is Ruby and I am eight years old. I live in Auckland, New Zealand, where my nan says Christmas Day usually ends with everyone sunburnt and slightly sandy from the beach.
Dear Ruby, I have delivered to plenty of sandy, sunburnt Christmas mornings in New Zealand, and I always find it a cheerful surprise.
Santa, I have three questions.
My first question is, can I wear Christmas pjs even though it is much too warm here for the thick, fluffy ones I see online? My cousin in England wears a really cozy set and I am jealous.
You absolutely can, Ruby, in whatever light, breezy fabric suits your warm Christmas morning. Comfortable and summery beats cozy and overheated every single time, and I fully support a lighter set just for you.
My second question is about our country. My teacher says New Zealand is actually made up of two main islands. Is that true?
It is, Ruby. New Zealand is made up of the North Island and the South Island, along with many smaller ones, and flying between them on Christmas Eve, over that stretch of ocean, is one of the more scenic legs of my whole journey.
My third question is, how do you say Merry Christmas in Maori? My teacher taught us but I keep forgetting.
It is Meri Kirihimete, Ruby, a lovely Maori greeting used widely across New Zealand at Christmas time, blending the country’s own language and heritage into the holiday. I try to say it correctly every year, though I will admit the elves have gently corrected my pronunciation more than once.
Merry Christmas, Santa.
Your friend,
Ruby Campbell
Auckland, New Zealand
P.S. Meri Kirihimete, Santa. I practiced that just for you.
Meri Kirihimete to you too, Ruby. Very well practiced indeed.
