by A bird-watching girl in Auckland sends a half-finished question, plus what a geyser is and who the Maori people are
A Letter to Santa from Auckland, New Zealand
Dear Santa,
Kia ora Santa! My name is Olivia and I am 7 years old. I live in Auckland, in New Zealand, surrounded by green hills and blue water. I love rock pools and bird-watching. I started to write my big question, but then my little brother grabbed the pen, so all I managed was: is Santa Claus… Sorry about that! My geography question is: what is a geyser? And my social studies question is: who are the Maori people? Nga mihi, Santa!
Love, Olivia (age 7)
Santa’s Reply
Ho ho ho, kia ora Olivia! I had a good chuckle at your half-finished question, and a cheeky little brother is no excuse, ho ho! Since I cannot read minds, let me guess what you meant to ask. Is Santa Claus real? Yes, as real as a kind heart. Is Santa Claus coming? Always, every single Christmas. Is Santa Claus going to remember New Zealand, way down at the bottom of the world? Absolutely, my reindeer know the way perfectly. So whatever your question was, I do hope I have answered it. Tell your brother I said hello.
Your geography question: what is a geyser
A geyser is a special hot spring that shoots boiling water and steam high into the air, like a natural fountain. They happen where hot rock deep underground heats water until it bursts upward. Your own New Zealand, especially around Rotorua, is famous for its bubbling geysers and steaming pools. Read more at National Geographic Kids.
Your social studies question: the Maori people
The Maori are the native people of New Zealand, who arrived long before others and built a rich culture of their own. They have a beautiful language, powerful songs and dances like the haka, and deep respect for the land and sea. The Maori are a proud and important part of your country’s identity. Explore more at Britannica Kids.
Explore a rock pool for me, Olivia. Yours warmly from the North Pole, Santa Claus.
