Kiwi Christmas

In New Zealand, Christmas comes on December 25, in the middle of the summer (like its neighbor Australia). Lots of people spend this time on the beaches with their family and friends. Many towns and cities in New Zealand have a Santa parade with decorated floats and bands. 

It’s a commercial event, but everyone enjoys it. Because of it’s warm Santa wears ‘jandals’ (they’re New Zealand sandals). In the main cities like Auckland and Hamilton, there are big Christmas light shows and displays. There are big carol services throughout the country, even in small towns, villages and rural areas.The largest and best-known parade is the Auckland Santa Parade, which has been a feature of the Auckland Christmas since 1934.

 It attracts thousands of spectators every year and is a great event for children. New Zealand has some special carols of its own. These include 'Te Haranui', Christmas in New Zealand and A Kiwiana Christmas. 

These are sung at most carol services around the country. Children in New Zealand leave out carrots for Santa's reindeer and Santa might be left a beer. New Zealanders have a British tradition of enjoying a family dinner in the middle of the day on Christmas Day. 

Usually, it is preceded on a Christmas morning by exchanging gifts that will be left under the Christmas tree at home. Christmas meal will often be hot food such as roast chicken, roast turkey, cold ham, hot roast vegetables such as potatoes, pumpkin, sweet potato (New Zealand has its own sweet potato called a Kumara), and other root vegetables.

 For dessert, plum pudding and Christmas cake are often served alongside the Kiwi icons, kiwifruit, strawberries and cream.

It's your turn!

Imagine that you are writing an email to your friends from New Zealand. Describe shortly how the Christmas day looks like and wish them happy holidays. Use 50-120 words. Sign as XYZ. It will be useful for you on the exam.

Maja Stęsicka 8H