New Zealand

刘桂珍

New Zealand is an island (島屿) country in the southwestern Pacific Ocean.

Size: It is a small country near Australia. It is made up of two main islands (the North Island and the South Island) and a number of small islands. It is about 268,000 square kilometers in size.

Nature: The natural environment of New Zealand is quite good. There are many mountains and forests. And there are also many special birds.

History: New Zealand was one of the last landmasses (陆块) settled (定居) by humans. Polynesians (波利尼西亚人) came here in around 1250. Abel Tasman, a Dutch (荷兰的) explorer, discovered it in 1642.

Language: There are three official (官方的) languages—English, Maori (毛利语) and New Zealand Sign Language. Many of the people in New Zealand are from Europe and most of them can speak English. Some of the local people speak Maori. New Zealand Sign Language became an official language in April, 2006.

Weather: In winter, it is wet and windy but not very cold. In summer, it?s very clear and sunny but not very hot. You can enjoy the beautiful sunshine on the beach here, so come and enjoy yourself!

根据短文内容，回答下列问题。

1. What?s the size of New Zealand? (不超过10个词)

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2. When did Polynesians come to New Zealand? (不超过5个词)

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3. What are the official languages of New Zealand? (不超过10个词)

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