A group of primary school children perform kaphaka with guitarist and New Zealand flag in background

In the Council’s recent citizenship ceremony, 97 newcomers and long-term residents officially became Kiwis.

Family, friends and supporters watched on as these individuals from 18 different countries, including Chile and Slovenia, received their New Zealand citizenship at the ceremony held at Tai Tapu Community Centre.

Selwyn’s newest Kiwis were welcomed by Te Taumutu Rūnanga chairperson Liz Brown who opened the event, and a kapa haka performance from Tai Tapu School.

Special guests included Major Julie Richardson from the Defence Force, and Councillors Sophie McInnes and Phil Dean.

Councillor Sophie McInnes who led the event says “It was wonderful to see so many new citizens receiving their citizenship and learn about their cultures and where they are from.”

New citizen hailing from England, Sam Sharland says the ceremony was an incredibly emotional evening and ran smoothly.

“I have lived in New Zealand for 15 years, and my daughter was born here. We were warmly welcomed and made to feel comfortable and relaxed. Having my friends there made the experience even more special, and I am truly proud to now be called a Kiwi.”

Also at the ceremony was Sofia Palacios from Chile. Sofia says the ceremony was really meaningful to her as she was joining her husband and son who are New Zealand citizens by birth.

“When you grow up in a different country sometimes you feel you are neither from here nor there, but now that I am a citizen of Chile and New Zealand, I feel I’m from here and there. After 11 years since I first landed here, I now have a feeling of belonging “

Last modified: 23 Sep 2024 5:22pm