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Kaipara welcomed its newest New Zealand citizens this month during a special ceremony overlooking the Northern Wairoa River in Dargaville.
New citizens from 13 countries took the oath or affirmation of citizenship at the Northern Wairoa Boating Club on July 15.
Kaipara District Council Mayor Jonathan Larsen welcomed the citizens, acknowledging the commitment and courage it takes to make a new country home.
“It’s an honour to welcome you and the skills, ideas and contributions you bring to our district,” Mayor Larsen said.
“Kaipara is a place where communities come together. As our district continues to grow, you are now part of the story we’re building together.”
Several of the attendees shared stories about their journeys to citizenship, including Stewart Tu’i, who is from Tonga.
“It’s been a long journey since I first visited New Zealand in 2014. New Zealand is a beautiful place, and I’m looking forward to enjoying even more of the west coast fishing,” he said.
Natalie and James, originally from the United Kingdom, have had two children since moving to New Zealand in 2003.
“Two of our children were born here; now we can’t imagine living anywhere else,” James said.
