It was a very special day for 13 locals who became New Zealand citizens on Tuesday 20 October at Te Rūnanga o Waihao (Waihao Marae) in Morven. Six countries were represented: Argentina, India, Italy, Philippines, Sri Lanka and the United Kingdom.
The sun shone as the participants, their friends and family, and members of the Council, were welcomed onto the marae with a pōwhiri. Inside the Centennial Memorial Hall, members of the marae sang a waiata and everyone received a traditional greeting (hongi).
At the start of the official proceedings, Mayor Rowley thanked Te Rūnanga o Waihao for hosting the event. Citizenship ceremonies were among his favourite duties as Mayor, he said, as becoming a New Zealand citizen was a special milestone for people who had chosen to make the district their home.
After each new citizen recited their oath and received their certificate, they were invited to say a few words. Ria Gagarra from the Philippines spoke for herself and her father. “Today we are truly grateful and blessed to become a New Zealand citizen,” she said. “We are thankful for the opportunities, kindness and sense of belonging New Zealand has given us.” Refreshments were served to round off a memorable occasion.
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