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New Kiwis in Hastings

Another 21 new New Zealander’s each received a kowhai tree to plant last week (February 17), in recognition of their new citizenship status.

The trees, representing  ‘putting down roots’, have been long been part of the Hastings District Council citizenship ceremonies.

At an average 210 new citizens a year that means that as well as welcoming 1050 new Kiwis in the last five years, we have had a hand in planting a forest of native trees across the district.

In the council chambers last night, five new residents affirmed their allegiance to Her Majesty the Queen of New Zealand and a further 16 swore an oath of allegiance.

They came from an array of countries: Canada, Germany, South Africa, America, Pakistan, Tuvalu, Samoa, Fiji, and the Philipines.

Councillor Mick Lester, who officiated, welcomed the new residents to “the very best part of New Zealand” and wished them “every happiness, joy and contentment”.

Council holds the ceremonies either monthly or bi-monthly, depending on the number of people wanting to take up citizenship.

The ceremony is the final step in the citizenship process, and must be attended before citizenship can be claimed.

The affirmation is usually chosen by the non-religious, while the oath is recited by the religious, and it includes a promise to respect the rights, freedoms and laws of New Zealand.

 

4 October 2017

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