Ruapehu Mayor Weston Kirton officiated at the swearing-in of five new citizens to Aotearoa New Zealand in the Taumarunui Council Chamber today.
The new citizens who were originally came from Mexico, Czech Republic, United Kingdom, France and Thailand were supported by family and friends as they either swore allegiance to His Majesty King Charles III of New Zealand or took the official affirmation of citizenship before Mayor Kirton as representative of the New Zealand government.
Mayor Kirton said that the swearing-in of new New Zealand citizens was one of his favourite official duties.
"Although the official swearing in ceremony needs to follow a strict protocol we give it a unique Ruapehu flavour which includes the involvement of local kaumatua and Maori protocol.
Although most of them have been living in NZ for some time before they become citizens it is always a significant and special day in their lives where they complete the journey toward making New Zealand their country," he said.
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