Welcome to the Kiwi Whānau!
Today, we proudly celebrate the vibrant diversity of our nation as we welcome new citizens from the United Kingdom, Brazil, the Philippines, Australia, France, the Netherlands, and Germany.
Becoming a New Zealander is more than a legal step — it’s a heartfelt commitment to our shared values: manaakitanga (hospitality), inclusiveness, and community spirit. We are thrilled to have you join our ever-growing whānau.
As you begin this exciting new chapter, we wish you a life in Aotearoa filled with meaningful connections, rewarding opportunities, and the beauty of our land and culture.
Surrounded by loved ones, each new citizen was formally welcomed and presented with their citizenship certificate and a symbolic kōwhai tree by Grey District Mayor Tania Gibson—a gesture representing growth, belonging, and fresh beginnings.
A special moment of the ceremony was the beautiful waiata performed by Whare Manaaki o Te Tai Poutini, which added warmth and a strong sense of cultural connection to the occasion.
A warm welcome to our newest citizens. Today, we celebrate unity, diversity, and new journeys in Aotearoa.
Front Row: Jemmalyn Calos, Marie Calos, Mayor Tania Gibson, Jessamy Aldred, Suzanna Armstrong, Karina Cabral Silveira
Back row: Bruno Kowalczewski, Esther Lubbersen, Allan Hinch, Kathryn Halls, Jonathan Halls, Johannes Scharf, Gregory Lawton, Fiona Campbell, Camron Lawton, Nicholas Creask, Sherwyn Calos
