A group of 9 people from four countries were welcomed today as new citizens of New Zealand and Waitomo District.

The new citizens were sworn in and awarded a citizenship certificate. A morning tea was held following the ceremonies to mark the occasion.

Mayor Brian Hanna welcomed the group in the Council chambers in front of family and supporters. The citizens came from Samoa, Romania, Australia and Britain.

Mr Hanna says he enjoys being able to welcome new people. “It is great to help make this ‘the place you call home’. “We wish you all the best as you settle into the Waitomo District,” he says.

The formal ceremony is a very important step in the process of becoming a New Zealand citizen.

Photo: Mayor Brian Hanna extends a warm welcome to (from left), Ciprian-Vasile Tiriteu, Ivi Belford, Alexandru-Octavian Tiriteu, Sosefina Belford, Monica Tiriteu, Andrei-Ciprian, Colin and Janet Beeston, Susana Uili Ioane.