Congratulations to our newest citizens who've made Waitomo District their home.

This morning's citizenship ceremony in our Council Chambers was a celebration of the diverse community that makes our district vibrant.

Mayor John Robertson had the honour of presenting each participant with their citizenship certificate.

These 10 individuals – who gathered with friends and whānau - join the many people from all parts of the world who have lived in and contributed to our district and chosen to make this place home.

Their skills, cultures, perspectives, and dedication enrich our community in countless ways. They bring with them the gift of language and culture from distant whenua - each carrying unique ways of seeing and expressing the world, adding depth and richness to how we communicate and understand each other.

The latest New Zealand citizens are from Brazil, Indonesia, India, United Kingdom, France, Germany and Samoa.

Nau mai haere mai – welcome: Paulo Baumgratz, Ryan Baumgratz, Cleide Zanatto, Triyoga Dharmautami, Satish Kumar, Abigail Redmond, James Redmond, Nathalie Smit, Oliver Turk and Kiran Vavega Lifa.

He aha te mea nui o te ao? He tangata, he tangata, he tangata.

What is the most important thing in the world? It is people, it is people, it is people.

Our strength lies in our diversity and the contributions of all who choose to build their lives here alongside us.

Citizenship Ceremonies are a special occasion to share with friends and family, and it’s always a great pleasure to be able to celebrate this occasion with our new citizens.

For information on becoming a NZ citizen