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More than 27,000 new Kiwis in 2015

More than 27,000 new Kiwis in 2015

This Waitangi Day, New Zealand will roll out the welcome mat to 24 new citizens at Government House, and acknowledge over 27,000 people who were granted citizenship last year.

“Choosing to become a New Zealand citizen is a big decision, especially if an individual has to give up their original citizenship or links to another country” says Jeff Montgomery, General Manager for Births Deaths Marriages & Citizenship, Department of Internal Affairs.

“I am very proud that the Department of Internal Affairs has been able to assist over 27,000 people to make this choice and declare New Zealand their home and country”.

In 2015, more than 500 citizenship ceremonies were held by local authorities right across New Zealand. A special citizenship ceremony is often held on Waitangi Day, and on 6 February 2016 the Governor General will host a ceremony at Government House in Auckland for 24 people to become New Zealand citizens. Citizenship ceremonies will also be taking place on Waitangi Day in Hamilton and at Ōnuku marae in Akaroa.

“The Waitangi Day ceremony provides a visible link between New Zealand’s founding document and modern day citizenship. The people who are attending these ceremonies with friends and family will remember it as a very special day”.

During 2015, the Department of Internal Affairs launched Choice Whiriwhiria – the New Zealand Citizenship Story book. This book is given to each new citizen following their citizenship ceremony to provide a special memento of the occasion. As well as providing stories and information about being a New Zealand citizen it includes information about the importance of the Treaty of Waitangi for all “Choice Whiriwhiria showcases the backgrounds and challenges faced by many new citizens, while also recognising the incredible contribution that they continue to make to New Zealand communities” says Mr Montgomery.

For more information on becoming a New Zealand Citizen, visit www.dia.govt.nz or call theDepartment of Internal Affairs toll-free on 0800 22 51 51.

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