It was a day of celebration for 63 people who officially became New Zealand citizens at a ceremony held at Cambridge Town Hall this morning.
Led by Waipā Mayor Mike Pettit and attended by elected members, whānau and friends, the ceremony recognised an important milestone for people who have made Waipā their home.
The 63 new citizens have come far and wide from 16 different countries, including South Africa, Germany, France and the Philippines.
“Citizenship ceremonies are always special because they remind us that our community is constantly being renewed by the people who choose to be part of it,” Mayor Mike said.
“You bring your skills, your experiences, and your cultures. Each of you makes our district stronger, livelier, and more connected.”
Reet and Rocky, originally from India, both moved here in the early 2010s and eventually found their way to Cambridge. They married in 2019 and have two daughters, Rohani (6) and Aishani (3).
“We feel a real connection to the community here and to this town where we started our family. Cambridge is our home.”
Te Awamutu resident Paul Josling moved from England 22 years ago and has lived in Waipā for the past 17 years with his wife, Marcella.
“Moving to New Zealand was about taking a chance on a better life for my family. My wife and I love our life here.”
Lenette Castro moved from the Philippines in 2015 and calls Cambridge home when she’s not travelling around the country in the motorhome she shares with her partner, Peter.
“Cambridge is a home base for us as it keeps us close to family and friends, but we love exploring all of what New Zealand has to offer.”
As a keepsake from the day, each family received a native pikopiko seedling, symbolising the roots they have put down in the Waipā community.
Waipā District Council holds citizenship ceremonies every quarter, alternating between Cambridge Town Hall and the Presbyterian Centre in Te Awamutu.
The next citizenship ceremony will be held in November this year.
