"We do not want you to forget the country of your birth, nor that your children lose their heritage and cultural roots, but instead further add to the fabric of Aotearoa New Zealand."
One of the most enjoyable duties as a local board member is being involved in Citizenship Ceremonys. Each event is a massive celebration of the journey that our newest citizens have taken to arrive at this point, and it's a privilege to be a part of it.
On Tuesday, fellow Howick Local Board members Adele White JP and John Spiller, Manurewa Local Board member Andrew Lesa JP, and I took the citizenship oaths for 319 new New Zealanders from 25 different countries of origin.
Delivered in all three official languages, it was a fantastic experience and a pleasure to be a part of.