Christchurch citizenship ceremony speech
Tēnā koutou katoa, good evening.
Citizenship ceremonies are held regularly around New Zealand, but I think everyone realises that tonight’s event here in Christchurch is something special.
After what has been a hugely difficult and traumatic few months for Christchurch, I hope that tonight will show the commitment and spirit of this great city, and of our newest New Zealanders.
Can I thank you all for waiting for this ceremony to be held. As I’m sure you understand, over recent months the city council and the Government have been focussed on the response and recovery efforts.
Applications for citizenship have been transferred and processed at other offices, but unfortunately these public ceremonies have been delayed. Your patience has been appreciated.
Receiving your certificate tonight is the final, symbolic step in becoming a New Zealand citizen. Congratulations to you all. I am proud you have chosen to make our home, your home.
Citizenship is the final step in the journey to becoming a New Zealander and brings with it many benefits. You can now receive a New Zealand passport and enjoy visa-free travel to many countries on it.
Citizens have full economic rights, full access to education, can stand for public office and can represent New Zealand in sport.
It means additional rights and responsibilities, and you will be more aware of this than many of those born here.
For many of you, becoming a New Zealand citizen was not a straightforward decision.
Migrating to a new country is never easy. Many of you will have had to learn a new language, new customs, and a new way of life.
I know some of you here will have to give up the citizenship of the country of your birth. That cannot be an easy decision to make.
On top of this, many - if not most - of you have chosen to make Christchurch your home.
This is a powerful gesture, and an important vote of confidence in Christchurch. It is a sign of the resilience, determination and courage that this city has shown the world in recent times.
On behalf of the New Zealand government, thank you for committing to Christchurch.
You are joining the New Zealand family now, after having lived through some of the darkest moments in our recent history. Your personal experiences of the earthquakes are now part of our collective experiences as a nation.
I encourage you to take an active part in the community and the rebuilding efforts, and I’m sure that many of you already are.
Of course, this doesn’t undermine the importance of your homeland, your heritage, your culture and traditions. Our society is made up of immigrants and we welcome the diversity you bring.
Congratulations and thank you again for committing to our country, and to Christchurch.
We are proud to welcome you as fellow New Zealanders.