New citizens welcomed

Twenty-seven people from 12 countries have been officially welcomed to Marlborough.

The province’s newest citizens, from Finland, UK, USA, Kiribati, Philippines, Ireland, South Africa, Germany, Tonga, Vietnam, Uruguay and India were welcomed at a ceremony at Council chambers.

Mayor Nadine Taylor told the group the day was an important milestone in their new lives as citizens of this province and country. In future they would all enjoy the rights and freedoms of native-born New Zealanders.

“Your decision to apply for citizenship was no doubt made after very careful consideration and is a commitment to your future,” she said. “It is not a rejection of your past but in future your first loyalty will be to New Zealand.”

Following the Mayor’s opening address and the presentation of certificates, Council’s waiata group performed for the new citizens and their friends and families.