Citizenship Ceremony

All successful candidates who are granted New Zealand citizenship are required to attend a citizenship ceremony. Attending this ceremony is a very important step in the process of becoming a New Zealand citizen.  It is an opportunity for you to publicly declare your allegiance to New Zealand and for the local community to welcome you on behalf of New Zealanders.

After swearing allegiance to His Majesty the King, that candidate finally becomes a New Zealand citizen and is presented a citizenship certificate. As a special touch, we provide new citizens with a native tree to plant at home as a symbol of becoming a New Zealander and choosing to put roots down in this country. Light refreshments are served after each ceremony

Two -to four guests (dependent on the location) are entitled to accompany each individual being granted citizenship at the ceremony. However, additional guests may be permitted depending on individual circumstances.

Ceremonies are held four times a year. All ceremonies start at 9:30am and are usually held in the Council Chambers in Thames or the Thames War Memorial Civic Centre dependent on the number of candidates. Ceremonies are officiated by our Mayor or Deputy Mayor.