"We do not want you to forget your country of birth, nor that your children lose their heritage and cultural roots.
By merging our cultures, histories, and ideas, we forge new friendships and develop a deeper understanding of ourselves and each other.
We are all stronger for this."
On 5 March I had the privilege of officiating the citizenship ceremony for over 300 new New Zealanders.
Together with Adele White (Howick Local Board), Anne Candy QSO JP, Heather Andrew and Andrew Lesa JP (Manurewa Local Board), we celebrated the newest citizens from 38 countries of origin. Singing the national anthem together has special meaning with new citizens.
