Twenty-four people who have completed their journey to becoming New Zealanders were officially welcomed as new citizens this week, despite covid restrictions forcing the cancellation of a special citizenship ceremony today.

The new citizens hail from the Philippines, Wales, Uganda, Ireland, Lithuania, Samoa and England.

Ashburton District Mayor Neil Brown congratulated each candidate on their new status and said it was a shame he was not able to hand them their citizenship certificates in person.

“Covid means our usual ceremony did not happen but we know citizenship is a special milestone and that their citizenship certificates will be specially delivered by the Citizens Office.

“Many new citizens have chosen to make the Ashburton District their home over the years and they make important contributions to our community.”