Ashburton District officially welcomed 59 new Kiwis at a citizenship ceremony held at the Ashburton Event Centre on Thursday.

The new citizens hail from 14 different countries, including the Philippines, South Africa, United Kingdom, and Samoa.

Each person pledged their loyalty to Aotearoa and received a kōwhai seedling alongside their citizenship certificate – a symbolic gesture to represent new beginnings.

Mayor Neil Brown, presiding over his final citizenship ceremony, warmly greeted the group and acknowledged the richness they bring to the district.

“You are now an important part of our community. If you ever face hardship, know that your elected members are here to assist you”, he said.

A highlight of the event was a debut performance by Te Puawaitanga, a group of talented 6–10-year-olds from Netherby School, who performed waiata for the new citizens and their families.

Following the formalities, attendees enjoyed a supper with Mayor Brown and councillors, celebrating the final step in their citizenship journey.