On Monday this week [10 February 2025], Ōpōtiki held the first citizenship ceremony in 2025 and welcomed eleven new citizens to the district.
Ōpōtiki Mayor, David Moore, congratulated the new citizens, welcoming them to the Ōpōtiki community.
Before the oaths and affirmations and presenting the Citizenship Certificates, Ōpōtiki Mayor David Moore spoke on behalf of Council in congratulating all the guests.
“It’s one of my favourite occasions in the role as mayor. My visit to Waitangi last week I was pleasantly surprised to see a multi-cultural presence on the day and highlights how lucky we are to have people deciding to call Ōpōtiki and New Zealand home.
“These eleven people bring new perspectives and skills to our community, enriching the whole district. On behalf of the community, I welcome them and we feel privileged that they have chosen to make Ōpōtiki home,” Mayor Moore said.
The new citizens are from Samoa, the United Kingdom and Nigeria.
Welcome - Geoffrey William Breaker, Falavasa Roni Fereti, Tina Fereti, Sautia Roni Fereti, Roni Fereti, Sonny Boy Samuel Fiu Faliu, Faatapepe Vaiala Seuao, Paul Ndidili Okwara, Nadine Claire Harlow, Ricky Agape Jeriah Seuao, Masua Vai Tusa
