SEVEN new New Zealand citizens were minted at a ceremony held at the Ōpōtiki District Council chambers on Wednesday morning.

Patrizio Luciano De Candido from Argentina, Claire Isobel Jones from Wales, Baljinder Singh Toor from India, Da and Liheng Kang from Cambodia, Martin and Luise Eleonore Weber from Germany were all welcomed as new citizens by Ōpōtiki Mayor David Moore.

“It is a great part of the role of being mayor to welcome new citizens at these ceremonies.”

Mr Moore said the ceremonies are a celebration for those getting their citizenship and their supporters, families and friends.

“It is one of the very rare times I wear my chains of office,” he said.

The seven brought new perspectives and skills to the community, enriching the whole district.

“On behalf of the community, I welcome them, and we feel privileged that they have chosen to make our corner of New Zealand home,” Mr Moore said.