This week, Ōpōtiki held its first citizenship ceremony of 2025, welcoming 11 new citizens to the district.

Ōpōtiki Mayor David Moore said such ceremonies were among his favourite occasions as mayor.

“My visit to Waitangi last week, I was pleasantly surprised to see a multi-cultural presence on the day and it highlights how lucky we are to have people deciding to call Ōpōtiki and New Zealand home.

“These 11 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.”

The new citizens are 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 and Masua  Vai Tusa from Samoa, the United Kingdom and Nigeria.