Eighteen new citizens were officially welcomed to New Zealand at Hauraki District Council’s May 29 ceremony.
The new citizens affirmed their allegiance to the country in a moving ceremony, before gathering to celebrate with council staff, family, and supporters.
One of the newly-recognised citizens was Tina Ute Nopper, originally from Germany. She originally came to Hauraki in 1993, as an exchange student.
“I left – went back, finished school, went to university and I always wanted to come back,” Tina said.
“I’m very excited. Ever since I was an exchange student, that was my dream, so today is very special.”
Tina’s husband Carsten, also from Germany, was also made a citizen.
Their two sons were at the event to support them, along with Tina’s original host family.
