Six Waitaki residents are now among New Zealand's newest citizens.

The Waitaki District Council and Te Rūnanga o Moeraki co-hosted a formal citizenship ceremony for six new citizens at the Moeraki Marae on Tuesday (August 15).

The group was welcomed to the marae with a pōwhiri and waiata led by upoko David Higgins and Te Rūnanga o Moeraki kaiwhakahaere Justin Tipa.

"We’re pleased and humbled by the fact that we’ve had another ceremony here for new New Zealanders. I think it’s just wonderful," David said.

Waitaki Mayor Gary Kircher led the ceremony, welcoming the participants and their families before the reading of affirmations and oaths.

Hampden School also provided the school choir for a stirring rendition of the national anthem and the ceremony ended with the sharing of kai and korero, to complete the welcome.

The citizens, who came from the United Kingdom, Australia and the Philippines, received their certificates and a native hebe.

“Citizenship ceremonies are special occasions and it’s a real privilege to be a part of a significant time in peoples lives," Gary said.

"To have the ceremony at the Marae is important, we appreciate the hospitality and care shown by the Rūnanga”

This is the third ceremony to have taken place in 2023, where overseas residents declare their allegiance to New Zealand, are presented with their citizenship and welcomed by the local community on behalf of all New Zealanders.