To become a New Zealand citizen you must apply through the New Zealand Government.
Citizenship is granted only after you attend a ceremony and take the Oath or Affirmation of Allegiance. At this ceremony, applicants pledge to honour King Charles III, King of New Zealand and obey the laws of New Zealand and be a good citizen.
Only once you have sworn allegiance do you officially become a New Zealand citizen.
For more details about applying, visit the New Zealand Government website
About the citizenship ceremony
Gisborne District Council hosts citizenship ceremonies on behalf of the New Zealand Government for applicants who reside within the Gisborne district.
Once your application has been approved, the Government provides Council with the list of candidates for each ceremony and you will receive an official invitation.
Ceremonies are held at:
- Venue: Council's Civic Centre Awarua, 15 Fitzherbert Street, Gisborne.
- Time: 10am start. The ceremony lasts about an hour.
- Certificate: Your citizenship certificate is presented at the ceremony.
- Dress: National dress is encouraged but optional.
- Celebration: The ceremony concludes with morning tea.
- Photograph: A group photo is taken and published online.
2026 ceremony dates
Citizenship ceremonies in Gisborne will be held on the following Tuesdays:
- 17 March
- 19 May
- 18 August
- 24 November