Citizenship ceremonies

Picture shows a set of table and chair in the council chamber, with a flag of Palmerston North on the table

We host a citizenship ceremony every three months to celebrate and welcome our new citizens to Palmy. Typically, these ceremonies are held in February, May, August, and November.

Taking the oath at a citizenship ceremony is the final stage in a person's journey to becoming a New Zealand citizen.

The Department of Internal Affairs manages the citizenship process

To apply for New Zealand citizenship, please contact the Department of Internal Affairs.

Once you have been granted citizenship, the Department of Internal Affairs will be in touch with you to give you a personal invitation to the citizenship ceremony.

You can bring two guests

Each family or individual is welcome to bring two guests. If you would like to bring more than two guests, please contact the Mayor’s office. Phone: 06 356 8199

The ceremony will run for an hour

Ceremonies are held at Palmy Conference + Function Centre and typically run for an hour.

The ceremony starts with a welcome from the Mayor, and once you have completed an Oath or Affirmation, you’ll be presented with a certificate of citizenship to finalise the formalities of becoming a New Zealand citizen.

Following the ceremony, you and your guests are invited to afternoon tea with the Mayor.

Dress to celebrate your citizenship

This ceremony celebrates both your past and future, so we welcome you to wear the national dress of your country of origin. If you would rather, please feel free to wear smart tidy dress.