Thirty new Hastings residents celebrated a huge milestone last week, formally becoming citizens of Aotearoa, New Zealand.
The occasion was also significant due to the recent passing of Queen Elizabeth II, which meant the oath or affirmation now referred to King Charles III.
Councils across the country assist the Department of Internal Affairs in conferring citizenship by holding ceremonies for people becoming citizens.
Each ceremony involves pledging an oath, taking the affirmation of allegiance and being presented with a citizenship certificate.
These are usually held in the Hastings District Council chambers every couple of months.