Street View: What does it mean to be a Kiwi?

People from 12 nationalities became citizens in the Rotorua Council Chambers.

Thirty people became New Zealand citizens in Rotorua on Friday. We asked them why.

I came here when I was 16 with my family and this is the best place to live. I decided to become a citizen now because it's been exactly 16 years.

KERRY ALEMANN

Britain

Ejaz Khalid, from Pakistan is proud to be a Kiwi. PHOTO/STEPHEN PARKER

I'm very pleased to be a New Zealand citizen and call New Zealand my second home.

EJAZ KHALID

Pakistan

Elsan Paul, Indian, became a citizen with his wife. PHOTO/STEPHEN PARKER

I've been in New Zealand for seven years. My twin brother brought me here and we both married twin sisters. Thank you for giving me the opportunity to be a New Zealander.

ELSAN PAUL

India

Juan Fourie came for the trout and stayed for the lifestyle. PHOTO/STEPHEN PARKER

Came to New Zealand in 2008 mainly for the trout but stayed for the lifestyle. I married a woman from Japan and we have a little girl and I'm proud to raise her as a Kiwi.

JUAN FOURIE

South Africa