Te Reo Affirmation Makes History in MDC's Citizenship Ceremony
A Dutch-born woman has made history at the latest Manawatū citizenship ceremony by becoming the first person to deliver her affirmation of allegiance in Te Reo Māori to King Charles III on Thursday, May 15.
Irma Spekking, who immigrated to New Zealand with her husband 34 years ago, experienced a deeply moving moment as she affirmed her commitment to her adopted homeland. Her affirmation stood out during the Manawatū District Council citizenship ceremony that officially welcomed new citizens from 16 diverse groups. The ceremony celebrated individuals from countries including South Africa, Zimbabwe, India, the Netherlands, England, France, Scotland, Fiji, Japan, and China.
The Manawatū District Council holds these ceremonies regularly each year to officially confer citizenship of people who have chosen to make New Zealand their permanent home. Speaking after the ceremony, she said becoming a citizen was a significant decision that had been many years in the making. “At this stage in our lives, we knew it was time. New Zealand has been our home for decades, and this made it official,” she said. Attending with their adult daughters and their partners, the Spekking family said they were proud of the milestone, especially the use of Te Reo Māori in the ceremony.
Originally from the Netherlands, Irma works as a registered nurse and authorised vaccinator at Te Wakahuia Manawatū Trust, a Palmerston North-based health service provider that delivers Whānau Ora services to the community. She has been with the organisation for over three years and credits her co-workers for encouraging her journey with Te Reo Māori and attending the ceremony in support of her. “Working in a kaupapa Māori organisation has really immersed me in the culture. The support I’ve received in learning the language has been wonderful,” she said.
As the Manawatū District continues to welcome new citizens, Spekking’s gesture stands as a powerful example of cultural respect and inclusion in action. These ceremonies marked not just the granting of citizenship, but the beginning of new chapters for individuals and families who now proudly embrace the Manawatū District as their home.
New Zealand's newest citizens at the Manawatū District Council citizenship ceremony on Thursday 15 May.