Some new citizens, such as South African Daniel Coetzee Geyer, had been in New Zealand long enough to lose their accents, while others wore shy smiles as they introduced themselves in English.
Geyer was born in Cape Town and moved to New Zealand 13 years ago.
"I am a dairy farmer. It's been a bit of a battle. I'm farming in Reporoa," he told the group.
Genevie Canag Cabiton, from the Philippines, arrived in New Zealand seven years ago to study nursing.
"I was nervous, anxious and probably a bit naive but now I work at Rotorua Hospital and today I am proud to be in New Zealand. A country that believes in democracy," she said.
Havea Hikule'o Makasini Helu moved here from Tonga in 2005 to work.
He was granted residency in 2007 and brought his family over.
"I thank God for this moment ... In 2012 my family were awarded citizenship but I was out of the country in Tonga, so I couldn't."
Savita Birdi, from India, did not know anyone when she first arrived in New Zealand.
"But here I am with my beautiful family ... It is overwhelming for me," she said.