Samoans Reclaim Their New Zealand Citizenship: A Step Toward Reconciliation

New Zealand’s Minister of Internal Affairs, Brooke van Velden, announced that 847 individuals from Samoa have successfully regained their New Zealand citizenship since the passage of the Citizenship [Western Samoa – Restoration] Amendment Bill, which became law three months ago.

Van Velden expressed satisfaction with the progress, stating, “It’s pleasing to see that people are taking up the opportunity to regain New Zealand citizenship and that the Department of Internal Affairs is promptly processing these applications.” This legislation, effective from November 26, 2024, is aimed specifically at those whose New Zealand citizenship was revoked under the Citizenship [Western Samoa] Act 1982. It permits individuals born in Western Samoa from May 13, 1924, to January 1, 1949, to apply for reinstatement of their citizenship, though it does not extend to their descendants.

The application process requires a fee of $204.45 NZD (approximately $115.43 USD), which is refunded if the application is successful. Van Velden highlighted the significance of obtaining New Zealand citizenship, emphasizing benefits such as the right to hold a New Zealand passport.

This initiative not only addresses historical grievances regarding citizenship but also serves to strengthen the ties between New Zealand and Samoa. It reflects a broader commitment to right past injustices and support the communities affected by previous legal changes.

While this situation marks an important step towards justice for many Samoans, it also opens avenues for further cooperation between the two nations, highlighting the importance of unity and understanding in addressing historical issues.

This development can be seen as a hopeful sign of reconciliation and healing, allowing impacted individuals to reclaim their identity and rights. The positive response from the government underlines a meaningful commitment to ensuring that all individuals have access to citizenship rights and the privileges that accompany them, fostering a more inclusive society.