Applying for Citizenship In New Zealand is a very special occasion. There are however certain criteria that you need to meet before you can apply.
Who can become a New Zealand Citizen?
You may be eligible for a grant of New Zealand citizenship if you:
- intend, if granted citizenship, to continue to reside in New Zealand;
- are able to understand and speak English;
- are of good character;
- understand the responsibilities and privileges of New Zealand citizenship;
- have New Zealand residence; and
- were physically present in New Zealand, and have had your New Zealand residence for the last five years before applying for citizenship.
In other words you need to prove that you have been and will continue to be committed to the country, prove that you are / will be a model citizen and will fit in. 
Applying for Citizenship In New Zealand
You will apply for citizenship via the New Zealand Department of Internal Affairs. Once you have lodged your application for citizenship, it will be assessed and if approved you will be granted a ceremony date.
New Zealand Citizenship Ceremony
At the citizenship ceremony you will be required to take the Oath of Allegiance. The Oath of Allegiance reads as follows:
“I (your name) swear that I will be faithful and bear true allegiance to Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth the Second, Queen of New Zealand, Her heirs and successors according to the law; and that I will faithfully observe the laws of New Zealand and fulfill my duties as a New Zealand citizen. So help me God”
You will then also sing the New Zealand National Anthem.
At the end of the ceremony you will then receive a citizenship certificate.
You may then apply for a New Zealand Passport.
Important
If you intend retaining your South African citizenship as well, then you need to apply for permission to retain your South African citizenship BEFORE applying to become a New Zealand Citizen. If you do not do this you will automatically LOSE your status as a South African citizen.
Just as Important
Unless you have applied for dual citizenship. You may not use your South African passport anymore once you have been granted New Zealand citizenship.