Anil Philip and his family of Ruby Kurian, Alanna Anil, 9 and Albin Anil, 16 attended the Australian Citizenship Ceremony conducted by Mayor Peta Pinson on March 21.

The assistant nurse and his partner Ruby, who works as a registered nurse had moved from India to England before making the final journey to the town.

"We went to England for eight years and found it very busy," he said.

"I liked Australia because of the good weather and nice people.

"It is quiet and we have friends here."

Mr Philip said he was enjoying the area and found it a good place to settle, with good education for children.

The celebration was hosted in the Port Macquarie Hastings Council chambers with singing of the national anthem, pledges of national loyalty and photos.

Speeches were also made by 2019 Port Macquarie-Hastings Citizen of the Year, Janette Hyde and Order of Australia recipient William 'Uncle Bill' O'Brien.

Long term resident and now new citizen, Lynne Amor, who has lived in Port Macquarie for 30 years said it was about time to become a true member of the community.

"The country has been good to me for a long time, having spent about 45 years in Australia," she said.

"Being from Katikati on the north island of New Zealand, it's not dissimilar to here and is about the size of Wauchope.

"It's great to be an Aussie and a true member of the community.

"You've got to do the right thing, I've travelled around Australia, seen most it and you can't beat it really."

New citizens from India, New Zealand, Iran and the United Kingdom made commitments to uphold the values, privileges and responsibilities of being Australian.

While you're with us, you can now receive updates straight to your inbox from the Port Macquarie News. To make sure you're up to date with all the news, SIGN UP HERE.