End of travel hassles for Bilsy Gukisuva

Prominent Cook Islands sportsman of Fijian decent Bilsy Gukisuva says he is honoured to receive his New Zealand citizenship.

Watched on proudly by his family, Gukisuva took the oath of allegiance in the final process of receiving his New Zealand citizen’s certificate at the New Zealand High Commissions’ residence in Ngatipa.

Gukisuva is a well-known sportsman in the community and has represented the Cook Islands on numerous occasions.

Since moving to the Cook Islands with his family 13 years ago, he has donned the green, gold and white of the Cooks to represent the nation in rugby union 7s and 15s as well as rugby league.

The staunch member of the Avatiu Eels rugby club, who received his permanent residence status in 2007, says receiving a New Zealand citizenship certificate means less hassles with visas.

“I can walk down the green line now,” says Gukisuva of the next time he travels out of the country.

While enjoying the Kiwi moment with family in the Ngatipa gardens, New Zealand High Commissioner to the Cook Islands Joanna Kempkers, who conducted the special ceremony for the first time in the role, casually mentioned to Gukisuva that he now has a big responsibility in representing New Zealand well on the sports field.

Gukisuva quickly quipped that he couldn’t play for New Zealand as he has already represented the Cook Islands.

Cheeky laughs were shared among the group.

“Finally I have received this,” he said.