If you have changed your name, the Citizenship Office needs a clear documentary trail so it can connect your current identity with your earlier records.
What documents can show a name change?
The citizenship preparation page gives examples including a marriage or civil union certificate, a name-change document, or a divorce record. Online applicants upload a digital copy of the original; paper or in-person applicants provide the original document.
If you were born outside New Zealand
A New Zealand name change certificate can be official evidence of a registered New Zealand name change for a person born outside New Zealand. If you were born in New Zealand, the Government says a birth certificate can show the registered name change.
Make every record consistent
Before applying, check the spelling, order and history of names across your passport, birth record and supporting documents. If the records do not line up, prepare the evidence before starting the application rather than waiting for DIA to ask later.
Use the free tools
Turn the guidance into a practical next step
Check your presence estimate, test a future trip, or work through the application checklist.