Auckland event celebrates India-New Zealand friendship and strategic partnership.
Prime Minister of India Shri Narendra Modi addressed more than 10,000 members of the Indian diaspora at the “Kia Ora Modi” community event in Auckland during his official visit to New Zealand. Prime Minister of New Zealand Rt Hon. Christopher Luxon joined the gathering, highlighting the importance of the growing India-New Zealand relationship and support for the Kiwi Indian community.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi thanked Prime Minister Christopher Luxon for attending the event and welcomed New Zealand’s bipartisan support for stronger India-New Zealand bilateral relations. He also expressed gratitude for the warm reception from the Indian diaspora, recalling his earlier visit to New Zealand and the lasting memories he has carried from the country.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi praised the Indian diaspora in New Zealand for its contributions to the country’s economy, society and multicultural identity. He commended the community for preserving India’s culture, traditions and festivals while making meaningful contributions to New Zealand through volunteerism, charitable work and community service.
Describing the event as a celebration of India-New Zealand friendship, Prime Minister Narendra Modi noted that 2026 marks 100 years of sporting ties between India and New Zealand. He said both countries have opportunities to strengthen cooperation in sports, sports technology, agriculture, trade, space technology and innovation as part of their expanding strategic partnership.
Highlighting shared values, Prime Minister Narendra Modi drew parallels between Māori traditions and Indian cultural principles, including respect for family, hospitality and environmental stewardship. He said these common values provide a strong foundation for stronger people-to-people connections and closer bilateral cooperation.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi also highlighted India’s economic transformation, describing India as the world’s fastest-growing major economy. He pointed to progress in digital public infrastructure, renewable energy, manufacturing, startups and space exploration, adding that a future India-New Zealand trade agreement would create new opportunities for businesses in both countries.
Calling the Indian diaspora a vital bridge between India and New Zealand, Prime Minister Narendra Modi encouraged the community to continue strengthening friendship, trust and cooperation to help realise the full potential of the India-New Zealand Strategic Partnership.
Concluding his address, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said the Indian community would not have to wait another 40 years for a visit by an Indian Prime Minister to New Zealand. He also encouraged young members of the diaspora to participate in initiatives that deepen their understanding of India’s heritage while strengthening ties between India and New Zealand.
Source: Prime Minister’s Office of India
