Auckland: Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressed a gathering of more than 10,000 members of the Indian diaspora at the “Kia Ora Modi” community event in Auckland, celebrating the growing ties between India and New Zealand.
In a special gesture, New Zealand Prime Minister Christopher Luxon joined the event, underscoring the strengthening partnership between the two countries.
Addressing the gathering, Prime Minister Modi thanked his New Zealand counterpart for attending the event and for supporting the India-New Zealand bilateral relationship, including the welfare of the Indian community in New Zealand. He also expressed gratitude to the diaspora for the warm welcome and praised their determination, hard work and perseverance.
Modi commended the Kiwi Indian community for its significant contributions across various sectors in New Zealand. He lauded its efforts to preserve Indian culture, traditions and festivals while enriching New Zealand’s multicultural society. He also highlighted the community’s spirit of seva (selfless service), recognising its commitment to volunteerism, charitable activities and community welfare.
The Prime Minister said the event was more than a gathering of the Indian diaspora, describing it as a celebration of the friendship between India and New Zealand, their sporting ties and their growing economic partnership.
Highlighting the importance of sports diplomacy, Modi noted that 2026 marks 100 years of sporting collaboration between the two countries and said both governments are committed to strengthening cooperation in the field.
He also praised the Māori community for its inclusive and sustainable way of life, adding that India is pursuing a development model that balances cultural heritage with economic progress.
Concluding his address, Prime Minister Modi urged the Indian diaspora to continue serving as a bridge of friendship, trust and cooperation between India and New Zealand and to help realise the full potential of the newly elevated Strategic Partnership for the benefit of both nations.
