Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday addressed a packed gathering of more than 10,000 members of the Indian diaspora at the “Kia Ora Modi” community event in Auckland, describing the overseas Indian community as one of the strongest pillars of the India-New Zealand relationship.
In a special gesture, New Zealand Prime Minister Christopher Luxon joined the event, underscoring the warmth and growing partnership between the two countries.
Addressing the enthusiastic gathering, PM Modi thanked Prime Minister Luxon for his presence and for his continued support towards strengthening bilateral ties and ensuring the welfare of the Indian community in New Zealand.
The Prime Minister praised the Indian diaspora for its determination, hard work and perseverance, saying the community has emerged as a dynamic force contributing significantly across various sectors of New Zealand’s society.
He commended the community for preserving India’s rich cultural heritage, traditions and festivals while enriching New Zealand’s multicultural identity. He also lauded its spirit of seva (selfless service), highlighting the Indian community’s contributions through volunteerism, charitable work and community welfare initiatives.
PM Modi said the event was not merely a gathering of the Indian diaspora but a celebration of the enduring friendship between India and New Zealand, their growing economic partnership and longstanding sporting ties.
Noting that 2026 marks 100 years of sporting engagement between the two countries, he said both sides are committed to further strengthening cooperation in sports. He also appreciated Māori culture for its inclusive and sustainable values, observing that India is pursuing a development model that harmonises heritage with modern progress.
Urging the diaspora to continue serving as a bridge between the two nations, PM Modi said the community has an important role in deepening friendship, trust and cooperation and in helping realise the full potential of the India-New Zealand Strategic Partnership.
Following the event, PM Modi thanked Prime Minister Luxon in a post on X.
“Glad that my friend Prime Minister Christopher Luxon joined the community programme in Auckland. His presence reflects the warmth he has for India and the Indian community,” he said.
Sharing glimpses of the programme, PM Modi expressed gratitude to the Indian community for the overwhelming reception.
“Incredible enthusiasm and affection at the community programme in Auckland. An unforgettable atmosphere at the community programme in Auckland! Grateful to the Indian community of New Zealand. The Indian community in New Zealand is one of the strongest pillars of our friendship. Addressing them in Auckland was a memorable experience,” he said.
Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal also highlighted the significance of the event, describing it as “celebrations at a home away from home.”
In a post on X, Jaiswal said thousands of members of the Indian diaspora from across New Zealand gathered at Auckland’s Spark Arena, where PM Modi highlighted their invaluable contribution to strengthening India-New Zealand relations.
He said the Prime Minister praised the achievements of Indians across all walks of life in New Zealand and encouraged them to continue sharing their warmth and vibrancy with local communities, thereby further strengthening people-to-people ties between the two countries. Jaiswal added that PM Modi also expressed gratitude to Prime Minister Luxon for his support and care for the Indian diaspora.
