PM Modi Celebrates Strong Ties with Indian Community at Kia Ora Event in Auckland
Auckland, July 11: Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed gratitude for the love and respect received from Prime Minister Christopher Luxon and the Indian diaspora during the Kia Ora event in Auckland. The event, held at Spark Arena, was marked by the enthusiasm of a large crowd, which PM Modi described as a memorable experience.
On social media platform X, PM Modi shared the joy of Indian expatriates at the Kia Ora Modi event, stating, “The Indian community in New Zealand is a strong pillar of our friendship, and addressing them was a memorable moment for me.”
Sharing highlights, he added, “I am happy that my friend Christopher Luxon also joined me for this event. His presence shows the warmth towards India and the Indian community.”
Over 10,000 Indian expatriates attended the event, with Prime Minister Luxon making a special appearance. PM Modi began his address by thanking Luxon for his support of India-New Zealand partnerships.
He praised the hard work, determination, and dedication of the Indian community, noting that the relationship between India and New Zealand is built on memories, friendship, values, and commitment.
Referencing the Māori word ‘waka’ (Māori canoe), PM Modi explained that it symbolizes the relationship between the two countries. He stated, “Waka represents our shared journey. Today, this waka of India-New Zealand is ready to embark on a new voyage. An open sea filled with opportunities lies ahead. The winds are with us, the vast waves of the ocean are with us, and the blue sky of willpower is with us. There is much to gain; we will succeed.”
According to the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), the Indian community in New Zealand has become a dynamic force contributing significantly to various aspects of life there. PM Modi commended the community for preserving their culture, festivals, and traditions while enriching New Zealand’s multicultural society.
He particularly praised the community’s spirit of service, highlighting their contributions to volunteerism, social work, and community welfare.
The MEA noted that PM Modi characterized the gathering not just as a celebration of the Indian diaspora but as a festival of India-New Zealand friendship, sports relations, and economic partnership. He mentioned that 2026 marks the 100th anniversary of sports cooperation between the two nations, emphasizing their desire to strengthen sports ties further.
PM Modi urged the Indian community to continue playing their role as a bridge of friendship, trust, and cooperation between India and New Zealand. He underscored the community’s vital role in realizing the full potential of the strategic partnership between the two countries.
“I have complete faith in the success of this journey, as the real navigators are not Modi, but all of you,” he said.
During his address, the venue resonated with chants of “Modi-Modi” and “Bharat Mata Ki Jai.”
PM Modi acknowledged the Indian community spread across New Zealand, from Auckland to Wellington and Christchurch to Queenstown, as an essential part of this shared journey. He also thanked Prime Minister Christopher Luxon, members of the New Zealand government, and the Labour Party members present.
He remarked that this reflects the broad political support for India-New Zealand relations and the contributions of the Indian community in New Zealand.
Before the event, artists showcased cultural dances and folk music in honor of the Indian Prime Minister. Many members of the Indian community, holding the Indian tricolor and New Zealand flags, were eager to catch a glimpse of PM Modi.
This event highlights the strong people-to-people ties between India and New Zealand. The large turnout demonstrated the excitement of the Indian community regarding the Prime Minister’s visit.
