Our Bureau
Auckland
As Prime Minister Narendra Modi commenced his historic visit to New Zealand, the first by an Indian Prime Minister in four decades, members of the Indian diaspora welcomed him with resplendent cultural performances, reflecting the close connection with India despite the physical distance between the two partner nations.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi witnessed a vibrant celebration of India’s rich cultural heritage during the community welcome in Auckland on Friday evening.
In a post on X, the PM underlined how the performances showcased the cultures of Punjab, Tamil Nadu, a fusion of Carnatic and Hindustani classical music and a stirring rendition of Vande Mataram.
He praised the community and said, “I compliment our diaspora for keeping India’s cultural heritage vibrant across generations and continents and for strengthening the enduring people-to-people bonds between India and New Zealand.”
In another post on X, he lauded the musical performance by the Naad Vocal Ensemble and underlined how music has the unique ability to bring people together.
“Today’s performance beautifully reflected the warmth and depth of India-New Zealand friendship,” he added.
He expressed deep gratitude to the Indian community and underlined how their jubilant enthusiasm was palpable upon his arrival.
“The love and affection of the New Zealand’s Indian community touched me deeply. They have waited four decades for the visit of an Indian Prime Minister and their extraordinary enthusiasm and warmth were visible today. Their bond with India remains unwavering,” PM Modi said in a post on X.
According to the Ministry of External Affairs, as of January 2026, New Zealand comprises of 1,43,000 persons of Indian origin, 1,57,000 NRIs taking the total overseas Indian population to 3,00,000.
New Zealand’s iconic Sky Tower was lit in the colours of India’s national flag as Prime Minister Modi began his historic visit to the country- the first by an Indian Prime Minister in last four decades.
The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) Spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal shared the visuals of the Sky Tower in a post on X and underlined that the gesture symbolised the bonhomie between the two partners.
Upon arrival, he was welcomed by Prime Minister Christopher Luxon.
