Prime Minister Narendra Modi landed in Auckland for a two-day visit to New Zealand, marking the final leg of his tour. He was warmly welcomed by his counterpart, Christopher Luxon, who greeted him at the airport with a hug. India’s High Commissioner to New Zealand, Muanpuii Saiawi, and other officials were also present to receive PM Modi.
PM Luxon shared a video of PM Modi’s arrival on social media, extending a warm welcome to the Indian Prime Minister. This visit is significant as it is the first official trip by an Indian Prime Minister to New Zealand in four decades. During his stay, PM Modi is scheduled to engage in discussions with PM Luxon to assess the progress in bilateral relations, particularly in trade, commerce, and defense sectors.
The Ministry of External Affairs disclosed that PM Modi will engage with key figures from the business and sports communities during his visit. Additionally, he will address a large gathering of the Indian diaspora in New Zealand. New Zealand’s Minister for Trade and Investment, Todd McClay, emphasized the importance of PM Modi’s visit, citing the recent India-New Zealand Free Trade Agreement as a pivotal moment in the countries’ relationship.
PM Modi’s trip follows PM Luxon’s visit to India in March 2025, underscoring the warm ties between India and New Zealand. Both nations share a history of diplomatic relations dating back to 1952 and commonalities such as Commonwealth membership and democratic governance systems.
