India-New Zealand Waka Ready To Embark On A New Voyage Together: PM Modi
India-New Zealand 'Waka' Ready To Embark On A New Voyage Together: PM Modi Published By, Last Updated: July 11, 2026, 13:58 IST PM Modi in
India-New Zealand 'Waka' Ready To Embark On A New Voyage Together: PM Modi Published By, Last Updated: July 11, 2026, 13:58 IST PM Modi in New Zealand: India open to learning from others, population size matters less than welfare commitment. He hailed Indian diaspora, noted strong India-New Zealand ties. Prime Minister Narendra Modi with New Zealand's PM Christopher Luxon at Government House in Auckland. (AFP photo) Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday invoked the Māori concept of “Waka" to describe the growing relationship between India and New Zealand, saying the two countries were ready to embark on a new journey together. Addressing a community event in Auckland, PM Modi said India-New Zealand ties were founded on friendship, shared values and mutual commitment. “A beautiful expression from New Zealand’s culture captures the essence of this relationship—Waka. For centuries, this word has symbolised bringing people together," PM Modi said. Explaining its significance, he added, “A Waka is not merely a boat. It is a symbol of a shared journey. Today, the India-New Zealand Waka is ready to embark on a new voyage together." He also highlighted the strong ties between India and New Zealand, saying the relationship between the two countries was founded on cherished memories, enduring friendship, shared values and a common commitment.
“India-New Zealand relationship is built on cherished memories, enduring friendship, shared values and a common commitment," PM Modi said while addressing a community event in Auckland. The Prime Minister also said India was always open to learning from other nations. “India is always willing to learn from others. For us, it is not the size of a country’s population that matters, but its commitment to the welfare of its people," he said. Highlighting the foundations of bilateral ties, he said, “India-New Zealand relationship is built on cherished memories, enduring friendship, shared values and a common commitment". PM Modi also hailed the contributions of the Indian diaspora across New Zealand. “From Auckland to Wellington, from Christchurch to Queenstown, the Indian community spread across every corner of New Zealand is a vital part of this shared journey. I would like to acknowledge my friend Prime Minister Christopher Luxon, all the colleagues from the New Zealand government, and the members of the Labour Party present here. This demonstrates the immense bipartisan support that exists for India-New Zealand relations.
It also highlights the magnitude of the achievements and contributions of the Kiwi-Indian community", PM Modi said. Expressing gratitude for the reception he received, the Prime Minister said, “I am overwhelmed by the warmth of your welcome and your enthusiastic cheers. Your affection and support are truly heartwarming." He added, “New Zealand is a truly beautiful country. Its greatest strength lies in its people". Recalling his earlier visit to New Zealand, PM Modi said, “I am here carrying the good wishes of 1.4 billion Indians. I have come to New Zealand as the Prime Minister of India after a gap of 40 years. Around 20 to 25 years ago, when I held no public office, I visited here and received three gifts. This scarf is one of those gifts, and I have preserved it ever since." Earlier, New Zealand Prime Minister Christopher Luxon welcomed PM Modi, marking the first visit by an Indian Prime Minister to the country in 40 years. “On behalf of five million New Zealanders, I warmly welcome you. Prime Minister Modi, you are worth the wait," Luxon said.
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