PM Luxon: Modi's Visit Marks Historic Milestone

New Zealand Prime Minister Christopher Luxon gave Prime Minister Narendra Modi a warm and historic welcome during the Indian diaspora event at Spark Arena in Auckland, describing the visit as a landmark moment in bilateral relations.

New Zealand PM Christopher Luxon says, "...Tonight New Zealand makes history. For the first time in 40 years, an Indian Prime Minister stands on New Zealand soil...Prime Minister Modi, let me say on behalf of 5 million New Zealanders, you are worth the wait"@MEAIndia @IndiainNZ… pic.twitter.com/FeFqTtz3Wx

— All India Radio News (@airnewsalerts) July 11, 2026

Addressing the gathering, Luxon said, "Tonight New Zealand makes history. For the first time in 40 years, an Indian Prime Minister stands on New Zealand soil."
Welcoming PM Modi on behalf of the nation, he added, "Prime Minister Modi, let me say on behalf of five million New Zealanders, you are worth the wait."

The remarks drew loud applause from the audience and underscored the significance of PM Modi's visit, which marks the first by an Indian Prime Minister to New Zealand in four decades.

The visit is expected to further strengthen India-New Zealand ties across trade, investment, education, technology, sports, and people-to-people exchanges. Both leaders have reaffirmed their commitment to deepening the strategic partnership and expanding cooperation in key sectors.