Prime Minister Narendra Modi, speaking at a community event in Auckland on Saturday, emphasized that the Maori concept of 'waka' perfectly encapsulates the memory, friendship, values, and commitment defining India-New Zealand relations. The word 'waka' traditionally refers to a canoe but in Maori culture denotes a sense of community and shared journey.
Waka as a shared symbol
Modi stated, "India-New Zealand relations have memory, friendship, values and a commitment. These relations are defined well by a beautiful tradition of New Zealand. For centuries, a word has been connecting the people here - waka. Waka is not just the name of a canoe, it is the symbol of our shared journey." He added that the 'waka' of India-New Zealand is ready for a new journey, with immense opportunities and favorable winds.
Opportunities for Indians in New Zealand
The Prime Minister highlighted the opportunities New Zealand offers to the Indian community, noting that Nikhil Ravishankar became CEO of Air New Zealand, Anand Satyanand served as Governor-General, and cricketers like Rachin Ravindra, Ish Sodhi, and Ajaz Patel have found opportunities. He also mentioned Indian names given to streets and places, including Khandala, Bombay Hills, Coromandel, Calcutta Street, Delhi Crescent, and Amritsar Street.
Diaspora as navigators
Modi expressed confidence in the journey's success, saying, "I have complete faith in the success of this journey...Not because of Modi, but because you all are its true navigators." He noted that the Indian diaspora enjoys bipartisan support in New Zealand, acknowledging Prime Minister Christopher Luxon, government colleagues, and Labour Party members present. He described the Indian community spread across Auckland, Wellington, Christchurch, and Queenstown as a vital part of the shared journey.
Personal recollections
Modi recalled his first visit to New Zealand 25-30 years ago when he was not in government and unknown in public life. A New Zealander gifted him three items: a muffler, a cap, and a pair of gloves. He brought the muffler to the event, saying, "I used it several times in these years and I take care of it even today, just like I take care of your love for me."
Bollywood dance and bipartisan support
Modi praised New Zealand PM Christopher Luxon for dancing to the Bollywood song 'Mast Kalandar' on India's 79th Independence Day in South Auckland alongside Opposition Leader Chris Hipkins, calling it a viral sensation. He said, "Excellency, you are a super hit within the Indian community, a true sensation... The dance performance... went viral. You have truly won a special place in the hearts of Indians."
First Indian PM visit in 40 years
Modi noted this was the first visit by an Indian Prime Minister in 40 years, bringing the best wishes of 140 crore Indians. Amid loud cheers, he and PM Luxon watched a cultural performance in Auckland. The event underscored the growing ties and mutual respect between the two nations.
