Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday (local time) said he was “honoured” to receive a traditional Maori powhiri ceremonial welcome at the Government House in Auckland, describing the ceremony as a reflection of New Zealand’s rich heritage and traditions.
In a post on X, PM Modi expressed gratitude for the ceremonial welcome accorded to him at the start of his engagements in New Zealand.
“Honoured to receive a ceremonial welcome at Government House in Auckland. The traditional Maori powhiri was a moving reflection of New Zealand’s rich heritage and traditions,” the Prime Minister wrote.
The Prime Minister also held delegation-level talks with his Kiwi counterpart Christopher Luxon, during which he described the India-New Zealand Free Trade Agreement (FTA) as a historic milestone in bilateral ties, thanking Luxon for concluding the pact in a short span.

