Piyush Goyal Receives Traditional Māori Welcome in Rotorua, Highlights Growing India–New Zealand Partnership

New Delhi, Nov 2025 : Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal on Thursday said he received a traditional Māori welcome upon his arrival at Te Puia in Rotorua, where he was accompanied by New Zealand’s Trade Minister Todd McClay.

Māori welcome ceremonies, known for their deep symbolism and cultural significance, mark respect, unity, and the forging of new bonds. Sharing his experience on X, Goyal wrote, “Delighted to receive a traditional Māori welcome upon my arrival in Te Puia, Rotorua, alongside New Zealand’s Trade Minister Todd McClay. Deeply value this cultural gesture, which signifies welcoming us into their tribe in the spirit of peace, harmony and mutual growth.”

As part of the ceremony, Goyal was presented with an idol of the sacred Kamdhenu cow — revered in Indian culture as a symbol of prosperity. The gesture, he said, reflected the strengthening people-to-people ties and the shared respect between the two nations.

The minister also expressed gratitude to Rotorua Mayor Tania Tapsell for the warm reception. “Grateful to Tania Tapsell, the Mayor of Rotorua, for the warm welcome upon arrival here. Looking forward to the day’s engagements,” Goyal posted.

During his travels, Goyal met Nikhil Ravishankar, CEO of Air New Zealand. Their discussion focused on the airline’s growing role in regional connectivity and India’s rapidly expanding aviation market. “Talked about the airline’s impressive role in regional connectivity. Also discussed India’s expanding aviation sector and the exciting new opportunities that it offers,” he noted.

Goyal also reiterated India’s commitment to strengthening economic cooperation with New Zealand. He emphasized that a bilateral free trade agreement would not only deepen trade and investment relations but also signal to the global community that the two nations are forging a stronger strategic partnership.

Speaking alongside New Zealand Prime Minister Christopher Luxon in Auckland, Goyal outlined the benefits both sides stand to gain. He noted that New Zealand could tap into India’s vast and rapidly growing market, while India could benefit from New Zealand’s expertise in innovation and technology.

The minister highlighted several sectors with strong potential for collaboration, including maritime industries, aerospace, defence, education, sports, and tourism. These areas, he said, could significantly broaden the scope of bilateral engagement.

Goyal added that he was leading the largest-ever Indian delegation to New Zealand, reflecting the growing alignment and shared commitment between the two countries. The visit, he said, marks an important step in taking the India–New Zealand partnership to new heights.