In a significant move aimed at bolstering bilateral relations, New Zealand Prime Minister Christopher Luxon embarked on a visit to India from March 16 to 21, 2025. Marked as his inaugural trip to the country as head of government, Luxon led one of the largest delegations ever accompanying a New Zealand Prime Minister, which included Ministers, senior business leaders, prominent Kiwi Indians, and members of Parliament.
During his six-day visit, Luxon underscored the importance of strengthening trade links, maritime security, and regional stability in the Indo-Pacific, particularly focusing on enhancing collaboration with India. At the 10th edition of the Raisina Dialogue, Luxon made a powerful pitch for a secure, stable, and inclusive Indo-Pacific, positioning New Zealand as a committed partner in upholding a rules-based regional order.
Luxon's discussions included a noteworthy signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Air India and Air New Zealand to explore direct flight connectivity between India and New Zealand. The Prime Minister commented, "We are committed to opening up direct connectivity between India and New Zealand," highlighting the potential to significantly reduce travel time and improve accessibility for Indian tourists eager to explore New Zealand's stunning landscapes and rich culture.
This initiative falls under Tourism New Zealand's expanded efforts to attract Indian travelers, with various strategies implemented to simplify travel processes and encourage off-peak visits. Currently, 18.3 million potential travelers from cities like Mumbai, Delhi, and Bengaluru view New Zealand as a top holiday destination, with 43 percent ranking it as their first choice.
Alongside the MoU, Tourism New Zealand revealed plans for seasonal marketing campaigns, including partnerships with Auckland Airport and major Indian travel partners. These campaigns aim to drive demand during off-peak seasons, particularly in autumn and winter when tourism tends to taper off. Luxon's visit coincided with a push for tailored travel packages that cater specifically to Indian preferences, emphasizing the need to increase year-round visitation.
A significant aspect of Luxon's trip was the revival of discussions surrounding a long-delayed Free Trade Agreement (FTA) that has its origins back in 2009. This agreement is expected to enhance the trade relationship in critical sectors, such as agriculture, critical minerals, pharmaceuticals, and tourism, with projections suggesting a tenfold increase in trade over the next decade. Luxon remarked during his address at the Raisina Dialogue, "Our focus on strengthening maritime cooperation is critical for regional stability," thereby reiterating the mutual benefits of enhanced collaboration.
The FTA negotiations serve as a testament to both nations' commitment to integrate into global supply chains and improve market access in the Indo-Pacific region. The prospective agreement highlights New Zealand's desire to balance its economic relations, particularly in light of its dependence on China. Numerous experts, including Luxon himself, have identified India's growing stature as an important counterbalance in a shifting geopolitical landscape.
Furthermore, the Prime Minister revealed initiatives to increase naval interactions between the two countries, potentially including New Zealand’s participation in India’s Milan naval exercises, which aim to enhance interoperability among regional navies. The discussions also touched on future collaborative ventures in naval technology and maintenance.
New Zealand's recent decision to join significant regional initiatives such as the Indo-Pacific Oceans Initiative (IPOI) and the Coalition for Disaster Resilient Infrastructure (CDRI) aligns with its strategic Pacific Reset policy aimed at strengthening ties with Pacific Island nations. Such moves indicate New Zealand's recognition of the interconnectedness of maritime security and environmental issues impacting the broader region.
Through collaborating on maritime ecology and disaster management, India and New Zealand aim to tackle pressing challenges like rising sea levels and illegal unreported and unregulated (IUU) fishing that have profound implications for smaller island nations. As highlighted in Luxon’s remarks, joint efforts around sustainability and resource management can serve as a platform for deeper engagement and mutual benefit.
While New Zealand is not currently part of the Quadrilateral Security Dialogue, its growing security partnership with India provides opportunities for aligning with Quad initiatives focused on humanitarian efforts, cybersecurity, and maritime infrastructure projects. Together, India and New Zealand can enhance collective regional security and governance, thereby reinforcing a multi-faceted approach to Indo-Pacific stability amidst the dynamics of great power competition.
In summary, Prime Minister Luxon's visit to India marked a pivotal moment in the trajectory of India-New Zealand relations. By fostering cooperation in trade, tourism, and security, the two nations are set to navigate the evolving challenges of the Indo-Pacific together. The strengthening collaboration, characterized by Luxon's visit, holds the promise of a resilient and inclusive regional future.
