Māori-Indian Collaboration Shines at New Zealand’s Independence Day Festivities

New Zealand’s Indian community celebrated India’s Independence Day with a vibrant three-day festival featuring a blend of rich cultural traditions and collaborative events. The celebrations were marked by flag-hoisting ceremonies across the country, and urban centers like Hamilton, Wellington, Dunedin, and Palmerston North hosted cultural nights that highlighted India’s diverse heritage.

In Auckland, where the largest Indian diaspora resides, festivities spanned from August 16 to 18, 2023. A notable highlight was a culinary competition where Māori chefs competed against their Indian counterparts, showcasing the fusion of Māori and Indian cuisines. Fashion designers from both cultures also exhibited their work, reflecting the creative synergy between the communities.

Prime Minister Christopher Luxon and opposition leader Chris Hipkins participated in the celebrations at the Dew Drop Events Centre, captivating audiences with their performances to popular Indian dance music. The events on August 17 featured representatives from over 15 Indian states performing regional folk and classical dances at Auckland’s Mount Eden, celebrating the diversity of Indian culture.

The official celebrations kicked off on August 15, the anniversary of India’s independence from British rule in 1947. The Indian High Commission in Wellington and the Consulate General in Auckland hosted a joint reception in Auckland, attended by Nikhil Ravishankar, the incoming Indian-origin chief executive of Air New Zealand, who is set to assume his role in October. Ethnic Communities Minister Mark Mitchell praised Ravishankar’s appointment, underscoring the significant contributions of the Indian community to New Zealand’s landscape over the years.

Various speakers, including Luxon, Hipkins, and Indian High Commissioner Neeta Bhushan, emphasized the importance of friendship and collaboration between communities. The Indian population in New Zealand has grown significantly, surpassing the Chinese community to become the third largest ethnic group. According to the 2023 Census, 292,092 individuals identified as having Indian heritage, reflecting a 22 percent increase since 2018.

Historically, the presence of Indians in New Zealand dates back to 1881, when just six individuals were registered. The community has since flourished, with its median income reaching $51,600 in 2024, the highest among all ethnicities, surpassing the national average income of $41,500. Additionally, the Indian community contributed an estimated $10 billion to the New Zealand economy in 2019, accounting for approximately 3.3 percent of the total GDP at that time.

The cultural celebrations included a diverse array of performances, such as a “United in Diversity” event in Palmerston North, where community groups came together to honor Indian heritage. In Dunedin, the Indian Association organized a grand patriotic event featuring Carnatic music, while Hamilton welcomed Indian pop singer Shibani Kashyap.

Auckland’s Whiria Collective and India’s CD Foundation curated a cross-cultural fashion show and Masterchef competition. Chefs from both Māori and Indian backgrounds collaborated, using a mix of Indian spices and local New Zealand ingredients to create innovative salmon dishes. Judge Anand Erickson, a lecturer at Auckland University of Technology, expressed enthusiasm for the culinary collaboration, noting the growing trend of fusion food.

Cultural performances were a significant focus, with the award-winning dance group from Telangana presenting ancient dance forms that narrate stories related to the Hindu God Shiva. Dancer Ravi Kumar highlighted the importance of these traditional narratives in maintaining cultural ties.

Local talents also took the stage, with performers like Mary Shaji showcasing traditional Indian dances. Shaji articulated the significance of celebrating such festivals, stating, “Marking our festivals, including Independence Day, is a way for all of us here in New Zealand to remain connected to our Indian roots and values.”

As the celebrations concluded, the spirit of unity and collaboration between the Māori and Indian communities stood as a testament to the growing multicultural identity of New Zealand, paving the way for continued partnerships in various fields.