The prime ministers of India and New Zealand have "elevated" the relationship of the two countries into a strategic partnership, with ambitions to double trade and bolster maritime security by 2030.
Christopher Luxon and Narendra Modi agreed to a 'Roadmap to 2030', which features a number of commitments to improve investment, technology, maritime security, education, tourism, sport, agriculture, community and trade.
The agreement was struck on Saturday morning after Modi was welcomed by Christoper Luxon at Government House in Auckland.
The powhiri welcoming Indian Prime Minister Modi. Pool/The Post/Bruce Mackay
Modi accepted the wero, or challenge, laid by members of the New Zealand Defence Force before accompanying Luxon to inspect New Zealand's Honour Guard.
It's the first time an Indian prime minister has visited New Zealand in 40 years.
Both prime ministers and representatives from their governments gathered in the dining room for a formal bilateral meeting.
Bilateral Meeting with Prime Minister of New Zealand Christopher Luxon and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi at Government House. Pool/NZME/Dean Purcell
Among those at the formal ceremony was Finance Minister Nicola Willis, Defence Minister Chris Penk, Indian National Security Adviser Ajit Doval and Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri.
One notable absentee was Foreign Affairs Minister Winston Peters, who is visiting Singapore and Japan.
Luxon says the strategic partnership is a "major step" in the relationship between New Zealand and India, and signalled their ambition to "do more together".
Exchanging of Arrangements with Prime Minister of New Zealand Christopher Luxon and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi at Government House. Pool/NZME/Dean Purcell
The roadmap includes a Maritime Cooperation Arrangement (MCA) between the New Zealand and Indian defence forces.
"New Zealand's prosperity and security depend on a stable and secure Indo-Pacific," Luxon said.
"That's why we are stepping up practical cooperation at sea and deepening how we work together and share perspectives on maritime security."
In a joint statement, both prime ministers agreed to combat transnational and organised crime, including illicit drug trafficking, financial crime, cyber-enabled crime, terrorism-related offences, people smuggling and human trafficking.
Modi arrived at Auckland Airport late Friday night and will meet with prominent business and sports personalities on Saturday afternoon.
Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi poses for a group photo alongside New Zealand Prime Minister Christopher Luxon and other business leaders during his visit to Auckland on 11 July 2026. RNZ / Blessen Tom