New Zealand Immigration Minister Jonathan Coleman inaugurated a new consular office for New Zealand in Mumbai on March 17.
The office is located in the heart of Mumbai’s swanky new business hub, the Bandra Kurla Complex, that houses offices of some of the world’s biggest corporations.
New Zealand High Commissioner Jan Henderson and Consul General and Trade Commissioner Gavin Young among other dignitaries from both the nations were also present at the inauguration.
The new consular facility that also functions as an embassy office will be instrumental in strengthening trade and cultural ties between India and New Zealand.
Speaking at the inauguration Dr Coleman said, “The opening of the Consulate General symbolises the commitment of New Zealand government to our relationship with India.
“It also demonstrates New Zealand’s commitment to increased synergy for travel between India and New Zealand and business and investment opportunities.”
India is New Zealand’s eighth largest export market, up from 24th place three years ago, and it a market that is valued at over NZ$1.2 billion.
In the run up to the Free Trade Agreement, New Zealand is hoping to partner with India in industries like agricultural technology and the cold chain for the agriculture and food industry, information technology, aviation, wood and green technologies.
The newly opened office will provide consular services such as processing visas besides providing support for trade, investment and tourism.
National MP Kanwaljit Singh Bakshi, who was present at the opening said, “The new office will facilitate visa-seekers from southern states, Maharashtra and Gujarat.”
Pointing to the future possibilities of growing trade between the two countries, Mr Bakshi said, “India is New Zealand's eighth largest export market, up from 24th three years ago. There are emerging opportunities."
New Zealand also formally launched its unified branding for apples in India. New Zealand exporters have consolidated their offering under one umbrella brand, so consumers in India will be able to easily identify the premium quality New Zealand apples.
Former Black Caps great Richard Hadlee, who was present at the launch told the Press trust of India, “New Zealand apples are known around the world for their delicious taste, combined with their healthy qualities, and I think people here in India will really enjoy them-from kids to cricket stars.”
Through the launch in India, the brand hopes to reach out to not only the increasingly health-conscious consumer but also to the suppliers of fresh apples. The New Zealand apple industry is looking to find supply-chain partners for the commercialisation of exclusive new varieties and Indian growers seeking advanced horticultural practices.