Auckland, NZ – September 26, 2025
The “Wired for Growth: India–NZ Next Wave” symposium, jointly organised by the High Commission of India (Wellington), the Consulate General of India (Auckland), and the India New Zealand Business Council (INZBC), concluded on Friday with resounding success at the Queen’s Head Ballroom, Four Points by Sheraton, Auckland.

The event brought together business leaders, policymakers, academics, and community representatives to explore opportunities across Trade, Technology, and Tourism, while underlining the importance of advancing the India–NZ Free Trade Agreement (FTA) negotiations.

Inspiring Keynote & Special Addresses

The keynote address was delivered by Hon. Tim van de Molen, MP for Waikato, who emphasised the importance of strengthening bilateral trade and investment partnerships.

Special addresses were also delivered by H.E. Neeta Bhushan, High Commissioner of India to New Zealand, and senior dignitaries, who highlighted the enduring strength of India–NZ relations.

Engaging Panel Discussions

The symposium featured three dynamic panels that sparked thoughtful discussion and fresh perspectives:

  • Panel One: Rethinking Trade – Sector Growth in an FTA Environment
    • Moderator: Antje Fiedler (University of Auckland)
    • Speakers: Mark Piper (Transition CEO, Bioeconomy Science Institute), Justine Arroll (GM Trade, Fonterra), Peter Wilding (CEO, Genuine Manuka Honey), Rakesh Jaiswal (Founder & CEO, Jaiss Bespoke)
    • Discussion focused on sector growth opportunities, innovation in agri-business, and reimagining exports within an FTA framework.
  • Panel Two: Beyond Borders – Tourism as a Catalyst for Trade and Diplomacy
    • Moderator: Sandeep Sharma (Founder & MD, NorthStar Global Advisory)
    • Speakers: Sudesh Jhunjhnuwala (Founder & CEO, Hind Management), Asha Sundaram (Associate Professor, University of Auckland), Darrin Grafton (Co-founder, Serko), Pradeep Kumar Medasani (ECO Travels NZ)
    • Speakers highlighted the power of tourism to deepen diplomatic ties, expand people-to-people connections, and drive sustainable growth.
  • Panel Three: Tech Pathways – Innovation and IP in a Free Trade Framework
    • Moderator: Greg Shanahan (Founder, Technology Investment Network – TIN)
    • Speakers: Jai Goradia (CEO, INDUS), Jess Covich (CEO, Space Trail Blazer), Julie Leuzinger (MD & Co-founder, Ghost Dynamics)
    • This session explored cutting-edge innovation, intellectual property protection, and technology-driven opportunities in the India–NZ partnership.

A Platform for Collaboration

Speakers and panellists shared very thoughtful insights and practical strategies, which were praised by attendees as both timely and visionary. Discussions revealed how trade, tourism, and technology can act as pillars of growth and new avenues of collaboration.

The event concluded with networking over tea, coffee, and light refreshments, creating meaningful connections among participants and reinforcing the momentum for future bilateral cooperation.

A Sold-Out Success

With registrations at full capacity and a hall packed with decision-makers and thought leaders, the symposium demonstrated the strong enthusiasm for deepening India–NZ relations. Attendees described it as an inspiring, well-organised, and impactful programme that successfully created a platform for dialogue, innovation, and partnership.

📸 Picture Source: Official Facebook page of Consulate General of India in Auckland