Prime Minister Modi receives traditional Maori guard of honour

Prime Minister Narendra Modi was welcomed at Auckland’s Government House with a traditional Maori “Guard of Honour”. The ceremony began with a powerful haka, followed by a formal presentation of the Po‑wiri protocol, a symbolic gesture of peace. During the Po‑wiri, a Maori warrior placed a token on the ground; when Modi lifted it, it signified his acceptance of a peace offering.

The honour underscored the strong bilateral ties and the respect that New Zealand places on its Maori heritage while hosting an international dignitary. The guard’s precise movements, combined with the dignified reception, highlighted the depth of cultural exchange and the shared commitment to friendship between the two nations.

Officials noted that the event marked a significant moment in diplomatic history, reinforcing the collaborative spirit that underpins India‑New Zealand relations.