When: Friday 13 February 2026

Time: 10.45am - 11.45am

Where: Remuera Bowling Club, Market Rd. Entrance Dromorne Rd

India is the world’s largest democracy and its contribution to the world economy and global culture is immense.

I am delighted to host Her Excellency Neeta Bhushan, Indian High Commissioner to New Zealand and Dr Madan Mohan Sethi, Consul General, to share their insight at my first community meeting of 2026.

I have asked Neeta and Madan to focus on the NZ India Free Trade Agreement and what it means for NZ going forward

• The existing relationship between India and New Zealand and prospects for the future
• How the large and growing Indian population within NZ is influencing the relationship

About HE Neeta Bhushan

Neeta has been a diplomat for over 30 years.  She has an Economics (Honours) from Hindu College, Delhi University and also a an M.Phil. Degree from Madras University. Her Research Thesis was on “WTO: Glorious Past, Turbulent Present and Uncertain Future”.

About Dr. Madan Mohan Sethi

Madan joined the Indian Foreign Service (IFS) in 2006. He is an alumni from MKCG Medical College, Berhampur, Ganjam.

Questions: I am accepting pre-submitted questions so we can maximize the time available.  Please email your questions to [email protected]

RSVP: Please also RSVP the names of people you are bringing by calling 09 522 7464 or emailing [email protected]