Vineeta Rao
Auckland, March 29, 2025
The Second Annual Kiwi Indian Excellence Awards was held at the Rydges Latimer Hotel in Christchurch on March 14, 2025.
Organised by the Canterbury Punjabi Association, the event was attended by Indian community leaders from the Canterbury region and other guests, including Christchurch Mayor Phil Mauger, Mayor of Waimakariri Dan Gordon, Mental Health Minister Matt Doocey, Members of Parliament Hamish Campbell, Megan Woods, Tracey McLellan, and Reuben Davidson, City Councillors and Community Board Members.
The event recognised the outstanding contributions of the Kiwi-Indian community to New Zealand’s economy and society.
Prime Minister Christopher Luxon sent a video message acknowledging the community’s efforts. Acknowledging India’s significance in the context of the global economy, Mr Luxon said that India was important to New Zealand.
The Winners
“India matters for our security, it matters for our prosperity, and it matters for our society. Indian Kiwis have made New Zealand a much better place, economically, culturally and socially,” he said. Award Winners
The Rising Star Award 2025 was presented to the Jay Ambe Group, while Radio Sadeaala received the Media Legend Award 2025.
Gaurav Soni was honoured with the Business Tycoon Award 2025, and Naveen Singh Khatri was recognised with the Social Media Icon Award 2025.
Hafsa Ahmed, representing the Lady Khadija Trust, was awarded the Visionary Legacy Award 2025.
Dr Surinder Tandon received the Lifetime Achievement Award 2025, and Nathan Miglani was celebrated with the Kiwi-Indian Excellence Award 2025.
Vineeta Rao is an Indian Newslink Reporter based in Auckland.
