NZICA Calls for Full Cooperation with Immigration New Zealand

The New Zealand Indian Central Association (NZICA) is aware of recent reports concerning a group of visitors who entered New Zealand as part of a cultural delegation for Holi celebrations and have not complied with their visa conditions.

NZICA takes this matter seriously as New Zealand has long been a country built on trust, integrity, and respect for the rule of law. The Indian community in Aotearoa New Zealand has contributed positively for over a century and continues to uphold these values with pride.

We wish to make it unequivocally clear: Any individual who is currently in New Zealand in breach of their visa conditions must come forward and cooperate fully with Immigration New Zealand.

We urge those affected to take immediate steps to regularise their situation or make arrangements to depart New Zealand voluntarily. Doing so promptly and responsibly is in their best interests and will help avoid further legal consequences.

NZICA fully supports Immigration New Zealand in its efforts to uphold the integrity of the immigration system. We also call on:

• Event organisers and sponsors to cooperate transparently with authorities
• Community leaders and members to encourage compliance and lawful conduct
• Agents and facilitators to act ethically and responsiblyWe are particularly concerned by reports suggesting that some individuals may have been misled by offshore agents or intermediaries. Exploiting individuals through false promises of migration pathways is unacceptable and undermines the credibility of genuine cultural and community exchanges.

  NZICA remains committed to working constructively with government agencies to ensure that:

  • Cultural exchanges continue in good faith

  • Visa processes are respected and protected

  • The reputation of the Indian community in New Zealand remains strong and respected

  This is a moment for responsibility, cooperation, and integrity.
  All branches and associates of NZICA are requested to assist – The strength of our

  community lies in our commitment to doing what is right.

  Veer Khar

  President
  New Zealand Indian Central Association (NZICA)