Eleanor Thompson By New Zealand Bharat News (NZB News)
The New Zealand Indian Central Association (NZICA), a cornerstone of the Indian diaspora since 1926, has elected Veer Khar as its president at its 99th Annual General Meeting (AGM) held on 5 April 2025 in Wellington. Khar, already a respected leader as president of the Indian Association Manukau (IAM), steps into this national role with a vision to unite communities and amplify the diaspora’s voice. This article explores Khar’s election, the historic AGM, NZICA’s legacy, Khar’s contributions, and the challenges and opportunities ahead.
Veer Khar elected NZICA president, New Zealand Indian Central Association 99th AGM, IAM leadership and Diversity Centre development, Indian diaspora advocacy in New Zealand, NZICA’s legacy and centenary plans, youth engagement and cultural preservation, challenges of crime and intergenerational divides, fostering unity in multicultural New Zealand
The 99th AGM, hosted at Bharat Bhavan in Wellington, brought together over 250 NZICA members, regional representatives, and dignitaries. The event, held on 5 April 2025, included financial updates, cultural performances, and the election of the 2025–2026 executive committee. Khar’s election as president was a highlight, with the High Commission of India in New Zealand noting his appointment as a moment of pride for the community.
While specific voting details are not publicly disclosed, Khar’s selection reflects his strong reputation, built through years of leadership in IAM. His acceptance speech focused on unity and progress: “NZICA has guided our community for nearly a century. As we approach our 100th year, let’s strengthen our roots and embrace the future together.” The AGM also recognised community contributions, with awards in education, health, business, sports, and humanitarian services, reinforcing NZICA’s commitment to excellence.
Cultural performances, including a kathak dance and a Māori-Indian fusion piece, celebrated the diaspora’s diversity and New Zealand’s multicultural ethos. A community dinner followed, fostering connections among attendees, including representatives from Auckland, Christchurch, and Hamilton branches.
NZICA’s Legacy: Nearly a Century of Impact
Founded in 1926 by early Indian immigrants, primarily from Gujarat and Punjab, NZICA is one of New Zealand’s oldest ethnic organisations. Initially formed to support a small diaspora facing cultural and economic challenges, it provided welfare, language classes, and religious spaces. Over decades, NZICA grew into a national body, advocating for the rights and integration of Indian New Zealanders.
Key milestones include establishing the Mahatma Gandhi Centre in Auckland in 1975 and launching the Auckland Diwali Festival, now a major cultural event. NZICA has also fostered India-New Zealand relations, hosting dignitaries like Indian Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi in 1985. Today, it represents over 200,000 Indian New Zealanders, the country’s third-largest ethnic group, with programmes spanning scholarships, health initiatives, and cultural preservation.
NZICA’s advocacy has evolved, addressing modern issues like immigration policy and cultural education. Its regional branches ensure grassroots engagement, making it a vital link between local communities and national priorities.
Veer Khar: A Proven Community Leader
Veer Khar brings extensive experience to NZICA’s presidency. As president of the Indian Association Manukau since at least 2014, Khar has driven initiatives that strengthen South Auckland’s Indian community. Born in Kashmir, India, he migrated to New Zealand in 1998, settling in Dannemora. A civil engineer with Auckland Council, Khar holds a master’s degree in human rights and international policy from Auckland University, blending technical expertise with social advocacy.
Khar’s tenure at IAM showcases his leadership. He spearheaded the development of the Diversity Centre at 25 Tui Road, Papatoetoe, a multimillion-dollar facility opened in 2018 for community events, education, and social services. Under his guidance, IAM launched ‘Anandam,’ a programme for seniors promoting wellness through yoga, health checks, and social activities, inaugurated by India’s High Commissioner Neeta Bhushan in 2023. Khar also championed crime prevention, with IAM’s crime group, led by Narendra Singla, addressing safety concerns in 2024.
His broader contributions include engaging youth and advocating for women’s rights. In 2014, Khar outlined plans to connect Indian organisations nationwide, a vision he now brings to NZICA. Despite controversy in 2020, when he was accused of intimidating protesters over India’s Citizenship Amendment Act (allegations he denied), Khar has maintained community trust, focusing on dialogue and inclusivity.
IAM Under Khar: A Foundation for NZICA
Khar’s leadership of IAM, reaffirmed in 2024, provides a blueprint for his NZICA role. IAM, founded in 1979 as the South Auckland Indian Cultural Society, serves Manukau’s diverse Indian population. It owns two properties, including the Diversity Centre, and hosts festivals like Holi, Diwali, and India’s Independence Day. IAM’s ‘Anandam’ programme and partnerships with Age Concern New Zealand highlight its social impact.
Khar’s team at IAM, including vice-presidents Surjeet Singh Suchdeva and Sanjay Moza, has fostered inclusivity, representing members from Gujarat, Punjab, Fiji, and beyond. His focus on youth engagement, through language classes and job fairs, aligns with NZICA’s goals of empowering the next generation.
Challenges and Context
Khar’s NZICA presidency comes amid dynamic challenges. In October 2024, NZICA addressed concerns about a protest involving alleged flag desecration in Auckland, urging calm and dialogue. Khar, experienced in navigating such issues at IAM, is well-positioned to foster unity. Crime remains a concern, with IAM’s 2024 advocacy echoing NZICA’s calls for safer communities.
The Indian diaspora, now over 200,000 strong, faces intergenerational tensions. Younger members seek modern representation, while elders prioritise tradition. Khar’s plans include digital platforms, like a NZICA app, to engage youth, alongside cultural festivals to honour heritage. Economically, Indian New Zealanders excel in technology, healthcare, and retail, but issues like housing affordability require ongoing advocacy.
Looking Ahead: Toward NZICA’s Centenary
Khar’s presidency sets the stage for NZICA’s 100th anniversary in 2026. Planned celebrations include a national festival, a historical publication, and potential visits from Indian dignitaries. Khar aims to strengthen regional branches, expand scholarships, and deepen ties with Māori and Pacific communities, reflecting New Zealand’s multicultural fabric.
NZICA’s financial stability, supported by memberships and event revenue, enables these ambitions. Khar’s experience with IAM’s Diversity Centre suggests he’ll prioritise infrastructure, possibly upgrading Bharat Bhavan. His challenge will be balancing diverse member expectations while maintaining NZICA’s national influence.
“NZICA is our collective home,” Khar said post-election. “Let’s build a future where every Indian New Zealander thrives.” His dual roles at IAM and NZICA position him uniquely to deliver on this promise.
Summary
Veer Khar, president of the Indian Association Manukau, was elected president of the New Zealand Indian Central Association at its 99th AGM on 5 April 2025 in Wellington. NZICA, founded in 1926, serves over 200,000 Indian New Zealanders, promoting culture, advocacy, and integration. Khar, a Kashmir-born civil engineer, has led IAM since at least 2014, developing initiatives like the Diversity Centre and ‘Anandam’ for seniors. His NZICA vision includes youth engagement, cultural preservation, and preparing for the 2026 centenary. Facing challenges like crime and intergenerational divides, Khar’s leadership promises unity and progress for New Zealand’s Indian diaspora.
