Prime Minister Narendra Modi has arrived in New Zealand on the first visit by an Indian Prime Minister in 40 years, marking a significant milestone in bilateral relations. Welcomed with a traditional Māori Powhiri ceremony, PM Modi held talks with New Zealand Prime Minister Christopher Luxon. The two leaders elevated ties to a Strategic Partnership, unveiled the India–New Zealand Strategic Partnership Roadmap to 2030, and set an ambitious goal of doubling bilateral trade to NZ$7 billion (around ₹35,000 crore) by 2030.

New Year 2026 was welcomed by Sydney with a spectacular fireworks display held under heightened security, following a deadly attack that shocked the city weeks earlier. Countdown organisers paused celebrations for a moment of silence to honour the victims, with the Harbour Bridge lit in white and symbols of unity projected across the skyline.