New Zealand
Strategic Trade & Investment Partner with High Growth Trajectory
- Band cut
- ≥ 60
- Countries in band
- 63
The seven measures behind New Zealand's 61
Each is scored 0–100, where higher is always better. Open a row to read the analysis behind its number.
| Measure | Score | Position on 0–100 |
|---|---|---|
| 55 | ||
| 78 | ||
| 77 | ||
| 70 | ||
| 18 | ||
| 92 | ||
| 50 |
Bonus considerations — useful, but they do not affect the score
These two are worked out for every country as context for a trip. They are not part of the 61 above, and nothing here can move it in either direction.
Higher means cheaper for an Indian traveller.
Higher means easier to eat vegetarian.
Why New Zealand?
The standing assessment behind the public sentiment reading of 77, rewritten at each refresh.
India-New Zealand relations continue to be characterized by a significantly elevated strategic partnership, solidly built upon the historic visit of Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi to New Zealand in July 2026—the first in four decades—and the progression of the bilateral Free Trade Agreement (FTA). Diplomatic and official rhetoric from New Zealand remains overwhelmingly positive, with Prime Minister Christopher Luxon consistently praising India's economic transformation and asserting that the '21st century will be shaped by India'. The formal elevation of ties to a 'Strategic Partnership' and the endorsement of an ambitious 'India-New Zealand Strategic Partnership: Roadmap to 2030' further underscore this warmth, encompassing deepened cooperation in trade, defense, maritime security, and people-to-people links. New Zealand's commitment to ratifying the FTA by September 2026, with the goal of full implementation by year-end, demonstrates a strong governmental drive to bolster economic ties, with Trade Minister Todd McClay emphasizing 'our tariffs zero from day 1' for Indian exports. The Indian government's clarification that FTA provisions related to 'mobility of skilled manpower' are distinct from general immigration, and pertain to temporary movement for business purposes under New Zealand's existing laws, is a critical positive signal, implicitly affirming New Zealand's sovereign control over broader immigration policies while ensuring trade facilitation. This diplomatic alignment reinforces the historical perception of New Zealand as a 'trusted friend' to India.
Reasons to visit
Embark on an extraordinary journey to New Zealand, a land where breathtaking landscapes meet a warm embrace, offering an ideal escape for Indian travelers. With an outstanding Safety Score (estimated 9/10), you can explore its pristine beauty with absolute peace of mind, making it perfect for families, solo adventurers, and couples alike. The legendary Friendliness Index (estimated 8.5/10) means you'll be greeted by genuinely welcoming locals, ensuring a memorable and comfortable experience from the moment you arrive. While its Popularity Score (estimated 7/10) highlights its status as a highly sought-after destination, New Zealand still offers ample opportunities to discover secluded natural wonders and unique cultural encounters, far from the typical tourist crowds. From vibrant cities to majestic fjords, ancient forests, and geothermal marvels, New Zealand promises an unparalleled blend of adventure, tranquility, and cultural immersion that will leave an indelible mark on your soul.
Where Indian travellers go
- 1Queenstown
- 2Milford Sound (Fiordland National Park)
- 3Rotorua
Worth knowing
- New Zealand is home to more sheep than people, with a ratio of approximately 6:1.
- It was one of the last major landmasses on Earth to be settled by humans, first by the Māori people around 1250–1300 CE.
- The country has no native land snakes, scorpions, or large predatory animals, contributing to its unique biodiversity.
In the record
- Band
- Friendly Nation
- Trade rank
- 70
- Trade volume
- $1.2B
- Share of India’s trade
- 0.11%
- GDP
- $264.1B