Business Council opens Christchurch chapter

Wellington based India New Zealand Business Council has established a chapter in Christchurch, its first branch outside the capital.

Christchurch Deputy Mayor Norman Withers, Cricket legend Sir Richard Hadlee and Christchurch Polytechnic Institute of Technology (CPIT) International Director Beth Knowles were among the dignitaries present at the launch ceremony held on November 26 at the Institute campus.

Mr Weathers said his association with India dated back to the early 20th Century.

“The members of my family fought side by side in both world wars with Indian troops,” he said.

He said the Indian community was playing an increasingly important role in New Zealand, reinforcing the well-cemented bilateral relations between the two countries.

“I am proud to launch the Chapter of the New Zealand India Business Council, an important initiative, on behalf of the City of Christchurch,” he said.

Sir Richard, who was recently appointed Patron of the Council, said he supported all moves aimed at promoting commercial opportunities for businesses in either country.

Since his first visit to India in 1976, he has sported a long and enduring association with the country and its people. It was in Bangalore (in 1988) that he set his then-world record tally of 374 Test wickets in the first test of that series.

In the second test, his 10 wicket haul helped New Zealand to a rare test win in India, and in a home series against India in 1989-1990, he become the first bowler in history to take 400 test wickets.

In recent years, Sir Richard has been involved as a businessperson; he launched the Apollo Hospital Group’s first dedicated knee clinic at a ceremony in Hyderabad.

India New Zealand Business Council Chair Wenceslaus Anthony hoped that the establishment of a chapter in Christchurch would increase the council’s ability to serve the interests of members, and keep the stakeholders better informed of opportunities and issues to do with India trade.

He said the Council will soon establish chapters in Wellington and Auckland to make the business group more accessible to local businesses.

Christchurch based New Zealand Innovative Future Solutions (NZIFS) Director Robert Baker will head the chapter, with help from New Zealand Trade & Enterprise International Marketing Manager Don Rae and other local members.

John Ascroft of Jade Software Corporation outlined his company’s approach over the past three years in the Indian market.

He said direct air link and increased frequency of flights between New Zealand and India will help in business development.

The Council has played a significant role in connecting businesses in India and New Zealand and was a participant in the Joint Study Group meetings held between the two Governments in the lead up to the negotiations for a free trade agreement.

Mr Anthony said the new Chapter augured well with the improving business prospects and bilateral relations.

“There is increased level of interest among New Zealand companies to do business with India with the prospects of negotiations for FTA and the recovery of the Indian  economy from the adverse effects of global recession.

“Our Christchurch Chapter will be well positioned to offer support and assistance to businesses,” Mr Anthony said.

Further information can be obtained from him on 0274-833676 or from Fergus McLean, Executive Director of the Council on 0275-718178.