Bollywood superstars Aamir Khan and Vidya Balan meet New Zealand PM Christopher Luxon to boost film ties

After a day of enjoying Gully cricket in India's capital New Delhi, New Zealand Prime Minister Christopher Luxon met with Bollywood talents Aamir Khan, Vidya Balan, producer Sidharth Roy Kapur, Ronnie Screwvala, and renowned filmmaker Ashutosh Gowariker as part of a cultural exchange aimed at strengthening ties between the Hindi-language film industry and New Zealand.

The meeting, which focused on expanding Bollywood’s presence in the country, underscores New Zealand’s ambition to attract more Indian film productions, boosting tourism and local job creation.

Luxon highlighted the economic potential of film projects, stating, "The film scene brings money into our economy, which creates jobs and grows incomes — and I want to see more of that."

New Zealand has long been a sought-after location for international film productions, thanks to its breathtaking landscapes and film-friendly policies. Bollywood has previously utilized New Zealand’s stunning backdrops for several iconic films, most notably Kaho Naa... Pyaar Hai (2000), which showcased Queenstown, Christchurch, and Auckland.

Other films shot in New Zealand include I Hate Luv Storys (2010), Players (2012), Love Story 2050 (2008), Salaam Namaste (2005), Mujhse Dosti Karoge! (2002), and Bang Bang! (2014). The country’s diverse landscapes have provided the perfect setting for romantic and action-packed sequences, further cementing its appeal to Bollywood filmmakers.

During the discussion, Luxon and the Bollywood delegation explored opportunities to streamline film production processes, including tax incentives, co-production agreements, and logistical support for Indian filmmakers. His government sees Bollywood as a key driver of cultural tourism, attracting Indian audiences eager to visit iconic movie locations.