The Indian Weekendeer

A Paeroa-based business owned by Chetna Dave and Hitesh Dave has been ordered to pay more than $159,000 after pleading guilty to exploiting migrant workers and providing false information to Immigration New Zealand (INZ). The company, Dev Trading Limited (DTL), which traded as Super Clearance, was also directed to pay $18,684.72 in reparations, along with $5,000 in emotional harm compensation to each affected worker. According to investigators, the migrant workers were subjected to extreme working conditions, with some forced to work up to 14 hours a day, seven days a week, including public holidays, without receiving their lawful wages or entitlements. In one case, a worker faced unlawful wage deductions disguised as loan repayments, totalling over $6,000. Labour Inspectorate calculations revealed more than $158,000 in unpaid wages and entitlements, with $140,000 already paid to victims before sentencing. In addition to underpayment, DTL knowingly submitted fabricated rosters and pa...

The fatal crash that claimed the life of roadworker Johnathon Walters in May 2024 did not happen in isolation. Newly released official documents reveal a troubling history behind the company and its director, Ashik Alis , who was sentenced to three years in prison for manslaughter. Authorities twice attempted to revoke Ali’s Transport Service Licence (TSL), but those efforts ultimately failed, allowing unsafe vehicles to remain on the road until disaster struck. Repeated Warnings Ignored NZTA Considered Revocation-Then Backed Down Documents obtained by RNZ show that in both 2020 and 2021, regulatory officers raised significant red flags about Ali’s fleet, describing the vehicles as dangerously defective, unregistered, and repeatedly failing Certificates of Fitness (COF). In one 2020 email, Officer Mark Painter warned: “The state of their vehicles [is] now showing real safety concerns.” Despite strong recommendations to revoke Ali’s licence, NZTA instead issued warnings, improvement not...

Piyush Pandey (1955–2025) was not just an advertising legend-he was the man who gave India a new way to see, feel, and express itself. His presence, marked by a signature moustache, a warm smile, and boundless creative energy, turned him into a cultural icon long before he became an industry giant. More than an adman, he was a storyteller who understood India in all its colours, contradictions, and charms. And through his work, he mirrored that India back to its people. Born in Jaipur, Pandey’s journey to advertising was anything but predictable. A talented young sportsman, he played cricket at the Ranji Trophy level and later worked as a teacher. These early chapters of his life shaped his grounded worldview-rooted in simplicity, observation, and human connection. When he eventually entered the world of advertising, he brought these qualities with him, changing the industry from the inside out. What set Piyush Pandey apart was not just his creative brilliance but his depth of cultura...

 In the heart of New Zealand’s vibrant multicultural landscape, The Indian Weekender stands as a trusted voice for the Indian community. It is more than just a news outlet — it’s a bridge that connects Kiwi Indians to their roots in India while keeping them updated on everything happening locally. For years, The Indian Weekender has been delivering timely, reliable, and relevant news tailored to the needs of Indians living across New Zealand. From immigration updates and visa policy changes to Indian festivals , community stories , and business features , the publication ensures that readers never miss out on important information that affects their lives. What truly sets The Indian Weekender apart is its dedication to community engagement. It highlights success stories of Indian entrepreneurs, students, and professionals who are shaping the Kiwi Indian identity. It also covers major celebrations like Diwali, Holi, and Eid , showcasing how the Indian community keeps its cult...

Moving to a new country is a journey full of hope, challenge, and change. At The Indian Weekender , we want to help you and your family settle in well, feel empowered, and build a home. In this article, we cover important life tips, stories from fellow migrants, and guidance to ease your path in New Zealand. What We Provide Settlement Guides — checklists for moving, housing, legal steps, and community services. Real Experiences — interviews and stories of families who have made the move, showing what they learned. Education & Career Advice — how to enroll kids in school, navigate job markets, and professional growth. Health & Well-being — how to find healthcare, mental health support, and stay healthy. Local Systems & Services — public transport, banking, civic norms, and daily life hacks. Cultural Balance — how people maintain Indian traditions while adapting to Kiwi life. Tips for Smooth Settling Learn local systems early — such as immigrat...

Stay updated with the latest developments in immigration policies and cultural events affecting the Kiwi-Indian community.  The Indian Weekender  covers everything from visa regulations to community celebrations, providing timely insights to keep you informed and connected. We also share news on business, health, education, and local achievements, making sure important stories reach our readers. From policy shifts to cultural milestones, our platform brings together updates that matter most to Kiwi-Indians in New Zealand and beyond.

Launched in 2009, The Indian Weekender is New Zealand’s leading weekend publication and media platform for the country’s Indian community. It reaches a readership of around 120,000 people of Indian origin, with a strong presence in Auckland. Published every Friday, the print edition is distributed free across more than 140 outlets in Auckland, with additional pickup points outside the city. Many copies are hand-delivered to ensure wider access. The newspaper is a full-colour tabloid, offering readers engaging and informative coverage. The digital platform extends its reach beyond New Zealand, attracting readers from India, Fiji, Australia, the UK, and the USA. The website covers a wide range of topics, including immigration, politics, education, entertainment, Bollywood, cricket, and community events, reflecting the interests and concerns of the Kiwi-Indian diaspora. Published by KMG Interactive Ltd under the leadership of Bhav Dhillon, The Indian Weekender combines print and digi...