Navtej Randhawa, the National Party’s candidate for Panmure-Otahuhu, is a man whose roots in New Zealand run deep.
As a fourth-generation New Zealander, his family heritage can be traced back to the 1920s when his great-grandfather journeyed aboard the Strathmore P&O ship from Punjab to Aotearoa.
His family's remarkable story is one of resilience, hard work, and a commitment to community service, influencing his values and path into politics. His family has played a significant role in spearheading Indian causes and initiatives in New Zealand.
Reflecting on his family's legacy, the 47-year-old told The Indian Weekender, “In 1926, when the white plague was very prominent…Gujaratis and Punjabis came together. My great-grandfather established the oldest Indian organisation– New Zealand Indian Central Association, which is set to celebrate its centenary soon.
“My grandfather founded the first gurdwara in New Zealand in Waikato, while my father played a key role in initiating many Indian associations. So, this generational community service was the foundation that I was always involved in community initiative works.
“I thoroughly enjoy being part of a culture our forefathers have worked hard to keep alive in New Zealand.”
Randhawa's unique background, including his education in Punjab and his family's ties to New Zealand and India, provide him with a deep understanding of both cultures.
He views this as a strength that can help bridge the gap between different communities. Speaking fondly of his ancestral village in Punjab, which he visits regularly with his family, he says, “For me, the heritage and the anchor is still in India. I love going to India and everything that old civilisation brings to the table regarding our cultural anchoring in a Western world.
“It gives you a different gearing, and it is one of my key strengths. And I proudly say that I have a deeper understanding of both cultures. My kids [three boys] also love going to India. And so it gives them a sense of where the journey started.”
Navtej, a well-known community leader who owns an Indian supermarket and is the founding member of a community radio station, says his journey into political advocacy began during the Covid-19 pandemic, when he observed the challenges faced by New Zealanders and aspiring citizens stranded in India.
He felt compelled to make a difference and ensure their concerns were heard. "During the Covid times, many of our people were stuck in India. It sounded like we were put out in the lurch, and nobody seemed to care or be advocating for them, and you feel this is not the way to treat your hard working citizens, new New Zealanders and aspirants.
“So that got me thinking that we need to take initiative and become part of the decision-making process to help this country.”
Navtej says his values aligned with the National Party's values, emphasising equal opportunity and community engagement. "Equal opportunity, that's what I love the most. So equal opportunity, irrespective of your background, is something that really brings me in."
As a National candidate, Navtej is passionate about equal opportunity and effective governance. He emphasises the need for responsible handling of the economy and aims to contribute to a brighter future for New Zealanders.
"The debts have gone through the roof... from five billion, it's ballooned up to about $75 billion. That's huge."
Navtej's campaign involves direct engagement with people and relishing the opportunity to share his story and his party's values.
"I love door knocking. People give you feedback...you're able to tell your story...you're able to give your values, party values and ask for two ticks for National, which is important.”