Immigration New Zealand hunting 'missing Indian performers'; 18 came for Holi event but only three left

Immigration New Zealand is looking for Indian performers who entered the country to take part in a Holi event but did not leave, overstaying their visas, the NZ Herald reported. Visa director Jock Gilray said 18 entered the country for the event, but only three left.

Out of 15, only four hold valid visitor visas. Others had their visas until March 6. “We are prioritising contact with those who are here unlawfully on a case-by-case basis,” Gilray told the Herald, refusing to reveal any further details about the group of performers. The report said that Immigration New Zealand earlier received 27 visa applications from Indians as part of a group called Community Holi Celebration with Shibani Kashyap.

The group performed at the Colours in the Park event in Pukekohe last month.“INZ verified that the event was genuine, including consultation with the Indian Consul-General in Auckland, who confirmed they were supporting the event,” Gilray said, revealing that seven visitor visa applications were approved for the group, each valid for one month.Four applications were declined and three were withdrawn after concerns were identified with some applications, including fraudulent documents.

Thirteen short-term, limited visas were granted specifically for attendance at the event, after officials determined that this would mitigate identified risks, Gilray said.Of the 20 people whose applications were approved, 18 arrived between February 11 and 24. Gilray said one visa holder had not yet travelled, while another was prevented from leaving for New Zealand after additional concerns emerged.The agency said it had been in contact with the Indian High Commission about the situation and was prioritising efforts to contact those who may now be in the country unlawfully on a case-by-case basis. Shibani Kashyap visited New Zealand last year and performed at Independence Day events organised by Delhi-based CD Foundation.