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A Historic
Opportunity for Impact
and Change.
Who we are.
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The Kolkata-Kiwi Exchange is an initiative between two great countries, India and New Zealand, and the brainchild of former All Black, Norm Maxwell and Phil Robson, CEO of Total Sports Tours. The exchange will see a group of underprivileged young children, who are part of Khelo Rugby in Kolkata travel to Christchurch to play Sevens, meet their heroes and experience Kiwi culture firsthand. In return, a group of New Zealand school students will visit Kolkata, immersing themselves in Indian culture, making new friends and gaining a new perspective on the world.
Norm, who now lives in Spain, has been studying Yoga as part of his daily wellbeing practice. He has been on a journey searching for peace, growth and inner-strength, which has taken him to Kolkata, India where he has connected with the work of Khelo Rugby. Norm now coaches a new generation of young Indian kids who have fallen in love with rugby, the All Blacks and the possibility of one day playing for their own National teams or even their country.
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OUR PEOPLE
Norm Maxwell
Norm has been visiting India for years, coaching and mentoring underprivileged children. Inducted into the Crusaders Hall of Fame in November 2024, he now seeks to use his privileged position to further his passion for rugby, well-being, and youth development—both in New Zealand and India.
Phil Robson
With over 20 years of experience organizing elite sports tours, Phil will ensure that the exchange runs seamlessly, with safety, responsibility, and fun at its core. Passionate about helping others and education, Phil hopes this unique project will make a meaningful difference in the world by connecting youth across the globe.
Paul Walsh
A dedicated advocate for youth rugby in India, Paul has played a key role in shaping Khelo Rugby into a powerful movement that empowers children through sport.
Tim Grandage
Tim has devoted his life to giving Kolkata’s street children a brighter future through education, healthcare, and sport.
WHY NOW? – THE URGENCY OF THIS MOMENT
India is fast becoming a key partner for New Zealand, with Prime Minister Luxon recently leading a delegation to strengthen ties. As Raf Manji from the Asia NZ Foundation said, now is the time to build enduring relationships based on long-term trust.
A recent MOU between Christchurch City Council and the India New Zealand Business Council highlights growing collaboration in trade, investment, and innovation. In Indian business culture, personal, face-to-face relationships are essential—making initiatives like this especially valuable.
Meanwhile, India’s first-ever Rugby Premier League is set to launch, featuring six city-based teams and international talent. As the sport grows professionally in India, New Zealand—home of the legendary All Blacks—has a unique opportunity to contribute its expertise, build trust through sport, and support the future of rugby in the region.
WHY INDIA? (AND WHY IT’S GOOD FOR BUSINESS)
The Kolkata-Kiwi Exchange – Building Global Connections
- Enable experienced New Zealand players to make a lasting impact in the lives of youth in both India and New Zealand.
Why India? Why Now?
- A new investment frontier: India is a technology-rich, entrepreneurial market full of untapped potential for sports and business growth.
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WHY GET INVOLVED?
Global Visibility:
Align your company with an international initiative that has a profound social impact, builds tolerance and awareness.
Economic Advantage
Ride the wave of political and economic alignment between New Zealand and India and reap the benefits.
Community Engagement:
Be an integral part of a movement that fosters youth development, education, and international goodwill.
Brand Alignment:
Position your organisation as forward-thinking, inclusive and community-focussed.