Most 80 year olds would be taking it easy on a Sunday, that's not the case when you're the President of India.
President Pranab Mukherjee is the first Indian Head of State to ever visit New Zealand, and he has a packed itinerary.
Today he's to attend a wreath laying, receive a guided tour of the Maori exhibits at the Auckland War Memorial Museum and attend business meetings and functions -- but the peak will be talks with Prime Minister, John Key.
Both leaders have indicated they want a free trade agreement to advance -- Mr Key said it will be his number one talking point with the President.
And last night President Mukherjee addressed a state dinner saying the current level of trade needs to be "vigorously enhanced" so that it can reach its potential.
"I'm confident that we can open more doors to each other as we establish a robust economic and political partnership."
A free trade agreement between New Zealand and India has been on the negotiating table for 6 years.
The Prime Minister won't be letting the opportunity to talk trade pass him by, he's wanted a Free Trade Deal with India since 2010 -- at the same time he set up the New Zealand Inc India Strategy. But since then things have gone downhill.
The New Zealand Inc India Strategy had a goal of $2 billion in goods heading from New Zealand to India by 2015.
But the closest we've come to that figure is back in 2010 when we hit $900 million in exports. Last year it was just $600 million.
Governor General, Sir Jerry Mateparae has been hosting the President and their roles are similar. Both are acknowledged as the Head of State and the commander in chief of their respective armed forces.
Sir Jerry told the President that New Zealand wants closer political and economic ties with India.
"On the economic front we want to grow our links in trade, investment.
"New Zealand wants to be a part of India's growth story," he said.
While it is the President's first visit, he said he wasn't unfamiliar with New Zealand.
"This beautiful land and city is not unknown to me as I had the privilege of representing my country as Foreign Minister in 1995."
That's not the only political accolade he has, the 80 year old has an impressive record -- a political career spanning six decades. He's served as Minister of Defence, Minister of Finance and Minister of External Affairs.
And with all that time in the political game, President Mukherjee knows how to win over a crowd. In New Zealand, that means talking about sport.
"Cricketers of New Zealand are household names in many parts of India," he said.
Newshub.
