~ Kiwi Indian Hall of Fame 2024 ~

Hall of Fame Inductee 2024

Ella Kumar

Ella Kumar was a Kiwi Indian Hall of Fame Inductee in 2024, recognised for her longstanding contribution to community leadership, health, and fitness, and for paving the way for Kiwi Indian women in local governance.

Kumar is the first woman of Indian descent to be elected Chair of a local board in New Zealand. Her breakthrough came in 2010 when she became the first Kiwi Indian woman elected to a local board in the country, marking an early milestone in her public service journey.

She currently serves on the Puketāpapa Local Board, where she is Deputy Chairperson for the 2025–2028 term, contributing to local decision-making and community development in Auckland.

At the Kiwi Indian Hall of Fame Awards 2024, she received the Hall of Fame honour in recognition of her influence and sustained service across multiple sectors.

With over 36 years of experience in health and fitness, Kumar is a qualified aerobics instructor, personal trainer, pilates instructor, and Bolly dance teacher, known for using fitness as a tool for community wellbeing.

Born and raised in New Zealand, she is a third-generation Kiwi Indian. Her family’s roots in Aotearoa date back to the 1920s, when her grandfather first migrated, followed by her father in the 1950s.

She has also been a long-time volunteer with the Auckland Diwali Festival since 2002, supporting its growth and community reach for over two decades.

Beyond her professional work, Kumar continues to run free weekly fitness classes at the Mahatma Gandhi Centre, encouraging people to adopt healthier and more active lifestyles through accessible wellbeing programmes.

Video Highlights

Photo Gallery 2024