As the demand for skilled professionals in New Zealand grew, it led to a noticeable increase in the number of immigrants around this time.
Racial and economic tensions in Dominion of Ceylon, made worse after the declaration of the republic in 1972, also swelled immigrant numbers.
[5] As during the 1980s New Zealand had relaxed its immigration policies towards Asians, it was seen as a welcoming destination and convinced them to emigrate permanently.
Sri Lankans mainly worked in health professions, engineering, business and property services, and the retail and manufacturing sectors, in large numbers.
[9] Sri Lankan New Zealanders predominantly speak English, with Tamil and Sinhalese sometimes spoken at home.
During this celebration both countries are honored through drinking Ceylon Tea with New Zealand milk and ritual ringing of the Tamil Bell .