Nelson elder care nurse Nithin Mankeel with his wife Aparna Jayandhan Geetha and five-year-old son Aidhan Nithin. Photo: SuppliedA Nelson nurse says he is living in fear as he tries to stop the deportation of his autistic child. Mankeel moved to New Zealand from India in January 2024, followed by his wife and son later that year. A second petition is calling on the House of Representatives to abolish the Acceptable Standard of Health immigration requirements. "We understand the challenges faced by Mr Mankeel and his family; however, immigration health requirements are very specific and can only be waived through ministerial intervention.

Source: Otago Daily Times December 24, 2025 11:12 UTC