Ukraine honorary consul Olena Grubb is looking forward to strengthening academic and social ties between Ukraine and New Zealand. PHOTO: GREGOR RICHARDSONThe Ukraine’s new honorary consul to the South Island says she has been impressed by New Zealanders’ knowledge and support of her country. Olena Grubb assumed the role at a special ceremony at the Dunedin Club on Thursday, which was attended by several Ukrainian dignitaries. As honorary consul in Dunedin, Mrs Grubb will focus on strengthening cultural, academic, and economic ties between Ukraine and New Zealand, supporting the Ukrainian community, and promoting awareness of Ukraine during the ongoing Russian war against the country. We share family values, we share hard work.’’Russia invaded Ukraine in February 2022, and the war has dominated every part of Ukrainians’ lives since, she said.

Source: Otago Daily Times March 19, 2026 17:02 UTC