On 19 March 2026, the Ambassador of Ukraine to Australia and New Zealand H.E. Vasyl Myroshnychenko presented Ms Olena Grubb with the consular patent and exequatur, officially commencing her functions as Honorary Consul of Ukraine in Dunedin (South Island of New Zealand).

Ms Grubb has extensive experience in the legal and business sectors, including over 15 years of work at leading international law firms specialising in cross-border investment, corporate law, and real estate transactions. Her professional activities also span culture, education, and diplomacy, reflecting a comprehensive cross-sectoral and cross-cultural approach.

Ms Grubb is actively engaged in the international art world as a collector, patron of Ukrainian artists, and lecturer in art business. She teaches at the Ukrainian Catholic University and contributes to research and publications on the history and practice of the global art market.

Having lived and worked in Kyiv, Istanbul, Munich, and Dunedin, Ms Grubb develops cross-cultural initiatives aimed at promoting Ukrainian culture, scholarship, and entrepreneurship internationally.

In her capacity as Honorary Consul, Ms Grubb will focus on strengthening cultural, academic, and economic ties between Ukraine and New Zealand, supporting the Ukrainian community, and raising awareness about Ukraine amid Russia’s ongoing armed aggression.

The Honorary Consulate in Dunedin will serve as an important regional hub for cooperation between Ukraine and New Zealand’s South Island, fostering partnerships among businesses, universities, cultural institutions, and civil society.

Mr Patrick Gamble continues to serve as Honorary Consul of Ukraine in Auckland, covering New Zealand’s North Island.