More than 2 million people have fled the war in Ukraine with the United Nations Refugee Agency labelling it the fastest-growing refugee crisis in Europe since World War II. Today the New Zealand Government announced we would be "offering shelter" for around 4000 people. The 2022 Special Ukraine Policy will be open for one year from today and enable Ukrainian-born New Zealand citizens and residents in New Zealand to sponsor a Ukrainian family member and their immediate family. Successful applicants will be granted a two-year work visa with work rights, and children will be able to attend school. Eugene Bidney left Ukraine when he was 16 years old and now lives in Canterbury but has family in Ukraine including his parents.
Kris Faafoi Photo: RNZ / Angus Dreaver
