Nelson resident Bruce Farquhar has spent his life politically aware, shaped by stories and the impact of war, growing up just after World War II. His experiences, including reflections on the Vietnam War – where he cheered for “the underdog” – and a childhood taught to value action over money, have driven him to support Ukraine.
Almost four years on from Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, Bruce stresses the conflict isn’t just Europe’s problem.
“If Ukraine falls, others will follow – and New Zealand’s involvement will increase. Who wants a third world war?”
He reminds locals of the cost of global wars, pointing to World War I and II memorials in towns across the country.
New Zealand already supports Ukraine through financial aid, training, sanctions, and humanitarian assistance, and remains vocal at the United Nations, condemning Russia’s invasion as illegal. But Bruce argues ordinary Kiwis can also make a difference.
In October last year, he flew 17,000 kilometres to Ukraine to volunteer with Ukrainian Patriot (UP) for a month. His 14-hour weekdays in warehouses involved packing food, medical supplies, generators, and even body bags, while weekends were spent delivering essential equipment to soldiers on the front line and displaced families. He also helped craft camouflaged nets, vital for military defence.
“Those defending the front line sent urgent requests for supplies and reinforcements. Without this help, people would go hungry and cold,” Bruce says.
The impact of the war is stark: children he met had lost one or both parents, and he brought small comforts from New Zealand, like toy kiwis and Whittaker’s chocolate, to brighten their days.
Bruce witnessed the effects of hundreds of drones and missiles fired into Ukrainian cities and towns each night.
“I never got a full night’s unbroken sleep. Often more than half the country is under attack this way. Closer to the front-line, first-person view (FPV) drones that can travel 30 km into Ukraine from the front line are the major hazard.”
The trauma is immense. Families have been separated, homes destroyed, and communities torn apart. Education continues under difficult conditions, yet remains crucial for protecting children’s futures. Bruce says even if the fighting ended today, rebuilding lives and dealing with trauma will take years.
For Bruce, helping is simple. “I stand with Ukraine, it’s been very fulfilling to be able to go over and give.”
He plans to return in October, continuing his work to support those affected. His journey underscores why New Zealanders should stay informed, care, and act – through donations, advocacy, or awarenes.
