Ukrainian Family Escape War and Build a New Life in New Zealand!

Fleeing war and leaving behind everything familiar—home, community, security—Oleksandra Sibirtseva and her family have endured unimaginable hardship. Originally from Ukraine, they spent three years in Poland before relocating to Spain, where they awaited their final move to New Zealand.

Oleksandra holds a degree in philology and has enrolled at the University of Canterbury to pursue a Master’s in Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages, starting in February 2026. They hope to arrive in New Zealand by September or October to settle and adjust before her studies begin, reducing stress and providing stability for their children.

Her husband, Mykyta, with over 20 years of hospitality experience, aims to find employment quickly to support the family during this transition. Their children—Miron (5) and Runa (3)—remain resilient despite the turmoil, eager for safety and a new start.

They seek only a new beginning, not charity, but an opportunity to rebuild. As a close friend helping with their move, I am committed to ensuring they arrive early enough to enroll their children and establish a stable routine before Oleksandra’s studies start.

Your support can help this family leave behind fear and uncertainty and create a safe, hopeful future in New Zealand. Every contribution brings them closer to safety, stability, and a brighter future.