New Zealand has demonstrated strong support for Ukraine since the Russian invasion of February 2022. From logistical support to infantry training, the NZDF has been a key player in helping to deliver on the New Zealand government’s general statements of support. Though located far from the conflict, New Zealand’s traditional values of support for international law, democracy and collective security in the face of external aggression have all been major drivers for these deployments. But certain other drivers, such as recent problems with recruitment and retention in the armed forces, are perhaps lesser known but also important in rounding out an understanding of why and how New Zealand has responded to the situation.