On indefinite travel ban

from the international community rather than engaging with the clear message that it is being sent: to cease its senseless war of aggression in Ukraine and withdraw its troops.’’

Earlier this year, 130 New Zealand politicians and officials – including Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern, Cabinet ministers, parliamentarians from all political parties, the governor-general, and military and spy chiefs – were also blacklisted by the Russian state.

Wellington mayor Andy Foster said it was the first time he had been blacklisted from a country, adding, ‘‘it obviously means our sister city relationship with Moscow is off’’.

Speaking more seriously about the Ukraine invasion, he said the capital city had demonstrated support for Ukraine through a range of activities: a number of protests, Ukrainian flags being flown – including at Parliament – lighting various civic monuments in colours of the Ukrainian flag, and holding concerts for Ukraine.

‘‘There are a number of things which have happened in Wellington that are small, but symbolise our collective revulsion with what is happening with the Russian invasion of Ukraine,’’ Foster said.

Auckland mayor Phil Goff said he would wear the ban as a ‘‘badge of honour’’ and described it as a symbol of ‘‘Russian impotence’’ in terms of what it could do to countries like New Zealand who had spoken out against the Ukraine invasion.

‘‘It’s disappointing to see Russia deepening its isolation from the international community . . .’’ Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade