Trigger warning: This article contains discussion of suicide, which may be distressing for some readers. 

A Southland man is currently walking from Cape Reinga to Bluff, not for fitness, not for a box-ticking challenge, but to start a conversation many New Zealanders still struggle to have.

Shane began his walk around December 30, taking on the full length of the country to raise awareness and funds for people living with the aftermath of suicide. He's not just focused on prevention or statistics, but highlighting the long road faced by those left behind.

“It’s about creating awareness for the often-forgotten aftermath of suicide, the grief, shock, confusion, and long road faced by those left behind, partners, parents, children, friends, and whānau,” Shane says.

He acknowledges the importance of suicide prevention, but says the conversation often stops there. 

Far less is spoken about the ongoing support needed by the people who must keep living after loss.

He speaks about the lack of “communities, access to services, counselling, and ongoing care” that rural communities typically face. 

That gap is what Shane hopes to help close. 

His fundraising will go towards providing safe spaces for connection, professional counselling, informal coffee groups, grief education, and ongoing community support, with a strong focus on ensuring help reaches rural New Zealand.

So far, he’s raised over $24,400 - an impressive feat. 

Along the way, he’s been documenting his journey through daily vlogs on Facebook, sharing the physical grind of the walk and the conversations it sparks with strangers on the road. 

Now on day 36, Shane has pushed through a huge stretch of the country, with his most recent location being Milton, south of Dunedin. There’s still plenty of road ahead, but the message is already landing.

If Shane’s story resonates, you can follow his journey or donate via his Givealittle page. Every step helps remind people they don’t have to carry this stuff alone. 

Are you or someone you know struggling with mental health? Check out a bunch of helpful links or resources here.