A Long Walk Home Soldier

18/05/2026

12/05/2026

Elevation 1615m 🏔️

Shane and Missy broke through the cloud line this morning. Just them, not a soul to be seen. Silence that sharpens the mind and tests the body.

These moments make every step worth it.

♦️ ONWARDS ♦️

Looking forward to sharing more photos of this epic part of the journey.

06/05/2026

Elise here (Shane’s sister).

Update:

After several days in the backcountry, weather conditions are deteriorating.

Shane is currently moving toward St Arnaud and hoping to find a ride from St Arnaud to Blenheim this afternoon to safely to wait out the weather. ETA St Arnaud 3-4pm today.

If anyone in the area able to provide a lift, or has intel on transport options please pm me here.

Your ongoing support and words of encouragement mean the world to him.

Onwards ♦️

01/05/2026

It’s a privilege to walk this path and share my journey with so many.

This is more than personal healing—it’s about building a legacy, with a vision to serve generations beyond my own. Thank you all for your love and support.

Ngā manaakitanga
Shane & Missy 🫡🦮

27/04/2026

Thank you Malcolm Wallace for your manaakitanga and for welcoming me into RSA Rangiora.

Rangiora RSA is a force to be reckoned with — a true connector, a hub of belonging, a steady heartbeat in its community. Every town needs a place like this.

Thank you also to Blue, Club President — steady leadership, big heart, and clearly someone who carries the kaupapa of service and whanaungatanga with pride. Your people reflect your leadership.

To my 2/1 brothers — Anton Wilson Smith, Daz Bravo, Lucky , and Logan — we sat with 32 years of 2/1 service between us, sharing stories, laughter, and memories that only brothers understand.

And a huge thank you to Rangiora Vet Centre for giving Missy a full check-over and spoiling her with healthy treats. Much appreciated.

Grateful for the people, the stories, and the connections. This is what community looks like.

27/04/2026

Shane’s Journey — Why It Matters

Shane’s journey isn’t about distance. It’s about truth.

Every step he takes carries the weight of service, sacrifice, and the battles many veterans keep hidden long after the uniform comes off. This isn’t just his story — it belongs to every soldier who came home changed, to every family who stood beside them, and to those still fighting battles no one else can see.

People need to know about Shane’s journey because too often these stories stay in the dark. Too often, the struggle after service is misunderstood or ignored. By walking, by showing up, by refusing to stay silent, Shane is forcing us to look, to listen, and to remember.

His journey is raw. It’s uncomfortable. It’s honest.
And that’s exactly why it matters.