My Hīkoi – Journey Overcoming Addiction

Kia ora, I’m Josh Woodgate-Jackson.

At 15, I was introduced to glue sniffing and alcohol—setting me on a path of addiction and trauma that spanned over 30 years. Despite having worked in mental health and youth services, I couldn’t escape my own struggles. I was unable to get into a free rehab, and private rehab, costing around $20,000, was completely out of reach.

In 2024, I embarked on my Hīkoi of Hope—a journey into the South Island’s mountains and bush, supported by my whānau – family and a growing sober community. This wasn’t just about getting sober—it was about reconnecting with nature, spirit, and identity.

I whakapapa to Ngāi Tahu (South Island) and Te Āti Awa (Mount Taranaki), and I also carry Cherokee and European ancestry. That heritage walked with me, especially when I was able to find pounamu (greenstone) near
the sacred Arahura River—a moment that felt like a blessing from the land itself.

Through fasting, prayer, cold water immersion, creative expression, and natural healing, I began to rebuild—body, mind, and spirit. I didn’t just detox. I transformed.

From that journey, Hīkoi For Hope and Sober ASF NZ were born—movements to help others heal on their own terms, with truth, courage, and community.

If I can come back after 31 years… so can you.

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All profits and donations go towards journey of recovery and healing from trauma and addiction