In this MentalHunts Podcast, we sit down with Kathryn Wright, a respected Registered Counsellor specialising in rural mental health. Kathryn is based out of Te Anau, in the deep south of New Zealand's South Island.

Kathryn brings her frontline experience and compassionate perspective to topics that are often overlooked, from the silent struggles many face in isolated rural areas, to the unique mental health challenges within the firearms and hunting community. Together, we explore the cultural importance of hunting, how to create open conversations and provide support without judgment.

Whether you're a farmer, hunter, rural worker, or simply someone who cares about mental wellbeing within the firearms communities, this conversation is honest, practical, and deeply important.

In this powerful episode of Mental Hunts, we journey deep into the heart of New Zealand’s South Island, high in the rugged Southern Alps for a four day adventure in search of a mature Chamois buck. From crystal-clear skies to heavy rain and punishing winds, nature throws everything at us.

We’re joined by Luke Direen, a man who’s faced one of life’s toughest battles and near-fatal struggle with severe depression. Off the back of our corresponding raw and honest podcast, (Luke Direen: Getting Through Depression) We take to the hills with Luke to go deeper into the wild, and into his story.

Over four days on the hill, we reflect, laugh, listen, and open up about life and the strength it takes to come back from the edge. Luke shares what he’s learned and what he’d do differently. This is about breaking the silence, showing up for each other, and reminding ourselves that no one has to walk alone.

From the isolation during COVID compounded with the struggles of a toxic relationship, Luke Direen found himself at what felt like the end of the road.

In this raw and deeply personal MentalHunts Podcast, we discuss Luke’s battle with depression, a fight that nearly cost him his life. Firearms were more than a passion for Luke, they were his identity, his life, it was all he knew. But when his licence was removed due to his poor mental state, his world crumbled around him.

Join us as we dive into his journey of resilience, the crucial role of mates, the power of honest conversations, and how reconnecting with nature can be a lifeline in the darkest moments. Luke is now thriving and enjoying hunting like never before.

This is more than just a story, it’s a message of hope, survival and strength. We want those who relate to this story to see there is a way through. We are all in this together.

This episode is a tribute to Greg’s late partner, Kate Aynsley. In June 2023 Greg lost the love of his life in a tragic hunting accident. We set out to honour Kate’s legacy by pursuing a Fallow buck, the animal Kate was hunting on the day of her accident. Greg reflects on Kate’s life, their shared love of hunting, and the healing power of nature.

It’s more than just a hunt, it’s a story of one man's grief, a celebration of love, loss, and finding peace in the mountains. This episode is in conjunction with the podcast we also did with Greg during this trip.

To hear the full story and how Greg found ways to deal with his grief, head over and watch the podcast on our channel - Greg Fagg: Dealing With Loss and Extreme Grief

In this podcast we sit down with Greg Fagg as he shares the heart-wrenching story of losing his beloved partner, Kate, in a tragic hunting accident just over a year ago. Greg’s journey through extreme grief and depression is nothing more than inspiring. With honesty and vulnerability, Greg opens up about the darkest moments of his life and the challenges he faced in healing.

This conversation with Greg offers hope to anyone struggling with grief or any mental health struggles and reminds us that even in the darkest times, there’s a path forward.

Help is always there!!