Nick Johnston's taking on a challenge every day for a month that many would train months to do once – a half Ironman comprising of a 1.9km swim, 90km bike and 21.1km run.
"I've been planning this for about 10 months to a year to get it done. I've always enjoyed triathlon and endurance sport and I thought why not give something like that a crack?" he said.
He's not doing it for the glory, he's doing it for men's mental health – a cause the Christchurch police officer is extremely passionate about.
As a front-line officer for the past 13 years, Johnston's seen first hand the toll trauma, stress and silence can take.
"It runs through the job and all emergency services – we deal with a lot of trauma on a day-to-day basis and I've been involved in a number of high profile jobs with some friends over the time and it's really knocked some of our mates around."
Particularly, in the wake of the March 15 Christchurch Mosque Shootings, when Johnston was one of the first on the scene.
"There's only so much trauma you can take before your cup overfills... I've certainly had my own troubles as well," he said.
That's why he's partnered with local charity – BetterMan. So far, Johnston has raised more than $14,000 through Givealittle for men's mental health programmes and workshops in schools and organisations.
"This is physically hard for me, but it's nothing compared to what it might be for one block to talk to another bloke.
"If we can get one guy to open up and maybe talk to someone that's job done."
Johnston is grateful for the support so far – 14 days in, he's only had to run 10km alone – with friends, family and colleagues joining him on his journey.
Breaking down the stigma one stoke, cycle and stride at a time.
Some footage supplied by: Ghost&Co. To contribute, go to Givealittle and search for: Half ironman every day of November.
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