From Pain to Purpose
The journey behind The Road to Healing Aotearoa - one man’s story of survival, courage, and healing in Aotearoa.
Meet Sam Troth — Survivor, Father, Founder
Sam Troth is a survivor, father of seven, and the founder of The Road to Healing Aotearoa - a national movement dedicated to breaking the silence around sexual harm and transforming pain into purpose.
After surviving childhood sexual abuse, Sam spent years navigating the long journey of healing, therapy, and reconnection. His lived experience shaped a deep commitment to advocacy - not only for himself, but for the many who have walked similar paths in silence.
In 2022, Sam began his first national awareness hikoi, walking from Bluff to Cape Reinga to raise visibility for male survivors of sexual abuse and to encourage open kōrero about trauma, recovery, and justice. That 55-day journey sparked national attention and inspired countless New Zealanders to share their own stories.
Since then, Sam has led multiple awareness campaigns - including a South Island cycle tour and a Cape Reinga-to-Parliament hikoi carrying a 5,000-signature petition calling for a minimum eight-year custodial sentence for sexual offending. His continued mission is to ensure justice systems truly reflect the lifelong impact of sexual harm.
Beyond advocacy, Sam works directly alongside survivors as a peer-support worker, providing emotional and practical guidance to those in crisis. Through online outreach, direct messaging, and community collaboration, he has supported hundreds of survivors in accessing services, regaining confidence, and rebuilding their lives.
Sam’s approach is one of connection, courage, and collective healing in Aotearoa.
The Road to Healing Aotearoa
What began as one man’s walk has grown into a nationwide movement for healing in Aotearoa.
Grounded in lived experience, our kaupapa stands for survivors, whānau, and all who believe in change. Through kōrero, advocacy, and community connection, we’re helping shape a safer future for the next generation.
Join the Journey
Every conversation, every voice, and every step matters.
Healing in Aotearoa is a shared path — one we walk together.
