Canterbury v Northland: Taniwha halfback Zion Going on battle with Guillain-Barre syndrome

Zion Going was hoping to add his name to his family’s legacy, but was struck down.

By Ben Francis · NZ Herald

Published: Friday, 23 October 2026 at 4:00 PM

Key Things to Know

Northland halfback Zion Going is recovering after Guillain-Barre syndrome left him paralyzed for two months.
Going lost 20kg and suffered vision loss during his hospital stay following an August 2 diagnosis.
Northland teammates brought the Ranfurly Shield to Going's hospital room shortly after his relapse.

The Story in 60 Seconds

Northland halfback Zion Going is recovering and aiming to return to rugby after a battle with Guillain-Barre syndrome left him completely paralyzed and hospitalized for two months. The 25-year-old was admitted to Whangārei Hospital on August 2 after experiencing numbness that quickly escalated to full paralysis and impaired vision.

Going lost 20kg during treatment, which included intravenous immunoglobulin, before experiencing a relapse. A month after being discharged, he has progressed from two crutches to walking short distances unaided, targeting a club return with Mid Northern before rejoining the Taniwha in 2027.

Read the full article on NZ Herald

Canterbury v Northland: Taniwha halfback Zion Going on battle with Guillain-Barre syndrome

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