Media Release: Southern Youth Development (syd) to Merge with Te Hou Ora Whānau Services (THO) after 38 Years of Service

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Dunedin/Clutha – [14th November 2025] – After nearly four decades of service to young people across Dunedin and Clutha, the board of syd has announced that the organisation will be merging with THO.

The merger marks the end of syd as a standalone entity, which has touched and lifted countless young lives over the past 38 years. While the team is sad to be closing its doors on Monday 15th of December 2025. This decision was made following an extensive review of the current financial landscape.

“The funding environment is incredibly tough. The syd board determined that it is no longer possible to sustain the high-quality, impactful services we are committed to delivering with the funding available to syd alone,” said Ben, Chair of syd.

Mission to Continue

To ensure the vital work continues, syd has agreed to merge with Te Hou Ora. THO is seen as a strong strategic fit, sharing a similar mission and kaupapa and possessing a long and proven track record of its own. syd will bring its considerable strength and mission to enhance THO’s capabilities.

“There has never been a greater need for support for our young people,” said Kelly Gay, CEO of syd. “We are extremely pleased that through this merger, syd’s mission and essential work will not only continue but be strengthened under the umbrella of THO. This ensures the legacy of support we've built will carry on.”

Desiree Mahy, Kaihautu of THO, stated, "The kaupapa and mission of Southern Youth Development is so very important. Te Hou Ora is honoured to be carrying that legacy forward. 

I orea te tuatara ka patu ki waho.

End.

Questions?

Desiree Mahy, THO Kaihautu, 021 572 228

Ben Sommerville, Chair syd, 027 513 6991

Kelly Gay, CEO syd, 027 481 0265, kelly@syd.org.nz