Youthline

At Goodsole, we believe in more than just selling sneakers – we're committed to making a difference in the world. That's why we created Treadlightly™, our way of restoring the balance between people and the planet. With every purchase of Goodsole sneakers, we automatically plant a tree in your nominated region, as well as give you the opportunity to help us support important local charities. One of the options is Sustainable Coastlines, a charity that brings people together to reduce plastic pollution and other litter, to protect our moana. They operate within NZ and inspire change through education, beach clean-ups, and litter data collection.

We recently had the opportunity to sit down with the amazing team at Sustainable Coastlines for an exclusive interview. We wanted to dive deep into their inspiring mahi, understand what drives their passion for the ocean, and learn about the incredible impact they're making to our precious shores.

How and why was Youthline formed, and how has the mission evolved since its inception?

Youthline was formed in 1970 to address the growing need for support and services specifically targeting young people who were facing emotional distress, mental health challenges, or difficult life situations. Its creation was driven by the realisation that a service didn’t exist to cater specifically to the needs of young people. The organisation sought to provide a safe, confidential, and accessible resource for rangatahi to turn to for help. And 55 years later, Youthline is still going strong and proud to be the only youth focussed mental health service that is available 24/7 across Aotearoa.

In the early years, Youthline primarily provided telephone counselling, however, over the years, Youthline’s service has evolved, and services have expanded to meet the changing needs of youth. Youthline’s Helpline service now includes text, email and webchat providing more ways for young people to reach out for Youthline’s services have also expanded beyond its Helpline and now includes face to face counselling and youth development programmes which are run onsite, in schools and within the community providing a wraparound support system for young people.  

Youthline’s purpose is to strengthen Hauora, the health and wellbeing of young people, through youth voice and youth choice. Youthline provides a full wrap-around service to build resilience and promote long-term well-being. It continues to evolve in response to the changing needs of young people, incorporating new technologies and methods while remaining rooted in its core mission to empower young people within their communities. 

For those who don’t know, could you run us through the different types of support and services Youthline offer? 

Youthline is a with youth for youth organisation that provides a range of support and services aimed at helping young people. Here's the main types of services Youthline offers:

1. Confidential Helpline (Phone, Text, Webchat & Email)

Youthline offers a 24/7 confidential Helpline for young people who need someone to talk to. This is a safe space where young people can seek advice, share their feelings, or talk about personal issues.

2. Counselling Services (currently only available in Auckland)

Youthline offers counselling services for young people dealing with various challenges such as anxiety, depression, bullying, and relationship problems. This is typically available in-person but is also offered through remote platforms. Counselling is provided in a confidential and supportive environment, focusing on helping the individual through their current struggles and building better coping strategies.

3. Workshops and Education

Youthline delivers various workshops and programs aimed at empowering young people with skills for managing stress, mental health, relationships, substance use, parenting, budgeting and self-care. 

4. Volunteer Opportunities and Youth Development

Youthline also offers opportunities for young people to become involved in their work through volunteering. Volunteers are trained to offer support to their peers and contribute to the community. Youthline encourages the development of leadership, skills, and confidence through its volunteer training and support structures.

With over 50 years of history, is there one achievement you are the most proud of?

Youthline is incredibly proud to have expanded our Helpline service to a 24/7 offering. We recognize that the need for support doesn’t follow a set schedule, and the critical hours when young people are struggling the most often fall outside of traditional working hours. By providing round-the-clock access to our Helpline, we are ensuring that no matter the time of day, young people have someone to talk to, receive the help they need, and feel supported. This is a major milestone for us, and we remain committed to being there for young people at every moment of need. In the first year alone, after launching the overnight service, 3,597 young people reached out to Youthline for support during overnight hours (12am to 8am). 

Tell us about how you reach all those in need, it must prove difficult to reach all corners of the country.

At Youthline, we understand the challenges of reaching every young person. However, we are deeply committed to ensuring that support is accessible to all, no matter where they are.

We reach young people across the country through a combination of services. Our Helpline is available 24/7, which means anyone, anywhere in New Zealand, can access confidential support via phone, text, webchat or email, whether they’re in a major city or a remote town. This accessibility is critical, as it breaks down geographical barriers and allows us to be there whenever and wherever we’re needed most.

Youthline operates out of 12 community centres across New Zealand. We work collaboratively to provide our free, nationwide Helpline service. Locally, we all provide different services, programmes and training for our communities. We also partner with local schools, community groups, and organisations, delivering in-person workshops, training, and mentoring programs. These partnerships help us directly connect with youth in all corners of the country, ensuring we are a trusted presence in their local communities.


Tell us about how you reach all those in need, it must prove difficult to reach all corners of the country. 

At Youthline, we understand the challenges of reaching every young person. However, we are deeply committed to ensuring that support is accessible to all, no matter where they are.

We reach young people across the country through a combination of services. Our Helpline is available 24/7, which means anyone, anywhere in New Zealand, can access confidential support via phone, text, webchat or email, whether they’re in a major city or a remote town. This accessibility is critical, as it breaks down geographical barriers and allows us to be there whenever and wherever we’re needed most.

Youthline operates out of 12 community centres across New Zealand. We work collaboratively to provide our free, nationwide Helpline service. Locally, we all provide different services, programmes and training for our communities. We also partner with local schools, community groups, and organisations, delivering in-person workshops, training, and mentoring programs. These partnerships help us directly connect with youth in all corners of the country, ensuring we are a trusted presence in their local communities.


What challenges have you faced in maintaining momentum and getting the word out about this cause, and how have you overcome them?

As a charity, we rely on donations, grants, and community support to sustain and grow our services. Securing the necessary funds to meet the increasing demand for our support can be difficult, especially in the current economic climate. In 2024 Youthline lost 42% of funding. This financial challenge limits our ability to expand our reach, and to enhance the resources available to young people who need them most.

While the challenge of securing adequate funding remains, we continue to push forward with passion and commitment, and we are incredibly grateful for the ongoing support we receive from individuals, organisations, the community and businesses like Merchant 1948 to help us keep providing vital services to young people across New Zealand. We literally couldn’t do the work we do if it wasn’t for the generous support of New Zealanders!

What would you say is the biggest misconception towards young people’s struggles?

One of the biggest misconceptions about young people’s struggles is the belief that their issues aren’t as significant or serious as those faced by adults. There’s often an assumption that young people are simply going through “phases” or that they’ll “grow out of it.” This can be harmful because it minimises the real challenges young people are facing, whether it's mental health issues, bullying, family conflict, or struggles with self-esteem.

These challenges are very real and can have a lasting impact on a young person’s wellbeing, even if they seem less visible to others. The pressure to succeed academically, fit in socially, or meet certain expectations can be overwhelming, and young people may not always have the tools or support they need to cope effectively.

At Youthline, we understand that these struggles are valid, and we work to ensure that young people feel heard, supported, understood and are empowered to overcome their struggles. It’s crucial to recognise that every young person’s experience is unique, and what might seem like a small issue to an adult could be deeply distressing for a young person. Addressing these struggles in a youth focused way with empathy, validation, and appropriate support is key to helping young people navigate their challenges and build resilience for the future.

In 2023 you commissioned a Nationwide survey of young people in your State of the Generation Report - what were some of your key findings?

Youthline’s 2023 State of the Generation Report, aimed to better understand the challenges and needs of young people across New Zealand. The key findings highlighted several pressing issues that are affecting the mental health and overall wellbeing of youth:

  1. Mental Health Struggles: Mental health remains a key issue for young people. A significant number of young people reported feeling overwhelmed by anxiety, stress and depression. 
  2. Social Media Impact: While many use social platforms to stay connected and find support, a large number of respondents reported feeling negatively affected by online comparisons, cyberbullying, and the pressure to present a curated, idealised version of their lives. At the same time, they also expressed that social media was the best way to reach them.
  3. Financial Struggles: Economic challenges and uncertainty were also a recurring theme, with many young people expressing concerns about financial insecurity, particularly around the rising cost of living, job instability, and the pressure to succeed academically while managing personal and financial stress.
  4. Desire for More Support: The report also revealed that young people are actively seeking more accessible, relatable, and stigma-free support. Many respondents highlighted the importance of having trusted adults and services that they can turn to, as well as the need for education around mental health and coping strategies.

These findings reinforce the need for targeted, accessible, and empathetic support for young people across New Zealand. At Youthline, we are using this data to inform and strengthen our services, ensuring we are meeting the needs of today’s youth and continuing to advocate for their mental health and wellbeing.

What is the easiest, and most needed, way for people to get in and support Youthline?

The easiest and most impactful way for people to support Youthline is by providing financial support by making a one-off donation or becoming a regular giver and donating monthly. As a charity, we are reliant on donations to fund the essential services that we offer to young people across New Zealand. These funds allow us to continue offering our free, confidential Helpline and resources that support the mental health and wellbeing of young people.

With the increasing mental health challenges young people are facing, especially in light of financial pressures and the ongoing economic climate, your financial contributions directly enable us to reach more young people and expand our services. This funding allows us to reduce barriers to mental health support. 

In addition to donations, we also advocate for broader systemic change by calling for more funding and resources to be allocated to youth mental health services. Supporting Youthline financially helps amplify this message and strengthen our advocacy efforts.

By donating to Youthline, you’re not only helping to sustain our vital services but also supporting the larger movement to improve mental health access for young people and reduce the stigma around seeking help. Every dollar makes a difference and plays a crucial role in ensuring that no young person feels alone in their struggles.

Is there a message you have for young people who are going through something difficult right now?

To all the young people going through something difficult right now, we want you to know that you are not alone. Your feelings are valid, and reaching out for support is a sign of strength, not weakness. Whether you’re facing mental health challenges, dealing with personal issues, or feeling isolated, there are people who care and want to help.

At Youthline, we’re here for you 24/7—whether you need someone to talk to, advice, or simply a safe space to express what you're going through. Don’t hesitate to reach out for support! It can feel hard to ask for help, but you deserve it, and you don’t have to carry your burden alone. Together we can navigate the tough times and find a path forward.

Remember, you matter, and your wellbeing is important. You are not defined by your struggles, and with the right support, things can get better. Reach out when you're ready, and know that we are here to listen, support, and walk alongside you.

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All images provided by Sustainable Coastlines.