A final thank you
By: | Posted: 30 Jun 2026
As we approach the completion of the sale of Resthaven Village on July, we wanted to take a moment to reflect, acknowledge our shared journey, and express our sincere gratitude to Resthaven Village residents, their families, team members and the wider Gore and Mataura community.
For more than 70 years, it has been our privilege to be part of the community. The original site was purchased in 1954 and officially opened and named as Resthaven Village in 1956. Together, we have built relationships, shared milestones, and created a place that has always prioritised care, dignity, and connection. We are deeply thankful for the trust people have placed in Enliven Southland to support them and their loved ones over the years.
We are pleased to reiterate that we have worked closely with Phantom Eldercare to ensure a smooth and seamless transition. Phantom Eldercare is an experienced, family-owned provider, and we are confident they share our commitment to high-quality, resident-centred care. Importantly, there will be no disruption to resident care. Their home, routines, and the familiar team who support them day-to-day will remain unchanged.
This transition has been guided by a shared focus on continuity, respect, and wellbeing. We are confident Resthaven Village will continue to be a place where residents feel safe, supported, and valued for many years to come.
It has truly been an honour to care for and serve the community at Resthaven Village, and we are incredibly proud of the legacy we leave behind. We also acknowledge the dedication of Facility Manager, Robyn Byron, and the whole Resthaven Village team, whose compassion and professionalism have made such a difference every day.
While this marks the close of our chapter with the site, we leave with confidence and optimism for the future of Resthaven Village. We would like to take this opportunity to reaffirm our commitment to Southland, with services across Enliven Southland and Family Works continuing to provide support to vulnerable people in the region into the future.
Photo Caption: PSS CE Matt Russell presents Resthaven Village manager Robyn Byron with a commemorative photo in recognition of the shared legacy. The original Resthaven Village care home (pictured) – now Hokonui House - was officially opened and named by PSS in 1956.