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Dying Matters Week starts next week September 1 to 7, with a series of events encouraging people to talk more openly about death, dying, grief and planning ahead.
The aim is to create a safe space for people to share experiences, learn from professionals, and take steps towards end-of-life planning to give peace of mind for themselves and their families.
Locally, the programme is being coordinated by Hibiscus Coast volunteer Marama Winder. She and her team are organising events at Ōrewa and Whangaparāoa Libraries, as well as Harbour Hospice. Marama is a biologist, end-of-life doula, interfaith minister and grief guide who supports women over 50 through major life transitions.
The week will include panel discussions, displays and a film screening, all open to the public and free to attend.
At Ōrewa Library: Monday September 1, 10am–12pm: Panel discussion featuring local experts including hospice workers, legal advisers, funeral directors, grief guides, end-of-life doulas and celebrants. Morning tea provided. Throughout the week: Children’s and elder’s art and poetry, a curated book display, resources table, and floral art display.
At Whangaparāoa Library: Friday, September 5, 10am–12pm: Panel discussion with end-of-life experts. Sunday, September 7, 1pm: Film screening of When You Die – In the Realm of Death and Dreaming. Followed by tea, cake and discussion. Info: maramawinder@gmail.com More gowithgrace.nz/dyngmatters
Death without Debt workshops
Local funeral celebrant and hospice volunteer Kelly Townsend is on a mission to help families avoid the financial stress that often comes with end-of-life arrangements.
Kelly is a facilitator for Death Without Debt, a national not-for-profit organisation founded in 2020. The group’s goal is to make sure every New Zealander can have an affordable and dignified farewell. Death Without Debt is running one-hour webinars on September 3 and 7. Register https://gowithgrace.nz/dyingmatters/online-events/
Songs For The Journey
Harbour Hospice is hosting a Songs For The Journey afternoon on Saturday September 6, 2pm to 4pm at its Hibiscus Coast site, 2A John Dee Cres, Red Beach. The audience will be entertained by the HBC Women’s Choir and Ōrewa Men’s Choir, who will sing a selection of songs that celebrate life and honour grief. Tea, coffee and light refreshments provided afterwards. This is a free event, all are welcome.
