Dying Matters Expo
Next date: Saturday, 12 September 2026 | 10:00 AM
to 03:00 PM
Join us in a safe and welcoming space to have difficult and sensitive conversations about aging, death, dying, and end-of-life planning.
Whether you’re planning ahead, supporting someone you love, or simply curious to learn more, come along and meet a diverse range of people who are passionate about sharing their knowledge, support, and services.
This free event is hosted by the Death Matters Alliance and part of the nationwide Dying Matters Week, which takes place across Aotearoa New Zealand every year in September.
Programme and speakers
The Dying Matters Expo includes information displays and handouts for self-guided exploration of end-of-life planning and DIY funeral options. You will also have the opportunity to chat with representatives from different organisations to learn more.
Stop by and connect with others over a cuppa and biscuit at our conversation stations, hosted by the friendly crew from Befriending Death.
Keen to find out more about a particular topic? Join us anytime throughout the day to listen to one of our speakers.
10.30am | Frances Potter – DIY Funerals and Casket Making
Frances Potter, from DIY Funeral, will talk about casket making; how she got involved in the home funeral movement; and her journey guiding those who want to make their own funeral arrangements.
11.30am | Monique Ballinger – End of Life Doula talks Advanced Care Plans (ACPs)
It's never too early to plan. Create an Advance Care Plan, because every voice matters – even when it can't be heard.
Join Monique to learn why an Advance Care Plan (ACP) is important and how it ensures your healthcare wishes are known if you are ever unable to speak for yourself. She will guide you through completing your own ACP booklet, helping you record what matters most to you so your loved ones and healthcare team can honour your wishes.
An ACP is for everyone, regardless of age or stage of life.
12.30pm | Community Law Wellington and Hutt Valley – Wills, POA, Probate
Listen to the team from Community Law Wellington and Hutt Valley about how to organise and set up legal documents in end-of-life planning, such as creating a will, POA (power of attorney), and more.
1.30pm | Bronwen – Death, Dying, and DIY Funerals
Bronwen will give a brief overview of paperwork to organise now; what to expect when you are dying or caring for a person who is dying; the steps involved in caring for your loved one after death; and what is involved in a DIY funeral. Handouts and resources will be available to take away.
About the organisers
The team at Death Matters Alliance (Bronwen, Monique, and Karen) offer information and education about end-of-life planning and alternatives to traditional and expensive funeral packages. They facilitate and encourage conversations about death, dying, and end-of-life planning.
Having plans clearly laid out, in advance, can help to prevent unnecessary family conflict, reduce or avoid funeral debt, and facilitate healthier grieving. By encouraging open conversations about death, they hope to take the fear out of it.
Bronwen is passionate about preventing funeral debt. She gives TED-style talks about death, dying, and DIY funerals helping groups and families to kickstart the conversation around end-of-life planning and everything it involves.
Monique is an end-of-life doula, funeral celebrant, and legacy creator passionate about helping people navigate end-of-life with compassion, education, and thoughtful planning. She supports individuals and families to honour life, create meaningful farewells, and preserve lasting legacies.
Karen is passionate about building stronger relationships within communities. She believes that nurturing meaningful connections between people helps create communities that are better equipped to support one another through ageing, illness, dying, and grief.
When
-
Saturday, 12 September 2026 | 10:00 AM
- 03:00 PM
Location
Central Library, 844 Fergusson Drive, Upper Hutt, 5018, View Map
-41.1259779,175.0685975
844 Fergusson Drive, Upper Hutt ,
5018
Central Library
844 Fergusson Drive, Upper Hutt ,
5018
Dying Matters Expo