Plan, prepare and connect during Dying Matters Week
28 Aug 2026
Free talks and workshops at Paraparaumu Library
This year we are hosting two days of free talks and workshops for Dying Matters Week, Wellington 2026.
Dying Matters Week encourages people to start conversations, learn from experts and feel more confident planning for later life. Putting plans in place can provide peace of mind for you and the people you care about.
Our libraries regularly host talks, workshops, programmes and events that connect you with trusted information, practical support and opportunities to learn. Everyone is welcome to attend.
When: Monday 7 and Tuesday 8 September 2026
Where: Paraparaumu Library
Cost: Free
Bookings: No booking required
Come along to one session or stay for several.
For questions, email [email protected]
Monday 7 September
10am – Wills, enduring powers of attorney and legal matters
Graham Mowbray, Kāpiti Law
Graham Mowbray, a partner at Kāpiti Law, will explain wills, enduring powers of attorney and other legal matters. Bring along your questions for Graham to answer.
11.30am – Loss and grief
Merryn Malcolm, Loss and Grief Centre
Learn about loss and grief, how they can affect people and some ways to cope. The Loss and Grief Centre in Paraparaumu supports people through counselling, groups and companioning.
1–3pm – Advance care planning workshop
Age Concern advance care planning team
Work through an advance care planning booklet with support from the Age Concern team. They will explain each section, answer questions and help you clarify and record what matters to you.
Tuesday 8 September
10am – Funeral options
Jacqui, Kāpiti Coast Funeral Home
Learn about funeral ceremonies, do-it-yourself options, caskets, cremation, plaques and headstones, natural burials, dove releases and terramation.
11.15am – Palliative and end-of-life care
Samantha Woods
Samantha will explain the palliative care services and end-of-life choices available to people on the Kāpiti Coast.
12.30pm – Write your life story
Angela Robertson
Local writer, speaker, coach and facilitator Angela Robertson will share practical ideas to help you begin writing your life story. Her latest book, Penning Your Past, is a guide to recording your experiences.
1.45pm – Childhood parental bereavement
Lee-Anne Duncan
Lee-Anne will share insights from adults who experienced the death of a parent when they were children. Her book, Too Young, explores their experiences and ways to support children who are bereaved too young.
3pm – Care coordination
Susan Bowden and Chris Milne
Susan and Chris will discuss needs assessment and care management. Learn about support that can help people stay well and independent at home, avoid hospital admissions and connect with community-based care.
4.15pm – The role of an end-of-life doula
Melanie Humphries-Connolly
What is an end-of-life doula, and how can they help? Mel will explain how doulas provide practical guidance, emotional support, advocacy and companionship for individuals and families.
5.30pm – Assisted dying in Aotearoa New Zealand
Michael Nestmann, Health New Zealand | Te Whatu Ora
Michael will provide a sensitive and clear overview of assisted dying services. The talk will cover eligibility, the legal process and the support available.