He Hui Ahurea: Cultural Perspectives & Conversations on Death and Dying

Date: Saturday 24th May 2025
Time: 9:00am – 4:00pm
Venue: Hihiaua Cultural Centre, Whangārei
Cost: FREE, Open to the public

As part of the Compassionate Communities Hui – Building a Village of Support, this day-long community event invites people from all walks of life to explore the rich cultural perspectives that shape how we care for each other, particularly around death, dying, grief, and loss.

He Hui Ahurea: Cultural Perspectives & Conversations on Death and Dying, hosted by Honohono Tātou Katoa, will feature:

Stalls:
Community groups and organisations sharing traditional knowledge, practices, resources, and creative expressions.

Facilitated conversations including:

• Cultural Perspectives on Death and Dying (10 am – 11:30): a diverse panel sharing experiences, rituals, and wisdom from within their communities.
• Assisted Dying – A Māori Perspective (12:30 pm – 1:30pm): with Dr Tess Moeke-Maxwell.
• Community Kōrero on Assisted Dying across Cultures (2:00pm – 3:30pm): an inclusive, respectful dialogue exploring the diverse views around assisted dying in Aotearoa.

Interactive workshops and displays:
Some groups may offer creative activities, healing practices, storytelling, or demonstrations near their stalls throughout the day.

This is a space for sharing, listening, learning, and honouring the cultural richness that exists in our communities. It’s a time to reflect together on how we support each other — and how we might do so with more compassion, understanding, and aroha.