Wind Phones: A Chance to Say the Things Left Unsaid
A wind phone is an unconnected telephone booth used for grief and remembrance, allowing people to have a one-way conversation with a deceased loved one. The first wind phone was created in Japan by Itaru Sasaki and has since inspired similar installations worldwide to provide a space for people to express unspoken feelings or say goodbye.
This beautiful wind phone was built and installed temporarily in Tākaka Memorial Park for Dying Matters Week 2025. In the photo from left to right: Amelia, Aralyn, Laura and Sacha. Phone box built by John.
Here’s what artist, Sarah Thomas had to say:
In the most magical collaboration we bounded over a few hurdles to bring a wind phone to Tākaka! It wouldn’t be here without the magnificent building skills of John Black, the donation of the red phone from Liza Eastman and the financial donations from generous Golden Bay folk who saw something interesting and maybe a little bit magical in the idea. Thank you to Tasman District Council and RSA Golden Bay for having the wind phone at Memorial Park for the week. We hope to find a permanent location for it in the future.
How it works
- Pick up the receiver: Imagine it connects you to the person you wish to speak to.
- Speak your mind: Share memories, express feelings, or say anything you wish you could have said.
- Find a safe space: The experience is a personal one that can provide a sense of release, catharsis, or quiet reflection.
Wind phones around the world
The original wind phone was installed in Sasaki’s garden in Otsuchi, Japan, after the 2011 tsunami to help people cope with loss.
The idea has since spread globally, with many “wind phones” now available in public spaces and gardens as a source of comfort and a way to process grief.
There are four wind phones you can visit in New Zealand, in Auckland, Wellington, Christchurch and Temuka. Many have been created as a memorials to loved ones.
Whangārei Wind Phone Built for Dying Matters Week 2026
We were thrilled to have a second wind phone built in 2026, to support Dying Matters Week events in Whangārei.
Designed and built by Mike Neill (pictured), the phone features an on hand-winder for ringing out and a small bench seat to provide a comfortable resting place when using the phone.
This beautiful wind phone was proudly displayed at the Dying Matters Week ‘Shaping Your Legacy Expo‘ in Whangārei and Mike is hoping it will one day be installed in the local community so it can be accessible to anyone who is wanting to connect with a loved one who has died.
A loving dedication to his Mum
Mike dedicated the phone to his much loved Mum, Mauveen Neill (nee Jessup), who died in July 2022. Thank you Mike, for making such a beautiful gift to share with the people of Whangārei, and for reminding us of the healing that can come from continuing to stay connected to our loved ones who have gone before us.
You can read more about the international wind phone registry here.
