Dying Matters Expo – Upper Hutt

Date: 12/09/2026
Time: 10:00 am – 3:00 pm
Venue: Upper Hutt Library, 844 Fergusson Drive, Upper Hutt

Dying Matters Expo provides a safe and welcoming space to have difficult and sensitive conversations about aging, death, dying, and end of life planning.

We will have tables of information, displays and representatives from various organisations available for the public to talk to and gather information on End of life planning and DIY funeral options.
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, services, and ideas.

Meet and chat with Matt from Akatarawa Cemetery, Monique an End Of Life Doula and Celebrant, Frances with her casket making and DIY Funerals, and others. We welcome you to have a cuppa and a biscuit on us at our drop in conversation areas being hosted by the friendly crew from Befriending Death.
We have 4 speakers throughout the day sharing knowledge and planting seeds for thought in the areas of end of life.
We look forward to welcoming you to Upper Hutt.

Speakers Presentations
We have speakers scheduled to talk about DIY Funerals, Advanced care plans, Wills, Power of Attorney, Probate etc.
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 – End of Life Doula talks Advanced Care Plans
• This workshop, led by Monique Ballinger – Certified ELDAA Doula and Funeral Celebrant, will guide you through the process of creating an Advance Care Plan (ACP) An ACP helps communicate your wishes to your family, friends, and those involved in your care, so everyone understands what is important to you.
12:30pm Community Law Wellington and Hutt Valley – Wills, POA, Probate. End of Life Legal matters.
1:30pm Bronwen – Death, Dying and DIY Funerals
• What to expect at the end of life and how to avoid funeral debt.
• 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.

RSVP and questions to [email protected]