2026 Workshops and Webinars
“Great session, well organised content and surprisingly fun! These workshops are exactly what is needed out there.” Donna, Tauranga
Subscribing (free) is the best way to make sure you don’t miss the next workshop near you.
Workshops are generally four hours long (including breaks) and cost is around $40 per person, $60 for a pair or couple, $70 for a family group of three OR BY DONATION All proceeds go back into our advocacy. DWD is run entirely on voluntary labour. Some workshops cost less if the venue is free, the workshop has a shorter format or there is sponsoring organisation.
A 60 page D.I.Y. guide is included with your registration. Tea and snacks are provided. For those workshops spanning midday, please note lunches are not included.
If you need parking close to the venue, or a disability drop-off, email ahead so we can help. Likewise if you have trouble registering: [email protected]
UPCOMING 2026 WORKSHOPS:
Body-Care Workshop – Kapiti Saturday 18 April, 1pm to 3. Paraparaumu Bridge Club, 1 Brett Ambler Way. Before commercialisation “laying out” the body of the deceased used to be done by women in the community. Attending this workshop will give folk the confidence to undertake the after-death care of your loved one or family member. Presenter: Fiona McDonald-Bates and friends. Topics covered include moving, cooling, washing the body. Hygiene. Rituals. $20 per person, $30 pair or $60 for three OR BY DONATION.
Bay of Plenty-Tauranga, Saturday 18 April, 1pm to 2.30. Omokoroa Pavilion, 28 Western Avenue. $35 p/p, $55 for two, $60 for family group of three. Presenters: Gaylene Delaney (nurse and death doula)and Robyn Wilson (death doula and social worker). Book using our form on this page.
Kaitaia – Far North, Tuesday 21st April. 10am – 2pm. REAP rooms, 33 Puckey Avenue. Presenter: Rachel Robinson (hospice volunteer, DWD exec). Please register via REAP : www.farnorthreap.org.nz
Invercargil Thursday 21st May, 12.45 to 1.45. Chat session at Age Concern with Flora Gilkeson, former CEO of Southland Hospice about Death Without Debt. No need to book. See you there. Enquiries please to Age Concern Invercargill, 50 Forth St, 03 218 6351
Bulls Saturday 13th June at the RSA rooms. 11am to 3pm. Cost $15 per person. Includes 60 page booklet. Presenters: Mel Hemi (Kaiwhakapuaki/Health Coach for Bestcare Whakapai Hauora: Ngāti Raukawa ki te Tonga, Ngāti Kuia, Rangitāne ki Wairau, Rangitāne o Manawatu and Suzanne Chelius (doula, DWD exec).
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WORKSHOPS COVER:
- Funeral planning, wills, Enduring Power of Attorney, Advanced Care Plans, probate
- After-death paperwork requirements and avoiding professional service fees
- Care and transport of the body
- When you need a coffin and when you don’t.
- The pros and cons of cremation vs burial. Alternative and environmental technologies.
- The politics and history of funerals
- Community initiatives and collective action for funeral reform
- And much more . . .
Financial hardship? Email us with your registration (as above) and “Koha” or “by donation” in subject line
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DIY Funeral Workshops Booking Form
Why is a nation of DIYers spending so much on funerals?
Read our article on DIY Funerals10 steps to busting funeral debt
Our manifesto. Extending duty of care is the first step
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