August 8th marks Dying to Know Day, a national day of action that encourages all of us to open up and have honest conversations about death, dying and end-of-life planning. It’s not about being morbid—it’s about being prepared, empowered and kind to those we love by removing uncertainty when the inevitable eventually comes.
While Dying to Know Day started in Australia, it’s a movement that resonates just as strongly here in Aotearoa. That’s why I’m proud to be hosting Dying to Know Day NZ in Taupō—a community event designed to help us have the important conversations we too often avoid.
Death is still one of the most taboo topics in our culture. But avoiding it doesn’t make it go away. In fact, what I’ve come to realise is that talking about death can actually be life-affirming. When we reflect on what truly matters to us, we make better choices about how we want to live—and how we want to be remembered.
My own journey into this space began with the creation of the Wishes Book, a practical and gentle guide that helps people record their end-of-life wishes. I wrote it after seeing firsthand how difficult things can be for families left without clear direction when a loved one dies. I wanted to offer something useful—something that could reduce stress, prevent family conflict, and ultimately bring peace of mind.
Hosting Dying to Know Day in Taupō is a natural extension of that mission. This event is about community, connection and clarity. It’s a chance to explore big questions in a safe and supportive environment—What do I want my funeral to be like? Who should speak for me if I can’t speak for myself? What legacy do I want to leave behind?
In this workshop you'll receive a copy of the Wishes download, and we'll work through each question step by step. There will be opportunities to ask questions, pick up information, and even grab a cuppa with someone who understands what you’re navigating. At the end I hope you'll walk away with your Wishes already written, ready for your family to discover, when the time comes.
Whether you’re facing a recent loss, supporting someone through illness, or simply curious about getting your affairs in order, you’re warmly invited to come along.
Let’s stop treating death as the elephant in the room. When we talk about it openly and plan ahead, we lift an enormous burden from our loved ones. We also give ourselves the gift of peace and preparedness.
Join me in Taupō this August 8th for Dying to Know Day NZ. Let’s make these conversations normal, meaningful and even—dare I say it—uplifting.
Because once we talk about dying, we can get on with the real business of living.
Friday 8 August 2025, 9.30am
Waiora House, 100 Kaimanawa Street, Taupo
Grab your ticket here:
https://events.humanitix.com/dyingtoknownz
Also check out other Workshops in Taupo.
