Death is a tapu time. Many of us have sat beside someone who is ill and dying or spent time with them after they have passed. As Māori, we have always had our own tikanga — customs and ways of doing things — guided by our tūpuna, iwi, hapū and whānau. Tikanga and kawa (ceremonies) shape how we care for someone at the end of life and how we farewell them.

Assisted dying is new for many whānau. It can feel unfamiliar, and sometimes unsettling. It is a different type of death — not only in a physiological and emotional sense, but also from a wairua perspective. If you have not been part of an assisted death before, everything may feel new and strange. Emotions can feel heightened. Questions may arise. This is completely understandable.

Whānau supporting someone who is considering or choosing assisted dying often find it helpful to have clear, practical information. Knowing what the assessment process involves, what happens on the day they have the procedure, and what to expect can reduce uncertainty.

Some whānau may wish to see what the medications look like or understand how they are administered. Others may want to know what will happen after the medication is given, and how long it might take for the person to die or what they might look like. Having access to information — and the opportunity to ask questions — can help whānau and friends feel more prepared and less anxious. It is important for whānau to have an opportunity to support their loved one at the assisted dying assessments as the attending medical practitioners are experts in this area.