7–13 September 2026

Talking about death and dying can feel difficult, but having conversations early can help us feel more prepared, informed and supported when the time comes.

Dying Matters Week brings people across Hawke’s Bay together to create space for open conversations about death, dying, grief and loss. The week offers opportunities to learn from local experts, ask questions and explore practical aspects of later life and end-of-life planning.

From advance care planning and wills to caregiving, grief, legacy and understanding the dying process, the 2026 programme includes a range of talks, workshops and events taking place across Hastings and Napier from Monday 7 to Sunday 13 September.

Cranford Hospice is proud to be part of Dying Matters Week, with members of our team contributing to several events throughout the week.

These include an Advance Care Plan Party on Monday 7 September, offering a relaxed and supportive way to make a start on an Advance Care Plan, and What does dying look like? The mystery and the medicine on Tuesday 8 September, a conversation between Cranford’s Medical Director Dr Martyn Horsfall and Spiritual & Holistic Carer Georgina Langdale.

Our team will also contribute to events later in the week covering topics including caregiving, advance care planning, the dying process and compassionate communities.

Whether you’re looking to understand more, make plans for the future, support someone you care about, or simply feel more comfortable having conversations about death and dying, there is something in the programme for everyone.

View the full Dying Matters Week programme to find out what’s happening across Hawke’s Bay and discover an event that might be right for you or your whānau.