Welcome to Death Cafe Timaru. What is It and Why Have It?

Jade Whaley introduced Death Cafe Timaru to the people of South Canterbury in July 2021

Death Cafe Timaru provides a platform for open discussions about death, dying, and bereavement. I hosted our first meeting in July 2021 and was a huge success.  We would love you to join our next meeting! 

Everything You Need to Know About Timaru Death Cafe in South Canterbury.

Why have a Death Cafe in Timaru?
It is vital to offer opportunities for people from all walks of life to talk and share experiences related to life-limiting illnesses, death, and grief. I personally feel that raising awareness of death can lead to a more fulfilling life.

Death Cafes have been taking place in New Zealand for several years.  in July 2021 I launched Death Cafe Timaru. Discussing death and grief is necessary, as death will inevitably affect us all at some stage. It is vital to offer opportunities for people from all walks of life to talk and share experiences related to life-limiting illnesses, death, and bereavement.

22 people attended the first Timaru Death Cafe that was hosted at Aoraki Funeral Services.

What happens at our meetings
We are in small groups and have leading questions where each person is encouraged to share their thoughts. There is a facilitator to ensure everyone is heard and supported. 

When the members of Timaru Death Cafe discuss their fears, experiences, and beliefs, they inspire each other and experience support, relief, and peace of mind. They become aware of the diversity of backgrounds and are equipped to support those with different experiences. 

Discussing our experiences allows us to be present for others going through difficult times, open ourselves to new ideas  and promotes our health, well-being, and quality of life.

There is no set agenda for Death Cafe meetings, as what happens emerges from those who attend and the issues they bring. These meetings are confidential and facilitated, and I am an experienced, trained  professional.

​They typically last one and a half hours, and participants only pay for their refreshments.

Would you like to join us? 
Get in contact and I will notify you at our next date. 
Love, Jade x

Jade Whaley founder and host of Timaru Death Cafe - July 2021. A celebratory chocolate cake to mark our first meeting.