Information for parents and caregivers who have lost a baby or child
This page contains links to information about publications, organisations and local support groups.
If you are reading this page because you have lost a baby or child, we offer our condolences. We hope you have the support you need to deal with this difficult experience.
This page contains links to information about publications, organisations and local support groups that can help you.
Whetūrangitia – Information for those experiencing the death of a baby or child
Whetūrangitia is a joint web-based initiative between government agencies and non-governmental organisations responsible for services associated with the end of life. You can find out what support and information is available if you or someone you know has experienced a miscarriage, stillbirth or death of an infant or child. This website also provides information for employers and colleagues to support parents returning to work after loss.
KidsHealth – what to do after a child has died
KidsHealth is a website with information for parents and health professionals. It is a joint initiative between Starship Foundation and the Paediatric Society of New Zealand – Ta Kāhui Mātai Arotamariki o Aotearoa.
Sands New Zealand – parent-run support
Sands New Zealand is a network of parent-run, non-profit groups supporting families who have experienced the death of a baby, including at any stage during pregnancy. Sands groups are parents helping to support other bereaved parents, families and friends. They run local support groups.
Baby Loss NZ – parent-run support and memory making
Baby Loss NZ is a registered charity that supports people who have experienced the death of a baby during pregnancy, at birth or in infancy. It also supports parents facing difficult decisions following a poor prognosis.
Baby Loss NZ also provides support to hospitals by educating staff and providing items to give to parents and their families.
Their main service is their Tangible Memory Making Service and Care Bags. The main branch is in Auckland.
Skylight – support with grief, trauma and loss
Skylight is a registered charity specialising in grief, trauma and loss, including through the loss of a child. This website provides information and contact details for support to help you and your loved ones.
Information about post-mortem
Pānui for post-mortem examination
This pānui, or information resource, is for whānau, families, parents, kaitiaki and caregivers who are trying to decide whether to consent to a post-mortem being undertaken on their baby who has died. You can download a printable brochure in English, te reo Māori, Samoan, Hindi or Chinese – simplified.
Video: Post-mortem for babies in Aotearoa
In this video, two mothers who have lost a precious baby talk about what you might expect from a post-mortem for your baby.
When Someone Dies: A Guide to Coronial Services in New Zealand
This booklet is for people dealing with the death of a loved one who is to have a post-mortem. It explains the coroner’s process, the role of the police and reasons for post-mortem examinations. It also covers death certificates, identification of the deceased person and support for bereaved people.
Unhappy about anything that happened related to your child’s death?
Please note, we do not deal with complaints or do any investigations. If you are unhappy about anything that has happened, click here to go to a page on the Manatū Hauora Ministry of Health website that has information about what to do and who to contact.
Last updated: 31st October, 2023
