top of page
Donating Your Body to Medical Science
Why It Matters
Body donation is vital for teaching anatomy to medical, dental, physiotherapy, and science students.
It also supports research that improves healthcare outcomes.
Consent
Under the Human Tissue Act 2008, consent must be signed by both the donor and a member of their immediate family (e.g., partner, parent, child, sibling). Registration must occur before death.
When We May Decline a Bequest:
Even if registered, a body may be declined due to:
-
Certain infectious diseases (e.g., Hepatitis, HIV, CJD, COVID-19)
-
Recent major surgery or postmortem
-
Organ donation (except corneas)
-
Ruptured aortic aneurysm or rapid-onset dementia
-
Death outside the approved region
Because of these possibilities, it is important for families to have a plan B in place. Distinct Funerals can guide you through these options, ensuring that if a donation cannot proceed, your loved one’s wishes are still respected and alternative arrangements are carried out with care and dignity.
Funeral & Costs
Traditional funerals are not possible due to urgent embalming. A memorial service may be held separately at the family’s cost.
We cover:
-
Anatomical Embalming
-
Transport to Dunedin
-
Cremation (unless ashes are returned – additional cost applies)
Final Arrangements
Bodies are used for teaching and research for 18+ months. Remains are then cremated and ashes scattered at Andersons Bay Cemetery, unless written request for return is received before embalming.
Ceremonies
Whakawātea: Māori “clearing of the way” ceremony at the start of each year.
Thanksgiving Service
Held annually for donor families and staff
(alternates between Dunedin & Christchurch)
Interested in finding out more?
The Body Bequest Liaison Officer
Department of Anatomy
University of Otago
PO Box 56, Dunedin 9054
Phone: 0800 580 500
To receive a registration form, please contact:
Email: bodybequests@otago.ac.nz
bottom of page