The first 3.5 years of Assisted Dying in Aotearoa New Zealand: End of Life Choice Act 2019

Since its legalization in November 2021, assisted dying in New Zealand has quietly reshaped the landscape of end-of-life care.

But behind the headlines and statistics lies a deeply human story—one of ethical complexity, emotional weight, and evolving clinical practice.

In this compelling research presentation, a geriatric psychiatrist shares insights from a two-year study funded by AMRF, exploring how practitioners and families navigate assisted dying.

From the challenges of assessing suffering and depression, to the emotional toll on doctors trained to preserve life, the findings are both sobering and illuminating.

Enjoy this lecture from AMRF's first event in our 70th Anniversary Speaker Series!

Here you can hear from A/Professor Gary Cheung, expert in New Zealand's End of Life Choice Act 2019 and palliative care.

In 2025, AMRF proudly marks 70 years of funding groundbreaking medical research, marking the awarding of over $100,000,000 to dedicated medical and health science researchers. 

Our 70th year will feature a three-part speaker series in February, May, and August in Auckland. These events will showcase leading medical researchers who have made a significant difference in their fields. Check out our website for more info or scroll down to comments for the link.

"Empowering researchers, transforming lives."

Auckland Medical Research Foundation, marking 70 years of funding medical research; in partnership with JMI Wealth, Auckland University of Technology, and University of Auckland d, with print partners Blue Star New Zealand.