History in the making. This trailer promotes the series of documentary videos which were released in March 2019 from the grassroots #DefendNZ movement.

These videos aim to defend some of Aotearoa’s most vulnerable people from the legalisation of ‘assisted dying’, a euphemism for assisted suicide and euthanasia.

Thousands of Kiwis, concerned about the dangers the End of Life Choice Act poses to our country and to some of its most vulnerable citizens, came together to #DefendNZ. They recognise that our nation is at a crossroads, with New Zealand due to vote on the End of Life Choice Act in September 2020.

From across Aotearoa, diverse people young and old, of all ethnicities, and a full range of political persuasions are letting their voices be heard. They are speaking up about the wider implications this Bill would have for families, whānau, the health system and the fabric of our society.

On Sunday 10 March 2019 the movement launched its website and trailer video, which provides a glimpse into the five mini-documentaries that were released later. These documentaries feature the stories of four Kiwis who could be eligible for assisted dying (euthanasia and assisted suicide) under the End of Life Choice Act. They explore the impact this Act would have on their relationships with their doctors and caregivers; on how society views and values their lives; on the way they feel about themselves; and on their safety. Hon Dame Tariana Turia DNZM also shares her perspectives in these documentaries.

Their message is that we must give voice to those who would be most affected by this proposed law. That we must examine carefully the experiences of euthanasia and assisted suicide regimes overseas.

That together, we all must #DefendNZ. Visit www.defendnz.co.nz