The University of Otago Body Bequest Programme accepts body bequests for anatomical teaching and research under the Human Tissue Act 2008.
Bequeathed bodies support the education and training of future healthcare professionals and approved anatomy and healthcare research. Research projects include joint function, spine biomechanics, surgical approaches to the foot and ankle, pelvic joint dysfunction, and anatomy related to urinary control. Both staff and students in these fields are most grateful to those who generously bequeath their bodies for anatomical study.
The Department of Anatomy requires signed consent from:
- The donor
- One immediate family member
The immediate family member is responsible for taking all reasonably practicable steps to consult other immediate family members before signing the consent form.
If there is no living immediate family member available to act as the second signatory, the department cannot accept the bequest.
Bequests are only accepted from people living in:
- Greater Dunedin (Balclutha to Oamaru)
- Invercargill (Lumsden to Balclutha)
- Christchurch (Ashburton to Cheviot)
- Nelson/Marlborough (Takaka to Blenheim)
People who move permanently outside these areas are no longer eligible for the Programme and should inform the Department of Anatomy of any permanent address change.
Bequests where organs have been removed cannot be accepted.
Advising of medical history is optional but may assist anatomical study. All information is kept confidential.
There are certain circumstances where a bequest may not be accepted
Bodies received through accepted bequests are embalmed within 24 hours of death. All bequeathed and embalmed bodies are transported using specially constructed containers, ensuring they are handled with the utmost dignity and respect throughout the process. The department is responsible for covering the expenses related to special embalming procedures, transportation to Dunedin, and the cremation of the remains. However, the donor's estate is required to manage the registration of death, arrangements for any memorial service, and any additional costs that may arise if the return of ashes is requested.
The anatomical study of bequeathed bodies typically extends over a period of 18 months, but can be longer. Once the study is complete, the remains are cremated at the Dunedin Crematorium. The ashes are then respectfully scattered in the rose garden at Andersons Bay Cemetery.
Each year, at the start of the teaching period, the department conducts a whakawātea ceremony in the Dissecting Room. This ceremony serves as a "clearing of the way", and is to support the cultural needs of Māori students. It is not intended to impart any religious significance upon the bequeathed bodies. At the end of the teaching year, the bodies are thanked and farewelled with a poroporoaki.
The Department of Anatomy holds an annual thanksgiving service for donor families, friends, staff, and students. The location alternates each year between Christchurch and Dunedin.
For more information, contact the Department of Anatomy:
Tel 0800 580 500
Email
bodybequests@otago.ac.nz
Further information