In New Zealand, there are many more people waiting for an organ transplant than there are organs available. Organ transplantation saves lives for people in organ failure. Donation is a very special gift that makes a difference. It offers valuable second chances and dramatically changes lives.
If there were more donors, many more people could benefit from life-saving transplants. New Zealand’s rate of deceased organ donation is increasing but is still relatively low compared with rates in other countries. New Zealand has a unique cultural make-up and provides geographical challenges to organ retrieval and transplant, but some countries have achieved significant improvements in their rate of organ donation after introducing comprehensive strategies.
Donation may be from a deceased organ donor: someone who dies in an intensive care unit, whose family/whānau will be approached to consider donation.
Donation of kidneys (and in some cases livers) may be from a living donor.