New Zealand Legislation: Acts

25 Viewing, touching, or remaining with or near body in coroner's custody

• (1) This section applies to a body if—

  • (a) a death has been reported to a coroner under section 15(2)(a) or section 16(2)(b); and

  • (b) the coroner's exclusive right to custody of the body, under section 19, is being exercised by him or her or on his or her behalf; and

  • (c) 1 or more people to whom subsection (2) applies wish to view, touch, or remain with or near the body.

  (2) This subsection applies to the following people:

  • (a) members of the immediate family of the person who is, or of a person who is suspected to be, the dead person concerned:

  • (b) representatives (whether recognised under section 22 or not) of that immediate family:

  • (c) people chosen by that immediate family and who are, or are performing functions analogous to, ministers of religion or other people providing religious or spiritual advice, benefit, or comfort.

  (3) One or more people to whom subsection (2) applies may view, touch, or remain with or near the body, but only—

  • (a) if authorised to do so by the coroner; and

  • (b) in accordance with any conditions the coroner imposes.