What we’re doing in Christchurch
The difficult process of identifying and releasing the victims of the Christchurch earthquake is a joint operation between the Police and Coronial Services who are part of the Ministry of Justice.
Once bodies or remains are recovered they are taken to a mortuary where Police manage a disaster victim identification (DVI) team made up of medical professionals and forensic scientists.
The sad reality is that in almost all cases visual identification is not possible so the DVI team uses methods like fingerprinting, DNA and dental records, coupled with other information gathered by Police and reported to the Coroner.
Victims are under the legal custody of the Chief Coroner (Judge Neil MacLean) until he is absolutely satisfied that identity and cause of death have been established by the DVI team and they can be released back into the care of their families.
In most, but not all, cases a funeral director then takes care of a victim and liaises with families over their wishes.
Throughout this process victims are handled with respect and dignity, and families are consulted on any moral, cultural or spiritual beliefs that they wish to be observed.
These processes and practices cannot be rushed and are based on sound international experience and best practice.
For information on the latest death toll and the release of victims’ names click here.
For information about wills, estates and other trustee related matters click here.
To read press statements from the Chief Coroner click here.
To see a list of funeral directors in Christchurch click here.
