Dr Death may re-locate to NZ

Controversial Australian euthanasia campaigner Philip Nitschke says he may permanently re-locate to New Zealand as his own Government seeks to curb his activities.

Dr Nitschke, dubbed "Dr Death" because of his open advice on suicide methods, including lethal carbon monoxide machines and exit bags, was in Wellington yesterday for a workshop hosted by the Voluntary Euthanasia Society of New Zealand.

His Exit International Group is set to have a bigger presence in New Zealand from tomorrow, following Australian law changes which make it illegal to use telephone, fax, email or the internet to discuss ending life.

The Voluntary Euthanasia Society of New Zealand will now host Dr Nitschke's Exit International website and he continued yesterday to say he could permanently relocate here, the Dominion Post reported.

About 30 people attended yesterday's workshop, which included advice on manufacturing Dr Nitschke's "peaceful pill", a deadly barbiturate-based chemical cocktail.

Dr Nitschke told the group that manufacturing the pill, which contains metallic sodium and two other key ingredients, was dangerous.

"It is complex, but you're not likely to get it wrong. You've either succeeded or you haven't," he said.

Participants were advised to collaborate to make the pills, so police would find it hard to prosecute.

New Zealand Police said prosecution was difficult, especially without knowing the ingredients -- but that any suicide assistance was illegal.

The Medical Council, which is monitoring Dr Nitschke's tour, has said previously he could face legal action if he promoted the pill as he is not not registered as a medical practitioner.

Dr Nitschke gained a high profile here for his association with Wanganui euthanasia campaigner Lesley Martin, who was convicted of attempting to murder her mother.

Other workshops will be held in Christchurch and Auckland.

- NZPA