Understanding organ donation
Living donation
Last reviewed: August 2026
Living donation is when a healthy person gives a kidney, or part of their liver, to someone who needs a transplant. Close to half of all kidney transplants in New Zealand come from living donors.
Organ Donation New Zealand does not arrange living donation — it is coordinated by the transplant units and renal services. We cover it here because people weighing up donation often want to understand both.
What can a living person donate?
The most common organ donated by a living person is a kidney. A healthy adult can also donate a segment of their liver to a child or an adult, if they are a family member or close friend.
Can I live a normal life with one kidney?
Yes. A healthy person can lead a normal life with only one kidney. Before any living donation goes ahead, the person donating undergoes a very thorough medical and psychological assessment.
How is living donation different from deceased donation?
Organ Donation New Zealand coordinates donation from people who have died. Living donation is arranged through the transplant units and renal services, with its own assessment and support process.
Where do I start?
Talk to your GP or renal specialist about whether living donation is right for you. For more information about kidney donation, visit Kidney Health New Zealand.
