Category: All
Funeral directors say Government should mandate time to hold ashes
The Funeral Directors Association of New Zealand is calling on the Government to progress a recommendation making it clear when a funeral home can inter or scatter ashes following concerns about Morrison’s Funeral Home’s handling of ashes.
Read more
A community's final act of care | Honouring a baby who was not forgotten
A heartfelt community farewell for an unidentified stillborn baby in Blenheim highlights the compassion of member firm Sowman's Funerals, who generously donated their services to ensure every life was honoured with dignity.
Read more
Behind the final farewell | The art of mortuary makeup
A behind-the-scenes look at the artistry, science and compassion of mortuary makeup, featuring FDANZ member professionals Mary Shilling, Wendy Bygrave and Brian Barrett as they share how their work helps provide families with a dignified and comforting final farewell.
Read more
Funeral directors say Councils not adequately supporting dignity in death
New research from the Funeral Directors Association highlights growing concerns that rising Council cemetery costs and declining service standards are making dignified end-of-life choices less accessible for New Zealand families.
Read more
Planning an environmentally friendly funeral
How to plan a more environmentally conscious funeral—surprising facts about burial vs cremation, practical eco-friendly choices, and ways to create a farewell that honours a loved one’s values and the planet.
Read more
Comical march to honour man who spent a lifetime bringing smiles
Every life is unique, and a meaningful farewell should reflect the personality, passions, and spirit of the person being remembered. This story shows how funeral directors work closely with families to create deeply personal tributes.
Read more
Handling family disagreements during funeral planning
Practical, compassionate guidance for when families clash during funeral planning—showing how to honour different relationships, reduce tension, and create a meaningful farewell without needing perfect agreement.
Read more
Fuel critical users - animal care in, deathcare uncertain
The Association has raised concerns about the government's new fuel response categories noting that funeral and deathcare is not mentioned at all in the list of critical users.
Read more
Choosing a funeral director - the questions that protect you
Before you choose a funeral director, this blog shares the simple questions that protect you from pressure, hidden costs and poor care—so you can ensure your loved one is treated with dignity and you have real accountability if something goes wrong.
Read more