News & Advocacy

Over the years, I've noticed how social media has transformed how we experience and express grief. What was once a private journey shared with close family and friends has become something that can be both deeply personal and surprisingly public.

Posted in All, Blog; Posted 3 days ago by Sam - Representing the Funeral Directors Association Less than a minute to read

In what is being called a significant change for the funeral industry, New Zealand’s first water cremation service is being offered in Christchurch from next month.

Posted in In the News , All; Posted 4 days ago Less than a minute to read

The Funeral Directors Association of New Zealand (FDANZ) is calling for more transparent standards for pricing and standards after further details of a former funeral director's misconduct were revealed.

Posted in All, In the News ; Posted 10 days ago Less than a minute to read

Details of Fiona Bakulich’s deception revealed in a Marae programme interview with Francis and Kaiora Tipene reinforce the importance of more transparent pricing and standards says the Funeral Directors Association of New Zealand.

Posted in All, Press Releases; Posted 12 days ago Less than a minute to read

Well done to member firm, Pellow & Hill for their compassion and generosity in stepping up to fully support a grieving family when it mattered most. 

Posted in In the News , All; Posted 22 days ago Less than a minute to read

It is a trend the Funeral Directors Association has observed across the country. Cultural advisor Larni Hepi said about three in five whānau across the Eastern Bay of Plenty have tangi at home or at a funeral home, instead of the marae.

Posted in In the News , All; Posted 24 days ago Less than a minute to read

Funeral Directors Association Chief Executive Gillian Boyes told 1News Bakulich did not work for a member firm of the Association.

Posted in All, In the News ; Posted 36 days ago Less than a minute to read

"Will Mum be able to watch the service from her hospital bed?" This question, asked by a grieving son, reminds us why technology has become such a valuable part of modern memorial services. While some might worry that technology could make a funeral feel less personal, I've seen how, when used thoughtfully, it can create more meaningful and inclusive memorial experiences.

Posted in All, Blog; Posted 43 days ago by Sam - Representing the Funeral Directors Association Less than a minute to read

In a recent interview with The Post, Emma and Alastair Hebberd, the proud owners of Shone & Shirley Funeral Directors Nelson and valued members of our Association, shared their heartfelt journey. 

Posted in All, In the News ; Posted 49 days ago Less than a minute to read