Why aren't politicians facing the other big inevitable topic?
12 September 2023
Taxes are getting a lot of focus in this year’s election. But that other big inevitable, death, remains the topic MPs seem steadfastly keen to ignore.
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Time for action on bureaucratic denial of dignity in death
31 August 2023
The Funeral Directors Association of New Zealand’s 2023 member survey paints a sad picture for New Zealand’s most vulnerable at a time of mourning. It highlights the massive shortfall between the Work and Income New Zealand (WINZ) funeral grant and the cost of even a basic direct cremation, regional disparities, and an onerous and inconsistent system, compounding stress for low-income families.
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Annual council increases compound cost of dying
11 July 2023
Funeral directors say the latest cost of living increases to council cemetery prices are adding to the financial burden for those relying on a Work and Income Funeral Grant to help with funeral costs. And with burial costs up to six times higher in some parts of New Zealand than in others a post code lottery on death is compounding the issue.
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Cost of dying crisis for low-income families
5 April 2023
Eligible low-income families are facing heart wrenching decisions when it comes to farewelling their loved ones, according to a Funeral Directors Association member survey.
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Funeral Directors ready to provide support to Cyclone Gabrielle victims
21 February 2023
As the first funerals for victims of Cyclone Gabrielle begin, Funeral Directors Association of New Zealand President, Rachel Benns, is reassuring the public there is plenty of capacity to provide families with a meaningful farewell.
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