Burial and cremation
UNDERSTANDING YOUR OPTIONS.
There are four options available in New Zealand - burial, cremation, burial at sea, or donating a body to medical science. At Rosetown Funerals, we can work alongside you to determine which of these options is best for you and the person you are honouring.
What are the options?
BURIAL.
Burial has long been the preferred choice, as many appreciate having a grave to visit, maintaining a connection with their loved one. This site allows loved ones to reflect, grieve, and tend to the grave. The burial process includes three steps: first, purchasing a burial plot; second, paying an interment fee for grave digging and maintenance; and third, acquiring a memorial, like a headstone, which many view as vital in the grieving process.
In New Zealand, burials occur only in official cemeteries, or Māori have burial grounds, with limited exceptions.
CREMATION.
Cremation is popular for its flexibility in choosing resting places, unlike a burial which is location-restricted. Ashes can be buried in cemeteries or memorial areas like family plots, gardens, or even scattered at sea. Some individuals opt to divide ashes between multiple locations, but it's crucial to ensure they aren't near traditional Māori food-gathering grounds.
Many also prefer to create a memorial in a special place to honour their loved ones, helping them remember and cope with their loss. Funeral directors are available to assist with these arrangements.
The cremation process involves, the body being placed in a cremator - a large metal box about the size of a small car. Some crematoriums allow families to witness this. The procedure takes two to four hours at very high temperatures, with ashes carefully collected afterwards to prevent mixing. Only one casket is processed at a time. After cremation, ashes are broken up and placed into a simple plastic container suitable for transfer to urns. A selection of urns are available for families to choose from.
NATURAL BURIAL.
A natural burial aims to return the body to the earth as swiftly as possible, taking place in a serene and environmentally-conscious area of the cemetery.
Instead of a traditional headstone, a native tree is planted to mark the burial site.
All materials used in the burial process are biodegradable. The body is not chemically embalmed, and only certified organic sanitizers are permitted. The burial must occur within the active soil layer, not exceeding a depth of 800 to 1000mm, in accordance with industry standards.
Caskets are to be crafted from untreated biodegradable fibers or wood, and non-toxic adhesives. Additionally, all contents within the casket, including clothing, must be composed of biodegradable materials.
BURIAL AT SEA.
In New Zealand, there are specific designated coastal locations where burial at sea can take place. Typically, the burial is conducted via a boat or helicopter, and a special type of casket is required. Burial at sea can be selected by individuals pre-planning their funeral or by their families. We’re happy to answer any questions and can make arrangements for you if you’d like.
DONATION TO MEDICAL SCIENCE.
To donate a body to medical science, it is essential to make arrangements before death. Additionally, you must ensure that the medical school’s requirements and criteria are met. (It's important to note that New Zealand medical schools do not consistently require donations). Alternatively, you might consider becoming an organ donor.
