Before the Funeral
When someone dies, a great deal needs to happen in a short amount of time. It can feel overwhelming, especially in the first hours and days of grief. We’re here to help you understand the decisions ahead, what they involve, and guide you through each one.
Throughout our lives, we come together to mark important occasions â birthdays, weddings, and farewells. A funeral is also a time to gather, remember, and honour someone we love.
A funeral gives family and friends a chance to come together, express their feelings, share stories, and support one another. There may be laughter, tears, and moments of quiet reflection. And because no two lives are the same, no two farewells need to be either.
Coming Together to Remember
A celebration of life
What You'll Need to Consider
This can feel like a lot to take in at once. Our funeral directors will walk you through everything at a pace that suits you. Here’s an overview of the key decisions involved in arranging a funeral.
Cremation or Burial
Understand the differences between cremation and burial, what each involves, and the options available to you and your family.
Caskets and Urns
Explore a range of caskets and urns, with different styles, materials, and options to reflect personal wishes and preferences.
Mortuary Care
Learn how your loved one is cared for after death, including the preparation involved and the options available to families.
Repatriation
Guidance on bringing a loved one home from overseas, or arranging their transfer between locations within New Zealand.
Venues
Discover our welcoming venues across Christchurch and Canterbury, with spaces for gatherings of different sizes and styles of farewell.
Celebrants and Clergy
Understand the different roles a celebrant or member of the clergy can play in a funeral, and choose the approach that suits your wishes.
Choosing a Funeral Venue
The location of a funeral shapes the feel of the day. You might choose one of our venues at Westpark, Oaklands, or Wai-mana. Equally, you may opt for a local church or chapel, or somewhere that was special to your loved one â perhaps a community hall, family garden, or other meaningful place.
Our funeral directors will help you find a location that suits the size of your gathering and the atmosphere you’d like to create.
Celebrants and Clergy
If your loved one followed a particular faith, you may wish to involve a minister, priest, or other religious leader in the service. For a non-religious ceremony, we work with experienced, caring celebrants who can also incorporate cultural or spiritual traditions.
We’ll help you find someone who’s a good fit for your family.
When to Hold the Funeral
There is no set timeframe for holding a funeral in New Zealand, so you don’t need to rush into making arrangements. Many families find that allowing five to seven days gives them time to come together, make decisions, and accommodate those travelling from further afield. We’ll help you consider what timing works best for your family.
Because Life is Important
Every call is answered by a member of our Lamb & Hayward team.