How it works
How direct cremation works, step by step
A simple guide to what happens from first contact to the ashes being returned.
Direct cremation is a simple process, but it can feel overwhelming before you begin.
This page explains what happens next, step by step, and what we’ll need from you. You can arrange online or call us anytime. Either way, we’ll keep things clear and steady from first contact to ashes being returned.
If you’re feeling unsure, that’s normal. You don’t need to have everything worked out. Start where you are and we’ll guide the next step.
Arrange online or call, whichever feels easiest
We handle the paperwork and arrangements
Respectful care throughout
Ashes returned with clear next steps
How it works
What happens when you contact us
These are the same steps whether you arrange online or call us. The details can vary a little depending on location and paperwork, but the overall flow stays the same. If anything changes the timeline, we’ll tell you clearly.
1
Arrange online or call
If you arrange online, you will answer a few simple questions.
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If you call, we can go through the same questions with you over the phone.
We will ask for things like your details, the name of the person who has died, where they are now, and the area where collection is needed. You do not need to have everything worked out before you get in touch.
We will explain what happens next and what information we need from you.
2
Collection & care
We arrange collection and transport, and keep you informed.
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Your loved one may be at home, in hospital, in a rest home, in hospice care, or another care setting. We will let you know what is needed and how collection will be managed.
They are cared for respectfully and with dignity while they are with us.
If the death is unexpected, or if the Coroner is involved, the timing and process may be different. We will explain what this means and what happens next.
3
Paperwork & cremation arrangements
There is paperwork involved with every cremation, but you do not need to manage it alone.
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We guide you through the information that is needed and coordinate the standard documentation and cremation arrangements. This may include confirming details, arranging the cremation booking, and making sure the required paperwork is in place before the cremation can happen.
Our role is to make this part clear and manageable, so you are not left chasing things around.
4
The cremation takes place
Once the required paperwork is complete, we arrange the cremation.
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A basic cremation casket is included as part of the service. Direct cremation does not include a funeral service, viewing or gathering before the cremation.
You do not need to attend the crematorium. We take care of the arrangements and keep the process simple and clear. If anything changes the expected timing, we will let you know.
5
Ashes are returned to you
After the cremation, the ashes are returned to you.
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We will confirm the return details with you as part of the process. Once the ashes are back with you, you can decide what you would like to do next.
Some families hold a memorial at home, outdoors, at a community space, or somewhere meaningful. Others choose not to gather formally at all. Either is okay.
What you need to do, and what we handle
Most families worry they will have to organise more than they actually do. With direct cremation, we take care of essential arrangements and guide you through the parts we need from you.
You do not need to know all the answers before you call. We can talk it through one step at a time.
Funerals aren’t for everyone
Some families know they don’t want a formal funeral service. Others need more time before deciding how they would like to farewell someone.
Direct cremation gives you that space. The cremation is taken care of first, without the pressure of organising a service, viewing or gathering straight away.
Afterward, you can choose what feels right, whether that’s holding a memorial, gathering privately, scattering ashes somewhere meaningful, or keeping things simple and personal.
For many New Zealand families and whānau, this feels calmer and more practical.
Direct cremation vs a traditional funeral
Direct cremation is different from a cremation with a funeral service. With a traditional funeral, families often arrange a service, viewing, venue, flowers, catering, notices and other details before or around the time of the cremation. With direct cremation, the cremation is taken care of first, without a funeral service attached unless you choose to organise something separately later.
Direct cremation is not a lesser choice. It is simply a simpler one.
If you are not sure what to do first
If someone has died and you are not sure what to do, call us on 0800 825 832.
You do not need to have everything ready. We can explain the next step, what information is needed, and whether arranging online or talking it through by phone will be easiest.
Questions about the direct cremation process
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No – there are no hidden costs.
We keep our pricing clear and upfront, and we’ll always explain what’s included so you know exactly what to expect.
In some situations, additional costs may apply outside the standard service. These can include:
• Longer travel distances to bring your loved one into our care
• After-hours or urgent care arrangements
• Medical certificate or documentation fees (set by the doctor and billed directly)
In most cases, families simply pay the standard service price.
If anything additional is needed, we’ll explain it clearly beforehand — so you can make a fully informed decision with no surprises.
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No – you don’t need to buy an urn.
Ashes are returned to you in a simple, suitable container as part of the package. If you’d like something different, you can choose to purchase an urn later.
There’s no need to decide this straight away – you can take your time and choose what feels right.
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The process is simple.
You can arrange everything online or by calling us. We’ll confirm the details with you, bring your loved one into our care, organise the paperwork, and arrange the cremation.
Once the cremation is complete, we return the ashes to you.
We’ll guide you through each step, so you know what to expect and don’t need to manage the process on your own.
When the time is right, we can also support you with arranging a memorial or funeral service and connect you with the right team.
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The timing can vary depending on factors such as paperwork, location, crematorium availability, and whether the Coroner is involved.
We’ll explain the expected timeframe when arrangements are made, so you know what to expect.
We’ll also keep you informed along the way and let you know if anything changes.
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Direct cremation is unattended, so family do not attend as part of this service.
This helps keep things simple and affordable.
If you would like to gather or hold a service, many families choose to arrange a memorial later. We can support you with those arrangements and connect you with the right team when the time is right.
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Yes – we can help if your loved one has died at home.
The first steps depend on whether the death was expected or unexpected, but we’ll guide you through what needs to happen and support you at each stage.
Once everything is in place, we will arrange to bring your loved one into our care.
You don’t need to handle this alone – we’re here to help and make the process as straightforward as possible.
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Yes – we can arrange collection from a hospital, hospice, rest home, or other care setting.
In most cases, staff at the facility will guide you through the first steps and let you know when we can be contacted. We’ll then arrange to bring your loved one into our care.
You don’t need to manage this on your own – we’ll guide you through what to do and make the process as straightforward as possible.
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Yes – you can arrange everything online by answering a few simple questions.
If you’d prefer to talk, you can call us anytime and we’ll guide you through the same steps over the phone.
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Caring for your loved one with dignity and respect is at the heart of what we do.
Our trained team follows clear procedures to ensure they are looked after professionally and thoughtfully at every stage.
If you have any specific wishes, we can talk these through with you.
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Talk to us – we can explain the available options and whether financial support such as WINZ or ACC may apply.
Our aim is to keep things clear, manageable, and as stress-free as possible
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Yes – you can contact us at any time.
We’re here to help when you need it most and will guide you through what to do next.
Ready when you are
You can arrange a direct cremation online, or talk to someone first. Either way, we will keep the process simple and clear.