Losing a loved one is never easy. Along with the emotional pain, you’re often faced with the daunting task of making funeral arrangements. Having been through this process myself, I know how overwhelming it can feel to make so many decisions during such a challenging time. That’s why, when it came to honouring the memory of someone close to me, I wanted to make informed decisions and find a service that aligned with my values. One important decision I had to make was about the type of funeral service to choose. For many families, a burial service offers a respectful and traditional way to say goodbye.

In New Zealand, burial services are one of the most common ways to lay a loved one to rest. Whether you’re considering a traditional burial or a more eco-friendly alternative, it’s crucial to understand the options available to you. In this article, I’ll walk you through everything you need to know about burial services, from the process to the costs and the choices you can make for a personalised service.

What is a Burial Service?

A burial service involves interring the deceased's body in a cemetery, typically preceded by a funeral service. This can range from a large public ceremony to a more intimate, private gathering. In New Zealand, burial services are widely available, and many cemeteries offer a range of options, from traditional plots to green or eco-friendly burial sites.

The goal of a burial service is to provide a dignified farewell while offering space for family and friends to mourn and celebrate the life of the deceased. A burial can also provide a physical site for family members to visit in the future.

Steps Involved in Planning a Burial Service

1. Choosing the Type of Service
   You’ll need to decide whether you want a public or private service. A public service invites a wider community of friends and family, while a private service is more intimate. Some families choose to hold the service at the cemetery, while others opt for a church or hall before the burial.

2. Selecting a Funeral Director
   A funeral director is key to guiding you through the burial process. They assist with the paperwork, burial arrangements, and logistics. Many funeral homes, such as The Natural Funeral Company, offer tailored burial services that cater to both traditional and eco-friendly preferences.

3. Preparing for the Burial
   The next step is to select a burial plot and arrange for transportation to the cemetery. You will also need to choose a casket or coffin. For those interested in sustainable options, biodegradable caskets or eco-friendly burial sites are becoming more popular. These allow the body to return to nature without the use of embalming chemicals.

The Costs of a Burial Service

The costs of a burial service can vary depending on several factors. Key considerations include:

• Cemetery Location: Burial plots in urban areas like Auckland tend to be more expensive than in rural locations.
• Casket Choice: Traditional caskets made from metal or hardwood can cost significantly more than biodegradable options.
• Eco-Friendly Options: If you opt for a green burial (where the body is not embalmed and is placed in a biodegradable casket), there may be additional costs, but these are often seen as a valuable investment in sustainability.

It’s a good idea to request a clear breakdown of costs from the funeral director to avoid unexpected expenses. Many funeral providers, such as The Natural Funeral Company, offer transparent pricing that helps families manage their budget.

Eco-Friendly Burial Options

In New Zealand, there is an increasing demand for eco-friendly burial options. Green burials are a way to ensure that a loved one’s final resting place is as sustainable as possible. These options involve the use of biodegradable materials like wood, wicker, or cardboard for the casket, and graves are left to return to nature without the use of embalming chemicals.

Some cemeteries offer "natural burial" sites, where the grave is maintained as a natural landscape, allowing the body to decompose naturally. If sustainability is important to you, exploring these green burial options is worth considering.

Why Choose a Burial Service?

There are several reasons why burial services remain popular in New Zealand:

• Tradition and Comfort: Many families find comfort in the ritual of a burial. The act of returning a loved one to the earth provides a sense of closure and peace.
• Permanent Memorial: A burial offers a physical site where family members can visit, reflect, and honour the deceased. This can be especially meaningful for those who prefer a dedicated place to remember their loved one.
• Symbolism: The burial process holds deep symbolic meaning. It’s a way to pay tribute to a life lived while providing a sense of finality to the grieving process.

Final Thoughts

Planning a burial service is an important step in the grieving process. It involves making several thoughtful decisions, from choosing the right funeral director to selecting the type of service and understanding the associated costs. Taking the time to research and plan carefully ensures that the service is both respectful and meaningful to you and your family.

If you’re considering a burial service in Auckland or elsewhere in New Zealand, you can learn more about your options by visiting The Natural Funeral Company’s Burial Services. Whether you’re looking for a traditional burial or an eco-friendly option, the right burial service can provide a lasting tribute to your loved one.