FAQs

If you’re planning a funeral and feeling unsure about what to expect, you’re not alone. Every situation is different, and it’s natural to have questions along the way. We’ve gathered some of the most common ones here to help guide you and if there’s something more you’d like to know, please reach out. We’re always happy to talk things through.

Call us anytime on 0800 276 420

What's included in your professional services fee?

Adult $4,200
Child 1 – 10 years $1,250.00
Baby up to 12 months $650.00

This fee covers the essentials that make everything run smoothly. This includes…

Meeting with your family to discuss all the details.
Caring for and dressing your loved one and/or guiding you through this special task.
Attending the service,
Providing all necessary equipment.
Managing the full range of office and administrative tasks, including lodging all paperwork, liasing with cemeteries, crematoriums and other relevant service providers.
Registering the death and obtaining the Death Certificate.

Our fee does not include transfers, the casket, doctors’ fees, burial, or cremation costs and extras such a as flowers, service sheets, celebrant fees etc.

Extra costs may include (but are not restricted to):

Transfer fee $280
Hearse hire $350
After hours fee $250

We’ll always provide a clear, itemised estimate so you know exactly what to expect.

See our Financial Page for more details.

Do I have to pay a deposit?

Yes. A $1,500 deposit is required for our services.

Can I plan ahead?

Yes — many people choose to pre-plan their funeral to ease the burden on their whānau and make sure their wishes are known. It’s simple, flexible, and can bring peace of mind.

For more information see Pre-Arrangements

I want to be as eco-friendly as possible. How do I do this?

At Aroha Funerals, caring for people also means caring for our land and planet.

See our Environment Friendly solutions.

Are eco-friendly or green funerals more expensive?

Not always. We offer a range of sustainable options, including:

Rental Caskets
Biodegradable caskets
Natural burial support
These can often be affordable and reduce environmental impact.

We’re happy to talk through the options.

Can I have a funeral at home or somewhere special?

Yes — we support farewells held in homes, marae, churches, or special venues across Auckland. We’ll work with you to create a service that reflects your values, traditions, and wishes.

What if I'm unsure what I need or can afford?

That’s very common — and completely okay. We’ll guide you one step at a time, with no pressure.

What if I have to delay the funeral?

There are a number of reasons why someone may need to delay a funeral. For example, there may be key family members overseas that are unable to get back quickly.

Whatever the reason, we can take care of your loved on until you are ready to properly say goodbye.

What if the estate is tied up?

When a death occurs, bank accounts in the name of the deceased are frozen and in some cases cannot be accessed until probate is granted. However, some bills can be paid before probate is granted and most NZ banks have a process for deceased estate access. However, if settlement of an estate is delayed due to probate, families should pay the funeral account by the due date and recover the funds from the estate when it is settled.

We will send the account directly to the family, and if required, can send a copy to a solicitor. The person who has signed the financial page of the funeral arrangement document is responsible for paying the account.

Go to our Financial Page for further information

Can I have my loved one come home for a while? What's involved?

Yes, absolutely. If you choose to have your loved one at home, we can provide everything you need to keep them comfortable and cared for. This includes the hire of a refrigerated cool mat, along with our home-care support. We’ll guide you through how to use the equipment, what to expect, and how to keep the environment calm and peaceful.

What is embalming? Is it necessary?

Embalming is the chemical preservation of the body. Unless the funeral is going to be delayed for a long period of time, it is not necessary to have your loved one embalmed. We prefer to care for those who have died in a gentle and natural way and find that embalming is rarely needed. By keeping the body cool, we can provide time for arrangements to be made.

I want to be involved in the care of my love one. How does this work?

We encourage families to be as involved in the care of their person as they would like to be. This can include washing and dressing them. We can give you all the guidance you need to do this.

Is there payment support available

In some cases, families may be eligible for a WINZ funeral grant. We can help you explore this option and work within a budget that feels manageable.

Still have questions?

We’re here to help — gently, clearly, and when you’re ready.