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
How much does a funeral cost with Aroha Funerals?
A Cremation or Burial without a funeral or memorial service is $6,000.
A Cremation or Burial with a funeral or memorial service is $8,000.
A deposit of $3,000 will be required as a part of our services” probably under the heading of each
We include the things we know you’re likely to need from the beginning, so you have a clear understanding of the cost.
From there, we’ll talk through the choices that are right for your family, including any other costs, so you know what to expect.
What is included in the cost?
- Whether you choose to hold a service, or not, we will take care of all the following details…
- Bringing your loved one into our care and caring for them for as long as needed
- Dressing them, or supporting you to be involved if you wish
- Viewings and time together
- Supporting you if you would like to have them at home for a time
- Meeting with you and supporting you throughout the arrangements
- Your choice of casket from our included range
- Taking care of the necessary paperwork, permissions and bookings
- Working with doctors, cemeteries, crematoria and others involved
- Registering the death and obtaining the Death Certificate
- Medical certificate fee, if needed
- Cremation fee and permit, if you choose cremation
- Grave marker, if you choose burial
- A counselling session through the Grief Centre
In addition to the above, if you choose a funeral or memorial service, we’ll take care of coordinating all the elements that bring the service together, from the venue and celebrant to flowers, catering, livestreaming and the many details involved on the day.
Will there be other costs?
There may be other costs depending on the arrangements you choose.
These might include flowers, a celebrant, catering, embalming, livestreaming or a casket outside our included range.
If you choose burial, cemetery plot and digging costs are additional and vary between cemeteries.
We’ll talk through any additional costs with you as we make the arrangements, so you have a clear understanding of what things will cost.
Can I get a detailed estimate?
Yes. We will provide an estimate that shows what is included and any other choices or costs that are part of your arrangements.
We will keep this updated as arrangements develop, so you have a clear understanding of the likely overall cost.
What if I'm worried about the cost?
Please talk with us. We can help you understand what is included, where you have choices and what options might work for your family.
Financial assistance may also be available through Work and Income, ACC or other entitlements.
What does repatriation cost?
Repatriation coordination is $1,500. This reflects the additional care, time and coordination involved in bringing someone home or returning them overseas.
There are usually other costs involved, such as flights or freight, specialist preparation, documentation, consular requirements and transfers.
We’ll talk through these with you and keep your estimate updated, so you have a clear understanding of the costs along the way.
Do I have to pay a deposit?
Yes. A deposit of $3,000 will be required as a part of 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 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.
Contact us or call 0800 276 420 anytime.
