Care of body

Many Kiwi families prefer not to go through the embalming process unless it’s absolutely necessary.

This might be for ecological, religious or other personal reasons. We can advise what will be possible based on your and your loved one’s circumstances.

Keeping the deceased cold is an effective way of slowing down the natural process without having to go through the embalming process. We have a temperature-controlled cold unit on site, so we can safely keep your loved one with us at our premises.

See also Manaaki mats.

There is a spectrum of care available for preservation and presentation of the deceased. Some hygienic care is external, involving washing, skin treatments and dressings.

There are more extensive treatments that can provide more stability for the deceased. We have the expertise to recommend what may be best.

Embalming is the internal and external chemical treatment of the deceased for preservation and presentation.

It will sometimes provide the most stable and predictable outcome in terms of having a loved one in the home or having multiple viewings in different environments (eg at home, at our premises and at church). Repatriation on Air New Zealand and other major airlines requires full embalming.

Sometimes people choose embalming for purely practical reasons, and sometimes it’s just a preference. Either way, we can provide the highest quality care for your loved one to meet your family’s needs.

Manaaki mats slow down the natural changes that occur after death by keeping the body cool. The mats are filled with dry ice polymers which freeze at a much colder temperature than regular ice therefore staying colder for longer. They’re a great option for keeping a loved one at home without embalming.

You can learn more about Manaaki Mats on their website. Please be aware this site hosts photographs of a deceased pēpē/infant (with family consent).