Understanding Funeral Costs in Wellington, the Hutt Valley and Kāpiti

Understanding Funeral Costs in Wellington, the Hutt Valley and Kāpiti

Clarity, assistance and choices

Discussing funeral costs can feel uncomfortable, but understanding them and having clear information brings peace of mind. Our communities value transparency, and fairness, and we approach every conversation about pricing and choice with honesty and respect.

How a funeral account is built

A typical funeral account includes professional service fees, use of facilities, vehicles, care and preparation, a casket or coffin, and third-party costs paid on your behalf. These may include death certificates, cremation or burial fees, flowers, newspaper notices, service sheets, and catering. You will receive a full written estimate at the arrangement meeting and a detailed account afterwards, so there are no surprises.

Guide figures and cost breakdown

If you would like an estimate, please get in touch with one of our caring funeral directors. We will prepare a clear, personalised cost breakdown for you, which may include:

• Professional service fees – whether you are arranging a full funeral service or a cremation-only option
• Chapel hire and hearse requirements
• Transfers, livestreaming, and any additional services you may wish to include

We will guide you through each step, explain the choices available, and help you focus on what is most important for your family.

Paying the account and timing

Accounts are due six weeks after the date of death. We accept direct credit, EFTPOS, and credit card payments. If payment might take longer, please talk to us early, we can discuss possible options, including extended credit.

Financial assistance

• Work and Income Funeral Grant: Up to $2,616.12 for essential costs if assets are limited.
• ACC Funeral Grant: Up to $7,990.30 for deaths resulting from injury (reviewed annually).

  Our team can help you complete the paperwork and provide the required documents.

Other practical support

Airlines sometimes offer compassionate airfares for immediate family members travelling to a funeral. We can issue a supporting letter to help apply for these fares, making it easier for whānau to come together.

Personalising within a budget

Small touches often mean the most. Consider a weekday service for more venue options, host a simple gathering at home, use greenery from your own gardens, or invite a family musician to play. Live streaming also lets friends overseas take part without travel costs.

Keeping everyone informed

Decide early who will sign the arrangement form and act as guarantor. Keep notes of each choice, casket, flowers, music, and catering, so everyone is clear. If you are pre-planning for yourself, you can record your wishes and pre-pay through the FDANZ Funeral Trust, giving your family confidence for the future.

Starting the cost conversation

Start by asking:

1. What feels essential?
2. What would be nice to include?
3. What could we do more simply, without losing meaning?

Bring those thoughts to your arrangement meeting, and we will translate them into a clear written estimate.

For full details, download the Costs Associated with Funerals booklet and talk with your local branch in Wellington, Lower Hutt, Upper Hutt or Kāpiti.