Burial and Cremation

Choosing Burial or Cremation

One of the key decisions following a death is whether to choose burial or cremation.
Sometimes this choice has been made known in advance by the person who has died.
If not, it is usually made by the family.
Below are some comparisons for you to consider.

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Aspect	Traditional Burial	Natural Burial	Cremation
Location	Official cemetery, Urupa or traditional burial ground	Designated natural burial area within a cemetery	Council or Privately owned crematorium in your area
Embalming	Optional	Not permitted	Optional
Casket	Usually, traditional timber or custom-made	Biodegradable only (e.g. untreated wood, woollen or shroud)	Varies – a firm, flat base is required
Environmental Impact	Generally multi-faceted / High (over time)	Minimal	Lower than burial, but fossil-fuel energy used and air emissions involved
Memorial Options	Headstone, plaque, grave marker or similar	Native floura planted, temporary wooden grave marker if desired no permanent headstone permitted	Plaque, urn, cemetery plot, or chosen scattering site.
Cost	Includes plot, interment fee, equipment required for burial and ongoing maintenance. Headstone	Large plot, compost, registration and tree planting; no monument costs	Generally, more cost-effective, single payment
Place of Remembrance	Gravesite with permanent grave marker or headstone	Restored native grove with optional natural marker or GPS location	Ashes can be scattered, buried, or kept; memorial optional

Cultural and Spiritual Considerations

We understand that cultural, spiritual, and environmental values can be deeply personal and often guide end-of-life decisions.

Whether your family observes Tikanga Māori, Pasifika customs, or other cultural or religious beliefs and traditions, we are committed to working respectfully alongside you.

We also welcome those choosing natural or eco-conscious approaches, and we’ll ensure your loved one’s farewell reflects their values and wishes with dignity and care.

A Natural Return to the Earth

At the heart of natural burial is a deep respect for both the deceased and the environment. Nothing is introduced that could interfere with or disrupt natural processes. Instead, every element supports the health and regeneration of the local ecosystem.

Over time, the nutrients from the body are gently returned to the earth, absorbed by the surrounding soil and plant life. This process not only honours the natural cycle of life and death, but also nourishes native flora, fauna and tree groves.
Helping to regenerate a thriving, living landscape – a true legacy of care.

To read our thoughts, explore and learn more about Natural Burials in New Zealand, follow the link below:

https://www.naturalburials.co.nz/funeral-directors/wairarapa-funerals-now-certified/

We are fortunate to offer a dedicated natural burial area right here in the Wairarapa, within Clareville Cemetery (Carterton).

For full details on plots, costs, and guidelines, please visit the Carterton District Council’s Natural Burials page:

https://cdc.govt.nz/services/cemetery/natural-burials/