Process and Timeline FAQs

If the Coroner is involved, the timeline can change because cremation can’t proceed until the Coroner’s processes allow it. We’ll explain what’s happening and keep updates clear so you’re not left guessing.

You do not need to have everything worked out before you call. We can explain the next step, what information is needed, and whether arranging online or talking it through by phone will be easiest.

Contact us

If you use a funeral director, they will usually register the death with Births, Deaths and Marriages. If you are organising everything yourself, you need to register the death yourself within the required timeframe.

When someone dies

The first step depends on where and how the person died. If they died in hospital, hospice or a rest home, staff will usually guide you. If they died at home and the death was expected, contact the doctor or care team. If the death was sudden, unexpected or there is immediate danger, call 111.

When someone dies

With a traditional funeral, families often arrange a service, viewing, venue, flowers, catering, notices and other details. With direct cremation, the cremation is taken care of first without a funeral service attached. A memorial can happen later if you choose.

Direct cremation explained

Direct cremation does not include a funeral service, viewing or attended gathering as part of the standard package. If you are unsure what your family needs, call us and we can talk through the options.

How it works

We will guide you through the information and paperwork needed for the cremation. You do not need to manage this alone.

How it works

Families usually need to contact us online or by phone, provide basic details, tell us where the person is located, confirm who we should speak with, and let us know where ashes should be returned. We will guide you through it one step at a time.

How it works

The timing can vary depending on paperwork, region, crematorium availability and whether the Coroner is involved. We will explain the expected timeframe when you arrange and keep you updated if anything changes.

How it works

Value Cremations handles collection and transport, respectful care while the person is with us, paperwork guidance and coordination, cremation arrangements, the basic cremation casket, and returning the ashes.

How it works

Yes. In New Zealand, you can have a cremation without a funeral service. This is called direct cremation. Value Cremations collects the person who has died, cares for them respectfully, helps organise the required documentation, arranges the cremation, and returns the ashes to you. You can then decide if, when and how you would like to gather.

Direct cremation explained

Direct cremation is a cremation arranged without a funeral service attached. The cremation is taken care of first, and families can choose whether to hold a memorial or gathering later.

Direct cremation explained

We collect the person who has died, care for them respectfully, handle the required paperwork and cremation arrangements, and return the ashes to you once the cremation is complete.

How it works

The process is simple: arrange online or call us, we confirm the details, we collect the person who has died, we handle the paperwork and cremation arrangements, and ashes are returned to you.

How it works