The Days Leading Up to the Funeral

We will transfer the deceased to our premises and make all necessary preparations in line with your requirements.  Because of modern embalming techniques it is usually possible to be flexible about the time taken between the death of a person and their funeral. This is of great comfort to families who have family or friends coming from some distance as it can give them an extra few days before the funeral takes place, rather than rushing things.

You will have a choice about where the person’s body will lie during the time between their death and their funeral service. Your family background, country of origin or religion may be part of that decision.
 
Some families prefer that the body remains at our funeral home where they can visit in the comfort of one of our viewing rooms. 
 
Others prefer to have the body rest at their own home where they can perhaps have a longer time for personal farewells.
 
Traditionally, Maori families will return the body to the marae for several days.

We know from experience that many people who are initially hesitant about spending time with the deceased, later say how much they are helped in the grieving process by spending some time with the deceased prior to the funeral. Others find solace in being able to spend time placing mementos such as cards, letters, small gifts, photos, flowers and other significant objects in the coffin with the deceased. Again it’s a tradition which is with us today because it really does provide comfort.

So when we ask you if you would like to ‘view’ or ‘spend time with the deceased’, remember that for many, effective grieving and subsequent readjustment cannot take place until you have accepted that someone you love has died. Spending time with the deceased certainly helps this acceptance, particularly when death has been sudden or unexpected. Again, we are on hand to discuss this with you and can provide information and support in your decision-making.

Making a Lasting Gift

All profits from Legacy Funerals are distributed by the Legacy Trust to local charities.  To date, the Legacy Trust has gifted over $600,000 to the local community - generosity that is only possible because of the choice that families have made in choosing Legacy Funerals.

Legacy Funerals is a member of the Funeral Directors Association of New Zealand.