Mike had a varied work background prior to becoming a Funeral Director in 1991. This diverse background enables Mike to connect with people from all walks of life which is important in his role of ministering and serving families who are grieving the loss of a loved family member or close friend.

When asked about his role as a Funeral Director, Mike believes that he has God-given skills in developing relationships with families and establishing bonds of trust so that people feel comfortable about entrusting their loved one into his care.

Mike is married to Dorothy (who was born and bred in Tauranga) and they have two daughters. Erana is a member of the NZ Police Force in Hamilton and Taina recently graduated from University and has joined the team at Legacy (read more about Taina below). Mike enjoys family activities, running, cycling, music and church (The Salvation Army) and is a serving member of the Tauranga Rotary Club.

Before joining Legacy Funerals, Darin was employed in the timber industry. He brings with him a range of valuable people and organisational skills and is enthusiastic about his change of career. Darin says he feels humbled to be able to assist families by offering the ceremony that best honours their loved one.

Darin is married to Ngareta and together they have three young children. When he's not at work Darin enjoys spending time with the family, particularly camping and having fun with outdoor pursuits, as well as movies, music and DIY projects.

 

Taina is currently studying toward the National Diploma of Embalming. This involves both on-the-job and classroom learning in Wellington. She also helps out in the office at Legacy and with the many varied tasks that are required to run the business efficiently.

Taina attained a degree in Kinesiology and Exercise Science from the University of Hawaii at Hilo. She has been a member of the New Zealand Women’s Volleyball Team for seven years and is still playing both indoor and beach volleyball.

 

Kiri works in conjunction with the Directors and the General Manager to ensure the smooth running of all the day-to-day tasks and management required for the company.

 

Prior to joining Legacy she worked for ACC, in office management roles, and was a financial planner. She has two children; nine year old Madison, and Taimana who is three.

 

Kiri says she feels privileged to assist families 'behind the scenes' and enjoys working with the team at Legacy and with their external suppliers like caterers and newspapers.

 

 

 

New Zealand born and bred, Patrick joined the New Zealand Army in 1962 and served as a soldier until 1990. Patrick was lucky enough to visit the Antarctic during his service, and with his wife Dawn he headed off to live in London to work as a Yeoman Warder (or "Beefeater"). Traditionally the Yeoman Warders looked after prisoners at the Tower and safeguarded the British crown jewels, but today they act as tour guides and are a tourist attraction in their own right.

 

These days Patrick can be found tending the garden and grounds at Legacy Funerals.