Our people.

Kiri has worked with us since our inception, and in 2018 accepted the position of General Manager. She is passionate about supporting her wonderful team, and is proud to work in an industry that makes a real difference in people's lives. Kiri, with her husband Sean, have two daughters, one a Doctor at North Shore Hospital and the other studying at Auckland University.

Taina has been with Legacy since 2008, after 5 years studying and playing volley ball in mainland USA and Hawai’i. She enjoys the constant variety that working for Legacy brings. Taina loves working out, travelling, a good laugh and doing her bit to keep the wine industry going.  

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Before becoming an embalmer, Carla had the privilege of being a funeral director, which has given her the ability to understand the whole process of looking after a family. She has found her passion in the preparation and care of those who have passed. In her spare time, Carla likes to ride her Harley Davidson around NZ (a great way to see our beautiful country) and you'll find her at the gym most days. Her “cup is filled” catching up with girlfriends.

Warwick began his career in the industry in 2004 and is a qualified and registered funeral director. Married to Rina for over 30 years and with two adult children long since left home, they now enjoy sharing their home with grandchildren, friends and pets. You'll often find Warwick in his garden or supporting the Tauranga community as a Justice of the Peace. To be able to combine both a willingness to help those in need and be part of the Legacy Funerals team gives him immense pride.

Mellanee’s path to becoming a Funeral Director has been shaped by a longstanding interest in the funeral profession. When a position in administration became available at Legacy Funerals, Mellanee was quick to apply. The role provided her with valuable experience behind the scenes and a deeper understanding of funeral service operations. It also gave her the chance to connect with Legacy’s supportive and dedicated team and move into the role as a funeral director. Mellanee finds the position deeply meaningful. She is driven by a genuine desire to support families during some of their most difficult moments. “I strive to honour and celebrate each unique story,” she shares. Mellanee brings a compassionate, empathetic, and highly professional approach to her work. Her dedication and sincerity are evident in all she does, making her an invaluable member of the Legacy team.

When Mellanee is not at work, she is happiest at home in the garden or around the dining table enjoying good food with her wife Jo and three adult children.

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'This job is all about life' is Don's reflection on his role as a funeral d. A family man with extensive experience in both public speaking and interpersonal communications, Don believes it is a privilege to meet with families and hear their stories.Having been with Legacy since 2010, Don brought his skills from hospitality and real estate to the team and specialises in creating intimate services that bring loved ones together to celebrate life.

He and his wife Debbie are kept busy by four children, 10 grandchildren, and two e-bikes; one of which doubles as Don's daily transport to and from work.

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Fergus began with Legacy as a funeral celebrant. He is a fixture of the community, having worked with St John's Ambulance, and as a Minister with the Omokoroa Community Church. Helping people and alleviating at least some of the stress that families face when a loved one passes comes as second nature to him. Whether as a funeral director or a celebrant, walking alongside families in a way that allows them to grieve and to honour their loved one is something he excels at. Fergus is Deputy Chief Fire Officer with the Omokoroa Volunteer Fire Brigade and in his spare time, he can be found with his wife Carolyn and kids, mountain biking, cooking, and enjoying good food.

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Having spent three years as Legacy Funeral’s Office Manager, Jane transitioned into the role of Embalmer and Cremator Operator so she could spend more time helping families through what is often one of the most difficult times in their lives. Jane feels privileged to be working in this role to enable families to view and spend time with their loved ones when they are looking peaceful and at rest. Jane and her husband Bruce enjoy their regular weekend caravan adventures together, and have three young adult children Millie, Sophie and Harry.

Originally from Auckland, Kate and her husband Casey moved to Tauranga in 2016 and welcomed their daughter Isla two years later. After three years juggling a graphic design business and running around as a stay-at-home mum, Kate joined Legacy Funerals. The ability to bring her design expertise to the Legacy Funerals team, and more importantly, being able to offer support and assistance to families during their time of need is a privilege and an honour for Kate. “Legacy cares so much about people – it’s very humbling to be a part of that”.

With a commercial banking career that spanned more than 40 years and having been the bank manager for Legacy Funerals I knew I had many transferrable relationship skills that would enable me to help families in their greatest time of need. I have a reputation for going the extra mile for families to tailor a service that truly celebrates the life of their loved one. Married to Raewyn, we have two successful adult daughters. In my spare time I swim, cycle and walk.

Darin feels humbled to be able to assist families by offering the ceremony that best honours their loved one. He is especially valued for his warm approach to people and organisational skills. Darin is married to Ngareta and they have three children. When he’s not at work, Darin enjoys spending time with his family, particularly camping and having fun with outdoor pursuits. He is a big fan of music and known for always having a DIY project on the go.