Arranging a Funeral during a time of loss is an emotionally charged task, often intensified by the waves of grief and distress that accompany the passing of a loved one. At Grahams Funerals, we dedicate ourselves to providing unwavering support, ensuring you feel comforted and cared for during these challenging times.
As experienced Funeral Directors, we respect the individual journey of grief. This journey, unique to every person, is uninfluenced by age, gender, faith, or cultural heritage. Grief can manifest in various ways and the team at Grahams Funerals will be there for you every step of the way.
Initial Consultation
Our first step is to meet with you, either at our office or a location of your choice, and understand your needs, preferences, and budget. We’ll take time to understand your wishes, answer your queries, and guide you through our range of services. This meeting is all about taking your loved one’s personality, faith, and lifestyle into consideration and planning a ceremony that best represents their life.
Choosing a Resting Place
The choice of a final resting place is a deeply personal decision.
We are able to attend to the necessary arrangements for a burial or cremation service and have extensive knowledge of local cemetery and crematoria options and requirements. As there is no crematorium in the Franklin District, cremations are carried out at one of the crematoriums in Auckland. A private cremation after a local funeral and committal service is the most common choice for families. Manukau Memorial Gardens Crematorium, being the closest to Franklin District, is the usual destination, unless otherwise requested.
Day of the Funeral
Blooming Goodbye: Flowers are an integral part of funeral traditions in New Zealand. We can advise and help arrange various floral elements including casket flowers, venue arrangements, and farewell flowers.
Preserving Memories: For those unable to attend, or to have a lasting record, we offer professional audio and video recordings of the funeral service. Our facilities can also livestream the service, allowing anyone to participate from anywhere around the globe.
Harmony of Farewell: Music can create a deeply personal and touching atmosphere. We can arrange an organist, pianist, bugler, piper, or other soloists to deliver the fitting soundtrack for the service.
Service Stationery: We provide customized “Order of Service” sheets and Bereavement Cards, serving both as a guide during the service and a token of memory afterwards.
Memorial Registers: An option to keep a memorial register or book is available. It helps record the attendees and their thoughts or memories of the deceased.
Catering Services: We offer catering services for post-funeral gatherings. Whether at our reception lounge, other venues, or at your home, our team can provide a comforting and delicious spread.
Celebrant Selection: We will strive to find a celebrant who can connect with your family and create an appropriate service that honours your loved one’s life.
Choosing a Casket: Our team can assist you in selecting a casket that aligns with your preferences and budget.
Post-Funeral Arrangements
Caring for Ashes: Deciding what to do with the ashes after cremation is a deeply personal choice. We can guide you through various options
Financial Arrangements: Our team will provide an estimate of costs based on initial discussions. We are also ready to assist with financial aid applications, such as a Funeral Grant from Work and Income NZ or ACC if applicable.
Death Certificate: We will help you with the details required for the death certificate. This crucial document is usually available within a week of the funeral service and will be forwarded to the family or solicitor as per your preference.