At Gentle Touch a service should reflect a person's wishes and beliefs while honouring their life.
With a Full service this can be a Burial or Cremation. This enables families to bid farewell and pay tribute to their loved ones. By acknowledging each person's unique achievements, historical moments, and personal stories, the service provides a space for friends to gather and comfortably offer their sympathy and support to the family. A service is a crucial part of the grieving process, helping people begin to accept the reality of their loss. During the arrangements, our Funeral Director will discuss various venue options with you, as there are many choices available today, often a full service will have service sheets, photo show, music which can be played live or from a recording, casket flowers, catering, newspaper notices, Minister or Celebrant and live streaming or a recording.
Private services have become increasingly popular, offering a way to pay tribute to loved ones in an intimate setting with family and close friends. These services often occur before the notice is published in the newspaper. Families may choose to hold a public memorial service at a later date, this provides an opportunity to farewell your loved one for friends and any group or club participation that your loved one may have been a member of. This approach also suits those who prefer a no-fuss arrangement or when some family members are far away and unable to attend immediately.
A Direct Cremation is a no-viewing option, conducted as soon as practical, typically the day after your loved one has passed. This choice is often made due to personal beliefs or when family members are not nearby. A memorial service frequently follows a week or so later. It is crucial to discuss this option with family members beforehand to ensure it aligns with everyone's wishes.
Burial services are less common today. They can take place at your chosen venue or graveside, and we also offer direct burials with no service if preferred. However, with rising costs, many people opt for cremation. Ashes can then be buried in an ashes plot, family plot, or Urupa. Additionally, the natural burial ground at Mangaroa is available for those who prefer an eco-friendly option. For this, the deceased cannot be embalmed and must be dressed in natural clothing. The casket must be made of solid timber or wicker. If you wish to discuss these options, please feel free to visit us or contact us.
We strongly believe that a funeral service should honour the person that has passed. We always try to do so in a way that best reflects their passions and beliefs and celebrates their time here.
