Financial arrangements

It is important to us that we meet your needs by ensuring the costs associated with the funeral fall within your budget. To make this possible, it is important that your funeral director is made aware of any financial requirements from the outset.  Financial arrangements for a funeral may be pre-planned or even pre-paid. If you would like an estimate of costs, please get in touch with as much information as possible to help us establish what those costs are likely to be.

The funeral account

The funeral account is sent to the Estate Executor or the family solicitor, and the family as soon as the Registration of Death Certificate becomes available from the Office of Births, Deaths and Marriages, which generally takes 7-10 days from the date of the funeral.  The account is due for payment four (4) weeks from the date of invoice.

Waikanae Funeral Home’s policy on credit is outlined in our company ‘Authority Form’, which is signed by the person giving instructions at the time of the funeral arrangement.

Financial assistance

Work and Income New Zealand (WINZ) have a funeral grant that may be available to those who cannot pay the full cost of a funeral. The grant is asset tested. We suggest that families make an appointment with the local WINZ office to confirm their eligibility.

ACC

Accident compensation (ACC) has a funeral grant for death occurring as a result of an accident or medical misadventure. Our funeral director can assist with claim documentation.

You cannot claim a funeral grant from both WINZ and ACC.

Medical insurance

Insurance companies also have a range of death covers. Check your policy to see if death cover is included.

Compassionate airfares

Air New Zealand along with many other airlines operate a compassionate airfares scheme.

The airline may rebate a portion of the airfare already paid for immediate family members travelling to the funeral. Ask your airline if you qualify before you make a booking.

Our staff can provide a letter of confirmation of attendance at the funeral for your application to the airline.