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Natural Burials

Hope Family Funerals is proud to be Tauranga’s first certified funeral home for natural burials,

offering families an environmentally friendly way to honour their loved ones.

What is a natural burial?

Natural burials emphasise returning the body to the earth in the most natural way possible, minimising environmental impact. Key aspects include:

  • No embalming: Preserves the body’s natural state and avoids introducing chemicals into the soil.

  • Sustainable materials: The deceased is buried in a casket made of untreated wood, cardboard, or wrapped in a natural fibre shroud.

  • Shallow graves: Bodies are buried in the active soil layer to maximise natural decomposition.

  • Planting trees: A native tree is planted on or near the plot, contributing to the creation of a permanent memorial forest or bushland.

Why choose a natural burial?

Natural burials offer:

  • Environmental benefits: Supports ecological restoration and reduces pollution.

  • A meaningful long-lasting impact: Families contribute to the growth of native bush or forest.

  • Simplicity: Focuses on sustainable practices and reduces unnecessary interventions.

 

Cemetery options in the Tauranga region

Currently, natural burials are available at the following cemeteries:

  • Hillcrest Cemetery (Whakatāne)

  • Omahu Cemetery (Thames)

  • Forest Grove Natural Burial Area (Hamilton)

A new natural burial cemetery is planned for Te Puke, though it is not expected to open for at least a year.

Each cemetery has their own standards regarding the casket and what it is made from. If you are interested in the casket standards for natural burials and/or if you are wanting to make your own casket, please find more information on this page on the Natural Burials NZ website.

Hope Family Funerals’ commitment

For over 40 years, Hope Family Funerals has been committed to offering meaningful, personalised funeral services. Achieving natural burial certification allows us to:

  • Provide families with more options that align with their values.

  • Support the growing demand for environmentally conscious funeral practices.

  • Continue honouring the wishes of families in the Western Bay of Plenty and Tauranga regions.

Costs can range from $8,000 for a family-led natural burial to +$14,000 for a graveside farewell with a memorial service*. 

*Given the travel time to cemeteries offering natural burial options, we recommend holding a memorial service for your loved one closer to home.

Contact us
Are you considering a natural burial? Whether you're seeking guidance, have questions, or need immediate assistance, we're here for you. Contact us today and let us support you with care and compassion. 

info@hopefunerals.co.nz

07 543 3151

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