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Cemeteries
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Burial procedures

Purchasing a plot

Cemetery plots maintained by us are only sold as required and may not be purchased in advance. However, more than one plot can be purchased at the time of a bereavement.

When a cemetery plot is purchased, there is no ownership of the actual land area. The purchase entitles the plot owner to exclusive right of burial in that plot.

A record of the plot purchase is recorded on a Burial Rights Certificate. Duplicates are available (a fee may be charged).

If payment for the plot has not been made, the person who applies for the burial is liable for payment. Where more than one single plot has been purchased, payment for both plots is required at the time of reservation.

No memorials, plaques or headstones can be erected until all fees have been paid. Fees include the exclusive right of burial and interment fees.

An owner of a plot may, with the consent of an authorised officer, transfer ownership rights to another person. This will incur a fee.

Where a plot has been purchased by a person that is now deceased, New Zealand estate and inheritance laws will be applied to determine who has the rights to the plot.

Burials will take place in a plot as determined by the Council.

Exclusive rights of burial are sold subject to terms and conditions decided by resolution of the Council. The exclusive right shall lapse if a burial does not take place within 60 years of the purchase date.

Forms - Burial and cremation forms

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Page last updated: 10:00am Wed 13 March 2024

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