Cemetery improvements easing plot pressure

A new cemetery reservation process introduced in December is streamlining the way plots are booked and is helping to better manage cemeteries across the district.

To reserve a plot, customers can now visit the council’s cemeteries webpage to access new online application forms – one for burials and one for ash interments. The webpage is more user-friendly and offers information on local cemeteries, crematoriums and burial-related services. It also outlines restrictions that may apply when reserving a plot.

Previously, there were no restrictions on the number of plots that could be reserved in council-run cemeteries. Population growth, an ageing community and cases of plots reserved but unused for many years, were creating plot shortages in cemeteries across the Far North. This updated process means the council can more effectively plan cemetery expansions as and when they are needed.

Cemetery record-keeping is also being addressed by the improvements. From 1989, council records changed from being paper-based to computer-based. It recently came to light that during the transition between the two systems, incorrect information had been assigned to some plots, creating some distressing situations for grieving whānau. Discrepancies with some older plot locations, where burial records pre-date the 1980s, have now also been identified. This is a large and on-going piece of work that staff are actively managing.

To ensure accuracy, council staff are meeting with applicants and funeral directors face-to-face to double-check plot locations before processing burial requests. Administrative systems have also been improved to enhance efficiency and create a smoother outcome for customers.

Currently, Far North District Council oversees 11 cemeteries located in Kerikeri, Russell, Paihia, Tōtara North, Kāeo, Rāwene, Kaitāia, Kawakawa, Kaikohe, Kohukohu, and Ōkaihau.

The new guidelines will be reviewed on or before December 2025.