Collection: Repatriation
When a death occurs overseas, or a loved one needs to be returned to their homeland, our repatriation specialists handle all arrangements—from documentation and flights to coordination with overseas funeral directors—ensuring a respectful transfer.
Let us take the weight off your shoulders with our repatriation services. We’ll take care of your loved one respectfully and without cutting corners.
We're available 24 hours.
Our Repatriation Services
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Outgoing Repatriation
for families in Auckland who need to send a loved one to their country of birth or final resting place overseas.
Regular price $6,395.00 NZDRegular price -
Airline Freight Charge
the cargo fee charged by the airline to transport your loved one, invoiced separately to the repatriation service fee.
Regular price $2,500.00 NZDRegular price -
Incoming Repatriation
for families bringing a loved one home to New Zealand after a death overseas.
Regular price $950.00 NZDRegular price -
Repatriation of Ashes
for families transporting cremated remains internationally, which carries its own set of airline and customs requirements.
Regular price $0.00 NZDRegular price
Before Your Loved One’s Journey Home
Guiding you through every step for a smooth and respectful return home from Auckland.
Service in Auckland or Overseas
Decide where to hold the farewell
You may wish to have a family service or private viewing here in Auckland before travel, or hold all ceremonies once your loved one has arrived home. We’ll help coordinate either option with care.
Consignee and Destination Details
Who will receive your loved one
Every repatriation of remains requires a named consignee — the person or funeral home who will receive your loved one overseas. We’ll collect their details and handle the communication with airlines and local authorities.
Travel and Documentation
Flight, airline, and paperwork
We manage all documentation, including death and air transport certificates, and can arrange the flight booking to your chosen destination. Our team ensures everything meets international regulations.
Who We Help
Auckland is home to one of the most culturally diverse communities in the world. A significant number of the families we work with have connections to the Pacific Islands, including the Cook Islands, Samoa, Tonga, Niue, and Fiji, as well as to countries across Asia, South Asia, the United Kingdom, and beyond.
Overseas repatriation funeral arrangements vary by destination country. Some nations have strict embalming requirements. Others require health authority clearances or have specific casket specifications. We've handled repatriation to and from countries across the Pacific, Asia, and Europe, and we know what each destination needs before the process begins.
ANY QUESTIONS?
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Are flights included with the repatriation?
No, flights for family are not included in our international repatriation service. However, we work closely with airlines and freight providers to arrange the safe and dignified transport of your loved one to their home country. Our team manages all required documentation, customs clearances, compassionate passport and flight coordination to ensure the deceased is repatriated with care and respect.
What other costs are there?
In addition to our repatriation services, there may be other costs involved depending on the destination country and airline requirements. These can include fees from funeral directors in the receiving country, as well as customs or health clearances upon arrival. We provide guidance throughout this process, outlining any additional expenses in advance to ensure families have a clear understanding of all costs involved in getting their loved one home with care and dignity.
When do we get the death certificate?
We register the death with Births, Deaths and Marriages as soon as possible after the passing. An original certificate is required to apply for the air transport documentation needed for repatriation. Two official copies of the death certificate are issued: one for travel purposes and the other for the family's records.
How long does repatriation take?
It depends on the destination country and how quickly the required documentation can be issued. Most international repatriations take one to two weeks from the time we begin the process. We'll give you a realistic timeframe upfront and keep your family informed throughout.
Can we hold a service in Auckland before the transfer?
Yes. Many families choose to have a private viewing or a gathering here in Auckland before their loved one travels for an overseas repatriation funeral. We can accommodate this and work it into the overall timing of the arrangement.
My loved one passed away overseas. Where do I start?
Call us first. We'll contact the funeral home or hospital overseas on your behalf and take it from there. You don't need to manage that communication yourself; that's what we're here for.
What countries can you repatriate to?
Worldwide. We regularly arrange repatriation of remains to Pacific Island nations, including Samoa, Tonga, the Cook Islands, Fiji, and Niue, as well as to countries across Asia, South Asia, Europe, and the United Kingdom. If you're unsure whether we can help with a specific destination, just ask.
What countries can you repatriate to?
Worldwide. We regularly arrange repatriation of remains to Pacific Island nations, including Samoa, Tonga, the Cook Islands, Fiji, and Niue, as well as to countries across Asia, South Asia, Europe, and the United Kingdom. If you're unsure whether we can help with a specific destination, just ask.
Do you handle repatriation of ashes as well?
Yes. Transporting cremated remains internationally has its own airline and customs requirements, which vary by country. We manage the process from start to finish — including the correct documentation and approved containers for air travel. You can find more details on our Repatriation of Ashes page.
Does the body need to be embalmed for international repatriation?
In most cases, yes. Embalming is a standard requirement for international air transport of a deceased person. Some countries have additional preservation or sealing requirements for the casket. We take care of all preparation to ensure your loved one meets the requirements of both the airline and the receiving country.