Family Meeting Guide

A gentle guide for families to meet, discuss funeral plans, and understand the key steps involved in arranging a meaningful farewell.

An overhead, close-up view of four sets of hands and arms (no faces visible) of a Cook Islands family gathered around a wooden table. They are wearing light, neutral-toned clothing (cream and soft green). In front of each person is an open notebook, suggesting a discussion. There are three cups of warm, steaming tea and a wooden bowl on a table runner with subtle, woven Pasifika-inspired patterns. The scene is softly lit, conveying calm, togetherness, and cultural support.

Taking Time to Plan Together

Planning a service is an act of love, and we encourage you to meet and discuss the details at your own pace. This guide outlines the four key topics to consider. Once your family has discussed your preferences, contact us with your plan. We will handle all the legalities and logistics, confirming every detail and securing bookings to ensure the service is expertly managed exactly as you wish.

Choose the Type of Funeral

Deciding between a burial, cremation or repatriation is an important first step. Talk together about your loved one’s wishes, your family traditions and what feels right
  • Burial – Consider the benefits of a permanent resting place. Discuss location, costs and whether a traditional or natural burial suits your family.
  • Cremation – Think about whether you’d like to keep, scatter or inter the ashes. Discuss environmental impact and any specific cultural needs.
  • Repatriation – If your loved one wished to be buried in their homeland, talk about the logistics, cost and any cultural or legal requirements.

Agreeing on the type of funeral will give your funeral director clear direction and help you feel confident about your choice

Hyperrealistic, editorial image of a memorial display on a grey granite grave headstone in a cemetery. The scene is serene, featuring a discreet, pale beige cremation urn beside an elegant arrangement of cream roses, dried hydrangeas, and eucalyptus foliage. The items rest on a slightly opened paper map (travel motif), and a subtle, curved flight path is lightly etched or drawn onto the stone's surface. The neutral tones and overcast sky convey calm remembrance and honor a life of travel

Services & Viewings

Discuss what kind of ceremony and viewing (if any) will best honour your loved one’s life. Consider the tone of the service, who might lead it and how family and friends will participate.
  • Funeral service – Decide if you want a formal or informal ceremony and who should speak. Consider readings, music and cultural or religious elements.
  • Viewing – Decide if you want a viewing before the funeral and whether it will be open or closed casket. Discuss where and who should attend.
  • Memorial service – If you prefer not to have the body present, consider a memorial service and talk about timing and tone.
  • Celebration of life – If you want something less formal, discuss how to highlight your loved one’s personality through stories, music and personal touches.

Agreeing on the type of service and viewing will help the funeral home tailor the preparation and arrangements to your needs.

Locations and Venues

Choosing the right location can make the farewell feel personal and comforting.
  • Funeral home chapel – A private, comfortable space within our funeral home for intimate services.
  • Cemetery or crematorium chapel – A formal setting at the cemetery or crematorium with professional staff on site.
  • Church or religious setting – For families who wish to honour specific religious traditions. We coordinate with your chosen place of worship.
  • Outdoor or alternative venues – Such as a family home, or a community hall. We’ll help with logistics.

We’ll help you select and book a venue that aligns with your family’s traditions and wishes.

Additional Extras

Personal touches can make a farewell feel special and reflective of your loved one
  • Flowers and floral arrangements – From simple bouquets to elaborate displays.
  • Catering – Provide refreshments or a shared meal for guests.
  • Keepsakes – Memorial books, thank‑you cards, photo displays, memory tables.
  • Order of service booklets – Beautifully designed keepsakes for guests.
  • Music or live performances – Choose meaningful songs or live musicians.
  • Livestreaming – A way to include family and friends who cannot attend in person

We can tailor every detail to reflect your loved one’s life and make the service uniquely personal

Hyperrealistic overhead view of a respectful funeral memory table setting with a neutral, warm color palette. The display includes a lush centerpiece of white and blush roses and foliage, surrounded by eight glowing pillar candles. Also visible are a framed photo of an elderly couple, a wooden beaded lei or bracelet, smooth river stones, service sheets, and a book with a subtle Polynesian-inspired pattern. This arrangement conveys peace and remembrance

What Happens After Your Family Discussion?

After your family has made the key decisions, contact us so we can help you move forward. We’ll record your choices, answer any questions, and arrange a time for you to come into our office to complete the paperwork and preparations.

Call to Share Your DecisionsWhat Happens in the Arrangement Meeting?