Find a Loved One

Finding where someone is buried or cremated is usually quick once you know which search portal to use. Follow the steps below, and you’ll be able to locate the exact cemetery, plot number, or cremation record.

1. Gather the Details You’ll Need

Before you start searching, have these basic details ready:

• Full name of the person
  
• Approximate date of death (year is usually enough)
  
• Place of death if known
  
• Correct spelling — even small variations can change results
  

Tip: If you’re unsure of the spelling, try searching with fewer letters or just the surname.

2. Choose the Right Search Portal

Auckland’s cemeteries are managed by different councils and organisations. Use the portal that matches the cemetery region:

Auckland Council Cemeteries

(Waikumete, North Shore, Manukau Memorial Gardens, Papakura, and others)

→ Link: Auckland Council Cemetery Search

Private Cemeteries

Some cemeteries (like Purewa or Mangere Lawn Cemetery) have their own search tools.

→ Link: Purewa Cemetery Search

→ Link: Mangere Lawn Cemetery Search

Other Regions

If the person wasn’t buried in Auckland, you may need regional or nationwide databases.

→ Link: NZ Cemeteries Database

3. Enter the Name and Adjust Your Filters

In the search box:

• Type the full name
  
• Add the year of death if known
  
• Select cemetery or region if the portal allows it
  

If nothing appears:

• Try surname only
  
• Remove dates
  
• Check alternative spellings
  
• Search nearby regions
  

4. Review the Search Results

Most portals will show:

• The cemetery name
  
• The plot or row number
  
• Type of service (burial or cremation)
  
• Sometimes the age, date of death, or funeral director
  

Make note of the plot number for visiting or for providing to a funeral director.

5. What If You Can’t Find Them?

If the search returns no results:

• They may be buried in a private or church cemetery not listed online
  
• The spelling may be incorrect
  
• The death may have occurred in another region
  
• Older burials may not be digitised yet
  

You can contact us directly and we’ll help guide you through the next steps or contact the cemetery on your behalf.