There are different types of plots and it’s important that you understand the differences about what you can and cannot do in each type of plot before you make your decision. Most of the cemeteries in our district are lawn cemeteries, which means that you cannot plant vegetation or place structures, borders or any items on the plot itself.
Choosing the right plot:
Monumental Services
Families planning a headstone or plaque for their loved one will need to seek the services and guidance from a monumental installer.
- Willetts Headstones & Memorials
07 307 1111
willettsfuneral@xtra.co.nz - Stonemasons Whakatāne
07 308 4144
darren@stonemasonswhk.co.nz
Note: All memorials are at the plot holders’ expense and require a Permit to Install.
Funeral Director Services
- Gateway Funeral Services
07 308 6102
office@gatewayfuneral.co.nz - Willetts Funeral Services
07 307 1111
willettsfuneral@xtra.co.nz
Permission to install a memorial
A permit is required for all headstone and plaque installations. You can personalise a headstone or plaque to honour a loved one - but it must comply with our guidelines around size, design, material and installation. Complete an Application to install a Cemetery Memorial form.
All headstones must be installed by a qualified monument-installer. Small ash plaques may be installed without the services of a qualified monument-installer, however, we do not recommend it.
Unveilings
To hold an unveiling of a memorial, please contact our Cemeteries team to arrange a time by emailing cemeteries@whakatane.govt.nz or phone 07 306 0500.
There is no charge for booking an unveiling ceremony.
Decorations, Flowers and Ornaments
We will begin re-instating a grave approximately 2 weeks following a burial. From this time onwards, please place all flowers and adornments on the concrete berm and avoid spreading onto neighbouring plots or the grass in front of the headstone. We will remove any items that prevent cemetery maintenance.