Funeral service options
If you are planning a service for your loved one, there are many options to consider, including the venue, celebrant, flowers, photo tributes, and more. We will guide you through each choice with care, helping you shape a service that truly reflects their life. Together, we will create a meaningful farewell that feels right for your family.
Choosing a venue that feels right to you
Whether it is a garden, a church, a marae, your family home or our own Totara Lounge, we can help you arrange a funeral in the setting that best reflects your loved one. We have supported families at many different venues across Tauranga and the Western Bay, so whatever you have in mind, we will help make it happen.
Totara Lounge: a warm and relaxed service venue surrounded by nature
Originally established as a wedding venue, the Totara Lounge is set among beautifully landscaped grounds with mature trees and charming gardens. Today, it offers a peaceful, light-filled space to celebrate the life of a loved one.
Service sheets
Your funeral director and celebrant will work closely with you to create a personalised service sheet that reflects your wishes and honours your loved one. Once the content is finalised, our in-house design team will carefully lay out the design. After your approval, we will print the required number of copies on high-quality paper, ready for the day of the service.
Celebrants
We work with a trusted network of local celebrants, each bringing their own unique background, personality, and presentation style. This means we can help connect you with someone who aligns with your values, beliefs, and the tone you would like for the service.
Much like an MC at a wedding, a celebrant guides the ceremony on the day. They welcome guests, lead the service and ensure everything flows smoothly. Once chosen, your celebrant will work closely with you to craft a personalised service that honours your loved one in a meaningful and respectful way.
Flowers
Your funeral director can liaise with local florists to prepare a personal floral arrangement to suit your loved one's style and personality. Floral sprays, upright arrangements and petals to place on the casket are common choices for a funeral.
Catering and refreshments
We can arrange catering through trusted local providers to suit your preferences and budget. If the service is held in our Totara Lounge, our licensed bar can also be opened at your request — offering guests the option to enjoy a drink before, during or after the service.
Photo tributes
Photos are a powerful way to honour memories and share your loved one’s story. Popular options include a photo reflection slideshow and a framed 8x10 photo to place on the casket. We can also provide easels and photo boards for displaying printed photos during the service.
Livestream and recording
We offer livestreaming and funeral recording services to help include family and friends who can’t attend in person. A private link will be provided ahead of the service for you to share as needed. If preferred, we can also make the link available on our funeral notice page, depending on your wishes.
Not sure what feels right yet? We are here to help
Whether you already have ideas or you are just starting to think things through, we can talk you through the options and help shape a farewell that truly fits. Give us a call on ((07) 543 3151. or get in touch online.