Mortuary Care
Embalming and Mortuary Care: What You Need to Know.
Firstly, embalming is not a legal requirement.
The only exception is when your loved one is being repatriated overseas.
Embalming is not required for transport on domestic flights within
New Zealand (however, it is recommended), provided all airline and health requirements are met.
The purpose of embalming is to slow down the natural changes that occur after death.
It helps to preserve the body and maintain appearance and condition until their final disposition.
It can also help restore a more natural look, which can provide comfort to families as they spend time with their loved one.
Embalming may be recommended when there is a significant delay before the funeral, during the warmer months, or when your loved one needs to be transported over a long distances.
We’re here to talk through your options with you. We will offer guidance based on your needs, wishes, and cultural values, and answer any questions openly and honestly. Wherever possible, the final choice remains with you.
Embalming is a skilled and delicate process. It should only be carried out by trained professionals who are members of the New Zealand Embalmers Association (NZEA).
At all times, your loved one will be treated with the utmost respect and dignity.
The No-Touch Approach
Not too long ago, embalming was often done without discussion.
But times have changed. At Wairarapa Funeral Services, we believe in offering informed choice.
For some families, a ‘no-touch’ approach brings peace – especially when a loved one has had a difficult journey, and potentially suffered through a long illness.
Simply leaving them to rest as they are, can feel right.
It is, however, helpful and recommended to keep your loved one in a cool environment when choosing not to embalm.
You can still spend time with them.
You can still take things slowly.
You can still honour them in your own way.
Just as every life is different, so is every death. That’s why we believe each family deserves a respectful, honest conversation about whether embalming is appropriate, or necessary, for your specific situation.
Our role is to advise you professionally and supportively. But the choice will always be yours, where possible.