Funeral Cost Calculator

NZ funeral cost ranges in 2026: basic cremation $4-7k, standard cremation with service $9-12k, standard burial with service $13-17k, premium service with reception $17-25k. Auckland and Queenstown are typically 20-30% more. Cremation is ~50% cheaper than burial. Pre-paid funeral plans (Forrests, Davis) lock in current pricing. Source: Funeral Directors Association NZ.

Yes if the deceased was a NZ resident and the surviving family meets asset/income tests. The 2026 maximum is $2,559.69. Apply via Work and Income within 12 months of death. ACC pays a separate grant (up to $7,556) if the death was caused by an injury. Both can be claimed if eligible. Source: WINZ + ACC.

A typical NZ funeral director's base fee ($3,500-6,500) usually includes: collecting the deceased from place of death, preparation of the body (washing, dressing, basic embalming if requested), use of the chapel or venue for the service, a celebrant or minister (sometimes extra), a basic casket, transport to crematorium or cemetery, registration of death with BDM, and the coordinator's time. NOT included: cemetery plot ($1,500-3,500), cremation fee ($800-1,200), headstone ($2,500-8,000), catering, flowers, newspaper notices, or extras like videography. Always ask for an itemised quote — FDANZ members must provide one. Source: Funeral Directors Association of NZ.

Yes — three options. (1) Pre-paid plans (Forrests, Davis, Geoffrey T Hassall) lock in today's prices, with funds held in a trust account. Cost: $3,000-15,000 paid upfront. (2) Funeral insurance (Cigna, Pinnacle Life) pays a lump sum on death, typically $5,000-30,000 cover, premiums $20-100/month. Watch out: many policies cost more in premiums over time than the payout. (3) Set aside savings in a separate account labelled for funeral costs. WINZ Funeral Grant (up to $2,559.69 in 2026) is asset-tested — pre-paid plans are exempt from the asset test. Source: MoneyHub funeral guide.