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What to do

Following a death, many people are unsure how to proceed - we hope the following information helps to guide you.

What happens next

When a death occurs, there are certain things that need to be done and this process depends greatly on where the death happened. Please contact us immediately for professional help and advice.

At Home

When someone dies at home, you should contact their doctor as soon as possible, who will arrange for a certificate to be issued confirming the cause of the death.

You will also need to find a funeral director, whose role is to assume responsibility for the deceased and organise their transfer to a funeral home.

In Hospital Or Rest Home

When a loved one dies in hospital or residential care, the staff will contact the family. They will also take care of the medical formalities and may assist you in finding a funeral director, who will arrange for the transfer of the deceased to a funeral home.

If you have decided on cremation, you should advise the nursing staff, as the doctor will need to prepare additional paperwork.

The Coroner

When a death is unexpected or the death certificate is delayed, the Coroner may need to provide a report. If this happens, your funeral director can advise you on how to proceed.

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Looking for more information?

In this brochure you will find helpful information on what to think about if you are planning a funeral for someone who has died, or pre-planning your own or someone else’s funeral. We hope this information offers you some insight and reassurance that we are here to support you every step of the way.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Read through our most commonly asked questions when it comes to a sudden death.

What should I do immediately after an unexpected death?

See answer

Call 111. The police will liaise with the coroner.

The steps you need to take will depend on where the death occurred—at home, in a hospital, or elsewhere.  The coroner may consult the deceased’s GP and if there is a medical history, a  doctor may complete a medical cause of death certificate. A funeral director can guide you through transport, legalities, and care of the deceased.

What do I do if someone dies at home in New Zealand?

See answer

Contact their GP as soon as possible, then call a funeral director.

The doctor will issue a medical certificate confirming the cause of death. A licensed funeral director will take responsibility for the deceased and arrange transport to the funeral home.

What happens if a loved one dies in a hospital or rest home?

See answer

The staff will notify the family and manage most medical paperwork.

They may also recommend a funeral director who will collect the deceased. If cremation is planned, inform the staff immediately so the necessary documentation can be prepared by a doctor.

What should I do if the Coroner gets involved?

See answer

Follow the guidance of your funeral director—they’ll liaise with the Coroner.

The Coroner is usually involved when a death is unexpected, accidental, or when the cause is unclear. This can delay the issuing of a death certificate, but your funeral director will help navigate the process.

What if I’ve never organised a funeral before - where do I start?

See answer

Start by contacting a funeral director - they’ll walk you through everything.

They can coordinate transport, help with medical paperwork, and advise you on legal obligations. This is especially helpful if you're feeling overwhelmed or unsure of the next steps.

Do I need to choose a funeral home immediately?

See answer

Yes, especially to manage transport and documentation.

Early contact with a funeral director ensures the deceased is transferred respectfully and the legal steps are followed correctly, including notification of the Coroner if needed.

What’s the difference between a death at home and in care?

See answer

At home, the family must call a doctor themselves. In care, staff do this for you.

In both cases, a funeral director is required to transport the deceased and begin arrangements. However, hospital or care staff may also assist you in selecting a funeral provider.

When should I inform staff if cremation is preferred?

See answer

Let the hospital or care facility know as soon as possible.

Doctors must complete additional forms for cremation. Notifying staff early ensures there are no delays in the certification process and respects your wishes.

What should expats know about dealing with a death in New Zealand?

See answer

Contact a GP to certify the death and engage a New Zealand-registered funeral director. If you're unfamiliar with local customs, your funeral provider can guide you through legal and cultural expectations.

Who handles all the paperwork when someone dies?

See answer

Doctors handle the medical certificates; funeral directors do the rest.

If the Coroner is involved, they’ll issue a report. Your funeral director will help manage forms for cremation, transportation, and liaison with health services.

Can I delay choosing a funeral director?

See answer

Not for long - early involvement is important for practical reasons.

While decisions about the service can wait, a funeral director is needed immediately to collect the deceased and begin legal processes. They’ll also provide support during early planning stages.