Why Consider Pre-Planning Funerals?
Pre-planning simply means thinking ahead about your funeral wishes while you are well, so that they are clearly known when the time comes. It is not about dwelling on loss; it is about clarity, comfort, and having a say in something deeply personal.
Many people find real peace of mind in knowing their wishes are recorded and understood. It also means your loved ones can spend time together grieving and remembering, rather than guessing what you would have wanted.
There is no right time to start thinking about this. Some people begin pre-planning after attending a funeral that moved them, others simply want their affairs in order. Whatever your reason, we are here to help, gently and without pressure.
What Does Pre-Planning Involve?
Pre-planning funerals is a conversation, not a transaction. It usually involves talking through your preferences for burial or cremation, the kind of service you would like, music or readings that matter to you, and any cultural or faith traditions you wish to include.
You might also want to think about practical details, such as your preferred casket style from our range of Caskets and Urns, or whether you would like a small, simple gathering or a larger service celebrating your life.
None of this needs to be decided in one sitting. We can talk through your wishes over as much time as you need, revisiting and adjusting details whenever you like.
How Whittakers Supports Pre-Planning Funerals
Eldon and Leslee personally meet with families and individuals considering pre-planning, taking the time to listen without rushing the conversation. You can meet with us at our Ruakaka funeral home on Kepa Road, or we are happy to come to you.
We will walk you through the practical options available, including our Family Care Package and Simple Cremation Care Package, so you can make informed choices with transparent pricing from the outset. There is never any pressure to decide more than you are comfortable with in a single conversation.
Because we are a local, family-run funeral home, the people you speak to during pre-planning are very likely the same people who will care for you or your loved one later. That continuity means a great deal to many of the families we support across Ruakaka, Waipu, One Tree Point, Bream Bay and Whangarei.
Recording Your Wishes
Once your wishes are discussed, we help you record them clearly so they are easy for your family to find and follow when needed. This can include your preferences around burial or cremation, service style, and any specific requests close to your heart.
Having this written down removes the guesswork for your loved ones at a time when they are likely to be grieving and may find decisions difficult. It is a genuinely thoughtful gift to leave behind, quiet and practical.
Your pre-planning record can be updated at any time as your circumstances or wishes change. Nothing is locked in forever.
Talking It Through With Your Whanau
Pre-planning works best when it is shared with the people close to you. Letting your whanau know that you have thought about your wishes, and where those wishes are recorded, brings comfort to everyone involved.
Some families find these conversations bring them closer, opening space to talk about memories, values, and what matters most. We have supported many local families through these discussions and are happy to help facilitate the conversation if that would be helpful.
If you would like to understand more about the funeral process before making any decisions, our free Community Talks are a relaxed, no-obligation way to learn more with others in a group setting.
"Highly recommend Whittakers funeral home to take care of your loved one when the time comes. Eldon and Leslee provided the personal touch and compassion that I needed when my husband passed away and they sorted everything I wanted, done with no problems at all." Reanne, Northland
"Highly recommend Whittakers funeral home to take care of your loved one when the time comes. Eldon and Leslee provided the personal touch and compassion that I needed when my husband passed away and they sorted everything I wanted, done with no problems at all." Reanne, Northland
Getting Started
Starting the pre-planning conversation is simple and there is no obligation. You can call us, send an email, or visit us at the funeral home for an unhurried chat about your wishes.
Whether you are pre-planning for yourself, or supporting a parent or loved one through this process, we will meet you with patience and respect. Talk with us whenever you feel ready.
Common questions answered
What is funeral pre-planning?
Funeral pre-planning is the process of recording your funeral wishes in advance, such as burial or cremation preferences and service style, while you are well. It gives you a say in something personal and brings peace of mind to you and your whanau.
Is pre-planning the same as pre-paying for a funeral?
No, pre-planning is about recording your wishes and preferences, while pre-paying is a separate financial decision some families choose to make. At Whittakers Funerals, we focus first on understanding and documenting your wishes, and can talk through payment options separately if you wish.
Can I change my pre-planning decisions later?
Yes, your pre-planning record can be updated at any time as your circumstances, wishes, or preferences change. Nothing you record with us is locked in permanently.
Do I need to involve my family in pre-planning?
It is not required, but sharing your wishes with your whanau is strongly encouraged, as it brings comfort and clarity to loved ones later. Many families find these conversations meaningful and even bring them closer together.
How do I start pre-planning with Whittakers Funerals?
You can start by calling us on 0800 000 929, sending an email to admin@whittakersfunerals.co.nz, or visiting our Ruakaka funeral home for an unhurried conversation. There is no obligation and no pressure to decide everything at once.
Is pre-planning only for older people?
No, pre-planning is for anyone who wants clarity and peace of mind about their future wishes, regardless of age or health. Some people begin pre-planning after attending a funeral that made them reflect, while others simply prefer having things organised.
Whittakers Funerals
25 Kepa Road
Ruakākā
New Zealand
0800 000 929