The Funeral Financials

An organisation called Death Without Debt (DWD) is holding a workshop in Taupō to show people how to arrange a funeral themselves at a fraction of the usual cost.

Workshop facilitator, Tilly Stevens from It All Matters End of Life Planning, Education and Support says the cost of dying is driving many people into debt.

She believes there is a growing desire by whānau to do more of the funeral arrangements themselves and the workshop on July 3 shows them how to do that.

“In some places, DIY funerals can be done for just over $1,000 if people know what their options are beforehand, and perceived obstacles such as the paperwork process doesn’t trip people up.” 

Nationwide, DWD is encouraging the funeral industry to unbundle their services so people can make informed decisions on what aspects they want support with. 

“We have seen some really positive movement in this direction from a number of funeral directors, including here in Taupō”.

“Growing numbers of families are organising funerals themselves and in so doing bringing down the cost of dying for everyone.”

The workshops cover everything from writing a will to probate and of course cover funeral planning and practicalities. 

“If people can talk about death, they are half-way there. Communities and marae can ease the way, both emotionally and financially, for the bereaved by establishing networks of people with know-how”. 

The Taupō workshop runs from 12pm to 4pm, Friday July 3,at REAP, 73 Titiraupenga Street.

The cost is $40 per person, $55 for two