The NZCCC Ngā Rau Hotu (New Zealand Cemeteries and Crematoria Collective) is urging all incoming councils to plan proactively and strategically for their local cemetery spaces.
With concerns that burial spaces around running out across New Zealand, the NZCCC says councils must act now to secure land and ensure sustainable, long-term provision for their communities.
Cemeteries in Auckland and other regions are already at or near capacity, forcing delays and limiting burial options.
NZCCC Ngā Rau Hotu Chair Daniel Chrisp says too many councils are failing to plan far enough ahead and excluding cemeteries from urban growth strategies that often focus narrowly on housing.
“Well-planned cemeteries are essential community spaces, not just burial grounds,” says Chrisp. “They offer green spaces, connect us to our history, and, once less operational, provide peaceful recreation areas for walkers and runners.”
The NZCCC Ngā Rau Hotu endorses best practice for cemetery development and expansion and offers councils advice and guidance. The organisation recommends planning for at least 50 years of capacity in new cemeteries and beginning the process of acquiring new land no later than when 10 years of capacity remain.
Chrisp says some councils have less than five years’ capacity left and are taking too long to secure new land. In some cases, councils have made major decisions about cemetery services without public consultation, directly affecting community wellbeing.
“Almost every cemetery professional I speak to says the same thing — they are running out of space,” Chrisp says.
The NZCCC Ngā Rau Hotu sends a clear message to new councillors and mayors: “Don’t forget the dead.”
“As councils face major reforms and pressures over water services, housing, and rates, we must not lose sight of the need to care for our departed. The wellbeing of our communities depends on it”, says Chrisp.