Help & Advice
Navigating the loss of a loved one is never easy. At Distinct Funerals, we are here to offer comfort and support through every step.
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Our experienced team can provide gentle guidance on all aspects of funeral planning, helping to ease the burden and simplify the decisions that need to be made.
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We understand how difficult it is to balance grief with the many practical tasks that follow a loss. You can trust us to take care of the details, ensuring your loved one’s wishes are honoured with dignity and respect.
You will find advice about the following below
What To Do When Someone Dies
Losing a loved one is never easy, and knowing what steps to take can feel overwhelming.
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​The guidance below outlines what to do in different situations.
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Remember, Distinct Funerals is available 24/7 to support you and take care of the arrangements when the time comes.
If a Loved One Passes Away at Home
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If unexpected: Call 111 for police and ambulance. They will attend and guide you through the immediate steps.
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If expected: Contact your loved one’s doctor or a certified nurse practitioner so they can issue a Medical Certificate of Cause of Death.
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If professional care was in place: A nurse or palliative caregiver will usually manage the paperwork and liaise directly with the doctor.
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Next step: Once the certificate has been issued, contact Distinct Funerals so we can transfer your loved one into our care and support you with the arrangements.
If a Loved One Passes Away in a Hospital, Rest Home, or Hospice
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The staff will inform the next of kin.
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They will arrange the Medical Certificate of Cause of Death and, if required, the Application for Cremation form.
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As soon as you are notified, it is advisable to contact Distinct Funerals. We will then coordinate with the facility and transfer your loved one into our care.
If a Death is Sudden, Accidental, or Unconfirmed
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The police must be notified immediately. They will arrange for your loved one to be transferred to the coroner’s mortuary.
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The coroner will complete the necessary examination and notify Distinct Funerals when their role is complete.
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Our team will then take your loved one into our care, handle communication with the coroner on your behalf, and support you in planning the funeral service.
We are here for you, every step of the way.
Call Distinct Funerals on 03 218 9468 at any time, day or night.
Who is responsible for a funeral?
A funeral is usually arranged by the executor named in the will, close family members, or trusted friends, often in partnership with a funeral director.
While it isn’t a legal requirement to use a funeral director, many families find it comforting and practical to do so, as it eases the burden of making numerous decisions during an emotional time.
Funeral directors are experienced professionals who provide guidance and support from the moment of passing through to the funeral service — and continue to care for families long after the service has ended.
What is an Executor?
An executor is the person named in a will — or appointed by the court — to manage the financial and legal affairs of someone who has passed away.
It is important that the executor is notified as soon as possible. They are encouraged to seek professional guidance to fully understand their rights and responsibilities.
The executor’s duties include managing the deceased’s property, paying debts and taxes, and ensuring assets are distributed to the rightful beneficiaries. If probate is required, the executor must oversee the process or engage a lawyer to assist.
If no will can be located, the responsibility usually falls to the next of kin, who should seek professional advice before attempting to settle the estate.
Funeral Expenses
Who is responsible for paying for a funeral?
Covering funeral costs often begins with determining where the funds will come from. In some cases, expenses may be paid from the deceased’s estate or bank account.
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Other possible sources include life insurance, ACC, Veterans’ Affairs, pre-paid funeral plans, health funds, superannuation, or workers’ compensation.
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At Distinct Funerals, we understand that funeral costs can sometimes be unexpected and create financial pressure. We encourage families to talk openly with us about their circumstances during the planning process, so we can create a meaningful farewell that honours your loved one without adding unnecessary stress.
Additional Support
In some cases, financial assistance may be available through:
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WINZ Funeral Grant – a government grant to help cover some funeral costs (subject to eligibility).
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Givealittle or community fundraisers – friends and family may wish to help contribute towards costs.
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Other support organisations – depending on circumstances, additional help may be available through local community services.
Planning
The first step in planning a funeral is to contact a funeral home. A funeral director will guide you through the process, helping you make the necessary decisions while ensuring your loved one’s wishes are honoured.
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The cost of a funeral can vary depending on your choices, including:
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Burial or cremation
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Type and extent of services
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Choice of coffin or casket
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Purchase of a burial plot or cremation fees
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Professional services such as grave preparation, newspaper notices, clergy, florists, and more
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At Distinct Funerals, we are committed to working alongside families to create services that meet your needs and reflect the life of your loved one with dignity and care.
On the Day of the Funeral
We take care of the details, so you can focus on what matters most.
On the day of the service, the Distinct Funerals team will be by your side, offering support and guidance throughout.
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Our experienced funeral directors take care of every detail, allowing you to focus on honouring and remembering your loved one.
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With our gentle and compassionate presence, we help create a calm and respectful atmosphere so you can spend meaningful time with family and guests.