Direct Cremations – Simple, Dignified, No Fuss
Cremation services made clear and stress-free, with everything included and no hidden costs.
Serving Nelson–Tasman families.
✓ Transparent pricing
✓ Local, caring guidance
✓ Simple process
Owen will personally guide you through each step.
Two Cremation Options
Direct Cremations
A simple, dignified cremation with no service- All paperwork and death registration
- Transfer within Nelson–Tasman
- Simple cremation casket
- Cremation at Wakapuaka Crematorium
- Caring, practical guidance
Direct Cremations + Committal
Short farewell at Wakapuaka Chapel before cremation- Everything in Direct Cremation
- Chapel time at Wakapuaka upto 30 minutes
- Assistance with Service (if needed)
- Flexible, informal or led by celebrant/minister
What is a Direct Cremation?
A direct cremation is a straightforward, low-cost option where your loved one is cremated without a traditional funeral service beforehand. Families in Nelson often choose this option when they want:
- A simple and stress-free process
- Lower costs without hidden extras
- The freedom to hold a private farewell or memorial later, in their own way
This choice allows you to focus on remembering your loved one without the added pressures of arranging a full service.
Ready to Arrange a Direct Cremation in Nelson?
We’re here to make the process as simple and stress-free as possible.
Phone AnytimeContact FormFrequently Asked Questions about Committal Services
It can be as short as a few minutes or up to half an hour. The timing is flexible and depends on what your family feels is right.
Yes, absolutely. Families often choose favourite songs, readings, or share stories. This time is completely yours.
Not necessarily. Some families prefer to lead the time themselves, while others invite a celebrant, minister, or family friend to guide the service.
Yes. Many families find it meaningful for children to be included in this simple, gentle farewell. Beloved pets have also attended.
Following the chapel gathering, the cremation takes place. There is no public viewing of this.
Coffin Covers
If families do not wish to decorate the coffin, we have various covers available for funeral services.
Additionally, we are considering painting these coffins in color as an extra option.
Sometimes, a family may provide their own covering or flag.
The Chapel at Wakapuaka Crematorium in 272 Atawhai Drive, Nelson is an ideal setting for an informal or formal farewell. Lovely surroundings – families can have a formal service or a simple informal farewell.
Wakapuaka Crematorium
We use Nelson Crematorium at Wakapuaka Cemetery, which is located on Atawhai Drive, just north of Nelson city.
The team that works there is very professional and takes pride in their work.
Each cremation is performed individually and with care. Only the ashes of that person are returned to the family.
Wakapuaka Cemetery is a lovely spot on the hill among the trees with a view of the sea.
The chapel has recently been redecorated and is perfect for small gatherings.
There is parking near the chapel; otherwise, it is an uphill climb from the main gate.
Sometimes people have a few questions about the cremation, so if you do, please don’t hesitate to ask.
