Across New Zealand, a growing number of people are dying without known family or friends to arrange their final farewells, placing a burden on local councils and charitable organizations. Recent data indicates a significant increase in these cases, particularly in the Auckland region.
Rising Numbers of Unclaimed Deaths
In the past year, Auckland Council covered the cost of cremation for 15 individuals who died without any family or friends to claim their remains. This represents a substantial increase from the previous year, when the council funded five cremations and one burial. A similar spike occurred in 2022, with 11 cremations covered by the council. Over the last five years, Auckland Council has provided end-of-life services – including one burial and 43 cremations – for people with no known relatives, as stated by Auckland Council’s Manager of Cemetery Services, Nikki Nelson.
Christchurch City Council also reports an increase in what they officially term “Poor Person burials.” By November of this year, the council had covered the cost of eight such burials. Simplicity Funerals Christchurch manages these burials, initiating a process to locate any potential next of kin, including contacting GPs, the Public Trust, Perpetual Guardian, and police. If these efforts are unsuccessful, a Justice of the Peace authorizes the burial.
A Community Service
Jamie Harvey, Manager of Simplicity Funerals Christchurch, described the process as “labour intensive” but emphasized his organization’s commitment to providing a respectful service. “As human beings we are not immune to any of the emotions, so it can be a little bit trying. But equally it’s really rewarding that this person, who may not have anyone in their world, we are able to look after them with respect and dignity,” Harvey said. While friends are welcome to attend the burials, council rules currently prevent the placement of headstones or memorials without payment of associated fees.
Wellington City Council has covered six indigent services since 2020, while the Christchurch Mayoral Welfare Fund approved assistance for two funerals between October 2024 and October 2025, totaling $2400. In Dunedin, costs for indigent burials and cremations are now covered by Work and Income New Zealand (WINZ) funeral grants.
Frequently Asked Questions
What happens if no one claims a body?
If no family or friends come forward, some councils cover the cost of a burial or cremation. Auckland Council, for example, covered 15 cremations in the last year.
Who manages the burials in Christchurch?
Simplicity Funerals Christchurch manages the burials officially designated as “Poor Person burials” by the Christchurch City Council.
Can friends attend these burials?
Yes, friends of the deceased are able to attend the burial, although the council currently prohibits the placement of headstones or memorials without payment of fees.
As these numbers continue to rise, it remains to be seen whether current funding models and community support systems will be sufficient to meet the growing need for dignified end-of-life care for those who die without a known support network.
