Funeral Directors

Funeral directors are inspected annually by Horowhenua District Council to ensure they comply with the Health (Burial) Regulations 1946.

The basic requirements for funeral directors are:

  • Mortuary surfaces are required to be continuously smooth, impervious to water, readily cleanable and lightly coloured.
  • Floors must be coved to the walls and permanent fixtures and graded and drained to the sewer.
  • Lighting and ventilation must be adequate.
  • Mortuary tables must also be graded and drained.
  • There must be hot and cold running water and a wash hand basin must be convenient to the area and separate from other sinks.
  • Staff toilet facilities should be provided.
  • Cleaning practices, personal hygiene, pest control, building maintenance and safe chemical storage must be managed effectively.

Registration is renewable each year and an annual fee applies.

Further Information

New Zealand Legislation: Health (Burial) Regulations 1946

 

Online

Step 1.Have your details ready

You'll need:

  • Basic details for your business
  • Manager details 
  • An electronic copy of the Layout of the premises

Step 2.Apply and pay online

Complete and submit this application form and pay the associated fee. Payment can be made at the time of applying by Credit / Debit Card or Account2Account, or after applying in person. Please note: From 15 January 2026, a 2% convenience fee applies when paying by credit or debit card. Although we collect this fee with your payment, it is passed directly to our payment provider and we do not retain any of it.

Apply Online

By email

Step 1.Have your details ready

You'll need:

  • Basic details for your business
  • Manager details 
  • An electronic copy of the Layout of the premises

Step 2.Download and complete the form

Download printable version 

Step 3.Email your form to Council

Scan and email your application to enquiries@horowhenua.govt.nz

In person

Step 1.Have your details ready

You'll need:

  • Basic details for your business
  • Manager details 
  • An electronic copy of the Layout of the premises

Step 2.Download and complete the form

Download printable version

Step 3.Visit your nearest Council Office

Pop into your nearest Council office:

  • Levin (Main Office), 126 Oxford Street, Levin, open 9am to 5pm Monday to Friday and on Wednesdays 9.30am to 5pm (except public holidays).
  • Foxton Service Centre, 92 Main Street, Foxton, open 9am to 4pm Monday to Friday (except public holidays).
  • Shannon Service Centre, Plimmer Terrace, Shannon, open 1pm to 5pm Monday to Friday (except public holidays).

Contact Us

Phone

(06) 366 0999

Email

enquiries@horowhenua.govt.nz

Related Information

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