Mortuaries and funeral directors

Before you apply for a registration, you need to make sure you have a correct resource consent and a building consent for your business. Depending on your requirements, you may need us to inspect the premises before you make an application. We recommend that you get in touch with us first.

Check if the premises are consented (for new premises)

You'll need to contact our resource consents team to ensure the business you are proposing is permitted in the location. There may be special requirements like set operating hours or car parking provisions.

Check if your planned structural or plumbing changes require inspection – for new and existing premises

You'll need to contact our building consents team if you're planning to make structural changes or intending to change how the building is used.

Get your trade waste sorted before you apply

Our trade waste team can help you assess and check to make sure whether you need consent to dispose your waste. The premises may also have specific trade waste requirements.

Arrange an inspection with us. We'll look at the cleanliness of your premises, ventilation and lighting, washing facilities, drainage and toilets, personal hygiene and clothing, disinfection procedures, storage of products and vermin/insect control.

When you're ready to apply:

1. Fill in one of the following forms:
   1. New mortuary and/or funeral director Application for Registration (PDF 309 kb)
      Application for a New Premises Registration (PDF 168 kb)
   2. Transfer of existing mortuary and/or funeral director
      Application for a Transfer of Existing Registration (PDF 168 kb)
2. Get the following ready to submit with your application form:
   1. a floor plan of your new premises
   2. any resource consents you may have received as part of this application
   3. a Code of Compliance certificate if you received one as part of this application
   4. the appropriate fee for your application. We'll advise you of the correct amount before you apply.
3. Email your completed application form along with any relevant attachments.
4. Once the application is processed, we'll send you your Certificate of Registration.

The time it takes to issue a permit depends on your situation and requirements.

Costs will vary between different types of registrations.

We levy an establishment fee for new premises, because setting up new premises involves more inspection visits.

Fees and charges

1. Each year we'll send you an invoice and a filled-in application form.
2. You can either:
   1. renew your registration online - you will need your health registration and invoice numbers.
   2. make changes to the paper form, sign it and come in to pay for it at our front counter at 30 Laings Road, Lower Hutt.
3. We'll send you a new Certificate of Registration once we receive your application form and fee.