At Tong & Peryer we understand that grief can be overwhelming, and it may feel hard knowing where to start. We’re available for you round the clock, guiding you through every step of the funeral process offering compassion, advice and support.
When a loved one dies at home or in a place that isn’t a healthcare facility, you’ll first need to contact their doctor. The doctor will need to come to the address and complete paperwork. You will be asked at this stage whether your loved one will be buried or cremated. If you are unsure, we recommend you say cremated. You are able to change this decision later if required. We are unable to take your loved one into our care before the doctor has been and completed that paperwork. Once that paperwork is done, then call us and we can come transfer your loved one into our care.
We have a member of our funeral director staff on call 24 hours a day to ensure you have the necessary support at such a vulnerable time.
Our number is 06 878 5149 so we are only a call away
If your loved one dies in a healthcare facility such as a hospital or rest home, they will notify the proper authorities, including the funeral home you have chosen to care for your loved one (if that information has been agreed). Emergency and medical personnel involved in this part of the process will help you with obtaining a medical certificate and any other necessary paperwork. When the paperwork is complete the healthcare team will contact the funeral home you have chosen to arrange for the transfer of your loved one into their care.
This part of the process is often the most emotional, and we are here to help and support you. If you’re not sure what to do, call us any time.
Our number is 06 878 5149 so we are only a call away
Our role is to help you navigate the days following the death of your loved one. If they have pre-planned their funeral, you can gather up their wishes to share them with us so we can fulfil them for you.
Many people come to us and have their plans stored here with us, along with any pre-payment funds that we hold in trust for them. We can help you with this if that detail isn’t known.
If your loved one hasn’t left specific wishes, start by jotting down any personal touches that come to mind—favourite clothes, music, flowers, colours—anything that reflects who they were. If you’re unsure, don’t worry—we’ll guide you through it.
You’ll meet with one of our funeral directors to begin planning, and they’ll support you through the entire process. Families often find comfort in this continuity during such a difficult time.
At your first meeting, we’ll help you make key decisions, including:
Where your loved one will rest—in our care, at home, or on the marae
Whether embalming is appropriate and why it may be recommended
Choice of casket and, if cremation, the urn and final resting place
Burial or cremation arrangements and cemetery or scattering location
Any religious or cultural rituals, clergy, or spiritual leaders needed
Funeral elements like washing, dressing, viewing, services, or graveside gatherings
We work with families from many cultural backgrounds and can provide space for traditions, including Muslim burial practices and family dressing rituals.
These are just starting points—you don’t need to have all the answers. We’re here to help you navigate each step.
You may also want to inform close friends and relatives personally and through a death notice. If this feels overwhelming, ask a trusted friend or family member to support you.
509 Queen Street West, St Leonards, Hastings 4122
06 878 5149
[email protected]
P O Box 967, St Leonards, Hastings 4156
Available: 24 hours, 7 days per week
Office hours: 9:00am to 4:00pm – Monday to Friday
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