John Rhind Funeral Directors Kaiapoi

22/06/2026

A fresh new look for our cottage.
Beautifully painted by N/A Painting & Decorating, creating a more calm and welcoming space for families.

19/06/2026

A changing approach to saying goodbye is helping families create more personal, meaningful farewells.
This piece explores how funerals are evolving—reflecting the life, values, and wishes of each individual in ways that feel authentic and comforting for those left behind.
If you’ve ever wondered what a more personalised farewell could look like, this is a gentle and insightful read.
Read more below.

The way we say goodbye in New Zealand is changing - and here in North Canterbury many families will recognise that shift, says Mark Glanville from...

17/06/2026

When someone we love dies, it’s completely normal to feel unsure about what to do next.

You don’t need to have everything figured out. Our Kaiapoi team is here to walk alongside you, answer questions, and help you honour your loved one in a way that feels right for your family.

If you’re unsure where to start, a simple phone call is enough. (03) 667 1426

16/06/2026

So good sponsoring the Peoples Choice

12/06/2026

We can help you prepare children for the funeral, explain what will happen, and create safe ways for them to be involved if they’d like to be.

Some gentle ways to support them:

- Use simple, honest language (e.g. “died” rather than “gone to sleep”).

- Let them ask questions, even if you don’t have all the answers.

- Involve them in small ways; drawing a picture, placing a flower, choosing a song.

- Reassure them that their feelings – sad, confused, quiet, even playful – are all okay.

09/06/2026

So pleased to be sponsoring the People’s Choice Award again this year. Looking forward to the opening night. Thanks 🙏

The official opening of the 2026 Corcoran French Kaiapoi Art Expo - Waimakariri's largest art event!

08/06/2026

This Article by Sam at the FDANZ opens the conversation that everyone is different, each family are different, and we as funeral directors are people in a position to help guide them into what is best for them by listening not only to what’s said but what’s not being said. We believe we can design a farewell or celebration that fits anyone whether it’s a very simple gathering at our place or a public gathering in a place where family are comfortable and suits each individual. Pre arranging is also a great way for each of us to help build a framework to ensure of family can work together as best they can to say goodbye, as hard as it is, this does help.

Losing someone you love is hard enough. But when family members disagree about funeral arrangements, emotions can quickly become overwhelming.

Different relationships, different memories, and different ideas about "what they would have wanted" can create tension at a time when everyone is hurting.

The truth is, you don't need everyone to agree on every detail to create a meaningful farewell. What matters most is honouring the person who has died and showing respect for each other's grief.

Read our latest blog for practical guidance on navigating family disagreements during funeral planning.

Read more: https://funeraldirectors.co.nz/news-and-events/news-and-advocacy/handling-family-disagreements-during-funeral-planning/

01/06/2026

Sometimes it’s the small, honest details that matter most — the boots by the fence, the tools well used, the dog never far away. A funeral can be shaped around the things that defined a life, honouring who someone truly was and the way they lived it.

23/05/2026

There’s something comforting about knowing where to turn when the unexpected happens.

Some people don’t realise that you can call us at any time — day or night — and someone will always answer. We are a 24‑hour service, here whenever you need us. Whether it’s the middle of the night or early morning, you don’t need to wait or wonder what to do next. A simple phone call is all it takes.

📞 (03) 669 5859
📍 118 Williams Street, Kaiapoi