Dempsey & Forrest Funeral Directors

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Dempsey & Forrest Funeral Directors

Whanganui's compassionate and trusted funeral service provider - here to help in your time of need. Available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

Thank you for visiting our page. Dempsey & Forrest a name you can trust. We are a family owned and operated business. Dempsey & Forrest have assisted families in Wanganui and surrounding areas since 1930. Our commitment is to ensure we provide our families with a very compassionate, high quality professional and personalised service to meet the individual requirements and needs to all tho

se who engage our services. Our experienced and qualified funeral professionals are able to guide you through the many facets of a funeral to assist you in making personalised and memorable funeral arrangements to reflect the personality of your loved one. At all times we endeavour to provide appropriate services and advice for each situation. Dempsey & Forrest
208 Guyton Street
Wanganui
Ph: 063490202
[email protected]

28/07/2026

The People Behind Our Care 🤍 Meet Paul Watkins

With more than 32 years in the Funeral Industry, Paul brings a wealth of experience, compassion and steady guidance to the Dempsey & Forrest team.

Now semi-retired, he remains a valued part of the team and is always available to support colleagues and families whenever needed.

Paul’s journey into the Funeral industry began after the loss of his father. The care and respect shown to his family by Jim Forrest left a lasting impression and, together with his strong faith, inspired him to support others through some of life’s most difficult moments.

When working with families, Paul believes listening is key. He understands that grief can make decision making difficult, so he takes the time to understand each family’s needs and provide thoughtful guidance. Above all, he approaches every family with respect, believing this is the foundation of meaningful care and support.

Outside of work, Paul enjoys spending time with his family and grandchildren, being involved in his church community, catching up with friends, playing golf, gardening and volunteering.

www.dempseyandforrest.co.nz

09/07/2026

Matariki is a season of remembrance, gratitude, and renewal ✨

It is a time to honour those we have lost, appreciate those beside us, and welcome the opportunities a new season brings.

From all of us at Dempsey & Forrest, we wish you a meaningful and peaceful Matariki 🌟

www.dempseyandforrest.co.nz

01/07/2026

It was a pleasure to partner with New Zealand Medical Indemnity Insurance - NZMII to celebrate Resident Doctors' Day by shouting Whanganui's resident doctors a well deserved coffee and morning tea ☕️

Thank you for everything you do for our community ✨

22/06/2026

When this photo surfaced, one of the first things Jimmy said was, "I remember that day."

This image by Kevs Wanganui Photo History Page captures the Springboks' visit to Whanganui and, in the foreground, the Dempsey & Forrest building - a familiar part of the streetscape then and now.

Photos like these are a reminder that while times change, community connections endure. We feel privileged to have been part of Whanganui's story for generations and to continue serving local families today.

Do you have any memories of this era of Whanganui? We'd love to hear them below.

www.dempseyandforrest.co.nz

17/06/2026

The People Behind Our Care 🤍 Meet Mel Tapa

Mel has been part of the Dempsey & Forrest team for the past 9 years, working across both administration, design and our prep room with patience, kindness and a real eye for detail. She enjoys that every day brings something different and takes great pride in helping ensure everything is handled thoughtfully and respectfully behind the scenes.

Outside of work, Mel loves spending time with her husband, kids and grandchildren, along with cake decorating, art, travel and cooking.

Her attention to detail and thoughtful approach help create a sense of care and reassurance for the families we support.

www.dempseyandforrest.co.nz

13/06/2026

Vintage Weekend doesn’t just happen - it’s made possible by an incredible group of Sponsors, Volunteers, and Trustees passionate about seeing Whanganui thrive ✨

Jimmy is one of the dedicated Trustees helping drive the event forward, and the growth over recent years has been nothing short of remarkable.

On Friday evening, we were proud to host the Vintage Weekend Sponsors’ Evening at Dempsey & Forrest, providing drinks and canapés as a small thank you to those whose support helps make this iconic event possible.

It was fantastic to hear about the exciting plans already underway for next year - bigger, better, and building on the success of recent years.

Vintage Weekend continues to be something our whole community can be proud of! 🙌🏼

www.dempseyandforrest.co.nz

28/05/2026

The People Behind Our Care 🤍 Meet Marty Hewson

Marty brings a calm, people first approach to every family he works with. After many years in Financial Services and Real Estate, Marty found his calling in the Funeral Industry in 2009 and hasn't looked back.

He finds the most rewarding part of his role is helping people navigate the funeral process with care and understanding. Outside of work Marty enjoys time with his family, keeping active with cycling and running, heading to the movies, and being involved in the Whanganui East Baptist Church.

Family and connection are at the heart of what Marty does, and he's committed to supporting people with kindness and respect during a difficult time.

www.dempseyandforrest.co.nz

Address

208 Guyton Street
Whanganui
4500

Website

http://www.dempseyandforrest.co.nz/

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