Cemeteries

Purchaser's Rights and Obligations

Some cemetery sections have concrete berms on which all plot memorials/headstones are to be constructed. All above ground grave structures, enclosures, memorials/headstones and other monuments are to be installed so as to follow the guidelines in the Public Health and Safety Bylaw 2006.

Erecting a Headstone

You are entitled to erect, and are obliged thereafter to maintain, memorials/headstones.

For permission to erect a headstone you must apply for a Permit to Erect a Headstone and return it to your local Council office.

Cemeteries or Areas Within Cemeteries with a Concrete Berm

Plinths (concrete bases of memorials/headstones) are not to be higher than 150mm, with clearances on all sides of 150mm.  Plinths are to be no wider than 1m on a single plot (or 2m on a double plot).  Memorials/headstone heights are not to exceed 0.85m above the berm or slab and are to be constructed only in granite or similar material approved by Council.

Cemeteries or Areas Without a Concrete Berm

In cemeteries or sections of cemeteries where there are no concrete berms, memorials can be erected at the head of the grave.  Full concrete slab covers are permitted in cemeteries that do not have a concrete berm.

Ashes Plots

Ashes plots vary in shape and width and memorials/headstones can be erected within the available space, provided there are clearances on all sides of 150mm.

Adornments

Shrubs, trees, flower plants, cobblestones and adornments are not permitted to be planted upon any plots, as this makes it difficult and expensive for Council to maintain the plots.  Vases or  flowers or plant containers housed in inserts within plinths are allowed, if placed in such a manner as approved by Council.

Council's Obligations

• Council will dig and reinstate the grave.
• Council will maintain the cemetery in a tidy state.

Visiting Times

Ruapehu District Council understands the need for families and friends to grieve and that this grieving is not a 9-5 process.

Cemeteries within the District are open 24 hours/day to provide the time families and friends need.

You can visit the cemeteries any time you wish, in the peaceful quiet of the night, or to watch the run rise in the early morning dawn, or to just be with your loved ones whenever you need.