Few moments in life are more difficult than losing someone you love.
In those first hours and days, emotions can feel overwhelming. There are decisions to make, people to contact, paperwork to complete, and often a sense of uncertainty about what happens next.
At Fountains Funeral Services, we understand that this is not just a process. It is a deeply personal journey.
As a locally owned family business, our role is simple: to care for local families when they need it most.
From the moment you call us, you will have experienced professionals beside you, guiding you gently through every step with compassion, dignity and understanding.
What Happens When Someone Dies?
Every situation is different, and what happens next will depend on where and how the death occurs.
If The Death Occurs In A Rest Home Or Hospital
The staff will usually arrange for a doctor to certify the death and complete the necessary documentation. Once this has been done, we can arrange to bring your loved one into our care.
If The Death Occurs At Home
The first step is to contact your family doctor or an on-call medical practitioner. They will attend, certify the death and complete the required paperwork.
If The Death Is Sudden Or Unexpected
Call 111 immediately.
Emergency services and Police will attend and determine whether the death is from natural causes or whether the matter needs to be referred to the Coroner.
Understanding The Coroner's Role
Sometimes families hear the word "Coroner" and become concerned.
A Coroner is an independent government official who investigates deaths that are sudden, unexplained, accidental or where the cause of death cannot immediately be determined.
If the Coroner becomes involved, we can help explain the process and support you through each stage.
One Call And We Will Take Care Of The Rest
Once a doctor has certified the death, or once the Coroner has authorised the release of your loved one, simply call us on 09 298 2957.
From that moment, your loved one will be treated with the utmost respect and care.
We will arrange transportation, guide you through the necessary paperwork, answer your questions, and help you begin planning a farewell that reflects the life, values and memories of the person you love.
Most importantly, you will never have to navigate the journey alone.
More Than A Funeral Service
At Fountains Funeral Services, we are not a call centre or a distant corporate organisation.
We are part of this community.
We have supported local families through some of life's hardest moments for generations, and we understand the importance of personal care, familiar faces and genuine compassion.
When local families need support, they deserve local people who care.
That's why our commitment remains as it always has been:
Locals Caring For Locals.
If you need immediate assistance, day or night, please call 09 298 2957. We are here whenever you need us.