Burial and cremation duties
The Ministry of Health administers the Burial & Cremation Act 1964 & Regulations and delegates duties to regional public health services.
Our duties and responsibilities
The Nelson Marlborough Public Health Service's duties and responsibilities include:
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disinterments
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closure of cemeteries
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establishment of crematoria
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burial in a special place
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appointment of medical referees
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transportation of bodies internationally
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burial at sea
They do not include the operational activities of cemeteries and crematoria (usually run by councils, trustees or funeral directors).
Refer to Ministry of Health for information about how to handle deceased people in an emergency.
Disinterment
Disinterment is the unearthing of a grave to remove a coffin or remains of a deceased person. It requires a special licence, issued by the Ministry of Health, that you apply for through a region's public health service. A health protection officer must also observe a disinterment.
Guidelines & Information
Page last updated: 29/03/2023