The New Zealand Cemeteries and Crematoria Collective (NZCCC), in partnership with Recreation Aotearoa, are gearing up
for New Zealand’s premier conference event for the cemetery and crematoria sector. Held in Rotorua 4 – 6 May, the 2020 New Zealand Cemeteries and Crematoria Conference is looking to the horizon to understand how we can create a
sustainable and a vibrant future for the industry in New Zealand.
The conference aims to bring together leaders in the sector to discuss local and global issues that will impact the
future of the industry. Attendees will have the opportunity to hear from speakers presenting on a range of subjects,
from sustainable burial practices to technological advances in cemetery management.
Parks and Open Spaces Programme Manager of Recreation Aotearoa, Karl Nesbitt, says: “The New Zealand Cemeteries and
Crematoria Conference is an important event on the industry’s calendar as a platform for networking, sharing and
learning. The cemeteries and crematoria industry has come a long way and there is some really innovative work happening,
which many people may not be aware of. Our programme of diverse speakers is a testament to this ever-evolving industry.”
On day one of the conference Dr Maiken Ueland from the Australian Facility for Taphonomic Experimental Research (AFTER) will speak about her unique field of work in
forensic taphonomy; the study of human remains from the time of death to the time of discovery. Delegates will get a
rare insight into the work that Dr Maiken and AFTER do in this area of forensic science.
Ruth McManus, Associate Professor of Sociology at the University of Canterbury, will explore with delegates how new forms and
attitudes to body disposal are emerging. Her presentation will explore ways in which three independent outfits (a
church, a nurse and quarry business) are emerging as New Zealand pioneers in sustainable body disposal.
Coming from across the ditch Darryl Thomas (Geelong Cemeteries Trust) will talk about graveside safety and the work
Geelong Cemeteries Trust did to design and manufacture a range of safety equipment that could be used to assist in
preventing tragedies occurring at the graveside.
Health and wellbeing specialist, Dana Carver, with over 20 years’ experience in the health and wellbeing sector will discuss the importance of work life wellbeing
and its significance in the cemeteries and crematoria context.
“Understanding what wellbeing is and how to maintain it is important for all of us in the pressures and dynamics of the
modern world, but it’s particularly important for occupations where we are required to manage the expectations of people
who are grieving,” says Dana. There can be a lot of emotional impact from funerals and working with bereaved families.
Having the skills to recognise when we’re distressed and being aware of what we can do to stay resilient is key. I’m
really looking forward to sharing my passion for wellbeing and meeting the people who work in this important part of our
community.”
The conference will conclude with a special awards dinner to recognise some of the innovative and hard-working
individuals and organisations in the sector. The conference is open to everyone with an interest in the Cemeteries and
Crematoria industry.