There’s concern our cemeteries are running out of space, with some councils taking too long to secure new land. 

The Cemeteries and Crematoria Collective says many graveyards are already at or near capacity, forcing delays and limiting burial options. 

It warns too many councils are failing to plan far enough ahead, and many are excluding cemeteries from urban growth strategies that often focus narrowly on housing. 

Collective Chair Daniel Chrisp told Andrew Dickens that while 70-75% of New Zealanders prefer cremation now, there are still many communities and cultures that prefer burial.  

He says the option needs to be provided, so councils need to think strategically and proactively about it. 

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