Memorial Services
A memorial service is held after cremation, and sometimes after a burial. It’s a modern approach that allows families to gather when the timing is right — especially if relatives live overseas or need time to travel. At John Rhind Funeral Directors, we guide families in Christchurch and North Canterbury to create memorial services that are flexible, personal, and deeply meaningful.
Why have a memorial service?
A memorial service gives families more time to plan and come together. Unlike a funeral, there is no casket present, which can make the event feel less formal. Memorials allow you to focus entirely on celebrating a life — with stories, photos, music, and gathering loved ones.
What does a memorial service include?
A memorial service can include many of the same elements as a traditional funeral:
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A venue such as one of our chapels, a church, marae, or even an outdoor setting.
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A celebrant, clergy, or family member to lead the service.
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Readings, music, and eulogies.
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Photo tributes, slideshows, or video messages from family overseas.
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Flowers, service sheets, and memorial books.
What it does not usually include is the casket or committal, as cremation or burial has already taken place.
What does a memorial service look like?
Every memorial looks different. Some families hold a large service with hundreds of people, while others prefer a small, private gathering. It might take place a few days after cremation, or weeks later, when the wider family can travel. Some choose our chapels in Christchurch or Kaiapoi, others prefer a marae, church, or even a favourite park, beach, or garden. Sometimes a memorial might be held at a social or sports club or a place of meaning to the person who died.
The focus is on sharing memories and honouring the individual, in a way that feels right for your family.
Upcoming Funerals & Livestreaming
To find details about an Upcoming Funeral, view funeral notices, send a tribute or view a video Livestream of a funeral service.
How John Rhind can help
Our funeral directors in Christchurch and North Canterbury will:
- Help you choose a venue that suits your family.
- Recommend celebrants or clergy, or support a family-led service.
- Arrange flowers, service sheets, and multimedia presentations.
- Provide livestreaming for those who can’t be present.
- Offer options for memorial donations, keepsakes, or eco-friendly touches.
We take care of the details, so you can focus on being with family and friends.
Personalising a memorial service
Personal touches make a memorial unique. Families often include:
- Music that reflects your loved one’s tastes.
- Photo or video tributes that tell their story.
- Cultural rituals or traditions, from karakia and waiata to readings or prayers.
- Keepsakes or memorial books for guests to record their memories.
- A setting that feels connected to their life, whether a chapel, marae, sports club, or outdoors.
There’s no single way to hold a memorial — our role is to help you create something that feels genuine and memorable.
FAQ’s About Memorial Services
Thinking about a memorial service?
We’re here with professionalism, care, and over 140 years of experience helping Christchurch families when they need it most.
Our Services
We provide a full range of funeral and memorial options to suit every family and tradition.
Funeral Arrangements
Cremation
Burial
Memorial Services
Direct Cremation
Livestreaming
Caskets, Urns & Keepsakes
Repatriation
