Dying Proves to Be a Costly Undertaking

While it may not be the cheapest place to live, South Wairarapa in New Zealand is by far the most affordable place to die compared to its neighboring districts. According to the council's 2025-26 list of fees and charges, the cost to be buried in South Wairarapa is $1,825, a mere 5% increase from the previous triennium in 2022-23. In contrast, neighboring areas like Carterton and Masterton have seen steep increases, with burial costs reaching $2,400 and $3,340 respectively.

The Funeral Directors Association (FDA) has raised concerns about the rising costs of funerals, citing that annual increases in burial and cremation fees by local councils are a significant driver of overall funeral expenses. Gillian Boyes, the CEO of the FDA, explained that these fees are putting a heavy financial burden on families, especially those struggling financially. She noted that the WINZ Funeral Grant, currently set at $2,616.12, often falls short of covering even the basic council costs in many regions.

Boyes highlighted that in some areas, like New Plymouth, council fees for burials can be as high as $7,000, with the national average exceeding $4,000.