Cemetery and crematorium to open its doors to the public

An open day at the Hastings cemetery and crematorium will allow visitors a chance to gain an insight into the inner workings of the facility.

The open day aims to dispel any myths or concerns people may have about the facility and enable relatives and friends to look around the premises in a relaxed and informal way. Cemetery field staff will be on hand to give guided tours of all the facilities, explaining the systems and procedures used in the daily routine of the crematorium and answer any queries about burial or cremation.

The crematorium is owned by the Hastings District Council, but services the whole of Hawke’s Bay from Wairoa to Waipukurau and is located in the Hastings Cemetery grounds along with a chapel which caters for funeral services.

The crematorium was built in 1943/44 and has been modernised over recent years while the chapel has also recently undergone an upgrade. Over the years the facility has embraced many of the latest developments in technology and procedure, in its endeavour to meet the needs and expectations of the community.

Chair of the Hawke’s Bay Crematorium Committee, Councillor Margaret Twigg says” This is a chance to take a look behind the scenes and witness the range of services and options which are available at the facility. It may also go some way towards dispelling any myths that may exist in people’s minds.”

Funeral directors from around the region have been invited to take part in the open day while information will be available which will answer the most common questions asked about the facility.

The open day is to be held between 1pm and 4pm on Saturday November 19th at the cemetery in Orchard Road Hastings.