Embalming & Care Options

At Abrahams, we consider it a privilege to care for your loved one. From the moment they are brought into our care, we treat them with the utmost dignity, respect, and compassion.

What Happens After Someone Dies?

After death, natural changes begin to occur in the body. These changes can vary depending on many factors, including the cause of death, location, environmental conditions, and time elapsed. Without intervention, these changes can affect both the safety of those nearby and the presentation of the person, particularly if family or friends wish to spend time with them prior to the funeral.

Making the Right Care Decision

We will gently guide you through decisions about how your loved one will be cared for. This conversation will take into account:

  • Your religious, cultural or personal beliefs
  • How soon the burial or cremation will take place
  • Whether friends and whānau wish to visit or spend time with the person before the service

We’ll recommend the most appropriate care based on your needs and wishes, always with the goal of upholding dignity and comfort.

Abrahams Candle Lighting

Available Care Options

Essential Care

Includes gentle washing, dressing and placing your loved one into their chosen casket. Best suited for funerals occurring within 24 hours and where no viewing is planned.

Dignity Care & Cooling

Includes Essential Care plus light cosmetic preparation and refrigeration to preserve appearance for short-term viewing—typically up to 48 hours.

Eco Preparation

Uses natural oils or salts to gently cleanse and slow deterioration. No chemical preservatives are used, allowing for viewing within 48–72 hours, depending on conditions.

Light Embalming

Combines Dignity Care with minimal chemical embalming for short-term preservation and improved presentation. This option offers flexibility, allowing your loved one to come home for a time if desired.

Specialist Preparation

Used in more complex cases, such as post-mortem or traumatic circumstances. Advanced techniques are applied to ensure respectful, restorative care.

We're Here to Help

Let’s Talk

We’re here to support you through every step and ensure your loved one is cared for in a way that honours who they were. Please reach out if you’d like to talk through the options with you.