How to write a death notice
It doesn't have to be perfect. Here are templates to start from.
Most funeral directors will help you write this. But if you're doing it yourself, or want to know what to expect, here's how it works.
What to include
- Full name — including maiden name if applicable
- Age — or date of birth
- Date and place of death — "died peacefully on [date] at [place]"
- Who they were to people — "beloved wife of...", "much loved father of...", "cherished nana of..."
- Funeral or memorial details — date, time, venue, or "a private cremation has taken place"
- Flowers or donations — "in lieu of flowers, donations to [charity] would be appreciated"
- Special messages — a line that captures them, if you want
Template: simple
[SURNAME], [First name]
Died [peacefully / suddenly] on [date], aged [age]. Dearly loved [relationship] of [names]. [Relationship] of [names].
A [funeral service / memorial service / private cremation] will be held at [venue] on [date] at [time].
[In lieu of flowers, donations to [charity] would be appreciated / All communications to [funeral director name and address].]
Template: with more personality
[SURNAME], [First name] ([nickname])
[Date of birth] to [Date of death]
[A line about who they were, what they loved, what made them them.]
Loved [relationship] of [names]. Loved [relationship] of [names]. [He/She] will be deeply missed by [wider family/friends/community].
A celebration of [First name]'s life will be held at [venue] on [date] at [time]. All welcome.
[Donations to [charity] can be made at [link/address].]
Where to publish
- Newspaper — most NZ papers accept death notices. Your funeral director usually handles this. Costs $200–$500 depending on length and paper.
- NZ Herald, notices.nzherald.co.nz (national reach). To place one, call 0800 HERALD or email familynotices@nzherald.co.nz.
- Stuff papers (The Press, Dominion Post, regional titles), search each title's notices on legacy.com
- Facebook — many families post directly. Free, immediate, reaches people who matter.
- Online memorial pages: some platforms host obituaries and tribute pages that family and friends can add to.
You don't have to publish a death notice at all. It's not a legal requirement. Some families prefer to tell people directly.
Tip: Write it when you're ready, not when you're being asked to. If the funeral director needs it urgently for the service, ask them for a template — they'll have one.
The information on this page is general in nature and does not constitute legal, financial, or medical advice. For advice specific to your situation, consult a qualified professional.
Dollar figures and entitlements change periodically. We link to authoritative sources where possible. Last reviewed: July 2026.