FAQs | Ngā putuputu pātai
- Take part online right here on Your Place Western Bay of Plenty
- Post your thoughts to Cemeteries Bylaw Review, Western Bay of Plenty District Council, Private Bag 12803, Tauranga 3143.
- Email yourplace@westernbay.govt.nz.
- Completing a feedback form at one of Council’s libraries or service centres.
- Present your view in Council on 29 April 2025. Please register by emailing yourplace@westernbay.govt.nz or phone 0800 926 732 by Tuesday 22 April 2025 to secure your timeslot and receive further information.
What is the Cemeteries Bylaw?
The Cemeteries Bylaw enables Council to set fees and the standards for operation of cemeteries within our District. This helps to minimise public safety risks, cemetery misuse, distress to families, obstruction and damage to property, heritage and the environment from the use of council cemeteries.
The bylaw does not apply to private cemeteries or urupā.
Why are we reviewing the Cemeteries Bylaw?
The current Cemeteries Bylaw came into effect in 2019 and legislation requires it to be reviewed now.
What is a natural burial?
Natural burials involve the interment of a body in a manner that does not put anything in the ground which doesn’t decompose. It allows the body to return to nature without harming the environment.
Why does the Cemeteries Bylaw need provisions for natural burials?
Through the 2021-2031 Long Term Plan consultation, feedback was received that Council should provide a natural burial option. In 2021, Council consulted on natural burials and adopted a new level of service for the provision of two natural burials areas in the District.
As there are different requirements for natural burials, which the current Cemeteries Bylaw doesn’t allow for, the proposed changes bylaw ensure that natural burials can occur within specific locations in the District.
Why does the Cemeteries Bylaw need provisions for wider plots?
Council is increasingly receiving requests for wider plot sizes to accommodate larger caskets, however the current bylaw doesn’t allow them. The proposed changes mean that wider caskets can be accommodated at the discretion of Council
How do I have my say?
We need your feedback by 5pm Tuesday 22 April 2025. You can provide feedback in a number of ways
What happens after I provide feedback?
Council will acknowledge in writing or by email (if provided) the receipt of your feedback and all feedback will be considered through Council’s deliberations process. All submitters who provided email or postal details will receive a decision document.