Auckland Council is seeking feedback from Coasties on proposed updates to the Cemetery and Crematoria Bylaw, following a statutory review conducted in 2024.

The proposed changes aim to clarify and streamline the bylaw without altering the daily operations of Auckland’s public cemeteries.

Councillor Josephine Bartley, chair of the Regulatory and Safety Committee, explained that the bylaw is a crucial tool for maintaining safety and ensuring cemeteries meet the needs of Aucklanders.

“Our cemeteries are special places, and they deserve to be treated with care and respect,” she said.

The bylaw governs the operation of more than 50 cemeteries across Tāmaki Makaurau, including notable sites such as North Shore Memorial Park, Waikumete Cemetery, and Manukau Memorial Gardens.

The purpose of the statutory review was to ensure that the bylaw continues to serve Aucklanders effectively.

According to Cr Bartley, the review found that the current regulations were working well, so no changes to the operational rules for the public are being proposed.

However, the review uncovered outdated and duplicated information within the accompanying code of practice.

To improve clarity, most of these rules will be incorporated into the bylaw, ensuring all relevant information is in one place.

“These proposed changes will not affect the rules Aucklanders follow, but they will make the bylaw clearer and easier to navigate,” Cr Bartley added.

While the changes are administrative, the council invites feedback from the public to ensure that the bylaw continues to meet the needs of the community.

The consultation is open until Sunday, 23 February, and Aucklanders are encouraged to share their thoughts through the council’s “Have Your Say” website.

The bylaw, supported by a code of practice, ensures the safe and respectful operation of Auckland’s cemeteries and crematoria.

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