Planning a funeral is never easy. For most families, the emotional weight alone is more than enough to carry. But when unexpected costs appear mid-process, that grief often turns into stress and confusion. What started as a respectful goodbye can quickly become a financial burden — especially for those organising a funeral for the first time.
At Lagoon View, we believe families deserve clarity. That means explaining costs early, offering practical support, and making sure no one feels pressured during a difficult time. In this article, we’ve listed 11 of the most common financial surprises that catch families off guard. For each one, you’ll see how Lagoon View approaches it differently — with thoughtful options, inclusive packages, and calm guidance.
1. Last Minute Transportation Fees That Add Up Quickly
Many families are surprised to find that the cost of transferring their loved one — from a home, hospital, or aged care facility — isn’t always included in the base price. This can lead to unexpected add-ons once arrangements have already begun.
At Lagoon View, transport within Auckland is included in every base package. There are no sudden charges or distance-based adjustments after the fact. If you need to travel outside Auckland, we’ll let you know the full cost upfront, so nothing is left unclear.
2. Embalming Charges You Weren’t Expecting
Embalming is not always required, but some providers include it automatically, regardless of a family’s preference. It may be presented as a standard item, only to be charged separately later — often without a clear explanation of why it was done in the first place.
Lagoon View offers clear options, including no-embalming packages. We only recommend embalming when it’s genuinely needed — for example, for longer viewing times or extended delays. Families can make informed choices without pressure, and without extra charges for procedures they didn’t agree to.
3. Costly Casket Upgrades Pushed at the Worst Time
In moments of grief, it’s difficult to make clear-headed decisions. Unfortunately, this is sometimes when families are shown premium casket options that go well beyond their budget. These upgrades are not always presented as optional and can lead to hundreds — even thousands — in additional costs.
Lagoon View includes a quality standard casket in every package. We never push or upsell. If a family chooses something different, we support that decision. But we never suggest it unless they ask. Respecting your preferences is more important than expanding your bill.
4. Venue and Service Add-ons That Aren’t Always Disclosed
Venue hire, audiovisual setups, livestreams — these are often discussed as part of the service but charged separately without clear mention. Families may not realise they’ve agreed to paid add-ons until the invoice arrives.
Our team at Lagoon View provides clear, upfront pricing that includes these options when they’re available. If something is not included in the base package, we tell you early and walk through alternatives that match your needs and your budget.
5. Unexpected Doctor’s Certificates or Cremation Applications
Administrative tasks come with real costs. Death certificates, cremation forms, and medical paperwork can carry service fees, especially if they require follow-up with a GP or hospital. These charges are often added without context, making them harder to question.
Lagoon View includes all required medical paperwork, legal forms, and registrations in its packages. We handle it directly with the appropriate professionals, so there are no forms left to chase or extra invoices left to explain.
6. Late Discovery of Non-Covered Council Burial Fees
Cemeteries and crematoriums are often managed by local councils. This means burial plots, ashes interment, or chapel hire may come with separate fees — and they’re rarely listed on a funeral provider’s general pricing. For families, these charges can appear unexpectedly, especially when the booking has already been made.
Lagoon View makes this part of the planning process clear from the start. We discuss cemetery or cremation fees early and offer guidance on council-specific costs. Where possible, we assist with bookings and confirmations, so you know exactly what to expect.
7. Extra Charges for After-Hours or Weekend Services
It’s not unusual for families to want a service on a weekend, or to need help during the evening or overnight hours. But many providers charge higher rates during these times — a cost that may not be discussed until later in the process.
Lagoon View is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week. We do not raise prices for after-hours service. Whether your call comes at midday or midnight, our team responds with the same professionalism and without unexpected fees for timing.
8. Floral and Headstone Costs Not Budgeted In
Flowers, plaques, and headstones often sit outside the main funeral package. While this is standard, many families aren’t told how much these items can add up to — and find themselves struggling to manage them once the core service has been paid for.
Lagoon View offers practical guidance, including referrals to affordable providers and suggestions that help keep your total costs within reach. Whether you’re looking for a basic arrangement or something more custom, we work with what makes sense for you.
9. Paperwork Processing or Registration Delays That Cost Time and Money
Late paperwork or missing registrations can lead to extra trips, follow-up costs, and long delays in finalising legal matters. Some families are left chasing documents while managing grief — something no one should have to do.
Our team handles documentation carefully and thoroughly. We process registrations promptly and keep copies of all forms for your reference. That way, nothing falls through the cracks, and you can focus on your family instead of chasing certificates.
10. Unplanned Repatriation or Travel Support Costs
When a loved one passes away while travelling or living outside their home area, families often face a complex and expensive process of returning them. Repatriation can involve flight bookings, legal documents, and special handling arrangements, all of which can escalate in cost quickly.
Lagoon View offers a dedicated repatriation package that includes full support for national and international travel. We coordinate the steps and explain each one clearly, helping families manage the process without confusion or last-minute expenses.
11. Paying for Services You Didn’t Know You Could Get for Free
Many New Zealand families are eligible for support through Work and Income (WINZ), ACC, or other government services — but they never apply. This is often due to a lack of awareness or confusion about how to start the process.
Lagoon View actively supports families in checking their eligibility. We walk through the application process step by step, helping you access the assistance you deserve. If funding is available, we help you claim it. That’s part of our commitment to affordability and care.
Funeral Planning Shouldn’t Add to the Pain
A funeral should bring closure, not confusion. Families need space to grieve, not to argue over line items or chase down delayed paperwork. Yet too often, unexpected fees and vague quotes add stress to an already difficult time.
Lagoon View approaches funerals differently. We believe in clear pricing, full explanations, and services that are thoughtful without being expensive. Whether you’re planning in advance or facing an urgent situation, we help you avoid the most common financial surprises — not just by warning you about them, but by building them out of the process completely.
From transport to documentation to support with WINZ or ACC, every package we offer is designed to bring clarity. That means no hidden charges, no pressure to upgrade, and no confusion when it matters most.
Because when you’re saying goodbye to someone you love, peace of mind should not come with a price tag.
English