What is the difference between a coffin and a casket?
In New Zealand, the terms coffin and casket are used interchangeably. It is common to use ‘casket’ before the body is placed inside.In the United States, caskets are often used to describe a rectangular shape and coffins the more common hexagonal shape, which tapers towards the head and feet.
What does casket mean?
The word casket originally referred to a small, decorative box for jewellery or other valuables before it came to be used for containers to bury the dead. It became popular in the United States in the late 19th century.
Caskets are designed to hold the deceased for burial or cremation. They come in different shapes and sizes depending on factors like the size of the body.
In New Zealand, caskets are called coffins once the body is placed inside.
Historically, caskets were simple rectangular boxes, but today they tend to be tapered at the head and feet. They come in more elaborate styles with padded interiors and various exterior embellishments.
Caskets are commonly made of wood but can be made from other materials such as metal, wicker or cardboard.
Why is it called a casket?
It's believed that the funeral industry adopted the term "casket" to make the concept of burial or funeral arrangements less stark or morbid compared to the traditional term "coffin," which directly refers to the box in which a body is buried.The word casket originally referred to a small, decorative box for jewellery or other valuables therefore, it had positive connotations making discussions about death and funeral preparations more comfortable for people during that era.
What is a cremation casket?
During the cremation process, the deceased is placed in a cremation casket. They are usually simpler in design and construction compared to traditional caskets, and they're typically made from combustible materials such as cardboard or unfinished wood, so they are environmentally friendly.
How much is a casket/coffin in nz?
Casket and coffin prices can vary significantly in New Zealand based on several factors, including the materials used, the design, and the funeral home or provider you choose, but here is a general overview:- Basic adult caskets made of particle board or pine can start around NZ$1,500 to NZ$2,000.
- Standard adult caskets in wood or fiberboard range from approximately NZ$2,500 to NZ$4,000. These would have some lining and customisable options.
- Higher-end adult caskets made of finer woods like oak or mahogany generally range from NZ$4,000 to $7,000. These include thicker woods, luxurious linings, decorative handles and personalisation.
- Top-of-the-line adult caskets with premium woods, ornate carvings, metal detailing or customised designs can be over NZ$10,000. Some very elaborate caskets could be NZ$15,000 or more.
- Infant and child caskets start around NZ$500 and range higher depending on size and materials.
- Rental casket inserts are also an option at around NZ$1,200 to NZ$1,500 for the insert. These allow for cremation or burial while renting the outer shell.
N.B. Korowai Caskets supply caskets without any linings or inserts. There will be additional costs for linings, plaques and transportation.
Why are caskets/coffins so expensive?
The cost of caskets or coffins can be influenced by several factors, contributing to their pricing:Materials: The type of materials used significantly impacts the cost. Solid wood, metals like bronze or copper, and high-quality finishes can increase the price. Conversely, more straightforward materials like pine or cardboard are generally less expensive.
Design and craftsmanship: Intricate designs, customisations, or handcrafted elements can raise the price. Unique features or specialised workmanship contribute to higher costs.
Brand and quality: Some brands or manufacturers are known for their quality craftsmanship, which can come at a premium price due to their reputation and the perceived value.
Market demand and location: Prices might vary based on the region or country and the demand for specific styles or materials.
Funeral home costs: Funeral homes often provide caskets or coffins as part of their services and add a margin to cover lining the casket and transportation..
Why is a coffin/casket shaped the way it is?
The casket's distinctive flat and slightly tapered rectangular shape comes down to ergonomics - creating an efficient, respectful container to accommodate the human body respectfully and comfortably.
There are a few specific reasons for the typical shape:
1. It allows the body to lie in a natural, straight position that respects the form and shape of the deceased. The head is slightly elevated on a small pillow, while the arms and legs can stretch straight.
2. The longer rectangular shape easily fits the dimensions of the human body from head to toe. Most caskets have some extra length to account for taller individuals.
3. The width is broader at the shoulders, allowing the arms to rest at the person's sides in a natural position. The casket then tapers down with the body's shape towards the feet.
4. The rectangular shape maximises the efficient use of materials and space when buried underground. Circular or oval caskets would not be efficient.
5. The traditional shape allows the lid to be lifted easily or detached to view the body for funeral services. A non-rectangular shape would make this more difficult.
Do you get cremated in a coffin?
Often, individuals are cremated in a coffin or casket designed explicitly for cremation purposes. These containers, often called cremation caskets or alternative containers, are made of combustible materials such as cardboard, unfinished wood, or other eco-friendly materials.
In many crematoriums, the body might be placed in a combustible container or casket made for cremation purposes before the actual cremation process begins. This container is used for sanitary and practical reasons during the cremation process. In some instances, the deceased might not be cremated in a traditional coffin or casket due to the nature of cremation and the need for a suitable container.
How much does an average NZ funeral cost?
The average funeral cost in New Zealand is between $8,000 to $10,000, but costs vary widely depending on specific arrangements.Here’s a typical breakdown:
- Funeral director fees and care of deceased: $2,000 - $4,000
- Casket/coffin: $2,500 - $4,000
- Cremation costs: $720 - $1,100
- Burial plot (if applicable): $900 - $3,000+
- Grave digging/closing fees (burial only): $1,000 - $2,500
- Death certificate: $33
- Funeral celebrant or minister fees: $200 - $500
- Venue/staff costs for funeral service: $500 - $1,500
- Flowers: $300 - $500+
- Catering for reception: $1,000 - $3,000
- Memorial books/materials: $80 - $250
- Other ancillary funeral costs: $500+
Significant factors affecting overall funeral costs include the choice of burial vs cremation, whether a church service is involved, and how elaborate the entire process is regarding venues, receptions, flowers and more. Generally, cremation services would be on the lower end, while lavish burials would be at the much higher end.
We recommend asking funeral directors for a detailed breakdown.
Because of a lack of transparency, The Funeral Rule was introduced in the USA. This gives you the right to:
Buy only the funeral arrangements you want. You have the right to buy separate goods (such as caskets) and services (such as embalming or a memorial service). You do not have to accept a package that may include items you do not want.
Get price information on the telephone. Funeral directors must give you price information on the telephone if you ask for it. You don’t have to give them your name, address, or telephone number first.
Get a written, itemised price list when you visit a funeral home.
Provide the funeral home with a casket or urn you buy elsewhere.
What is the biggest expense of a funeral?
The casket or coffin is typically the most significant expense of a funeral. On average, the casket or coffin comprises 20-30% of funeral expenses.Here are some more details on average casket/coffin costs and why they are often the costliest funeral expense:
Caskets can range from $1,000 on the very low end for a basic cloth-covered wood casket to over $10,000 for high-end models made of expensive wood, metals, or other luxury materials and extensive customisation. The average casket is usually between $2,500-$4,000.
People often feel compelled to spend more for a "quality" casket as a sign of respect for the deceased.
Due to intricate materials and designs, solid wood and metal caskets are generally the most expensive.
Cemeteries may also require a particular grade of casket for burial, forcing people to spend more than budgeted.
Along with the casket, other major funeral costs include funeral home fees, embalming, the cemetery plot, headstone, burial vaults for casket protection, and funeral celebrant services.
The next biggest expense is often the Funeral Home services which include transportation of the deceased, coordination of the funeral arrangements, and staff assistance during the service.
Other significant expenses include embalming and preparation, the ceremony and venue and related costs e.g.:flowers, printed materials (like programs or memorial cards), and catering.
What are the different types of caskets in New Zealand?
The most common types of caskets available for funerals in New Zealand are:
1. Wood caskets - The most popular choice due to their traditional and natural appearance. Wood caskets have different grades, from bare pine to expensive exotic hardwoods. Maori and Pacific Island cultures may use traditional carved coffins.
2. Eco-Friendly Caskets: With a focus on sustainability, eco-friendly caskets use biodegradable materials like bamboo, willow, or even cardboard. 
3. Cardboard or composite fiberboard caskets - Made from thick, durable paperboard or composite wood. Lower cost option. It may not be suitable for some burial plots.
4. Willow caskets - Woven from willow branches and rattan for an organic look. Environmentally friendly and attractive. They tend to be more expensive.
5. Woollen caskets - Made using pure NZ wool padding and lining. Fully biodegradable and a greener choice. The wool breaks down naturally over time.
6. Metal caskets - Usually made from bronze, copper or stainless steel. Very ornate but very expensive. It may require concrete vaults for burial.
7. American-style caskets - Decorative caskets with extensive metal detailing, linings and trimmings. Usually, the most lavish and expensive.
What is a traditional casket?
A traditional casket is a rectangular burial coffin or casket made from wood, metal, or fiberboard. Some key characteristics of a traditional casket:• Typically made from oak, maple, pine, walnut, poplar or mdf/fiberboard. They may also be made from bronze, copper, or stainless steel.
• Rectangular shape with a split lid (hinged or removable), allowing the top half of the lid to be opened for viewing the deceased.
• Lined with fabric and padding on the interior, such as silks, velvets, or quilted cotton linings. Higher-end caskets have thicker, plusher linings.
• Comes in standard adult sizes to accommodate most full-grown bodies. The interior dimensions tend to be 2m long.
• External embellishments may include decorative handles, accents, carving, metal details, corner embellishments, etc.
• Used for burial underground and, therefore, must withstand moisture and pressure over time after interment. May be placed within a burial vault.
• Considered more traditional and conservative than modern casket types (which may be unusual shapes, eco-pods, etc.).
Can you be buried in a coffin instead of a casket?
In New Zealand the terms "coffin" and "casket" are often used interchangeably.Both coffins and caskets serve the same purpose of providing a respectful container for the deceased during burial.
What are the different types of casket lining?
The most common types of casket linings are:
Velvet is a classic casket lining choice, providing a luxurious look. It comes in different densities and often has coordinating head panels. Velvet is available in various colours like white, pink and blue.
Satin is durable and elegant with a subtle sheen. Satin is available in various colours like white, pink and blue.
Crepe is a very fine silk with texture and body that drapes nicely. Crepe lining panels tend to show casket details better than flat fabrics. Crepe is available in off-white or light pink.
Muslin or Cotton provides a more straightforward and more traditional look, offering comfort while maintaining a classic appearance.
Polyester is an inexpensive option which mimics the look of finer fabrics. It’s easy to clean and maintain.
Wool is an eco-friendly choice with softness and biodegradability.
What is the most environmentally friendly coffin?
The most environmentally friendly coffin options are:Natural Shrouds for Green Burials - Simple shrouds made from biodegradable materials like cotton, bamboo, or wool gently enclose the body for earth-friendly burials. Avoiding embalming chemicals, these natural wraps allow natural decomposition to proceed swiftly.
Wicker Coffins - Hand-woven caskets crafted from sustainable willow, banana leaves, seagrass or wool. Au natural in look, free of metals and varnishes, these woodsy sanctuaries gently return to the earth, nourishing the soil as they decompose.
Cardboard Caskets - Crafted from sturdy, recycled cardboard, these basic yet dignified coffins may incorporate natural cotton handles and linings. Fully customisable earth-friendly sanctuaries, cardboard caskets provide an affordable, sustainable burial solution as they gently decompose.
Wooden Caskets - Unembellished coffins crafted from sustainable bamboo, pine or willow, avoiding less eco-friendly tropical hardwoods. Opt for plant-based glues and oils if finishing. Add a natural cotton mattress for gentle composability. Simple sanctuaries to enrich rather than disturb the earth.
Eco-Coffins - Crafted from layers of recycled paper honeycomb or other earth-conscious materials, free of plastics and toxins. Shaped distinctively yet gently like traditional caskets, they provide ecological sanctity in death, not disruption.
What is an eco casket?
Eco caskets provide a planet-conscious alternative for final goodbyes. Carefully crafted from renewable, biodegradable materials like untreated pine, bamboo, willow, hemp or recycled cardboard, they are designed to naturally decompose over time, nourishing rather than disrupting the earth.By utilising materials and methods that minimise environmental impact both in production and after burial, eco caskets offer families a more sustainable way to honour their loved ones everlastingly through the eternal cycles of nature.
For those who prioritise ecological awareness at life's end, eco caskets promise enduring remembrance in harmony with the planet.
How much is a biodegradable coffin?
The cost of a biodegradable coffin can vary depending on several factors, such as the material used, the design, and the supplier or manufacturer. On average, biodegradable coffins are more affordable than traditional coffins made from higher-end materials like solid wood or metals.Generally, prices for biodegradable coffins can range from a few hundred dollars to several thousand dollars, depending on the specific type of biodegradable material, craftsmanship, and any additional features or customisations.
It's essential to check with different suppliers or funeral homes to get precise pricing based on the specific type of biodegradable coffin you're interested in and any additional costs associated with delivery or specific services.
What is the greenest way for burial?
The greenest way for burial involves methods that minimise the environmental impact of the burial process. Some of the greenest burial options include:
Natural Burial
Natural or green burials involve interring the body in a biodegradable coffin or shroud directly into the earth, without embalming fluids or non-biodegradable materials. This allows the body to decompose naturally and return to the soil.
Biodegradable Coffins or Shrouds
Using coffins or shrouds made from biodegradable materials like cardboard, wicker, bamboo, or other natural fibres helps facilitate the decomposition process.
Conservation Burial Grounds
Some conservation burial grounds are designated areas where burials support land conservation efforts. These sites often have specific environmental guidelines to ensure minimal impact on the surrounding ecosystem.
Green Cemeteries
Green or natural cemeteries follow eco-friendly practices, including using native plants instead of traditional headstones, maintaining natural landscapes, and allowing only biodegradable materials for burials.
Aquamation or Alkaline Hydrolysis
This eco-friendly alternative to traditional cremation uses water, heat, and alkali to break down the body, leaving behind only bones. It's considered more environmentally friendly than cremation due to lower energy usage and emissions.
Each of these methods aims to reduce the environmental impact of burial by minimising the use of non-biodegradable materials, chemicals, and energy-intensive processes, allowing the body to return to the earth naturally. The choice often depends on personal preferences, cultural considerations, and available options in a specific region.
Is cremation better than burial?
The choice between cremation and burial often depends on individual preferences, cultural beliefs, and environmental considerations. Neither option is inherently better than the other; each has its own set of advantages and considerations:Cremation
- Environmental Impact: Cremation can have a lower physical footprint than traditional burials. However, it does release carbon dioxide and other emissions.
-Space: Cremation doesn’t require land for burial plots, which can be a consideration in areas with limited available cemetery space.
- Flexibility:Ashes can be kept in urns, scattered in various locations, or divided among family members, providing more flexibility in memorialization.
- Cost: Cremation costs can be lower than traditional burials, depending on the services and options chosen.
Burial
- Environmental Considerations: Natural or green burials, without embalming fluids and using biodegradable materials, can have minimal environmental impact and contribute to land conservation.
- Cultural and Religious Significance: Burial often aligns with certain religious or cultural beliefs, providing a sense of tradition and continuity.
- Memorialization: Some people find comfort in having a physical place to visit, such as a gravesite or memorial, to pay respects and remember their loved ones.
- Long-Term Perspective: Natural burials can contribute to ecosystem regeneration and conservation if done in designated conservation burial grounds.
Ultimately, the decision between cremation and burial is a personal one, influenced by factors such as religious or cultural beliefs, environmental concerns, cost considerations, and individual preferences for memorialization and honouring the deceased. There is no universally "better" option; both methods have their unique characteristics and can be meaningful ways to commemorate a loved one's life.
How long does it take for a biodegradable coffin to decompose?
It typically takes a biodegradable coffin between 1 to 5 years to fully decompose, depending on the specific materials used and the burial conditions. Some key factors that affect decomposition time include:- Materials - Coffins made from natural materials like wood, wicker, cardboard, or bamboo decompose faster than those with any plastic linings or metal parts. Bamboo and cardboard biodegrade the fastest.
- Temperature & Moisture - Warmer and more humid environments accelerate decomposition. Bodies buried in drier soils or colder climates take longer.
- Depth of Burial - Shallow graves with more exposure to air and soil microorganisms leads to faster decomposition than deeper burials. Most cemeteries require at least 6 feet (2 metres).
- Design - Simple, thin, fully biodegradable casket designs break down quicker than thicker ones. Ventilation and contact of the body with soil also speeds up biodegradation.
In ideal conditions, some all-natural cardboard or wicker coffins can decompose in about 12-18 months. For most standard wood or wicker caskets buried at typical cemetery depths, the usual biodegradation timeframe is 3-5 years. So biodegradable coffins can decompose relatively quickly compared to traditional coffins made of metal, concrete, plastic, etc.
The time it takes for a biodegradable coffin to decompose can vary significantly depending on various factors such as environmental conditions, the type of material used, and the specific design of the coffin.
Generally, biodegradable coffins made from materials like cardboard, wicker, bamboo, or other natural fibres are designed to break down relatively faster compared to traditional coffins made from non-biodegradable materials. In favourable conditions, biodegradable coffins might decompose within a few months to a few years, allowing the body to return to the earth more rapidly compared to coffins made from materials that take longer to degrade.
However, the exact timeline for decomposition can be influenced by factors such as moisture levels in the soil, microbial activity, temperature, and the specific composition of the biodegradable material. Some materials may decompose more quickly than others, but the complete breakdown of a biodegradable coffin can take varying lengths of time.
Is there such a thing as a biodegradable casket?
Yes, there are biodegradable caskets available as an eco-friendly alternative to traditional caskets. Some key things to know about biodegradable caskets:- Materials Used - Most biodegradable caskets are made from natural materials like bamboo, wicker, wood, cardboard, or plant-based materials. No metal parts or plastic linings that would slow decomposition.
- Break Down Process - Special biodegradable caskets are designed to safely break down when buried. Microbes and bacteria in the soil essentially consume and digest the casket and body inside.
- Decomposition Time - An all-natural biodegradable casket decomposes much faster than other types, usually within 1-3 years in ideal conditions. This avoids embalming chemicals leaching into soil over longer periods.
- Green Burial Compatibility - Biodegradable caskets match the environmental focus of green or natural burials. Many eco-cemeteries now require biodegradable caskets only to preserve the landscape.
- Cost - While more expensive than a basic wood casket, biodegradable caskets are competitively priced with metal or premium hardwood caskets. They range from about $1,000 up to around $3,000 or more.
So in summary, biodegradable caskets offer both environmental advantages and natural returns to the earth during decomposition. This makes them appealing to those focused on sustainability even in death care planning.
Yes, there are biodegradable caskets available. These caskets are specifically designed to break down naturally over time, returning to the earth without leaving a lasting environmental impact. Biodegradable caskets are typically made from eco-friendly materials such as recycled cardboard, wicker, bamboo, willow, or other natural fibres that decompose relatively quickly when buried in the soil.
These caskets serve the same purpose as traditional caskets in providing a respectful and dignified container for the deceased during burial, but they are crafted with materials that minimise their environmental footprint by promoting decomposition and integration back into the ecosystem.
Can you have a natural burial in NZ?
Yes, natural burials are available as an option in New Zealand. Here are some key details:
• Natural burial grounds and eco-cemeteries specifically designed to facilitate natural burials can be found across NZ. Information for natural burial cemeteries can be accessed through local councils.
• No embalming or toxic burial products are permitted. Only biodegradable caskets, shrouds, or eco-coffins made of materials like untreated wood, bamboo, or wicker. Metal or concrete vaults are also prohibited.
• Bodies are buried shallowly, no more than around 1 metre deep, allowing natural decomposition to occur more rapidly. Graves may also sometimes be unmarked or use natural, native grave markers.
• The burial grounds are managed holistically to preserve and restore native flora and fauna habitats. Graves themselves are allowed to revert to native landscapes.
• There has been growing interest and acceptance of natural burials in NZ. Most large cemeteries now offer designated sections, making eco-friendly green burial a realistic funeral choice.
So for those seeking a chemical-free return to nature after death with minimal long-term environmental impact, natural or green burials are increasingly available across New Zealand.
Yes, natural or green burials are available in New Zealand. These burials involve environmentally friendly practices that aim to minimise the ecological impact of the burial process. In a natural burial, the deceased is typically interred in a biodegradable coffin, shroud, or urn made from materials like untreated wood, bamboo, willow, or other natural fibres.
Green burial options in New Zealand often include designated natural burial grounds or cemeteries that adhere to eco-friendly principles. These sites may have specific guidelines for burials, such as prohibiting embalming fluids, limiting the use of non-biodegradable materials, and maintaining natural landscapes.
These natural burial practices in New Zealand aim to provide environmentally conscious options for those who wish to have a burial that aligns with ecological values and promotes the return of the body to the earth in a sustainable way.
How long do you wait to do a funeral after someone dies?
There is no set rule for how long to wait to hold a funeral after someone dies, but here are some typical timeframes:• Most funerals take place within 3-10 days after the death. This allows time to make arrangements, coordinate schedules, and give friends and extended family notice to attend.
• It's common to have the funeral about 3-5 days after the death if planning a traditional burial. Quicker services may occur within 2-3 days for cremation based funerals.
• Waiting at least 24 hours is recommended before holding the first gathering or memorial service. This gives the immediate family some privacy and grieving time before facing others.
• Some faiths and cultures have specific funeral timeline traditions - like having the ceremony within 1-2 days in Judaism or waiting longer periods in Islam or Hinduism. Cultural norms should be considered.
• Funerals may be postponed longer (1-2 weeks or more) to accommodate travel plans if people are coming from long distances. Services might also wait if close family need more time to manage grief before a public ceremony.
The most important things are honouring any cultural/religious customs and, above all, proceeding at the pace that feels right for the immediate family and closest friends in their grief process. There is no "right" timeline as long as the timing meets their needs and closure.
The timing of a funeral or memorial service after someone dies can vary based on various factors including cultural, religious, and practical considerations, as well as local regulations.
Cultural and Religious Practices:
Some cultures or religions have specific traditions regarding the timing of funerals. For example, in some traditions, the funeral might occur within a few days after death, while in others, it might take longer.
Logistical Arrangements:
Organising a funeral involves several arrangements such as notifying family and friends, coordinating with a funeral home, arranging for a venue, and ensuring the availability of clergy or officiants. This process might take a few days.
Legal Requirements:
Depending on the circumstances of death and local regulations, there might be legal procedures or paperwork that need to be completed before the funeral can take place.
Overall, while some funerals occur relatively soon after death, others might take place several days or even weeks later. The specific timing of a funeral is often influenced by the preferences of the family, cultural practices, and the logistics involved in organising the service.