Repatriation from New Zealand to Ireland

In a straightforward case, repatriation from New Zealand to Ireland takes 10-21 days. The fastest cases complete in 10-14 days. Complex cases involving the New Zealand coroner can take 4-8 weeks.

No. The New Zealand death certificate is issued by Births Deaths and Marriages New Zealand and is in English throughout. This removes the translation step that applies in many other countries.

In New Zealand, a death must be reported to the coroner if it was unexpected, unnatural, violent, or unexplained, or occurred in certain circumstances. The coroner then decides whether an inquiry or post-mortem is required.

The Irish Embassy in Wellington can register the death with Irish authorities, provide a list of local funeral directors, and advise on documentation. They cannot pay for or arrange repatriation. Department of Foreign Affairs emergency line: +353 1 408 2000.

The Irish funeral director takes custody at the cargo terminal. New Zealand documentation is in English and typically accepted directly. The Coroner is involved only where the death abroad was unnatural, and may then order a post-mortem. Straightforward cases proceed to funeral arrangements without delay.

Yes. Cremation in New Zealand and bringing ashes home to Ireland is often simpler and less costly. Ashes can be carried on a passenger flight. You will need the death certificate and cremation certificate.