Funeral Director combing: company ‘did not try to hide’

Fiona Bakulich, former Tipene Funerals employee, stated to blame for charges in February this year and was sentenced last week to two years and three months in prison.

Bakulich received the payment in 2017 of $ 3000 for the cost of coating and sealing a zinc coffin, which she kept for herself. After the Gabrielle cyclone, the coffin in Waikumete’s cemetery was disinterested, revealing that it had not been coated, and the deceased had been wrapped in plastic.

In a statement released on social media this afternoon, Tipene Funerals co-owner Francis Tipene said the company carried “a deep sense of responsibility and aroha when taking care of our Tūpāpaku and its Whānau.”

“The recent sentence of our ex -employee has reopened an incredibly painful chapter, especially for families who have placed their trust in us during their most vulnerable moments. We continue to extend our sincere excuses and aroha to all impacted. [pain] And we carry with us every day. “

Tipene said that since the lack of a metal coffin was discovered, the company took full responsibility and ensured that a metal coating was supplied as soon as possible.

Tipene said it was the funeral company who told the matter to the police.

“We do not try to hide. We do not deviate. We respond with open hearts, assumed responsibility and have done what we can to correct things. But we also know that confidence, once broken, must be rebuilt over time with truth, humility and compassion.

“For those who have been injured, we really regret. And for those who still trust us, thank you. Difficult and important lessons have been learned from us, since we have implemented changes and squeezed our practices to ensure that all Tūpāpaku and their Whanau are attended to the greatest deep integrity, respect and Aroha.

“We are still committed to providing a high standard of funeral services to all cultures and communities.”

Police also arrested another former funeral director in March, accused of handling burials and obtaining about $ 18,000 by mistake in alleged offenses dating back to 2015.

This person, who was not employed by Tipene Funerals, received the intermediate suppression of names and arrested under bail. They should reappear in June.