A new, larger cremator and upgraded facilities are set to be built at Pyes Pā Memorial Park.

Tauranga City Council is investing $3.1 million in a project designed to meet growing demand and better cater for the city’s diverse communities, a council statement said.

Construction is scheduled to begin on October 12, with all works expected to be completed by mid-2027.

The upgrade will replace the park’s existing cremator, which was installed in 2007 and has reached the end of its usable life.

Acting head of spaces and places Ross Hudson said replacement parts are no longer available for the ageing unit, making replacement necessary.

“By installing a new, larger cremator we’re able to complete additional cremations compared to the existing unit. The new cremator also allows for larger persons to be cremated.”

Hudson said the new cremator has been purchased at a cost of about $700,000, while the new crematorium is costing about $1.3m.

A cremator is the actual machine or furnace used to perform a cremation, while a crematorium is the building or facility that houses the cremator.

“The total project cost is approximately $3.1m including enabling works, external works and infrastructure.

“The project is loan-funded [capex], with those costs then paid back through user fees. There is no rates funding of the cemetery at the moment.”

Tauranga City Council head of city planning and growth Andrew Mead, and strategic planning and partnerships, spaces and places manager Ross Hudson. Photo / Ayla Yeoman

As part of the redevelopment, the crematorium building will include more flexible gathering areas and a dedicated cremation viewing space following feedback from community and cultural groups during the design process.

Hudson said feedback from the Hindu community specifically requested a viewing area, which was also supported by other groups.

He said the space will accommodate about 30 people and can also be used for smaller services regardless of faith or cultural background.

Tauriko ward councillor Marten Rozeboom said in a council statement that the project would ensure the city had a crematorium capable of serving the community for years to come.

“This project will deliver an important upgrade and community asset for the city, and ensures Tauranga has a facility that meets the needs of a diverse community.”

Tauriko ward councillor Marten Rozeboom. Photo / David Hall

Hudson said projected population growth also influenced the decision to expand the facility’s capabilities.

Tauranga’s population is expected to exceed 180,000 by 2033, increasing demand for cemetery and cremation services.

“With a growing number of residents living in the city, we need to ensure our facilities and services can cater for increased population and a diverse range of community members and backgrounds.”

Hudson said there will be no impact to funerals, and cremations will run as normal during construction due to a secondary cremator being available.

“Services will be arranged at times when construction activity will be minimal.

“We expect there will be minimal disruption to access and parking during construction as most construction activities will be concentrated in an area that’s not publicly accessible.”