New Zealand has more than 180 Services Cemeteries, usually located within public cemeteries and managed by local councils. Although many of these areas are commonly called “Returned Services Association sections” or “RSA sections”, the Royal New Zealand RSA (RNZRSA) has no formal role in managing them or approving burials. Some local RSAs and volunteers may help care for these areas, but all enquiries about burial plots, availability and approval should be directed to the local council or cemetery manager. You can find your nearest Services Cemetery and its responsible local authority on the Veterans’ Affairs New Zealand website.

Burial in a Services Cemetery

Burial in a Services Cemetery is available to people with eligible Operational Service, subject to approval by the relevant local authority. A spouse or partner of an eligible service person may also qualify to be interred in the Services Cemetery, including in the same plot where this is permitted. However, local rules vary, and some councils may only allow the spouse or partner to be interred after the service person. Families should contact the cemetery manager directly to confirm availability, eligibility and the process to follow.Visit the Veterans' Affairs website to read more about eligibility for burial in a Services Cemetery.

Memorial Plaques

Veterans’ Affairs may fund a standard plaque or headstone for an eligible service person, or their spouse or partner, and its installation in a Services Cemetery. This can also include updating the memorial when a spouse or partner is later interred. Applications are made to Veterans’ Affairs using the Memorial Order application form. A contribution may also be available for eligible people buried in a public or private cemetery outside a Services Cemetery. Visit the Veterans' Affairs website to find out about plaque and headstone funding and how to apply.

How to clean Memorial Plaques

Advice on how to clean a range of memorial plaques and headstones can be found on the Veterans' Affairs Website.