Liz Foxwell-Canning

FAQs

Some additional information about Funeral Celebrancy in Aotearoa New Zealand.

Why do I specialise in non-religious celebrations of life?

Every family deserves a ceremony that feels authentic and true to the person being remembered.

While I have many friends with different faiths, I don't hold religious beliefs myself. For that reason, I have chosen to specialise in non-religious celebrations of life. I believe it would feel disingenuous for me to lead a ceremony centred on beliefs that I don't personally share.

Christchurch is an increasingly diverse and multicultural city. A non-religious ceremony can provide an inclusive space where people of all faiths — and of none — can come together to remember, reflect and celebrate a life without anyone feeling excluded or uncomfortable.

My role is not to replace anyone's beliefs, but to create a ceremony that honours the life of the person who has died in a way that feels genuine, respectful and meaningful to those who gather to remember them.

Who can conduct a funeral service in Aotearoa New Zealand?

There is no legal requirement for a funeral to be conducted by a registered celebrant or minister. Families can choose whoever feels right for them, whether that's a professional celebrant, a religious leader, a family member or a close friend.

Many families choose an experienced celebrant because they can guide them through the process, create a personalised ceremony and confidently lead the service on the day.

Does everyone have to wear black at a funeral?

No. Traditionally black has been the colour of mourning and to wear black or dark/sombre colours has been considered respectful of others, but increasingly I see funerals where the family doesn't want anyone to wear black.

While we may be grieving and mourning our loss, the services I enjoy are about celebrating the life and special contributions of the person we are remembering, so wearing black might not feel right when you look at it like that.

Questions families are almost always worrying about but don't ask

  • What if I become emotional?
  • Can family members speak?
  • Can we change things afterwards?
  • What if someone can't attend?

Never be worried about asking these kinds of questions — we can talk about these, and more, in our meeting.

And what exactly qualifies Liz to be a Funeral Celebrant?

There isn't a formal licensing system for funeral celebrants in New Zealand. I have completed professional celebrant training through The Celebrants Training College New Zealand, but I believe what truly qualifies someone to lead a funeral goes beyond a certificate.

For more than 30 years I've worked in roles where people have trusted me through complex, emotional and significant moments in their lives. I've built my career around listening carefully, understanding what matters most, communicating with empathy, and helping people navigate difficult situations with calm and confidence.

A funeral is ultimately about honouring a life well lived and supporting the people left behind. Those are the qualities I bring to every family I work with.

I adhere to Celebrants Aotearoa's Code of Conduct. In my opinion the essence of that document is that the job of a celebrant is not to create the ceremony I think is best — it is to help the family create the ceremony that is right for them, while bringing professionalism, compassion and good judgement to every step.

Guides & articles

Longer answers to the questions that come up most often.

When you're ready, I'm here.

Please call me any time. If I cannot take your call, please leave a message so that I can call you back.

027 886 0016