For example, you'll need their death certificate when closing bank accounts, accessing insurance claims or settling legal matters. 

When someone dies by suspected suicide, the final death certificate can’t be issued until the coroner’s inquiry is complete. This process can take time – often months, sometimes even longer. 

In the meantime, your funeral director can help you request an interim death certificate. This document can be used for most practical matters where proof of death is required. It’s a good idea to request several certified copies, as many organisations may ask to keep a copy for their records. 

To have copies certified, take the original certificate and its photocopies to a Justice of the Peace (JP). This is a free service. You can find a local JP through: 

• Your local community centre 
• The Citizens Advice Bureau
• The Royal Federation of NZ Justices’ Associations. 

If you're feeling overwhelmed, please remember you can always ask your funeral director or a support person to assist you. You're not expected to manage everything alone.