Our funeral directors are dedicated in their roles. They will listen and gently guide family and friends through the legal requirements and practical details of organising a funeral.
Ettiene is a South African native who has been working in the funeral industry since 2008. He loves his job and considers it more than just a profession. He has a wealth of experience and knowledge in funeral planning and management, and he has handled some of the most prominent funeral arrangements in South Africa and its neighboring countries, such as the one for Joost van der Westhuizen, a legendary rugby player with international fame. He was honored to be part of the team that gave him a dignified and memorable farewell.
Ettiene and his family of five have chosen to move to New Zealand in 2019 to pursue his career and passion as a funeral director. He believes that New Zealand offers him more opportunities and challenges to grow and learn in his field. He understands the emotional needs of the families he serves and strives to provide them with excellent and compassionate service during their time of grief. He listens to their wishes and preferences and helps them create a personalized and meaningful tribute for their loved ones.
Ettiene likes to spend his free time in Motorsport, Golf, and Rugby. He is a fan of both the Springboks and the All Blacks, and he enjoys watching their games. He also values his family time very much. He loves his wife and three children, who support him in his career and passion. His motto is “Where passion meets excellence”.
Kirsty began with Guardian Funeral Home in 1991, and after a hiatus from training and working as a primary school teacher, she is back at Guardian, working part-time on Mondays, Tuesdays and Wednesdays.
Kirsty is a fully qualified Funeral Director and Embalmer and is Registered Funeral Director and a full member of The Embalmers Association of New Zealand.
Kirsty is married to Mark. They have two adult children, two griffon dogs, a Burmese cat and several chickens.
In her spare time, Kirsty enjoys dog walks, gardening, reading, and baking for the volunteer organisation Good Bitches Baking.
