Timaru District Council requests comments from the public regarding the draft landscape plan they have commissioned in relation to the new Timaru cemetery at 168 Claremont Road, RD4 Timaru, legal described as Lot 1 DP 339796 and Lot 1 DP 72967 BLK XVI Pareora SD, and 190 Claremont Road, RD4, Timaru, legal described as Lot 1-2 DP 484701 Lot 1 DP 66227.

The new cemetery is proposed to serve the Timaru area as the existing Timaru cemetery is predicted to run out of space in approximately 5-10 years.

The draft landscape plan has been developed by a landscape architect and was informed by consultation with neighbours and stakeholders along with other relevant matters. The draft landscape plan can be viewed at the following website: www.timaru.govt.nz and will be revised after considering the comments received from the public, stakeholders and neighbours. Any comments will also be summarised and considered by Council in deciding whether to approve the landscape plan.

You can make comments on the draft landscape plan by e-mailing parks@timdc.govt.nz or in writing to Timaru District Council, Parks Team, PO Box 552, Timaru 7940. You can also drop your letter into one of our service centres. All comments must be received by Council by 10 September 2025.

Council encourages the public to provide comment on the draft landscape plan. There will also be an opportunity for public to make a submission in relation to the Notice of Requirement required for the cemetery.

Q&As

Why does Timaru need a new cemetery?

The existing Timaru Cemetery is expected to reach capacity within 5–10 years. Council has a legal obligation under the Burial and Cremation Act 1964 to ensure there is sufficient burial provision for the district.

Why was Claremont Road chosen?

Council assessed more than 27 alternative sites. Many were unsuitable due to size, soil conditions, flooding risk, or distance from Timaru. Claremont Road was selected because it:

• Is large enough to meet intergenerational needs.
• Has stable subsoil and suitable topography.
• Is close to Timaru and accessible by public transport.
• Is not near industrial activities and integrates with walking/cycling networks.

What is the vision for the new cemetery?

The design concept is a “cemetery in a park”—a peaceful, inclusive space that:

• Supports remembrance and cultural traditions.
• Integrates nature and biodiversity.
• Provides walking paths, reflection areas, and native planting.

What about environmental concerns like groundwater and leachate?

The design includes:

• A 50-metre setback from waterways.
• Careful drainage and leachate control.
• Monitoring of groundwater.
• A discharge consent process as part of approvals.

Will the cemetery increase traffic or create safety issues?

Traffic and access improvements are planned, including:

• Upgrades to the Claremont/Barton Road intersection.
• Internal circulation design and turning bays.
• Footpath connections and MyWay access.

How will neighbours be affected?

The plan includes:

• Boundary planting and screening to protect privacy.
• Retention of some views where possible.
• Visual buffers and landscaped edges.

Will cultural and religious needs be met?

Yes. The design allows for:

• Flexible burial orientations.
• Provision for same-day burials where required.
• Dedicated RSA section and natural burial areas. Council will continue to work with cultural groups to refine details.

What about cost and rates impact?

The project is a long-term investment in essential infrastructure. Costs will be managed through staged development over 100 years, reducing immediate financial impact.

How can I have my say?

View the draft plan at www.timaru.govt.nz and provide feedback by:

• Email: parks@timdc.govt.nz
• Post: Timaru District Council, Parks Team, PO Box 522, Timaru 7940
• Drop-off: Any Council service centre
  Deadline: 10 September 2025