Our Heritage
Hope and Sons has been part of Dunedin life since 1887. For over 135 years, our team has supported local families with compassionate funeral care. While much has changed over the decades, our commitment to dignity, respect, and personal service has remained constant.
A Business With Deep Roots
Hope and Sons began as a small, family-run funeral home in Dunedin. Over the years, we have grown alongside the community, supporting families through times of grief and helping to create farewells that honour each unique life.
Today, we continue to be recognised as trusted Dunedin funeral directors, combining our heritage with modern services that meet the needs of today’s families.
Our Story Through the Years
Company Foundation
The Company was founded when John Hope entered partnership with Alfred Wynn and formed AJ Wynn & Hope Undertakers.
New Partnership
John Hope relinquished his interest in the partnership to begin his own business in St Andrew St, Dunedin.
New Company Name
William J Kinaston of Roxburgh joined as a partner until 1928. The company name changed to Hope & Kinaston Ltd.
First generation of the Hope Family
The first generation of the Hope Family - John Hope died in 1950. All three of his sons were associated with the firm at various times.
Hopes & Sons Ltd
In 1960 even though the partnership had ended years before the official name was changed from Hope & Kinaston Ltd to Hope & Sons Ltd to reflect the Hope family association with the firm.
Custom built premises
The third generation of the company moved the business from St Andrew Street to its present purpose built site on Andersons Bay Road.
Expansions in Dunedin
In 1989 the decision was made to extended the size of the Chapel to cater for the larger funerals that were occurring in the Dunedin Community.
The 3rd generation Hope sons
Les Hopes four sons - 'The Boys' - Ian, Peter, Brian, and Derek Hope all had long associations with the family business.
Peter K Hope (1955‑1996)
Derek I Hope (1960‑2002)
Ian A Hope (1962‑2000)
Brian S Hope (1967‑2005)
The 4th Generation Hope Family
Jannette, Michael, Liz, and Lyndon (circa 2013)
The fourth generation of the Hope family was represented by Ian’s son Michael, and his wife Jannette, and Brian’s son Lyndon, and his wife Liz.
– Lyndon S Hope 1996 - 2013
– Michael J Hope 1987 - 2018
Major facility upgrades
In 2004 we completed major facility upgrades to the offices, viewing rooms, and chapel. Bringing a more modern feel to the Hope and Sons facility.
Dukes Rd Crematorium, Mosgiel
After years of planning and development Dukes Road Crematorium was opened in Mosgiel.
Jodie Hope joins the team
Michael and Jannette's daughter, Jodie, joined the firm permanently in 2015, representing the fifth generation of the Hope family.
Jodie W Hope 2015 - present.
Company Manager - Andrew Maffey
After 18 years in the company Andrew moved into the position of Company Manager. He brings his extensive knowledge to the role with an innovative approach - being able to uniquely manage the traditional and progressive ideas.
Honouring the Past, Serving the Present
While our history is important, our focus has always been on the families we serve today. We honour our past by continuing to offer funeral services that balance tradition with flexibility, creating farewells that truly reflect the people of Dunedin and Mosgiel.
Hope & Sons has been trusted by Dunedin families for over 135 years.
Call us on 03 455 5074 or contact us online to talk with our team about arranging a farewell with care.
Explore More About Us
Meet the Team
Behind every service is a caring team dedicated to supporting families.
Our Heritage
For over five generations, our family has supported local families with compassionate funeral care.
Events
Join us at remembrance services and community education events.
Community
From Art Awards to Orokonui Ecosanctuary, see how we give back.