Meet the Team

Andrew began his connection with Hope and Sons early, as he went through school with a couple of the Hope boys. Hopes always stayed in the back of his mind as a business he would like to be a part of.

As a Funeral Director Andrew enjoys that every day is different, and he gets to utilise his event management skills to pull together carefully thought out services. He finds dealing with people from all walks of life highly satisfying.

Andrew has had some memorable moments at Hopes including a funeral that concluded with him taking the hearse for a lap around Forbury raceway following a horse and driver while Kenny Rogers ‘The Gambler’ played through the PA system. Everyone cheered as the hearse crossed the finish line.

In his spare time Andrew can be found spending time with his wife Philippa (nee Hope) and kids Jack and Alex, cycling (road and mountain bike), and playing the occasional song on his guitar. His favourite place in Dunedin is cycling over Highcliff Rd, taking in the stunning views from all directions and descending down the hill at a cracking pace.

Andrew’s song of choice at his funeral would be ‘Southern Man’ (Denis Henderson).

Johanna was an embalmer before she became a funeral director. Initially an advertisement in the paper for a position at Hopes sparked her interest back in 1984. What she enjoys most about her job is being able to take care of both the person who has died, and the family they leave behind.

Nicky first came to Hope and Sons when they had an open night. The more she found out about funeral directing the more it appealed. Nicky previously worked with St John Ambulance Service, and helping those in need has always been second nature. Being able to alleviate some of the stresses that families face when a loved one passes away is something she strives to do.

“I had a wonderful experience when my Nan had her funeral and I came away from that feeling that I would like to help families in the same way. I love people when they are truly themselves and when you are dealing with the bereaved you get a sense of who they really are.”

Mel saw an advert for a position with Hopes and thought it would be an amazing job, she has loved every moment since. Mel has a passion for helping others and appreciates being able to assist, guide, and support families in creating memorable farewells.

Matt began his career at Hope and Sons in 2012 and qualified as an embalmer in 2015, and in 2021 he began training as funeral director. His careful and calm manner in which he interacts with families enables them to make good decisions and feel supported.

Bailey joined our team at the beginning of 2023, bringing eight years of experience as a caregiver to the elderly. Her background in providing compassionate support adds depth to Hope and Sons commitment to care and service excellence. Since joining, Bailey has played a vital role in ensuring the well-being of the families in our care and for, following our core values of empathy and dedication.

Before joining the Hopes team Chris worked as a carer in rest homes. He thought it was a natural move from caring for someone in life, to making sure they were in death too. Chris has over 20 years experience in the industry.

Katie joined the Hopes family in 2003 and graduated with a BSC from the University of Otago before going on to complete her National Certificate in Embalming in 2006. Her knowledge of science and love of crafting has helped look after people while ensuring that they are cared for with the upmost respect and dignity. Katie finds it a privilege to look after people’s loved ones at a very hard time.

Cherie is one of the friendly faces in the office and as an integral member of the Hopes team she is always helping to keep things running smoothly and assist families.

Robyn has always been interested in becoming an embalmer and in May 2007 she applied for a position at Hope and Sons and has been here ever since. Robyn leads the Mortuary Team and ensures the dignity and respect of everyone that comes into Hope and Sons care with her compassion and meticulous approach.