Our 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.

Chaim finds one of the most rewarding aspects of being a Funeral Director is helping facilitate families saying goodbye to their loved ones in a way that is meaningful to them. Every funeral is unique and one that stands out in Chaim’s mind is a service that was a colourful fusion of Catholic ritual and a Steampunk theme at the Oamaru Basilica.

"I am very proud to be a part of the Hopes team and I really enjoy working alongside such a great bunch of fellow professionals. I like helping people, and as a Funeral Director, I meet people from all sides of life, often at a time when they may be vulnerable and in need of guidance, it is a privilege to be able to help and support families. Developing a relationship with each family and assisting them to bring about a memorable farewell is something I am passionate about, every family deserves this opportunity - in their own way and in their own time."

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 family’s 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.

15 years experience 

Before joining the Hopes team Chris worked as a career 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. 

With 16 years experience, Barbara is one of the friendly faces in the administration office making things run smoothly, and she is always willing to assist our families.

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.

9 years experience 

3 years experience