John Schipper is a funeral director at Natural Funerals. I asked him to tell me about his business.
We take care of the dead and look after their families, helping them to say goodbye in a way that reflects the deceased’s unique personality. Natural Funerals are based on the preference of no chemical embalming and being as ecologically friendly as possible, including caskets/coffins. However, we do embalm when it’s necessary, and we also offer traditional and contemporary funerals. Ponsonby was the birthplace of The Natural Funeral Company.
Have funerals changed over the years?
I started in 1981. It was still very Dickens’ style – funeral directors wearing tails, and smiling wasn’t permitted. Most funerals were either in a church or a chapel, and most funerals were attended by the clergy. Today we can resemble an event manager arranging venues, celebrants, catering, photo tributes, flowers, playlists and, n recent years, live streaming (this was particularly so during those Covid days). Funerals have become more relaxed and people oriented, with mourners wearing bright colours and more casual attire. We still mourn a death but tend to focus on celebrating a life’s achievements.
Funerals are a solemn time, have there been any happy or humorous times during a service?
One in particular comes to mind. I was approached to assist another funeral home for a part of a funeral they didn’t necessarily want to be a part of. The deceased was to be carried up Parnell Rise to the Cathedral from Stanley Street. About 100 of the deceased's friends and family gathered at the back of the hearse, a Dixieland jazz band was playing, everyone took turns at carrying the casket, we went into all the bars and shops he had rebuilt. It was an absolute fun morning, a happy celebratory mood.
What was your childhood like?
Brilliant, 60s and 70s in New Zealand were so laid back, neighbours knew each other, all the kids played outside from sun up to sundown, and your parents knew where you were. There would be a big heap of bikes on someone’s front lawn. Bit different from today.
Which TV series would you never miss?
There were a few. Black Adder – I love the quick wit and humour that the English have. Sopranos – I’m intrigued with the mob. Currently, it’s Mobland.
Your dream holiday?
Croatia – my wife’s family are from Podgora on the Dalmatian coastline. We try to get there when we can; it’s simply stunning.
If you were reincarnated, what would you be?
A cat, I look at ours every day and think you’re a lucky little sod!
Something you dislike about your appearance?
Wearing glasses, have been since I was five. Yup was rocking the Joe 90 look back then, much to my brother’s delight.
Which item do you wish would come back into fashion?
The 80s power dressing! Come on, we all watched Miami Vice… linen suits, big shoulder pads and even bigger hair! Everything was to excess.
Something that you disapprove of?
Disliking a sloppy handshake. It says a lot about the person. Parents at their kids’ sports matches. When I was refereeing, I saw a lot of ugly behaviour from the grown-ups.
What's the best movie you've ever seen?
Saturday Night Fever… first time to the pictures with the age restriction and snuck in slightly underage.
Ever seen a ghost?
Haven’t seen a ghost but had a strange experience back in the mid 80s. We used to transfer bodies back to the funeral home, place them in the mortuary. We did this without turning the lights on. One night, I walked between the embalming tables and I was smacked on the backside by something. I quickly turned the light on and discovered a gentleman’s hand had slipped down while I was walking past. My initial thought was that there are four of us in here and three of those are deceased….
Give your teenage self some advice?
Listen to the older heads in the room; they have a wealth of knowledge to share with you.
Tell us something very few people know about you?
Love making Lego Technics. I get lost in it.
Your greatest fear?
Heights. Not sure why you’d throw yourself off a building or aircraft if they are in perfect working order.
Which talent would you most like to have?
Always wished I could sing.
What cliché do you most hate?
Living the life. It's thrashed.
What gizmo can you simply not live without?
The cellphone. It has given Funeral Directors so much more freedom. In the early days, when on call, you had to be at home or work; we can be anywhere now.
Your greatest weakness/indulgence?
A good single malt whiskey – definitely an indulgence. (DAVID HARTNELL, MNZM)
David Hartnell: One minute interview with John Schipper
