About this season
Francis and Kaiora Tipene are the passionate proprietors of Tipene Funerals. This is a unique opportunity to look behind the scenes of their business and into this little-explored but vital service, where our culture's last taboo is being addressed with dignity and aroha.
Episodes (8)
1. If a reed stands by itself it may break, but if in a group, it will be unbreakable
1.0Aired 9 October 2023 • 23 min
Jay & Francis take care of Stephen Watson & his beloved cat Smoochie. Tamale straddles the line between profession and family when he directs the funeral of his cousin Toni Va’enuku.
2. You shall be mourned by those you leave behind
1.0Aired 16 October 2023 • 22 min
There’s a hole in the wall and it’s Francis’ fault, with his attempt at breakfast falling flat. Joan Whitford and Mr. Mulivai are farewelled by their loved ones.
3. A full cycle is completed
Aired 23 October 2023 • 23 min
Yet more new décor to deal with & everyone gets together for a shared Matariki kai. There are ghosts that need attention. Jack Taumaunu and Tagisia Sanelevi are farewelled by their loved ones.
4. Let us stay close together, not far apart
Aired 30 October 2023 • 22 min
Francis offers to get on his knees to help lay floor tiles & the Stanley Neho Function Centre opens with a big celebration.
5. When the fern frond dies, another grows to take its place
1.0Aired 6 November 2023 • 22 min
The Queen is dead & Francis, desperate to be a part of the funeral, offers his services to Buckingham Palace officials. Baby Tevita Moeaki and Deon Hadley are mourned by their families.
6. Let us mourn their passing, for it is permanent. Not like that of the moon, set to rise again
1.0Aired 13 November 2023 • 23 min
World famous Tipene Funerals get surprise visitors from the USA and Francis is frustrated yet again by Fiona's tardiness. The families of Mr Chen and Mrs. Simoe Solomona grieve their loss.
7. Connections between people cannot be severed, whereas those of a canoe-rope can
1.0Aired 20 November 2023 • 22 min
The next generation of the Tipene dynasty is in the whare earning his keep. Pere Wihongi fulfils a long held dream for Francis & Kaiora. John Te Wake & Sylvia King are mourned by their loved ones.
8. Hold fast to your beliefs, look toward the horizons of the sea
1.0Aired 27 November 2023 • 23 min
The whānau travel to Fiji to visit someone special & witness the funeral of a family member. There's a joyful surprise & emotional celebration