Wakapuaka Cemetery

Opening/Closing Hours

Winter months: 7.30am - 6.00pm
During daylight saving: 7.30am - 8.00pm

About Wakapuaka Cemetery

Since 1861 some 16,000 people have been buried at Wakapuaka Cemetery.  The Returned Services Association has a special section within the 14 hectares of land that overlooks the Nelson Haven.  There is another RSA section at Marsden Cemetery.  

This cemetery is now closed other than to those with pre-purchased family burial plots, however there is some space for cremation plaques on the lawn area near the main entrance. An area unsuited for traditional burials is being considered as natural burials area, this will be sited at the top eastern end of the Cemetery. View a map of Wakapuaka Cemetery (15MB PDF).

Information panels at the gates direct you to the various different sections of the cemetery. Some beautiful heritage trees and fine plantings complement this picturesque spot.

A number of heritage trails are set in the Wakapuaka cemetery, including:

• Mayoral Memories heritage trail which gives insights into Nelson City Council 1874-1913
• Notable Women heritage trail covers stirring stories of women in Nelson
• The Italian memorial walk looks at Italian immigration stories

Burial records for all Nelson cemeteries can be accessed on the Council's website. A detailed map of plot layouts can also be downloaded if you are searching for anyone in particular.

Location

Wakapuaka Cemetery is located on Atawhai Drive, visible from State Highway 6 heading toward Blenheim.