Napier's lockdown loved ones to be remembered in city memorial service

Dunstall Funeral Services' Michelle (left) and Katherine Dunstall will be commemorating the lives of loved ones lost during the lockdown. Photo / File

A memorial service for Napier families who lost loved ones during the Covid-19 lockdown will be held next week.

The Napier City Council is helping Dunstalls Funeral Services to organise the service.

Councillor Richard McGrath said lockdown was a challenging time for everyone.

"It was particularly so for those who lost loved ones at that time.

"They couldn't attend a service and this is a way of recognising and allowing families to grieve."

During level 4 lockdown, no funerals were allowed at all. At levels 2 and 3 they were allowed, but restrictions were in place on numbers that could attend.

Details of the memorial service are still being organised.

Katherine Dunstall said the service was a collaboration between all three Napier funeral homes, Dunstalls, Beth Shans and Howard & Gannon Funerals Limited.

"As part of the city recovery plan we have realised that there is hardship in this community with families missing the opportunity to grieve due to Covid-19," she said.

"The funeral homes in Napier have come together with the council to provide the service.

"It's a sign of respect for the loved ones lost, we want them to know 'we hear you, feel you, and understand how it feels'."