NO ORDINARY FUNERAL HOME...
In a profession known for its tradition and conservatism - we break the mould. We are friendly, professional, and genuine. We have a modern approach to Funeral Service. Our way is refreshing, and can be experienced in every facet of our business; our people, our facilities, and the service we provide.
Funeral directors Todd, Mike and Justin are committed to ensuring that farewelling a loved one is based on your choices. Our role is to go quietly about our business, guiding and supporting you – and ensuring you get what you want, at a price you can afford. Working together, we will create a service that is an expression of love and respect. Your personal needs will be met, and traditions that are important to your family will be followed.
Our Values - We believe...
We believe that a funeral should be about the person first and foremost. It’s their set of values, cultural influences, beliefs and final wishes that should come to the fore. When this happens, you know the person is being remembered in a relevant and meaningful way.
We believe that funeral choices shouldn’t be pre-set. Funerals can be small intimate affairs, large public gatherings or something in between. They can be held at a church, at home or at a public place like a park or reserve… the choice is yours.
We believe that people should be comfortable talking to us. Our funeral home is warm and inviting, almost like stepping into a friend’s home.
We believe that families should be involved as much as they want to be … whether they arrange the flowers for the casket, design the service sheet or bake a cake for the reception – or even painting the casket Mum’s favourite colour. Why not bring the family pet to the funeral service. If something feels right and it helps with grieving, then we will support you to make it happen.
We also believe that funerals shouldn’t break the bank – the deceased wouldn’t want that, and we don’t want that either. That’s why we use all of our skills, experience and expertise to guide you through a process that results in a dignified, personalised service that sits in line with your budget. It's a privilege to serve the Rotorua area.
Mike Lee
From a farming background, Mike has always enjoyed the outdoors and the farming lifestyle. It's this upbringing that Mike attributes to his true appreciation for the simple things in life.
Mike is known for his warm caring personality and this is definitely reflected in his manner when it comes to funeral directing - he is empathetic, understanding and comforting yet he also shows strength for families when needed. I am so proud to be able to help the community in Rotorua and Cambridge. It's about time funeral Directors are transparent about not only costs but also options and family involvement, not only saving money if that's important but also creating a send off that is personalized and has everyone involved. I have always thought of others first since I was a little kid and this is the best thing I could think of doing now, helping a family when they need someone real and genuine. A farm boy with the kiwi can do attitude Mike is a real person doing what he loves - helping others create a fitting and memorable send off...
"It’s such a wonderful feeling going to “work” and being able to do something that not only comes naturally but is something that I’m told is a gift, it helps people relate to me… I’m just a real person helping others through perhaps one of the most difficult times they will face.”
Todd Gower
National Certificate in Funeral Directing
Following Todd's decision to make funeral directing his chosen career, he went on to gain the National Certificate in Funeral Directing and thereafter he opened his own successful funeral business in Tauranga (which he subsequently sold in 2012). In 2014, Todd made the decision to once again pursue his passion, by establishing a funeral business in the Waipa and Rotorua regions. His aim is to ensure that all families can engage a funeral director with a distinctive and modern approach to funeral services. You are always greeted with a warm genuine face when you meet Todd.
“I couldn’t think of a more rewarding profession to be involved in; it is a true privilege to be asked to create a fitting farewell for a loved one."
Robyn Jones
Office Administrator
Robyn Jones oversees our office administration and also serves as a funeral assistant, playing a vital role in the smooth and compassionate care we provide families. Warm, caring, and unflappable, Robyn has a calming presence and a remarkable ability to keep the team steady during even the most trying times.
A devoted mother of two, proud nana of two, and happily married to Lee, Robyn brings the same generosity from her home life into her work. In her spare time, she loves catering for the masses who regularly gather at her house. You’ll most often find Robyn at the front desk or in the chapel, offering a welcoming smile and a reassuring presence to those we serve.
Justin Roper
Funeral Director
A Rotorua local, Justin is a dedicated and compassionate funeral director who goes the extra mile to ensure every family he looks after feels genuinely supported during their time of need. With a true passion for helping people, Justin takes great pride in his work and loves every aspect of his role, finding it a privilege to care for families when it matters most.
Before joining the Collingwood team, Justin spent time working in the trades, where he developed a strong work ethic, a practical approach and people skills that continues to serve him well in his career today.
Outside of work, Justin is a keen mountain biker, often found hurtling through the Redwoods, or relaxing with a cold beer with his mates. Down-to-earth and approachable, Justin is a real Kiwi guy who brings warmth, dedication, and sincerity to everything he does.
Tate Tisdall
Funeral Home Assistant
Rotorua born and bred, Tate is a valued member of the team at Collingwood Funeral Home, serving as a Funeral Assistant and providing support across all aspects of the funeral home’s work. Based in Rotorua, Tate is known for his reliability, compassion, and willingness to assist wherever needed to ensure families are cared for with dignity and respect.
He has won multiple performing arts awards, including Rotorua Performer of the Year (2022), Grade 8 Speech New Zealand Scholarship, which in turn furthered him to complete his ASB Diploma programme with Speech New Zealand, and Musical Theatre (ATCL) Diploma with Trinity College, London, gaining Distinction in both Diplomas, during this time he also served his school as the Head of Community Prefect and Drama Captain at John Paul College.
Outside of his role at the funeral home, Tate is an active member of the City of Rotorua Highland Pipe Band and is currently studying a Bachelor of Arts Majoring in Psychological Science and Political Science at Victoria University of Wellington. His strong sense of community, commitment to service, and thoughtful approach make him a trusted and dedicated part of the Collingwood team.
Roy Flipp
Funeral Home Assistant
Roy Flipp joins our team after many years in the building industry, bringing with him a strong work ethic and an eye for detail. Deciding it was time for a new chapter, Roy was hand-picked by Todd and Mike, who immediately recognised his enormous potential and natural connection with people.
Currently training as a funeral director, Roy supports the team in every aspect of the day-to-day operations of the funeral home. With a genuine passion for people and a pride in perfection, he approaches his role with care, dedication, and respect.
Outside of work, Roy is engaged to Kayla and is a proud dad of 3 awesome kids —keeping life full and busy. A keen gardener and a tinkerer in the shed keeps Roy out of mischief, and much like Justin, he enjoys a blast on his mountain bike whenever he gets the chance.
Find us
1358 Eruera Street
Rotorua
Call us anytime on 07 347 0069 or 027 2274246
Celebrating life - your way
