As a third-generation funeral director, Terry feels honoured to continue his family’s legacy. From childhood, he helped at the funeral home, learning the ropes early on. Now in his 30s, with qualifications in business management and funeral directing, Terry excels at crafting personalised ceremonies. His patience, kindness, and compassion shine through. Outside work, he enjoys aviation, running, and stargazing—dreaming of his ashes one day returning to space.
Raised in Hastings, Steve returned home in 2021 after 25 years in telecommunications and finance and travelling widely. Seeking deeper purpose, he became certified in life coaching, massage, reiki, and as a death doula. His experiences across cultures shaped how he views life and death, and he finds real fulfilment supporting families through critical times. Outside work, he loves good food, wine, travel, and time with friends, family, and his mentee Teddy through Big Brothers Big Sisters NZ.
With over 20 years’ experience, Michael is a cornerstone of our team and a familiar face across Hawke’s Bay. He started at 16 sweeping floors in Whanganui before pursuing his passion here. Known for his charm and humour, he builds generational trust with families and takes pride in embalming, helping loved ones be remembered beautifully. Michael lives in Havelock North with his wife and two children, and enjoys family time, good food, and golf.
Born and raised in Hawke’s Bay, Grant recently began a new chapter as a Funeral Director, bringing compassion and care to his families. A proud husband and father of three, he finds balance outdoors, gardening, walking the family Border Collie Indie, or tackling New Zealand’s Great Walks. After 14 years in Tauranga managing Michael Hill Jeweller and later owning a service station, Grant returned to Hawke’s Bay in 2002 to be closer to family, and remains grounded and community-minded.
Erin entered funeral service following her own experiences with loss and grief, a path that felt less like a career change than a calling. Originally from Hastings and a former Havelock North High School student, she met her husband John there; together they’re raising Ava and Tai, and are active with Havelock North Rugby, Hawke’s Bay Netball, and Waimarama Surf Life Saving. Erin previously built a creative career in fashion and events, with ties to World of WearableArt and NZ Fashion Week, shaping her eye for detail and meaningful presentation.
With over 25 years’ experience as a funeral celebrant, Anne joined the Terry Longley & Sons team full time after 30 years in banking as a Business Development Officer at the National Bank of New Zealand, and as chaplain at Hereworth School. Growing up in Timaru, where her father was the local funeral director, she visited the funeral home daily after school and led her first service at 21. Married to Warren, with a grown family and grandchildren, Anne sees her role as a calling. In her spare time, she and Warren tend their garden at home.
From Invercargill, Warren is an ordained Presbyterian minister and JP with degrees in psychology and theology. He’s served communities for 40 years, including 24 as chaplain at Lindisfarne College, building lasting relationships along the way. Now retired, he coordinates our grief support, gently guiding families through post-bereavement care. Married to Anne, they’ve led hundreds of funerals together and are cherished by Hawke’s Bay families. In his spare time, he enjoys tending the garden at home with Anne.
New to funerals but experienced in helping others, Theo holds a bachelor’s in communications studies. She transforms concepts into creative tributes that capture personalities, work she finds deeply rewarding. Honoured with a lifetime achievement award for leading AUT’s rainbow group, Theo now calls Hawke’s Bay home. Married to Izzy, with two cats and a dog, she spends her downtime photographing nature.