The Casketeers - First Episode

An important tangi (Māori funeral) dominates the first episode of The Casketeers. The award-winning hit series follows employees at Tipene Funerals in Onehunga, as they help whānau say their last goodbyes. Funeral director Francis Tipene is in quality control mode ahead of the tangi for Tainui Princess Tomairangi Paki, and his wife (and work colleague) Kaiora Tipene is used to what she calls Tipene's "OCD...I think it's OTT". As the hearse is polished and last minute stains are removed, co-workers Fiona and Scottie roll their eyes, but pull together to ensure the royal send-off goes immaculately. 

A messy chapel can drive me crazy. Having said that, it's allowed to be messy, and it should be messy sometimes because we know that's a sign that something's happened, and that a family have celebrated and that it's been used. But when it remains messy for some time? No...

– Francis looks forward to his chapel being spick and span again

Key Cast & Crew

Karl Steven

Composer

Tom Walsh

Cinematographer

Chris Anderton

Editor

Anna Lynch

Producer

Annabelle Lee-Mather

Consulting Producer

Susan Leonard

Director