Section 2: Asset Description Cemeteries provide a location for the interments and remembrance. The primary objective is to create a respectful environment that is attractive, restful and suitable for reflection and grieving. Cemeteries will require a high level of development to meet their purpose and visitor needs. They are included within the park network to reflect the wide range of uses and values cemeteries provide. They will generally exhibit one or more of the following values and attributes: • Historic sites • Historic buildings and structures • Monuments • Other sites of cultural or heritage significance • Cemeteries including both open and closed. 2.6.2 Sub-categories 2.6.2.1 Cemeteries The Marlborough District Council owns, manages, and maintains cemeteries. There is also a selection of trustee administered or private cemeteries and urupaa (burial grounds) dotted throughout the district that residents may have access to. Cemeteries provide places to commemorate loved ones, to learn about those that passed before us, and also provide passive open space amenity on a local basis. By providing quality cemetery services, the Council aims to meet the Ministry of Health’s goal to ensure a social and physical environment that provides for the lawful, hygienic and dignified disposal of the dead, now and in the future. In doing so, heritage values are promoted through continued protection of historical and cultural cemetery assets. MDC Cemeteries The Marlborough District Council administers seven operative cemeteries. Cemetery Location Fairhall Fairhall - Blenheim Picton Picton Havelock Havelock Tuamarina Tuamarina Awatere Seddon Ward Flaxbourne Omaka Blenheim Photo: Fairhall Cemetery The Council provides 26.3 ha of cemeteries. Cemetery operating expenditure in 2014/15 equated to $268,172. The cost of maintaining Cemeteries at current levels is on average $10,196 /ha. Page 28