“We pride ourselves on the very high level of service we provide and are mobile funeral directors, so we can come to you, which can make organising a funeral just that little bit easier.”
Location Manager – Barry Holmwood, whose career in the industry has 3 decades of experience in New Zealand funeral service, leads our team of qualified and experienced funeral directors.
We are committed to providing service of a very high standard in our dealings with all our families. Being mobile directors, we can come to your home, or you can chose to come into one of our funeral homes, located in Nelson and Richmond.
Our team can give advice on all aspects of funerals and can also guide you through pre-planning funeral options – just ask us. Whatever your needs, we will look after you with care and compassion so you don’t have to worry about a thing.
Simplicity Nelson are proud members of the FDANZ
Since it was founded in 1937, the FDANZ has promoted quality, expertise and integrity in the funeral profession, and has encouraged the training and education of funeral directors.
Today the FDANZ represents approximately 85% of funeral practices in New Zealand. As members of the FDANZ, we follow the Rules of the Association as well as a strict Code of Ethics and a Code of Conduct. In keeping with its commitment to high standards of professionalism and ethics, the Association has introduced an independent disputes resolution process.
Our Team
Barry Holmwood – Dip F.S. | Manager & Funeral Director
Barry’s funeral service career began in 1985 in Nelson. He has qualifications in both funeral directing and embalming, including the National Diploma in Funeral Service (2006).
In 2005 he received the prestigious Noel McNee Memorial Award for excellence in embalming. He took over the management role at Simplicity’s in 2024. Barry’s proud to be involved in the funeral service industry and is committed to helping grieving families in the Nelson and Tasman communities.
He loves cars, motorbikes, his two daughters and his wife—not necessarily in that order!
Ethan Williams – Dip F.D. | Assistant Manager & Funeral Director
Ko Taupiri te maunga, ko Aotea te moana, ko Waikato te awa, ko Tainui te waka, ko Waikato te iwi.
Ko Ngāti Mahuta raua ko Ngāti Te Wehi ngā hapū. Ko Ōkapu te marae.
Nō Whakatū ahau, ā, kei konei ahau e noho ana. Ko Ītana tōku ingoa.
I've been involved in funeral service and tangihanga for several years, initially providing live streaming and media services before becoming a funeral director and embalmer.
I'm a dad to my awesome kids, Elijah and Maeve and have a deep passion for supporting whānau and caring for their tūpāpaku (loved ones who have passed). I understand the importance of dignity, not only in life but also in death, and consider it a great privilege to serve the community alongside the team at Simplicity Funerals.
Nō reira, tēnā koutou, tēnā koutou, tēnā tātou katoa.
Karla Blight – Funeral Director & Embalmer
Hi, I'm Karla, a funeral director based in beautiful Nelson.
With over 20 years of experience as a caregiver, I bring compassion, understanding, and a deep sense of service to the families I support.
I believe in walking alongside people during life's most tender moments, offering care that's both personal and respectful.
In my free time, I find peace in nature walks, capturing moments through photography, and giving back to the community that I love.
Damara Pearl – Dip F.D. | Funeral Director & Embalmer
Hi, I’m Damara Pearl — a Funeral Director and Celebrant. I feel deeply honoured to support families during one of life’s most tender times, helping to create ceremonies that reflect the unique life and spirit of the person being farewelled.
I bring a calm and steady presence along with a listening ear, working with care and intention to ensure each farewell feels authentic and meaningful. I value being able to guide others during their time in our care, with a quiet strength of compassion and empathy.
Outside of my work, I enjoy early morning walks with my dog, listening to music, exploring art, and staying curious about life.