“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
Hi I’m Barry and my career in funeral service began in Nelson in 1985, and I have had the privilege of supporting families through some of life's most difficult moments. I hold qualifications in both funeral directing and embalming, including the National Diploma in Funeral Service, which I completed in 2006.
In 2005, I was honoured to receive the Noel McNee Memorial Award for Excellence in Embalming, a recognition that remains a career highlight. In 2024, I proudly took on the role of Manager at Simplicity Funerals Nelson.
What I value most about this profession is the opportunity to help families create meaningful farewells for their loved ones. I am deeply committed to serving the Nelson and Tasman communities with compassion, professionalism, and genuine care.
Outside of work, I enjoy cars, repairing several items in my garage at home, spending time with my two daughters, and sharing life with my 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, e noho ana
Ko Ītana tōku ingoa.
Kia ora, I'm Ethan. 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.
Andrea Babington – Dip F.D. | Funeral Director
Bio Coming Soon
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.