About
At Cambridge Funerals we believe that it’s just as important to look after the living as it is to look after those that have passed on.
Meet our team
Left to right: Carla Turner, Gail Melrose, Ian Calvert, Raewyn Calvert, Nola Kiri, Lyric Vatoe
Raewyn Calvert
Funeral Celebrant
I am a qualified funeral celebrant whose own experience of loss inspired me to dedicate myself to supporting others. For the past 10 years I have had the honour and privilege of guiding families through their times of grief, helping them farewell loved ones in a respectful and nurturing way. My husband Ian and I have been connected to this community for more than 20 years, and together we consider it a privilege to walk alongside local families. Drawing on my background in teaching and guiding others through change, I bring compassion, understanding, and a deep sense of care to each service. Every farewell is shaped to reflect the unique story and legacy of the person being remembered, whether through a unique secular or Christian service.
Ian Calvert
Funeral Director
I grew up on a farm, where hard work and community values shaped my life. Later, I spent 23 years as a professional pilot, a career that taught me precision and care. Raewyn and I share a blended family of six, and family has always been at the heart of everything I do. My journey into funeral directing began during my time as an Ambulance Officer, where I learned how much compassion matters in life’s hardest moments. Today, I feel privileged to support families with empathy and respect, helping make a difficult time a little easier. Being part of the Cambridge Funerals team means putting people first—something I’m passionate about every day.
Gayle Melrose
Gayle, Carla’s mum, is a dedicated Funeral Director whose own experiences with loss have shaped her compassionate approach to supporting families. Her mission is simple but powerful: to provide care that truly meets each family’s needs while helping them feel understood and supported. As a mother of two and grandmother to eleven, Gayle brings a genuine warmth and empathy to her work, guiding families through difficult decisions with sensitivity and reassurance.
Outside of her professional life, Gayle leads a vibrant, full life, reflected in her achievements in lawn bowls and yachting—including national and international titles, as well as her role as a selector and coach for the New Zealand Commonwealth Lawn Bowls team. This energy and passion shine through in the way she supports families, offering not just professional guidance but heartfelt care. With Gayle at the heart of our team, you can trust that you’ll be met with compassion, understanding, and unwavering support during a challenging time.
Carla Turner
Carla, a mother of seven, brings her strong family values into every aspect of her work. She is proud to work alongside her mother, husband, and several of her children, creating a genuinely family-centred approach that helps us connect with the families we serve. With five funeral homes across the North Island and our own crematorium, we are able to care for your loved one from beginning to end, ensuring dignity, respect, and continuity throughout their journey.
As an experienced Funeral Director and Embalmer, Carla considers it a privilege to support families through loss, offering compassion, guidance, and a highly personalised approach. We are committed to open communication, ongoing support, and helping you feel secure during this difficult time. In choosing us, you’re selecting a team grounded in compassion, integrity, and family connection—dedicated to honouring your loved one’s memory with care.
It’s always incredibly hard to lose a loved one, but a fitting funeral makes all the difference when it comes time to say goodbye. In moments of grief, we often seek ways to celebrate the lives of those we cherish. A well-planned funeral can provide comfort, closure, and a chance for family and friends to come together in remembrance.
From personalised tributes that reflect the unique personality of the departed to serene settings that evoke cherished memories, every detail matters. It’s not just about saying goodbye, it’s about honouring a life lived and creating lasting memories for those left behind.
As we navigate through these challenging times, let us remember the importance of creating meaningful farewells that resonate with love and respect. 💖 #Farewell #RememberingLovedOnes #FuneralPlanning
Carla & Gayle