Water Cremation, also known as Alkaline Hydrolysis or Aquamation, is an eco-friendly alternative to traditional cremation. It uses a water-based process with a solution of 95% water and 5% alkali to gently break down the body, returning it to its natural elements. It is the same process that occurs as part of nature’s course when a body is laid to rest in the soil.

Water cremation was known to Maori, centuries ago. The bodies of some chiefs or high-ranking individuals were immersed in hot alkaline springs, with their bones collected a year later. The process has been referred to as whakapapa kōmako – ancestor immersion – a way to connect the spiritual and natural worlds.

Your pet’s remains are gently and respectfully placed in a sealed compartment. A mixture of water (95%) and alkali (5%) is heated to 95 degrees and circulated uniquely, reducing all but the bones to a liquid. The bones are converted to powder and returned to you in a package or urn. You can also use the powder as fertiliser. Learn More.

• Eco-Friendly: Over 90% energy savings compared to flame-based cremation.

• Minimal Environmental Impact: No direct emissions of harmful greenhouse gases or mercury.

• Gentle Process: It provides a respectful and natural way to handle remains without the high temperatures and smoke associated with traditional methods.

• Safe Disposal: The liquid byproduct, which consists mostly of water and minerals, is safely returned to the environment.

• More Ashes: 20% more ash remains returned to the family.

With water cremation, there are no direct emissions of harmful greenhouse gases or mercury to the atmosphere. This process does not burn any fossil fuels. It is very energy efficient – greater than 90% energy savings, compared to flame cremation, with 1/10th of the carbon footprint. 

Yes, the water used in the process is safe for the environment. After the process is complete, the water, which is now a sterile solution, is typically disposed of through normal wastewater methods. This effluent is safe for disposal and does not pose any environmental risks.

The liquid produced is primarily water and minerals. It is safely neutralised and processed through a municipal wastewater system, where it is treated to ensure no environmental harm.

The water cremation process typically takes between 10 to 12 hours, depending on the size and weight of the pet. We aim to have your pet returned to you within 2-4 working days and we will be in touch every step of the way. 

Yes, the ash remains are 100% safe to handle. Alkaline hydrolysis is a proven sterilisation process that results in pathogen and disease-free remains.

The ashes from a flame cremation are primarily the mineral remains from the bone, along with some ash from the cremation box or casket, clothing, and anything else that may have been placed in the process with the body.  The ashes from water cremation are only the mineral remains from the bone, as there are no other materials in the ash.  

The ash colour from a flame process is typically grey, from the carbon discolouration from burning.  The ash colour from water cremation is anywhere from white to tan. 

The consistency of the ash is also different.  The ash from flame cremation can be described as “chippy” bone fragments.  The ash from water cremation is a homogenous (consistent) powder.