Keith is the third generation of the Gillions family involved in the business. His passion and talent for technology has seen him develop innovations in funeral services, from live internet streaming to remote participation for those not able to attend in person.

“Spending my childhood around the industry has given me a solid grounding in the profession and has been beneficial in teaching me how best to assist people at such a vulnerable time.”

Lee has an extensive background in support services for the New Zealand Police, both in Dunedin and Wanaka.

In 2014, Lee completed the Weltec embalming course graduating with top theory.

"I enjoy working alongside the team at Gillions - together we work with our client families and aim to give them the best service we can."

"I believe caring for the deceased and offering compassionate support to the family and helping them through the funeral process is an honour and a privilege."

Kelly Thompson  JP

I embarked on my career in the funeral industry as a funeral director in 2012, based in Australia.

Driven by a profound enthusiasm for the industry and a genuine knack for event management, I have taken on the role of overseeing the day-to-day office operations. In addition, I provide valuable assistance to the funeral directing team, manage our social media presence, coordinate events, and play a role in our marketing initiatives.

I derive great satisfaction from working within a company that is not only ethically grounded but also deeply committed to the well-being of the community.

This family-owned business holds a special place in my professional journey.

Vienna Spronken

“I am incredibly proud to be part of the team at Gillions. The compassion, care and professionalism are beyond compare.

With a background in film and television I started out as the funeral and technology assistant, and while I still work in this area I am also training as an embalmer.



The profession is something I have always been interested in, and I am grateful for the opportunity to be part of it.

I love what I do and feel honoured to look after our families’ loved ones.”

Ainslie Haddon

With over 15 years of dedicated experience in customer service, both within New Zealand and abroad, I am deeply driven by a commitment to people. Being there for our families during such a transformative and difficult time in their lives is an honour that holds profound meaning for me.

My journey into the funeral profession was sparked by my own experiences with loss. I came to understand the essential role of mourning rituals and the sacred duty of tending to those who have died.



I feel very privileged to be working alongside such a compassionate group of people who are in the funeral profession for the right reasons, and who share a genuine passion for giving back to our local community.

Although Paolo now operates as an independent contractor, he continues to work with us.

Paolo has international experience in all facets of the funeral service industry and shows genuine compassion and attention to detail in his work.

He is currently one of the practical examiners for the industry embalming course.

 “I am proud to be associated with Gillions Funeral Services and my aim is to provide families with a positive lasting memory of their loved one.”