About Us
A HELPING HAND THROUGH THE HARDEST TIME
Affinity is here to provide professional help and experience at one of life's most challenging times.
Celebrating life for 120 years
Blending experience and empathy, introducing the team at Affinity Funerals...
When you meet one of the dedicated team at Affinity it will quickly become apparent that you are in safe hands. Their professional approach and ability to listen and understand your specific needs will provide reassurance that you have entrusted the right people to aid in farewelling your loved one.
Gary Wybrow
A fully qualified embalmer and funeral director, Gary brings two decades of experience to his role as Affinity's Managing Funeral Director. The opportunity to return to Central Otago, where he began his working life, fitted perfectly with his love of the rivers, lakes and hills, which he enjoys exploring with his wife Averill and daughters Hannah and Sarah.
Lynley Claridge
In addition to working as an Associate of a local accounting firm, Lynley has served as a Trustee of the Central Lakes Trust, a councillor on the Central Otago District Council and a member of the Dunstan Hospital Board. This widely diverse range of experience, coupled with her love of working with people positioned Lynley perfectly for her role as a funeral director, a role which she has passionately fulfilled since she co-founded Affinity.
Paul Tamati
Paul identifies with the incredible changes in the communities that he was brought up in, Cromwell, Alexandra and Wanaka, where he resides with his family. A 30-year background in hospitality and retail and his love for giving back to his community have steered him into the Funeral Industry. A proud Maori, Paul appreciates cultural diversity and respects people from all faiths and beliefs.
Tami Rubie
Tami moved to Central Otago with her family in 2010, lured by the climate and the lifestyle. With a background in farming and veterinary work, along with her volunteer experience with St John and Fire and Emergency NZ, she thrives in dynamic environments. As a funeral director and qualified embalmer, Tami is dedicated to providing inclusive care for all the families she serves.
Mandy Spence
Mandy's journey began with a tertiary education in health science and an early career as an occupational therapist. Since then, she has transitioned through health, tourism, conservation, and horticulture. Throughout her diverse experiences, she has earned a reputation as a generous and compassionate individual who understands life's complexities and the importance of giving back to those in need. Mandy has a deep love of the Central Otago region, its landscape and community.
Julie MacDonald
Julie is our caterer. Her love of all things food has kept her busy in the catering industry for 8 years. With her ability to combine freshness and flavour with a flair for presentation, the kitchen is her 'happy place'.
Jane Stalker
Originally from Scotland, Jane has called New Zealand home since 1988. As a qualified JP, Jane finds administering this service and communicating with people from all walks of life a rewarding experience and one that links well with her role at Affinity where she is privileged to assist families through their loved one's final journey. She is also the event manager at the Wanaka A & P Show, a position she enjoys and has held for the past 25 years.
Looking for more information?
In this brochure you will find helpful information on what to think about if you are planning a funeral for someone who has died, or pre-planning your own or someone else’s funeral. We hope this information offers you some insight and reassurance that we are here to support you every step of the way.