As a perpetual care cemetery Mount Patricia Cemetery Association is committed to finding ways to care for the environment that fulfill current needs without compromising the ability of future generations to meet theirs.
In keeping with the global trend toward environmental sustainability, Mount Patricia Cemetery Association (MPCA) has revised its policy with respect to artificial flowers. As of October 1, 2026, any unclaimed artificial flowers will be removed; as of 2027 no artificial flowers will be permitted in the Mount Patricia cemetery. This new policy is a response to the environmental impact of non-biodegradable flowers that are a growing concern among cemeteries worldwide. The flowers fade, become dirty or damaged, and end up in landfills. They blow into the neighboring trees and wooded areas. The flowers, so lovingly placed to honour loved ones, become dangerous to wildlife and diminish the natural setting of Mount Patricia Cemetery. The new policy reduces waste, promotes sustainability, and possibly alleviates the pressure some people may feel to decorate graves with expensive artificial flowers.
Mount Patricia Cemetery Association understands and respects the needs of families to honour loved ones with cemetery adornments and memorials. The MPCA will identify locations for families to create permanent memorials that will contribute to the long-term sustainable beautification of the cemetery while honouring their loved ones. Alternatives will include donations to memorial flower gardens, or to have a tree or shrub planted, and will be recognized with a memorial marker.
Potted plants and plant hangers beside monuments that adhere to existing policies may be used for real flowers only. We would also appreciate assistance with this sustainable beautification policy and ask that plastic wrappers protecting fresh cut flowers be removed. Composters will be provided for flower disposal.
The columbaria have also been designed to create dignity for those interred there. Artificial flowers and other articles attached to a niche can cause damage to the surface of a niche as well as the ones below. The damage to even one niche detracts from the overall grace of this resting place.
Mount Patricia Cemetery Association is a not for profit company and the legal holder of the buildings, equipment, and lands. As a perpetual care cemetery, the MPCA is fully committed to the maintenance and management of the property, to making the cemetery a place of comfort and dignity, and to caring for the environment and natural beauty of the cemetery.
As the final resting place for your loved one, Mount Patricia is a peaceful, park-like cemetery with an amazing view of the Bay of Islands. Many people like to stroll the paths or relax on a bench while enjoying the view and tenderly reminisce about precious moments gone by.