The Casketeers - First Episode

Television (Full Length Episode) – 2018

An important tangi (Māori funeral) dominates the first episode of The Casketeers. The award-winning hit series follows employees at Tipene Funerals in Onehunga, as they help whānau say their last goodbyes. Funeral director Francis Tipene is in quality control mode ahead of the tangi for Tainui Princess Tomairangi Paki, and his wife (and work colleague) Kaiora Tipene is used to what she calls Tipene's "OCD...I think it's OTT". As the hearse is polished and last minute stains are removed, co-workers Fiona and Scottie roll their eyes, but pull together to ensure the royal send-off goes immaculately.

What is Francis like when he's stressed? He's like a lady . . . he's a typical lady that's having a...yeah a fit.
– Fiona Bakjulich ('Nona') describes her boss Francis Tipene