Nasbey’s cemetery is almost full to capacity, prompting the need to expand the site for future generations.

The cemetery, on the aptly named Cemetery Rd, which has been operational for 164 years, has just a small selection of plots left available.

As of January, there are six ashes plots and nine burial plots available, excluding those that have already been reserved.

Last year an assessment of burial demand, forecast population growth of the town, and the potential burial capacity of the undeveloped area of the property was completed.

The report, presented at this week's Maniototo Community Board meeting, showed that due to population growth projections and burial rates, specific to Naseby, an additional 482 plots would be required to meet the community’s needs over the next 100 years.

Details around the extension strategy were presented at the meeting by Central Otago District Council (CODC) group manager - community experience David Scoones.

CODC group manager - community experience David Scoones. PHOTO: CODC

He said as part of the CODC 2024 to 2034 Long Term Plan, money has been allocated to progress with the expansion of the cemetery over the next three years.

The first year would be a planning stage, the second would focus on preparation and the third would be development of the site.

To do that, council plans to expand the site on council owned land at the southern part of the cemetery, which is about 1.2 hectares in size and is planted in mature pines.

A look at the new proposed cemetery layout. PHOTO: Supplied

The surrounding property is privately owned by forestry company Ernslaw One.

Development of the cemetery will require the removal of the over mature trees from the unused sections of the site.

David said Ernslaw One has been in recent discussions with CODC and agreed, in principle, to remove the trees at their own cost and convenience, and retain any value gained from the sale of logs.