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New Daimler HearseClassy carrier will keep casket visible
By MATT RILKOFF matt.rilkoff@tnl.co.nz - Taranaki Daily News | Saturday, 06 December 2008
Taranaki folk can now ride their last mile in right-royal style.
Eagars Funeral Services has just imported a DS420 Daimler high-rise hearse, the same type of vehicle famous for transporting the body of Princess Diana through the crowded streets of London in 1997.
Eagars managing director Casey Martin said the decision to buy the hearse was easy.
"So many funeral homes are going for big American hearses, but most Kiwis can trace their history back to the UK. It just made sense to get something from there," she said.
The stately black people mover is somewhat low on features such as cup holders, but a measure of its elegance is a centrally located cigar lighter. No mere cigarettes in this ride.
At more than two-metres high and five-metres long, the well-windowed number is an imposing presence on the road and draws stares from dumbstruck pedestrians.
The big point of difference between this and other hearses is the visibility of the casket.
"It sits high in the back for everyone to see.
"I like being able to see a casket in a hearse. It's that recognition it gives you that this is someone's life," said Mrs Martin.
Her husband, Richard, says the 20-year-old coffin car is powered by a Jaguar straight-six, but really only has the power of a 1600cc Toyota Corolla - not that the ability to reach high speeds rates highly with the car's usual clients.
Registration and compliance issues mean the car will not be available for funerals until next month.
Mr Martin says it will be based in New Plymouth and join a stable that includes a 1964 Parisienne Pontiac and a 2000 Ford Falcon.
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