Lucas Vetter
Location Manager
Lucas Vetter joined Lychgate in late 2025 after a varied career across both the Wellington public and private sector. With a background in emergency management and disaster relief, Lucas has worked across government agencies and around the country to support people during one of their worst days.
As a practicing wedding and funeral celebrant, as well as educator at the Celebrant School, the funeral industry was always going to be an obvious choice for Lucas. His first experience in the industry at the age of 22 led him to developing a passion for supporting families, caring for others loved ones and creating a space of gentle reassurance and calm during difficult times.
"I came to Lychgate not to manage the staff, but to empower them to support our families in the best way possible. Ensuring that we are the guiding light in a time of darkness is the most important thing we can be for our families. I want to ensure that every individual, family and community that we serve knows that they can turn to us during their time of need and can trust that their loved one will be treated with the respect and dignity that they deserve."
Having lived in Wellington Central for over 12 years, Lucas now calls himself a local. When he is not serving others in his community, he is often found cooking for friends, seeking adventure around the country (or the world!), playing the piano or out socialising and meeting new people.
Naomi Maruaao
Funeral Director
Naomi was born and bred in Tokoroa before moving to Wellington as a teenager. She has worked across the hairdressing and hospitality sectors which have helped develop her eye for detail and multi-tasking skills. In her spare time, she plays netball and loves getting out on Wellington's walking tracks. Naomi loves nothing more than being with her children and her fur babies.
“The paths I’ve walked in life have guided me to where care and compassion matter most. At the heart of my work, my greatest priority is the respect and dignity of our loved ones.” Naomi joined the Lychgate team in 2023 and is honoured to provide comfort and closure for families.
Kerry Hight
Funeral Director
Originally from the UK, Kerry has been living in New Zealand for 19 years (after travelling to many amazing places across the world for almost a year to get here).
For the past few years, she worked part-time in the funeral industry around Porirua and the wider Wellington region while also working as an in-home support carer. In March 2022 Kerry joined the Lychgate team full time. She loves the variety of work where no two days are the same.
“Working as a funeral director is something I hold very close to my heart. Every family I meet is carrying a unique story, a deep love, and often a heavy grief — and I consider it a privilege to walk beside them during such tender moments.”
Outside of work, Kerry is kept busy by her three awesome children, two dogs and three cats. She enjoys live music and festivals, camping and road trips, and spending time with her family and friends.
Isaac Jelbert
Funeral Director
Born and raised in Wellington, Isaac returned to his hometown after completing a degree in Forensic Science at Otago University. Throughout his studies he worked at a Residential College, supported staff at Dunedin Hospital, and volunteered with Riding for the Disabled; experiences that strengthened his natural instinct to look after others. That same sense of care is what led him to join Lychgate in May 2026, where he feels at home supporting families with calm, steady guidance.
Isaac brings a quiet, grounded presence to the team. The kind of reassurance that comes from someone who genuinely understands the community he serves. Being a Wellington local matters to him; he takes pride in helping families from the city he grew up in, offering support that feels familiar, respectful, and close to home.
Outside of work, Isaac enjoys creative outlets like drawing and writing, and he’s spent the last decade involved in the rowing community. He’s happiest when he’s outdoors, or at home with his two cats, baking something new, and listening to music or audiobooks.
Sharné van Wyngaard
Administrator | Funeral Director’s Assistant
Sharné joined the team at Lychgate Funerals as Office Administrator and Funeral Director’s Assistant, bringing with her over 15 years of experience in administration, coordination and occupation health support roles.
Originally from South Africa, Sharné moved to New Zealand in 2024 with her family and has enjoyed exploring the beautiful places and outdoor lifestyle New Zealand has to offer.
Sharné feels privileged to be part of a profession that supports families during some of life’s most difficult moments. She understands that while much more of the work happens behind the scenes, the care, compassion, and support offered during these times can make a meaningful difference. Whether assisting funeral directors, coordination important details or simply helping wherever needed, she values being part of a team that helps bring comfort and reassurance to families when they need it most.
Known for her organised nature and willingness to support others in any way she can, Sharné takes pride in helping create a calm and caring environment for both the families she serves and the team around her. She believes that even the smallest acts of kindness and support can leave a lasting impact.
Outside of work, Sharné enjoys spending quality time with her family, travelling, exploring new place around New Zealand and making the most of the country’s beautiful outdoor spaces.
