Embalming has three main purposes:
Sanitation - The body is made safe for handling and viewing because micro-organisms are made harmless.
Preservation - Embalming allows adequate time for relatives and friends to grieve and say goodbye. It enables the person who has died to be taken home or to a Marae. It ensures that there will be no problems with odour or deterioration.
Presentation - Embalming restores the person's natural appearance in life, giving mourners a much better memory picture. This brings a sense of relief and comfort and helps peace of mind.