Wills, trusts, estates, care arrangements

The Community Law Manual Online is a free online resource of easy-to-read legal information and comprehensive answers to common legal questions. The manual aims to provide guidance for the next steps one might take when dealing with a legal problem.

Email: see preferred location for contact information

Web link: communitylaw.org.nz/

The Citizens Advice Bureau (CAB) provides a free, online information hub designed to help people navigate everyday issues, particularly around understanding their rights and responsibilities across a range of areas. It features over 2,700 searchable questions and answers, developed from real-life inquiries received by CAB offices.

Phone: 0800 367 222

Email: see local CAB for email information

Web link: www.cab.org.nz/

A government provided resource that offers guidance and information for individuals planning or managing legal matters related to death, incapacity, and estate administration. The site explains how wills work, how to apply for probate or letters of administration, and what happens when someone dies without a will. It also provides detailed information on enduring powers of attorney (EPA), including how to appoint someone to make decisions about personal care, welfare, and property if you become unable to do so. These resources help individuals understand their rights and responsibilities under New Zealand law when preparing for or responding to end-of-life and incapacity situations.

Web links:

Wills, probate, and estates

Enduring powers of attorney

A government provided resource that offers information for individuals managing estate matters after someone dies. The site explains how to apply for probate or letters of administration through the High Court, including when these are required and how to obtain a copy of a will. It also outlines the process for challenging a will under the Family Protection Act 1955 or the Law Reform (Testamentary Promises) Act 1949, including eligibility criteria, time limits, and required court forms.

Phone: 0800 268 787 (0800 COURTS)

Web links:

Apply for probate and get a copy of a will

Challenge a will

A resource that provides guidance and information for individuals planning or managing wills, estates, and family trusts. The site explains legal concepts under the Wills Act 2007 and the Trusts Act 2019, including how to make or update a will, administer an estate, and establish or review a family trust. It outlines the legal responsibilities of executors and trustees, and covers related topics such as enduring powers of attorney, guardianship of children, and relationship property rights. These resources help individuals understand their rights and obligations when preparing for or navigating end-of-life and asset protection matters.

Web links:

Wills and estate administration

Family trusts

A government provided resource that outlines the tax responsibilities associated with managing trusts and estates. The site explains how income earned by trusts and estates is taxed, how to file IR6 returns, and what reporting obligations apply to trustees and executors. It also provides guidance on tax residency, foreign trusts, and the treatment of income after a person’s death.

Web link: www.ird.govt.nz/

A government provided resource that provides information on planning for future legal and financial arrangements. The guides explain the purpose and function of wills, including what they can cover and why they are important for managing assets and personal wishes after death. They also outline how to establish an enduring power of attorney (EPA), which allows a trusted person to make decisions on behalf of someone who becomes mentally incapable. The content covers types of EPAs along with legal requirements, activation conditions, and considerations for choosing an attorney.

Phone: 0800 345 123 (text 4029)

Email: help@moneytalks.co.nz

Web links:

Wills

Enduring power of attorney

A Crown entity provided resource with information to help individuals understand aspects of personal and estate planning. The site explains the legal purpose and structure of wills, including what they can cover and why they are important for ensuring assets are distributed according to a person’s wishes. It outlines the legal framework for different types of trusts under the Trusts Act 2019, including the roles and responsibilities of trustees. In addition, the site provides guidance on enduring powers of attorney (EPAs), detailing the legal requirements for appointing someone to make decisions about property or personal care and welfare.

Phone: 0800 371 471

Email: info@publictrust.co.nz

Web links:

Wills and estate administration

Trusts

Enduring power of attorney

A community organisation resource that provides information for older people and their families. The site offers guidance on making a will, including its role in ensuring that assets are distributed according to personal wishes, appointing executors, and matters such as guardianship and funeral arrangements. It explains the importance of reviewing and updating a will to reflect changes in circumstances. Information on enduring powers of attorney is provided, outlining how they work, who can be appointed, and what responsibilities attorneys have under the Protection of Personal and Property Rights Act 1988.

Phone: 0800 65 2 105

Email: national.office@ageconcern.org.nz

Web links:

Wills

Enduring power of attorney