DIY wills in New Zealand: what are the risks?

Making a will is one of the most valuable gifts you can give your whānau, yet many people hesitate because they worry about cost or complexity. A professionally prepared will provides clarity, protection and peace of mind, reducing the risk of disputes and delays at a difficult time. When measured against the potential cost of sorting out mistakes later, tailored legal advice is always better value than a do‑it‑yourself kit.

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The Bank of Mum and Dad: Legal considerations for families helping first home buyers

For many first home buyers, getting into the property market is no longer just about saving harder; it is about getting help. Enter the Bank of Mum and Dad. Once considered a “nice-to-have”, family support is now, for many, the only realistic pathway to home ownership. But while money from parents can open doors, such arrangements also raise important questions as to the simplicity of the lending and the potential for complications or hidden risks.

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Planning ahead: why you need an Enduring Power of Attorney

An Enduring Power of Attorney (EPA) is a legal document that lets you appoint a trusted person to make decisions on your behalf if you become unable to do so yourself. In New Zealand, EPAs are established under the Protection of Personal and Property Rights Act 1988 (PPPR Act).

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Do I need a Will?

When it comes to Wills, people generally assume two things – firstly, you need a lot of assets to warrant making one. Secondly, when you die your assets and estate automatically passes to your partner and/or family. Neither of these assumptions are necessarily true.

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