Cost Guide · Updated May 2026

Cost of a Elder Law Lawyer in New Zealand

Elder law covers Enduring Powers of Attorney (EPA) under the Protection of Personal and Property Rights Act 1988, rest home contracts, retirement village agreements (Retirement Villages Act 2003), and PPPR Act applications.

Quick answer

In New Zealand, elder law specialists typically charge $300 – $550 per hour. Common fixed-fee work is shown below.

Typical elder law fees

Service Typical NZ fee
Hourly rate $300 – $550/hr
Enduring Power of Attorney (Property) $400 – $800
Enduring Power of Attorney (Personal Care) $400 – $800
Both EPAs together $700 – $1,400
Retirement village contract review $500 – $1,200
PPPR Act application (court) $2,500 – $8,000

Ranges reflect typical NZ market pricing observed across published firm fee guides and Ministry of Justice / NZ Law Society published rates (e.g. court filing fees). Individual firms vary widely. Always get a written engagement letter under Rule 3 of the Lawyers and Conveyancers Act (Conduct & Client Care) Rules 2008 before instructing.

What drives the cost

  • • Single or joint attorneys
  • • Whether court review is needed
  • • Retirement village vs ORA standard contracts

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Frequently asked questions

How much does an Enduring Power of Attorney cost in NZ? ▾

Each EPA (Property or Personal Care) is commonly $400 – $800. Done together for a couple, total fees typically run $700 – $1,400. The PPPR Act 1988 requires independent witnessing by a lawyer for the donor.

Should I have my retirement village contract reviewed? ▾

Yes — Occupation Right Agreements (ORAs) under the Retirement Villages Act 2003 are long and contain significant ongoing fees and exit deductions. A lawyer review (commonly $500 – $1,200) is usual practice.

Related

Information only — not legal advice. Fees vary by firm, region and matter complexity. Always obtain a written engagement letter under Rule 3 of the Lawyers and Conveyancers Act (Lawyers: Conduct and Client Care) Rules 2008 before instructing.