Quick answer
In New Zealand, wills lawyers typically charge $300 – $600 per hour. Common fixed-fee work is shown below.
Typical wills & estates fees
| Service | Typical NZ fee |
|---|---|
| Hourly rate | $300 – $600/hr |
| Simple will (single) | $300 – $700 |
| Simple mirror wills (couple) | $500 – $1,200 |
| Enduring Power of Attorney (each) | $400 – $800 |
| Family trust setup | $1,500 – $3,500 |
| Estate administration (uncontested) often charged as % of estate value | $2,500 – $10,000 |
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
- • Complexity of family structure (blended families, dependants)
- • Whether a trust is being set up or distributed
- • Probate or letters of administration required
- • Estate value (some firms bill % of estate)
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Frequently asked questions
How much does a will cost in NZ? ▾
A simple will runs $300 – $700. Mirror wills for a couple typically $500 – $1,200. Enduring Powers of Attorney are commonly $400 – $800 each.
Is a DIY will valid in NZ? ▾
Yes if signed and witnessed per the Wills Act 2007 (s11), but DIY wills frequently fail challenges under the Family Protection Act 1955 or contain ambiguities that trigger costly estate litigation. The fee savings rarely outweigh the risk.
How much does probate cost? ▾
The High Court filing fee is $200. Lawyer fees for uncontested probate and estate administration typically run $2,500 – $10,000, often calculated as a percentage of estate value.
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.