Will Template for New Zealand
Free will forms and comprehensive guidance for writing a valid will
Important Legal Notice
While will templates can be valid, we strongly recommend professional legal advice for complex situations including business assets, trusts, or family complications.
New Zealand Will Requirements
Essential Requirements
- â Written Document: Must be in writing (handwritten or typed)
- â Testator Signature: Signed by the person making the will
- â Two Witnesses: Signed by 2 independent witnesses over 18
- â Mental Capacity: Made by someone of sound mind
- â Free Will: No coercion or undue influence
Important Restrictions
- â Witness Beneficiaries: Witnesses cannot inherit under the will
- â Spouse of Witness: Spouses of witnesses cannot inherit
- â Under 18 Witnesses: Witnesses must be adults
- â Interested Parties: Executors can witness but beneficiaries cannot
- â Alterations: Changes must be properly witnessed
What to Include in Your Will
Essential Clauses
- 1 Declaration: "This is my last will and testament"
- 2 Revocation: Cancel previous wills
- 3 Executor: Appoint someone to manage your estate
- 4 Guardian: Nominate guardian for minor children
- 5 Bequests: Specific gifts to named people
- 6 Residual Estate: What happens to remaining assets
Additional Considerations
- âĸ Funeral Instructions: Your wishes for burial/cremation
- âĸ Alternate Beneficiaries: What if primary beneficiary dies first
- âĸ Trust Provisions: For minor children's inheritance
- âĸ Digital Assets: Online accounts and digital property
- âĸ Business Interests: Company shares and partnerships
- âĸ Charitable Gifts: Donations to organizations
Simple Will Template
When You Need Professional Will Writing
Complex Situations
- âĸ Significant assets (over $500k)
- âĸ Business ownership
- âĸ Multiple properties
- âĸ Blended families
- âĸ Disabled beneficiaries
- âĸ Tax planning needs
- âĸ Family disputes expected
Professional Benefits
- âĸ Legally sound drafting
- âĸ Tax optimization
- âĸ Trust establishment
- âĸ Dispute prevention
- âĸ Regular updates
- âĸ Storage and retrieval
- âĸ Executor guidance
Frequently Asked Questions
Is a DIY will legally valid in New Zealand?
Yes, DIY wills are legally valid if they meet requirements: written, signed by testator, witnessed by 2 independent people over 18. However, professional drafting is recommended for complex situations.
What should be included in a New Zealand will?
A NZ will should include: executor appointment, guardian nomination (if children), asset distribution, specific bequests, residual estate clause, witness signatures, and date.
How much does a lawyer-drafted will cost?
Lawyer-drafted wills cost $300-800 for simple wills, $500-1,500 for complex wills with trusts. Many lawyers offer fixed-fee will packages.
Do I need witnesses for my will?
Yes, all wills in NZ must be witnessed by 2 independent people over 18 years old. Witnesses cannot be beneficiaries or married to beneficiaries.