A recent Supreme Court decision has delivered one of the most important estate planning lessons New Zealand families have seen in years. The case, Rimmer v Wilton [2026] NZSC 122, highlights a problem that many people do not realise exists: a relationship property agreement and an estate plan are not separate exercises. If they are not …
Rimmer v Wilton: Estate planning wake-up call for Kiwis Read More »
Many New Zealanders now have assets, family members, or business interests overseas making estate planning and succession planning increasingly complex. You may own a holiday home in Australia, have investments in the United States, be entitled to an inheritance from the United Kingdom, or have children living in different countries. While these international connections are …
Cross-jurisdictional estate planning: is one Will enough for overseas assets? Read More »
A Will is perhaps the most important document you can leave behind to support your loved ones. Why do you need a Will, what happens if you pass without a Will, and how best should you prepare your Will for your circumstances? September is Wills Month. Holland Beckett offers a free Simple Will, or a …
Online Will platforms and artificial intelligence (“AI”) tools now promise fast, low‑cost solutions that can generate a Will in minutes. At first glance, the attraction is obvious. These tools are easy to access, relatively inexpensive, and avoid what many people see as the hassle of engaging a lawyer. Everyone thinks it is “very simple”. For …
Holland Beckett is pleased to announce the promotion of Rebecca Steens to Partner, effective 1 April 2026. Rebecca is a highly regarded succession and estate planning lawyer with more than 12 years’ experience advising clients on trusts, estates, succession planning and asset protection. With a background spanning both litigation and estate planning, Rebecca brings a unique and …
Holland Beckett appoints Rebecca Steens as Partner Read More »
Why Wills matter more than ever In today’s evolving financial and legal landscape, having a valid Will and appropriate estate planning arrangements in place has never been more critical for New Zealanders. The absence of a Will can lead to unnecessary delays, stress, and cost for families. KiwiSaver and your estate One of the most overlooked …
It is common for parents to help children financially – whether it is a deposit for a first home, help with debt, or business support. However, when that money changes hands, it is important to be clear: was it a gift or a loan? This simple distinction can have significant legal and financial consequences, especially …
Gift vs Loan: what’s the difference and why it matters in estate planning Read More »
Many people assume that writing a Will gives them absolute control over who receives their property when they die. While that’s largely true in principle, New Zealand law imposes limits on testamentary freedom – particularly when it comes to children and other close family members. If you are thinking about disinheriting a child or leaving …
As we have moved into a more digital age, consideration should be given to what happens to your digital assets as part of your estate planning arrangements. Increasingly, people are amassing both personal and business digital assets that have value – let’s not forget about James Howells who has spent a considerable fortune trying to …
In traditional estate planning, couples often use mirror wills. However, blended families may require more sophisticated estate-planning solutions such as a life interest Will. Mirror Wills In a typical, nuclear family structure, it is common for a couple to leave their entire estate to each other, and for their Wills to provide that after they …
