Plan Well, Rest Easy

Your life’s work deserves thoughtful protection.  Whether you’re updating a previous Will or creating one for the first time, we’re here to guide you through every step with care, clarity, and respect.

 

Pier Law offers experienced, personalised service to help ensure your wishes are honoured and your loved ones are looked after.  From dividing assets to naming executors, we make the process simple and stress-free — giving you the confidence that everything is in place, just as you want it.

Why it is important?

Having a valid Will in place is one of the most important ways to care for your loved ones.  It ensures your estate is handled the way you want, and that your family is spared unnecessary stress.

If you pass away without a Will in New Zealand, your estate is divided according to the Administration Act 1969 — not personal wishes. That means:

  • Your spouse or partner may not receive everything, especially if you have children or other close family.
  • Important people in your life, like stepchildren or long-time friends, may receive nothing.
  • The process of managing your estate becomes more complex and costly for your family.

With a legally valid Will, you can:

  • Choose exactly how your estate is distributed
  • Appoint someone you trust to manage your affairs
  • Ensure your family avoids unnecessary legal hurdles

Creating a Will is a practical, caring step that brings clarity and peace of mind to those you leave behind.

Get in Touch Today!

We make creating or updating your Will simple, ensuring your wishes are clear and legally protected. Let our experienced team help you today.

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Frequently Asked Questions

As long as you are still of sound mind, you are able to change your Will at any time.
• Revoking or cancelling any previous Wills;
• Appointing executor/s – They have a duty to administer your estate and carry out your wishes as stated in your Will;
• Who will inherit what – This can be sums of money, property, special family heirlooms, cars, etc.;
• If you have young children, you can appoint their testamentary guardians – they will be able to make decisions around your children’s day to day care if you are not around;
• Giving directions around burial or cremation and any specific funeral wishes.
Yes - if you want control over what happens to your assets, who looks after your children, or how your estate is managed after you pass away. Without a Will, the court (under the Administration Act) decides who gets what, which may not reflect your wishes.
Technically, yes - but DIY Wills are often incomplete or invalid due to errors in signing or unclear wording. A professionally drafted Will ensures your instructions are legally binding, clearly understood, and difficult to challenge.
An executor is the person responsible for carrying out your wishes after you pass away. You should choose someone you trust, who is organised and capable of handling financial and legal matters. This could be a family member, friend, or your lawyer.
The short answer is no. Generally, you have a legal obligation to provide for certain family members, including your children, in your Will. If they feel inadequately provided for, they can challenge your Will under the Family Protection Act. There are limited circumstances where you can exclude children from your Will, and there are also certain strategies that can minimise the likelihood of a challenge succeeding – please talk to us so that we can provide you the appropriate advice and ensure your Will is drafted with maximum protection.

Our Experts

Bill Herbison

Managing Director | Solicitor

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Caroline Davey

Director | Solicitor

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Samantha Healey

Associate | Solicitor

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Hiromi Jin'o

Associate | Solicitor

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