EstatePlanning
Comprehensive estate planning strategies including asset protection, testamentary trusts, and succession planning across New Zealand.
How we can help
Estate planning goes well beyond writing a will. It is a comprehensive strategy for protecting your wealth, providing for your loved ones, and ensuring a smooth transfer of assets when the time comes. For families across Auckland, South Auckland, and the wider Auckland region, effective estate planning can mean the difference between an orderly transition and prolonged disputes that tear families apart.
At Indus Legal, we take a holistic view of your circumstances - your property, business interests, KiwiSaver, life insurance, family trusts, and relationship property entitlements - to develop a coordinated plan. We consider the interplay between the Wills Act 2007, the Property (Relationships) Act 1976, the Trusts Act 2019, and the Family Protection Act 1955 to ensure every element of your plan works together. For business owners, we also address succession planning so that your commercial interests are protected and can continue without disruption.
Our estate planning lawyers work closely with your accountant and financial adviser to align your legal structures with your tax and investment objectives. Whether you are a young family looking to put basic protections in place, or you hold a complex portfolio of assets across New Zealand and offshore, Indus Legal provides clear, practical advice tailored to your goals.
What we help with
- Coordinated estate plans that align your will, trusts, insurance, and asset structures
- Testamentary trust planning to protect inheritances for young or vulnerable beneficiaries
- Succession planning for family businesses and farming operations across Auckland
- Strategies to minimise the risk of claims under the Family Protection Act 1955
- Advice on gifting programmes, relationship property implications, and asset protection
- Regular plan reviews as your family and financial circumstances evolve
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between a will and an estate plan?
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A will is a single legal document that sets out how your assets are distributed after death. An estate plan is a broader strategy that may include your will, family trusts, Enduring Powers of Attorney, life insurance arrangements, gifting programmes, and business succession structures. The goal of an estate plan is to ensure all of these elements work together seamlessly so nothing falls through the gaps.
When should I start estate planning?
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There is no minimum age or asset threshold for estate planning. We recommend starting as soon as you have dependants, own property, or hold assets of any significance. Major life events - such as buying your first home in Auckland, starting a business, or having children - are strong triggers. The earlier you plan, the more options you have for structuring your affairs effectively.
Can my estate plan protect assets from relationship property claims?
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Estate planning can include structures such as family trusts and contracting out agreements (under section 21 of the Property (Relationships) Act 1976) that may help protect certain assets from relationship property division. However, these structures must be set up correctly and well in advance to be effective. Our lawyers work alongside your family law adviser to ensure your plan addresses these risks.
Ready to discuss your needs?
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