A new year often brings a natural moment to pause and plan ahead. We think about goals, finances, family, and the year in front of us. It’s also a good time to make sure everything important is in order.
One thing many people quietly put off? Their Will.
“I Don’t Own Enough to Need One.”
It’s something we hear often.
“I don’t really own enough to bother with a Will.”
But when you start adding things up, like your savings, KiwiSaver, vehicles, personal belongings, perhaps even a small investment, many people are surprised by the total value of their estate.
And there’s another important point that’s often overlooked: if you have children, your Will isn’t just about money. It outlines who you would want to act as guardians for your children if something were to happen to you. Even if you feel your asset base is modest, your children are your greatest asset. A Will ensures your wishes are clear.
What Happens Without a Will?
In New Zealand, when assets are held in a sole name, estates with values often above around $30,000–$40,000 may require formal probate or administration before funds can be accessed.
Without a Will in place, this process can take time and create additional stress for loved ones at what is already an incredibly difficult period. Decisions may be made according to default legal rules rather than your personal wishes.
A Will provides clarity. It removes uncertainty. It makes things simpler for the people you care about most.
Does Your Will Still Reflect Your Life Today?
Even if you already have a Will, it’s worth asking whether it still reflects your current circumstances.
Life evolves. Relationships change. Families grow. Assets increase (or decrease). Your intentions may shift over time.
A Will that was right five or ten years ago may not fully align with your life today.
A Small Step Now, Greater Peace of Mind Later
Putting a Will in place, or reviewing the one you have, is one of those tasks that’s easy to delay. But it’s also one of the simplest ways to protect your family’s future.
At Penberthy, we believe good advice is about helping clients think ahead, not just responding when something goes wrong. While we’re not legal advisers, we regularly encourage our clients to check in with their legal adviser to ensure their wider financial and protection planning includes an up-to-date Will.
A simple review now can provide clarity and peace of mind for the people who matter most.
If you’d like to talk about how your insurance, lending, KiwiSaver and overall protection planning fits together, we’re always here to point you in the right direction.
Because protecting what matters most isn’t just about today, it’s about making things easier for those who come after us.
Get suitable advice, protection & support for what matters most to you.
Disclaimer: The information in this article is for general purposes only and doesn’t constitute financial, legal, or professional advice. Please consult one of our financial advisers or brokers for advice tailored to your specific situation.
