Estate & Asset Protection Planning

Protect Your Family, Home & Business

Clear, practical legal advice on will-based and trust-based estate plans — so you can make confident decisions about your family's future.

What Is an Estate & Asset Protection Plan?

A coordinated set of legal documents that makes sure your assets go where you intend, your family is looked after, and your wishes are followed.

A good estate plan does more than say "who gets what". It protects your family home and assets, reduces stress and conflict for the people you leave behind, and makes sure your wishes are clear and legally enforceable. For most New Zealand families, the right plan is either a will-based estate plan or a trust-based estate and asset protection plan — or sometimes both.

Every plan we design includes coordinated documents that work together: your will, enduring powers of attorney, advance healthcare directives, funeral directives, a list of digital assets, and a directory of important contacts. The difference is whether you also need a trust to hold your most important assets.

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Our Managing Director, Ross Holmes, writes the trust administration chapters of LexisNexis' Law of Trusts (New Zealand), used by lawyers and judges throughout the country. Every plan we design is tailored to your objectives — not a standard template.

Which Type of Plan Is Right for You?

The right approach depends on your family, relationships, assets and goals.

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Will-Based Estate Plan

For people whose assets and family situation are relatively straightforward. A well-structured will and supporting documents may be all you need.

Typical situations: First relationship, no trust needed yet, updating an old will, buying a first home, starting a family.

From $960 (1 person) / $1,760 (couple)

Learn About Will-Based Plans
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Trust-Based Estate & Asset Protection Plan

For people who want extra protection for the family home or business, have a blended family, or want to preserve assets across generations.

Typical situations: Business owners, second relationships, blended families, vulnerable beneficiaries, significant assets.

From $2,200 (1 person) / $2,750 (couple) + AML

Learn About Trust-Based Plans

Not sure? Take our free will-based assessment or free trust-based assessment to find out.

How It Works

From first conversation to signed documents — a clear, straightforward process.

Free Introduction

Book a free 15-minute meeting (in person or Zoom) so we can understand your situation and explain how we can help.

Quote & Terms

We explain your options in plain English, confirm what's included, and provide a clear written quote — no surprises.

Complete Questionnaire

After you accept, complete our Estate and Asset Protection Questionnaire in the comfort of your own home.

Review & Sign

We prepare your documents, review them with you, and arrange signing — at our Auckland offices or via Zoom.

Record your goals

Complete our Estate and Asset Protection Questionnaire in the comfort of your own home.

Download PDF Download Word Complete our Online Questionnaire

Online questionnaire — coming soon

Email completed questionnaire to reception@rossholmes.co.nz

Free Tools to Help You Get Started

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Free Will-Based Assessment

Use DYOdocs to create a free report on the documents you need for a will-based estate plan.

Start Free Report

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Free Trust-Based Assessment

Use DYOdocs to create a free report on the documents you need for a trust-based estate plan.

Start Free Report

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Free Estate Planning Guide

Our plain-English guide explains how wills, trusts and EPAs work together to protect your legacy.

Download Guide (PDF)

Explore Our Estate Planning Services

Will-Based Estate Plans

When a well-structured will is enough.

Types of Wills

Simple, Normal and Complex — compared.

Trust-Based Estate Plans

When you need a trust for extra protection.

Types of Trusts

Family, Parallel, Defined Interest and more.

Reviewing Your Trust

Trusts Act 2019 compliance and updates.

Administering Your Trust

Practical guidance for trustees.

Ready to protect your family and your assets?

Book a free 15-minute introduction — no obligation. We'll listen, explain your options, and give you clear next steps.

Book Your Free Introduction