Christmas is the time for giving and the time for receiving – not the time to think about what would happen if you were no longer here to enjoy it with your family.
But as you stand around the BBQ with Dad, trying not to cringe as he over cooks the steaks, or as you quickly try and wrap the kids Christmas presents as they are down for a nap, have you thought about what would happen if you were not there?
Statistics have shown that only around 50% of New Zealand adults have a Will in place. That is half of the New Zealand population who are happy for their estate to pass as per the rules of intestacy.
Although the intestacy rules ensure that your closest family receive your assets. What about everything else that is important to you?
If you have children under the age of 18, who is going to look after them when you and their other parent are no longer around? By including a guardianship provision in your Will, you are allowing your parents, siblings, or whoever you trust most to easily step in and be there for your children if needed.
What about your preference of burial or cremation? Or do you have a wish for your ashes to be scattered at your favourite dog walking spot or even out to sea? Many family members who lose their loved ones struggle with these decisions when they do not have any guidance in a Will. It adds another level of stress and heartache at an already difficult time.
Another thing to consider is whether you wish to make any gifts to charities, which can be done through a pecuniary legacy in your Will. We all want to give during the Christmas period, or we dream of adopting the adorable rescue dog you saw on Facebook, but the reality is that life gets busy and these things can easily be forgotten or seem out of reach. Through even a small legacy in your Will of $100 or $500 you can support charities or animal shelters close to your heart who you have been wanting to support.
Our team of professional will drafters at Godfreys Law will do more than simply discuss where your money goes. Although this is an important consideration, during an initial meeting we discuss everything within your life and what is important to you. This allows our clients to walk away feeling reassured that they do not need to worry about what would happen if they were no longer here.
So whilst you are enjoying the sun, swimming and food over the Christmas period, remember that there is a simple way to feel reassured of what will happen if you were not there with your family. Contact a member of the Godfreys Life Law team to discuss putting a Will in place when we return to the office on Monday 12th January 2026.
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