Create a legacy that supports what matters to you
Why Set Up a Charitable Trust the Right Way
A charitable trust turns generosity into something lasting. It provides a clear, secure way to manage your giving so your values and intentions continue long after you are gone.
Without the right structure, even well-meant giving can become difficult to manage or lose direction over time. A charitable trust protects your purpose, ensures accountability, and gives you control over how your funds are applied.
We help individuals, families, and organisations establish charitable trusts that are legally sound, transparent, and built to make an enduring impact.
How a Charitable Trust Works
In New Zealand, a charitable trust must have a clear charitable purpose to qualify for registration. Common purposes include:
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Advancing education
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Supporting health or community projects
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Relieving poverty or disadvantage
You will need a trust deed that defines your purpose, appointed trustees who will oversee it, and a framework for how funds are distributed. We help you design these elements carefully so your trust meets both legal and practical needs from the start.
Setting It Up the Right Way
We guide you through the complete setup process, including:
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Drafting a compliant trust deed that reflects your purpose
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Registering the trust with Charities Services
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Meeting all structural, governance, and tax requirements
Our role is to make a complex process simple and to ensure your trust is legally robust and aligned with your long-term goals.
Supporting Trustees and Ongoing Governance
After registration, charitable trusts must meet regular reporting and compliance obligations. We continue to support trustees with advice on governance, decision making, and regulatory updates so the trust remains effective, accountable, and respected.
Where We Work
We help clients across New Zealand establish and manage charitable trusts, with local support through our Wellington, Lower Hutt, and Masterton offices.
Questions We Often Get Asked About Charitable Trusts
What is a charitable trust?
A charitable trust is a legal structure that allows you to hold and manage funds for charitable purposes under New Zealand law. It ensures your giving is properly directed, transparent, and tax-efficient.
Do I need to register a charitable trust?
Yes. To be recognised as a charity and qualify for tax exemptions, your trust must register with Charities Services and meet their ongoing requirements.
Who should be trustees?
You can appoint trusted individuals, professionals, or representatives of your organisation. Trustees must act in the best interests of the charity and follow the rules set out in the trust deed.
Can a charitable trust continue after I pass away?
Yes. A well-structured charitable trust can operate indefinitely, allowing your giving to continue in line with your wishes long after your lifetime.
Do I need a lawyer to set up a charitable trust?
Yes. A lawyer ensures the trust deed is valid, compliant, and reflects your intentions clearly. Legal guidance reduces the risk of registration delays or future disputes.
