Setting Up a Family Trust.

Why Family Trusts Are Used

A family trust can be a practical way to protect what you have built and plan for the future. People set up trusts for many reasons, including to keep assets safe, manage family wealth, or make sure loved ones are cared for in the years ahead.

We help you understand whether a trust is right for your situation and explain every part in plain language. Our goal is to give you confidence that your assets, family, and future are protected by a structure that truly works for you.

What We Help With

We provide clear, practical advice on every part of setting up and managing a family trust, including:

• Explaining the benefits and limitations of having a trust

• Preparing the trust deed and setting up trustees and beneficiaries

• Advising trustees on their legal duties and decision making

• Helping with ongoing trust management, reviews, and record keeping

• Updating existing trusts to make sure they remain effective and compliant

Our advice is straightforward and tailored to your goals, helping you make informed choices about how your assets are managed and protected.

Support That Brings Peace of Mind

Creating a trust is about more than paperwork. It is about protecting the people and things that matter most to you. Whether you want to safeguard your home, plan for retirement, or support future generations, we make the process clear, practical, and personal.

You will have honest conversations, practical guidance, and full support from a team that understands the long term value of getting it right.

Where We Work

We assist families and individuals across New Zealand, with local support through our Wellington, Lower Hutt, and Masterton offices. You can meet us in person, online, or by phone, depending on what suits you best.

Questions We Often Get Asked About Family Trusts

What is a family trust and how does it work?

A family trust is a legal structure that holds assets for the benefit of others. Trustees manage those assets according to the trust deed and the law, helping protect them from risks such as business debt or relationship changes.

Do I need a family trust?

That depends on your goals. A trust can help protect assets, plan for succession, and support family members. We help you decide if a trust fits your situation and what options may work best for you.

Can a trust protect my assets from relationship property claims?

In some situations it can, depending on when and how the trust was set up. We review your circumstances and structure your trust to give the best level of protection possible.

What are the responsibilities of a trustee?

Trustees must act carefully, follow the trust deed, and always make decisions for the benefit of the beneficiaries. We guide trustees so they can meet their legal duties with confidence.

How often should a trust be reviewed?

It is wise to review your trust every few years or when your circumstances change. Regular reviews keep your trust effective, compliant, and aligned with your goals.