What inheritance laws apply in New Zealand?
The principal laws that apply to inheritance issues in New Zealand are the Wills Act 2007, the Administration Act 1969, the Family Protection Act1955, the Property (Relationships) Act 1976, the Law Reform (Testamentary Promises) Act 1949, and the Estate and Gift Duties Act 1968. New Zealands inheritance laws affect everyone who owns property in New Zealand, regardless of their religion or nationality. Foreign property owners are subject to the same laws as New Zealand citizens. It makes no difference if spouses belong to different nationalities or religions. New Zealand courts have jurisdiction over all property in New Zealand. Decisions concerning inheritance of property owned by a foreigner in New Zealand are made primarily by the High Court. Where probate or letters of administration are obtained in a court of a Commonwealth country, for example Britain, Canada, and Australia, the New Zealand High Court will recognise the authority of the Commonwealth court. The process to “reseal”
