Wills Week: Leave a Gift, Leave a Legacy
This Wills Week, we’re reminding our community of the importance of having a will - and the incredible impact you can make by leaving a gift to charity.
A will gives you peace of mind, knowing your wishes will be carried out and your loved ones cared for. It can also be a powerful way to create a lasting legacy by supporting causes close to your heart.
Why it’s important to have a will
- A will ensures your assets are distributed the way you want.
- It helps reduce stress and uncertainty for your loved ones.
- You can appoint guardians for your children.
- You can leave gifts to the charities you value, continuing your support beyond your lifetime.
Gathered Here Partnership
Nurse Maude, together with hospices across Aotearoa, has partnered with Gathered Here to make writing or updating your will simple, fast, and free.
Gathered Here is a trusted online service where you can write a will in just 20 minutes. You’ll have the option to include a gift to Nurse Maude, ensuring that future generations can continue to receive the specialist palliative and hospice care that our community depends on.
Every gift makes a difference
A bequest, no matter the size, is a deeply meaningful way to support the care, compassion, and dignity we provide for patients and their whānau every day.
Your generosity helps us continue our mission to care for people in their homes and in our hospice, free of charge.
Start today
If you don’t have a will, or it’s time to update yours, you can get started right now: Write your will online with Gathered Here
For more information, you can also visit Hospice NZ – Leave a Gift, Leave a Legacy.
Together, we can ensure hospice care will always be here, free for those who need it most.
FAQS
Do I need a lawyer to make a will?
You don’t always need a lawyer to make a will. Services like Gathered Here allow you to create a legally valid will online. However, if your situation is more complex (for example, if you have overseas property, family trusts, or a blended family), it’s recommended you seek independent legal advice.
How often should I update my will?
It’s a good idea to review your will every few years or when major life events happen - such as marriage, separation, buying property, or the birth of children or grandchildren.
What can I leave to charity?
You can leave a specific sum of money, a percentage of your estate, or particular items of value. Every gift, big or small, makes a difference.
Will my family still be looked after if I leave a gift to charity?
Yes. NZ law allows you to leave a gift to charity, provided your dependents are adequately provided for. Certain family members (such as your spouse/partner or children) can legally challenge a will if they believe they have not been properly looked after.
Why leave a gift to Nurse Maude?
By including Nurse Maude in your will, you’re helping ensure that hospice and palliative care remain free for patients and their families across our community - now and in the future.
Disclaimer: The information above is of a general nature and reflects New Zealand law at the time of writing. It is not intended as legal advice. For personalised guidance about your own circumstances, please consult a lawyer or qualified legal adviser.
