Migration & Money: Why Every Migrant Needs a Will in NZ Ep. 27

Moving to New Zealand often feels like a fresh start, but few migrants realise how complicated things can become if tragedy strikes. In this episode of the Migration and Money Series, Brett Corlett (Soft Landing NZ) speaks with Ivandee Fitchet from Migrant Financial Services and Alistair van Schalkwyk from ASCO Legal about one of the most important and most overlooked, parts of migration: having a valid Last Will & Testament in both countries. Brett opens with a deeply personal story: the loss of his sister-in-law to cancer, and the emotional and administrative challenges of managing her estate from the other side of the world. Their family's experience shows just how unpredictable life can be and why having the right legal documents in place can protect your children, your partner, and your assets when the unexpected happens. Planning Ahead_Your Last Will &… Ivandee and Alistair then explain, in clear and practical language: Why migrants need a will in both their home country and New Zealand Why your South African will does not automatically work in NZ What happens if you die without a will (intestate law) and why it can become a nightmare What "guardianship" really means when you're an immigrant Why online wills and templates often fail migrants How jointly owned assets and life insurance are treated in NZ How often you should update your will What happens if your nominated guardians are not NZ residents Why original wills must be safely stored and who should keep them Whether you're still preparing to move or already settled in New Zealand, this episode gives you the clarity, confidence, and peace of mind to protect the people who matter most. Links & Resources Book a financial consult with Ivandee (Migrant Financial Services):👉 https://forms.gle/75TwxcnrUxN79SH8A Watch/listen to the full Migration and Money series:👉 https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLUyrX6hymTr1qQui1OZVKXhNO7HOeLZag&si=lS3mV-CC9Y6Ko5yL Stay Connected If you're thinking about moving to New Zealand or already on the journey, come join the free Soft Landing Inner Circle community. It's a place to get clarity, ask questions, and learn from others going through the same process. 👉 https://linktr.ee/softlandingnz 🔎 Summary A practical, migrant-focused guide to understanding wills in New Zealand. This episode explains why newcomers need a Last Will & Testament in NZ, what happens if you don't have one, how guardianship works for migrant families, and the legal steps needed to protect children and assets across two countries. Perfect for South Africans and anyone moving to NZ. Q: Do immigrants need a will when moving to New Zealand? Yes. Your home country will does not automatically apply in NZ. Migrants need a will that reflects New Zealand laws to protect partners, children, and assets. Planning Ahead_Your Last Will &… Q: What happens if I die without a will in New Zealand? Your assets may be split between your spouse and children — not automatically to your partner — which can cause major complications. Planning Ahead_Your Last Will &… Q: Can I use my South African will in New Zealand? It may not be valid for NZ assets. Migrants often require separate wills in each country. Planning Ahead_Your Last Will &… Q: Who should keep the original copy of my will? Most NZ law firms store originals safely and notify families if a death occurs. Planning Ahead_Your Last Will &… Q: How often should I update my will? Every 5–8 years or when major life events occur (kids, new assets, inheritance, loss in family).