A free guide for New Zealand executors
Guidance when you need it most
Administering a deceased estate in New Zealand is complex and often overwhelming. EstateCompass gives you a plain-language guide — and connects you with trusted professionals at every step.
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- NZ-specific guidance
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- Free for families
The executor journey
Administering an estate typically takes 6–12 months. Here is what to expect at each stage — and who can help.
Days 1–7
Immediate steps
Register the death, arrange the funeral, locate the will, and secure the property.
Weeks 2–4
Legal & financial
Apply for probate, notify government agencies, freeze accounts, and commission valuations.
Months 1–3
Physical estate
Clear, sort, and store belongings. Prepare the property for sale or transfer.
Months 1–3
Property sale
Work with agents experienced in deceased estate sales. Understand the unique process.
Months 3–6
Financial close-out
File the final tax return, pay debts, wait out the creditor period, and distribute the estate.
Ongoing
Grief & wellbeing
Administering an estate while grieving is hard. Support is available for you and your family.
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Find verified providers across New Zealand in every category you need.
What is a deceased estate?
When someone dies, everything they owned — their property, bank accounts, investments, personal belongings, and debts — becomes their estate. If they left a will, the person named as executor is responsible for administering it. If there is no will, the court appoints an administrator.
Administering an estate involves legal, financial, and practical tasks that most people have never done before — often while dealing with grief. The process typically takes between 6 and 18 months and involves professionals including lawyers, accountants, valuers, and real estate agents.
EstateCompass is a free guide to help you understand each step, know your obligations, and find the right professionals when you need them.