$3000 for letters of administration? Not on my watch!
I recently heard of someone (North Island) who needed 'letters of administration' for someone's estate after the person died suddenly. He didn't leave much, just Kiwisaver, but over the $15,000 threshold where a grant of administration is necessary. His family asked three different lawyers what it would cost. They were told a 'minimum' of $3000. One said there would also be '$500 disbursements'.
That is obscene.
'Disbursements' would be $200 for High Court fee. Plus maybe $100 for a will enquiry (if placed in the most expensive part of New Zealand, otherwise $57.50). Plus $35.70 for a paternity search. Anything else was legal fees or office expenses.
In most cases, Kiwlaw will do the work for $400 plus disbursements. Add $100 for necessary advice to a spouse if they are the applicant. You can do your own will enquiry and paternity search, or use Kiwilaw's automated online 'bot' to do it, or pay a bit more for Kiwilaw to do it. We will send you the documents with full instructions for signing and sending to the High Court. It's not that hard. Don't let bereavement become a rip off.
www.kiwilaw.co.nz...
Poll: As a customer, what do you think about automation?
The Press investigates the growing reliance on your unpaid labour.
Automation (or the “unpaid shift”) is often described as efficient ... but it tends to benefit employers more than consumers.
We want to know: What do you think about automation?
Are you for, or against?
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9.5% For. Self-service is less frustrating and convenient.
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43.5% I want to be able to choose.
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47.1% Against. I want to deal with people.
Poll: Would you take a 1.5-hour hike for a shop? 🌿🐦
Canterbury, you have a hidden treasure right on your doorstep ... though it does come with a 1.5-hour walk up the stunning Rakaia Gorge Walkway.
Along the trail you’ll find The Fantail Shop showcasing small artworks by local artisans. Even better, every purchase supports the Fantail Trust, helping protect and restore biodiversity on the north bank of the gorge.
So we’re curious: would you take a 1.5-hour hike for a shop? (And for local biodiversity, of course 🌿)
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31.5% Yes!
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68.5% No thank you.
Musicians Wanted
‘Rangiora Bells’ is seeking musicians to join the handbell choir. We are a friendly group of handbell ringers who enjoy making music and entertaining at community groups.
If you would like to come and have a go at ringing handbells, please come along to one of our practice sessions. No commitment necessary if you decide that this is not for you.
An ability to read basic music notation preferred.
Practice days – Thursdays 1pm – 2.30pm
(beginning 19th February 2026)
In the lounge at Trinity Methodist Church
176 King Street
Rangiora
Clare Dolheguy
Phone 027 583 7504
claredoll6@gmail.com
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