$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: If we want to reduce speeding, what do you think actually changes driver behaviour? 🛻🚨🚓
In the Post's article on speeding penalties, the question is asked whether speeding fines are truly about road safety, or are they just a way to boost revenue for the Crown?
What do you think? Should speeding motorists receive speeding fines or demerit points?
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30.2% The sting of a fine (Money talks!)
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69.8% The threat of demerit points (Nobody wants to lose their license!)
Share your favourite main crop potato recipe and win a copy of our mag!
Love potatoes? We will give away free copies of the May 2026 issue to readers whose potato recipes are used in our magazine. To be in the running, make sure you email your family's favourite way to enjoy potatoes: mailbox@nzgardener.co.nz, by March 1, 2026.
Scam Alert: Bank cold calls
ASB is warning customers about reports of cold calls from scammers claiming to be from ASB. These scammers are trying to obtain personal information, including usernames, dates of birth, and verification codes sent to your mobile phone.
🛡️ The "Caller Check" Test
If you get a call from someone claiming to be from ASB and you’re unsure, just ask them for a Caller Check. You will then be able to verify the call through the app.
Remember, banks will:
❌ Never ask for your banking passwords, PINs, or verification codes
❌ Never need to know your full credit card number – especially the CVC
❌ Never ask you to download software or remotely access your device
❌ Never ask you to purchase gift cards or transfer funds.
If you have received a phone call and think your account has been compromised, call ASB on 0800 ASB FRAUD (0800 272 372), or visit your local branch.
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