Free resource
The executor guide
A plain-language guide to administering a deceased estate in New Zealand. Administering an estate typically takes 6–12 months. Below is what to expect at each stage — and who can help.
This is general guidance only — not legal or financial advice. Every estate is different. Where the steps matter, consult a professional.
Immediate steps
Days 1–7The first week after a death involves urgent practical tasks. Register the death, arrange the funeral, locate the will, and secure the property.
Key actions
- Obtain a death certificate from the funeral director
- Register the death with Births, Deaths and Marriages (BDM)
- Locate the original will
- Notify immediate family
- Secure the property and contents
- Arrange the funeral
Legal & financial
Weeks 2–4Apply for probate if required, notify government agencies and financial institutions, freeze or close accounts, and commission any necessary valuations.
Key actions
- Determine if probate is required (estates over ~$15,000 typically need it)
- Engage a probate lawyer if needed
- Notify IRD, Work and Income, ACC, and other agencies
- Contact banks and financial institutions
- Commission valuations of property and significant assets
- Notify insurance companies
Physical estate
Months 1–3Sort, clear, and store the contents of the home. Decide what goes to beneficiaries, what is sold, and what is donated or disposed of.
Key actions
- Catalogue significant personal property
- Coordinate with beneficiaries on items of sentimental value
- Arrange estate clearance for remaining contents
- Organise storage for items being retained
- Prepare the property for sale or transfer
Property sale
Months 1–3If the estate includes property, selling a deceased estate has unique requirements. Work with agents who have specific experience in this area.
Key actions
- Obtain a registered valuation
- Choose a real estate agent with deceased estate experience
- Understand the executor's obligations around disclosure
- Allow additional time — deceased estate sales often take longer
- Ensure sale proceeds are paid to the estate, not individuals
Financial close-out
Months 3–6File the deceased's final tax return, pay all outstanding debts, observe the six-month creditor period, then distribute the estate to beneficiaries.
Key actions
- File a final income tax return with IRD
- Pay all known debts and liabilities
- Advertise for creditors (starts the 6-month creditor period)
- Obtain clearance from IRD before distributing
- Prepare estate accounts for beneficiaries
- Distribute the estate
Grief & wellbeing
OngoingAdministering an estate while grieving is one of the hardest things a person can do. It's okay to ask for help — for the practical tasks and for yourself.
Key actions
- Recognise that grief and admin are not separate — they overlap
- Delegate what you can to professionals
- Connect with a grief counsellor if you need support
- Allow yourself time — there is no fixed timeline for grief
Need to find a professional?
At each step of the journey, EstateCompass connects you with verified NZ providers who specialise in deceased estate work.
Browse providers