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We're a blended family
Partners, stepchildren and children from previous relationships.
You have children from a previous relationship, your partner has theirs, and together you share a home.
Without a clear Will
- Intestacy rules may leave everything to your current partner — unintentionally cutting out your own children.
- Stepchildren usually don't inherit automatically unless you provide for them.
- Relationship property rules can clash with what you assumed would happen.
With a Will
- You can provide for your partner and protect your children's inheritance.
- You can name exactly which children — biological and step — receive what.
- Tools like life interests or trusts can let a partner live in the home while preserving it for your children.
Practical guidance for NZ
- Blended families are the most common source of Will disputes — clarity now prevents pain later.
- A 'contracting out' (relationship property) agreement may work alongside your Will.
Worth getting advice on
Balancing a current partner and children from an earlier relationship usually needs a lawyer to get right.
Ready to prepare for your own Will?
Start your checklist →