Legal support for trusts and estate planning in Nelson Tasman

Pitt & Moore & your legacy

Trusts remain one of the most effective tools for protecting assets and planning for the future when they are structured and managed properly.

At Pitt & Moore, we provide our clients with specialist advice on trusts and asset protection for individuals, families and business owners across the Nelson Tasman regions and beyond.

Our aim is simple, tailored asset protection and long term planning to ensure your assets are protected and your affairs are structured in a way that reflects your wishes, both now and for the future.

We recognise that a trust may continue well beyond your lifetime and because of this it must be carefully drafted and properly administered to ensure it works as it was intended. For this reason, we do not use standardised templates. Every trust we establish, or review, is tailored to the client’s circumstances, assets and family dynamics. It is this attention to detail that gives you the confidence you need that your trust will deliver what it is designed to.

Contact us today to discuss your trust

When should you consider a trust?

Our team can assist if you:

Trust law in New Zealand has evolved significantly, particularly following the Trusts Act 2019. Trustees now carry clearer duties and greater compliance obligations. We advise on both establishing trusts and ensuring existing trusts remain legally compliant and fit for purpose.

Already have a trust?

Get in touch with one of our specialist lawyers to ensure your trust is working for you.

Review my trust today

What is a trust?

A trust is a legal relationship created when a person, known as the settlor, transfers assets to trustees to hold and manage for the benefit of beneficiaries. Those assets may include property, investments, shares or business interests.

The trust deed sets out the rules governing how the trust operates. It identifies the trustees and beneficiaries, outlines trustee powers and duties, and determines how decisions are made and assets distributed.

Trusts can:

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A trust can be appropriate for many families and business owners. It is not limited to the wealthy. The key question is whether it suits your objectives and circumstances. We provide clear advice so you can make an informed decision.

Ongoing trust advice and compliance

Establishing a trust is only the beginning. Trustees have ongoing legal duties, including record keeping, disclosure obligations and acting in the best interests of beneficiaries.

Our role is to ensure your trust remains compliant, effective and aligned with your long term intentions.

We assist with:

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Peace of mind through careful structuring

Trusts are powerful structures when properly used. Poorly drafted or neglected trusts can create uncertainty, tax exposure and family conflict.

Our clients choose Pitt & Moore because we combine:

  • Technical expertise under current trust law

  • Practical experience with family and business structures

  • Careful attention to asset protection risks

  • Clear communication without unnecessary complexity

We take the time to understand your broader estate planning objectives, so your trust works as part of a coordinated legal strategy.

Find out more in our family trusts guide

If you are considering establishing or reviewing a family trust, ask for a copy of our family trusts guide.

This explains clearly for you:

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If you are looking for experienced lawyers, we are ready to help.