Trusts & Asset Planning

Trusts remain one of the most effective tools for structuring and protecting assets, supporting both family and business objectives, and ensuring smooth succession planning for future generations. Many individuals and businesses in New Zealand use family trusts to safeguard wealth, provide for loved ones, and create long-term stability.

With the introduction of the Trusts Act 2019 and recent changes to tax law, the responsibilities on trustees have become more complex. Trustees must now meet greater disclosure and reporting obligations, while also facing a higher risk of challenges from beneficiaries or third parties. Having the right structures in place — and receiving ongoing expert advice — is more important than ever.

At Edmonds Judd, our Trusts team is known across the Waikato for providing clear, practical advice tailored to each client’s circumstances. We work alongside you to review existing arrangements or establish new structures, ensuring your trust and asset planning remains fit for purpose, compliant with current law, and aligned with both personal and commercial goals.

Our Trusts & Asset Planning Services

We offer comprehensive services tailored to your needs, including:

• Succession & inheritance planning – helping you secure and pass on wealth effectively.
• Rural succession planning – tailored advice for farming families and agribusiness clients.
• Trust formation, administration & management – guidance on establishing, running, and reviewing trusts.
• Trustee duties & disclosure obligations – expert advice on compliance with the Trusts Act 2019.
• Asset protection strategies – minimising risk and safeguarding family and business assets.
• Creditor protection – structuring to mitigate potential claims.
• Trust variations, resettlements & wind-ups – adapting trusts to suit changing needs.
• Transferring assets in and out of trusts – ensuring transactions are completed correctly and strategically.
• Changing trustees & advice for trustees – providing guidance or acting as trustees where appropriate.
• Independent trustee services – offering impartial oversight and governance.

Our Approach

We take the time to understand your circumstances and review your trust structures to ensure they remain effective in light of legislative changes and evolving personal or business needs. Where restructuring or variation is required, we provide clear guidance and support throughout the process.

Our focus is always on delivering personalised, practical advice that helps you weigh the advantages and limitations of having a trust, empowering you to make informed decisions with confidence.

Whether you are establishing a new trust, reviewing an existing structure, or planning for the next generation, our experienced team is here to help protect your assets and secure your future.