News and views

While most people are aware they need a Will, and might have given clear directions as to how they wish their business duties to be dealt with after they pass, many don’t give a second thought to how their business would fare if they were suddenly mentally incapacitated.

For wills to be valid they must comply with a number of legal formalities; they must be in writing and there must be two witnesses who must attest to the will-maker signing the will in their presence.

We talk a lot about the perils of dying without a Will, and the unnecessary mess, stress and cost that can be left behind. Yet, many people still don’t fully appreciate what that actually looks like for loved ones, or how their worldly goods will be divided up.

The hot pool at the new Wanaka Community Pool complex was at risk of being canned, but proceeded thanks to the generosity of two business identities and philanthropists, who bequeathed $1m to enrich the Upper Clutha community they held so dear.

While contemplating one’s mortality isn’t the most uplifting of pastimes, it is important to consider how you would like your earthly possessions dealt with once you “pop your clogs”.

Newsflash – notwithstanding some speedy cryogenics breakthrough, we’re all going to shuffle off this mortal coil one day. Even our most hardy avoidant, denial mechanisms, including skirting around the very real need to not only make a proper Will, but also keep it current, are an antidote to that reality.

Aspiring Law Administrator Carol Stevens with the welcome pack for Age Concern’s “Dignity Champions” initiative.

Retiring as a trustee? There’s a process that should avoid any problems down the line.