Business

Enduring Powers of Attorney (EPAs) are becoming increasingly important in New Zealand as dementia rates rise and more people face a loss of decision-making capacity. An EPA allows you to choose trusted individuals to manage your personal care, medical needs, and finances if you are unable to do so yourself. Without one, families may need to go through costly and time-consuming court processes. Setting up an EPA early ensures your wishes are respected, reduces stress for loved ones, and provides greater certainty for the future.

It is easy to assume that if something happens to you or a loved one, your family will simply sort everything out. But if you die without a valid will in New Zealand, the law decides how your estate is dealt with. This is known as dying intestate. For many families, this can create added stress, delay, and uncertainty at an already difficult time. Instead of your wishes guiding what happens, legal rules determine who can manage your estate and who may receive your assets.

Public holidays around Easter and ANZAC Day can present challenges for employers, particularly for retail and hospitality businesses affected by shop trading restrictions. With Easter and ANZAC Day right around the corner, now is a good time to remind businesses what they should be aware of when planning for Easter and ANZAC public holidays.