Bequest – a gift in your will

Thank you for helping us in our vital work. A bequest provides ongoing support to a cause that matters to you. Your legacy will support research into the effects and treatments for New Zealand’s most common brain disorders, helping make a difference to generations to come, both in New Zealand and around the world.

There are a range of ways to support us in your will. We’ve listed these below and suggested wording to use. When referring to us please use our official charity name New Zealand Brain Research Limited. You will also need to include our official charity number. We are a registered charity (CC20457) under the Charities Act 2005.

If you already have a will you can have a codicil (or an addition or amendment) to your will drawn up.

There are four main types of gifts you can choose to leave to a charity.

1. Residual – The remainder of your estate after considering your loved ones.
2. Percentage or fractional – A gift expressed as a percentage or fraction of your estate.
3. Pecuniary or specific – A specified gift which can be money, property or stocks and shares.
4. Whole estate – This comprises your entire estate and is usually left by those without beneficiaries or those wanting to achieve something very significant.

Talk to your lawyer about the type of gift that will best suit you and your estate. Gifts left to charities in your will are exempt from inheritance tax and capital gains tax.

We encourage you to discuss your will with your family. Bequests can be challenged by your family if they don't feel adequately provided for. Consider the amount you wish to leave so that it is not likely to be contested, or discuss your reasoning with family where possible.

If you would like to talk about any aspect of this process or further discuss the work of the New Zealand Brain Research Institute please don't hesitate to contact us on 03-5956-800.

Suggested wording

“I leave to New Zealand Brain Research Limited of 66 Stewart St, Christchurch Central 8011, Charity Registration Number: CC20457: $______ (or a percentage, or the residue of my Estate, or a description of the property or asset given) for its general purposes and I direct that the receipt of the Treasurer or other duly authorised officer shall be a sufficient discharge to my Executors.”

You may additionally specify an area of research that you wish your bequest to support, such as Parkinson's disease, but please talk to us before doing so.