Kiwis are interested in gifts in wills

August 24 2026

New research from independent researchers BERL, commissioned by Community Foundations of Aotearoa NZ, has found that more than half of the 3,000 New Zealanders surveyed are open to the idea of leaving a charitable gift in their will.

Response rates were high for those who already donate, so the research is a close-up view of the motivations of givers.

For many, giving is already deeply tied to their values, sense of community, and gratitude so a gift in their will is a natural extension of their generosity.

The research also points to what's holding many back, and it isn't always reluctance - just one in five people who receive professional advice have ever discussed charitable giving with their advisor.

What’s missing may be a conversation and a clear pathway which helps to move generous intent into action. The findings suggest a real opportunity for New Zealand's charity and professional advice sectors to work together, connecting existing goodwill to the practical step of enabling charitable gifts.

Read the full summary of the research, including motivations, barriers and international comparisons, in our downloadable report.

Download the Report here >>