Retirement Life
12 August 2026
Accounting for pets in wills
Who will care for them when you're gone?
Many of us consider our pets part of the family, sometimes ranking them ahead of our love life, friends and extended family. Yet, few of us have made plans for what will happen to them when we die.
The Public Trust is urging New Zealanders to include provisions for pets in their wills – and with around half of over-65 households owning a companion animal, it’s something we shouldn’t overlook.
“We love our pets like family,” Public Trust chief executive Glenys Talivai says.
“We buy them organic food, heated blankets, special shampoo and toys. But while we invest in their day-to-day wellbeing, most people still haven’t made clear plans for what would happen to their pets when they die.”
Plan Your Retirement Savings
A will and a way
A recent Public Trust survey found pet owners are more emotionally invested in their animals than their love life, finances, career, friends and extended family. Only children, grandchildren and a significant other ranked higher.
Despite that strong attachment, nearly half of adult New Zealanders do not have a will, let alone one that includes instructions for pet care. Public Trust says only 1 in 20 wills it prepares contains provisions for pets, although that rises to one in 10 among millennials aged 30 to 39.
“Wills don’t go unwritten because people don’t care. For a lot of people, it’s the opposite. We care deeply about our families, including pets, and that’s why it gets put off. It can feel overwhelming.”
How the law works
Under New Zealand law, pets are treated as property and cannot inherit directly. However, pet owners can nominate someone to look after their animals and leave funds for their ongoing care through their will. They can also provide detailed instructions for them through a statement of wishes, a non-binding document that accompanies a will.
Talivai says many people assume they will outlive their pets or that a friend or family member will automatically step in. And have you spoken with them about it first?
“Who is that person? Are they able to provide the care your pet needs? It’s best to check.
“One of our customers has planned this carefully, finding the right home for each of her pets - with her axolotl going to one sister and her cat to another.”
She says even small details can make a significant difference to an animal's wellbeing, including its preferred food, medications, favourite treats and daily routines.
To help people get started, Public Trust has released a Pet Planning Guide. It’s a great way to ensure your tortoise, or Spoodle, finds the long-term home and care it deserves.
Written by:
Sonia Speedy
Sonia Speedy has been a journalist for over 20 years, working in newspapers, magazines and radio. She also runs an online platform for parents at familytimes.co.nz. She lives on the Kāpiti Coast with her young family and loves writing stories that help make people's lives easier.
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