Bespoke Wealth

Services

Giving with purpose, and wealth that lasts across generations

Giving well takes as much thought as investing well. And wealth that lasts across generations depends as much on the family as on the portfolio.

We help individuals and families turn generosity into a clear plan, talk openly about money, prepare the next generation, and put simple governance in place, so that wealth is used and passed on with its purpose intact.

Is this you?

  • You want to give meaningfully, but aren't sure how best to structure it.
  • You're considering giving through a charitable trust, or giving over time rather than all at once.
  • You'd like your investments to reflect your values.
  • You want to pass wealth on well, but conversations about money in your family are difficult or haven't happened yet.
  • You'd like your children or grandchildren to be ready for the responsibility of wealth.

Philanthropy with a plan

Many people give generously but reactively, responding to requests as they come. A clear plan helps your giving reflect what matters most to you and make a lasting difference.

Deciding what matters. We help you and your family clarify which causes you care about most, and what you'd like your giving to achieve.

Choosing how to give. You might give directly, through a charitable trust, or over time. Each approach has different practical, legal and tax considerations, and we work with your lawyer and accountant on structure.

Investing philanthropic capital. Money set aside for giving still needs to be invested well, so it lasts. Where it fits your values, we can include impact investments alongside your wider portfolio.

Family governance and the next generation

New Zealand has no inheritance tax, but passing on wealth well still takes planning, and the family side is often harder than the financial side.

Talking openly about money. We help families start conversations about wealth, values and expectations, including through regular family meetings.

Preparing the next generation. Children and grandchildren who understand the family's wealth, and the responsibilities that come with it, are far better placed to look after it.

Clear, fair decision-making. Simple governance, such as regular family meetings and agreed ways of making decisions, can reduce misunderstandings and conflict.

Joined-up planning. We work alongside your lawyer on trusts, wills and succession, and keep your investment strategy aligned with your family's long-term goals.

How we help

As an independent adviser, we don't have our own products to sell, so our advice is focused entirely on what suits you. We will:

  • Help you decide which causes matter most and how to give
  • Invest philanthropic capital so it lasts, including impact investments where they fit your values
  • Help your family have open conversations about wealth and values
  • Help prepare the next generation for the responsibility of wealth
  • Work alongside your lawyer and accountant on trusts, wills, succession and giving structures

Frequently asked questions

How can I give to charity in a structured way in New Zealand?

Common approaches include giving directly, giving over time, or setting up a charitable trust. Each has different practical, legal and tax considerations, so we work with your lawyer and accountant to find the right structure.

What is impact investing?

Impact investing aims to generate a positive social or environmental outcome alongside a financial return. Where it fits your values and goals, it can form part of a wider portfolio.

How do I prepare my children for inheriting wealth?

Open conversations, gradual involvement in decisions and clear family values all help. We can help set up family meetings and help younger family members understand the wealth and responsibilities involved.

What is family governance?

Family governance is simply an agreed way for a family to make decisions about shared wealth, such as regular family meetings and clear roles. It helps reduce misunderstandings and conflict.

Is there an inheritance tax in New Zealand?

No. New Zealand has no inheritance or estate tax. However, trusts, wills and the structure of family wealth still need careful planning to make sure wealth passes on as intended.

This page is general information only and is not personalised financial advice. It does not take into account your particular circumstances. Tax information is general in nature; please confirm your position with your accountant.

Fees & getting started

Our advice fee starts at 1% per year of the assets we manage for you, with no transaction costs from us. Underlying fund and platform fees may apply and are always disclosed upfront. We never charge for consultations. Our aim is to build long-term partnerships with our clients, so your first conversation, and every conversation after it, is about understanding you and your goals.

Book a free consultation with James

Prefer to talk first? Send us a message or call +64 27 661 6167.

Bespoke Wealth is an FMA-licensed financial advice provider (FSP1011643). Read our Disclosure Statement.