Your legacy can change lives

Protect the mental health of future generations

Why leave a gift in your will?

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Almost half (47%) of us will experience mental health challenges in our lifetime. That’s you, or someone you care about.

Leaving a gift in your will to the Mental Health Foundation is an expression of your kindness and compassion for others. It’s a way to ensure your values live on.

No matter how big or small, your legacy could benefit many generations to come – including your grandchildren and great grandchildren.

It’s a powerful way to support our mahi. And it doesn’t cost you a cent today.

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Why Dave chose to leave a gift in his will

He aha te mea nui o te ao? He tangata, he tangata, he tangata.
"In my personal and professional life, I've led and worked with hundreds of different people, and I've learned that nothing is more important than the mental health of the humans around us.
"If people feel solid, safe and secure, and we invest in people's wellbeing, we will always prevail as a society. That's why I've included the Mental Health Foundation in my will – for the future of all Kiwis, because it truly is about he tangata.” - Dave B.

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Write your will for free today

We’ve partnered with Footprint, New Zealand’s largest online will provider to make it free and easy to look after your loved ones.

What you get:

Online platform to write your own legally valid will in as little as 15 minutes
Review by a professional will drafter
Registration of your will on the New Zealand Will Registry
Referral to a third-party provider if required
Option to leave a bequest to your chosen charity anonymously if you wish
Ability to update or refresh your will at any time (additional costs may apply).

While not required, leaving a gift in your will to the Mental Health Foundation means your values can live on for future generations.

Create my free will

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Your will is a gift to future generations

I chose to include the MHF in my will because they care deeply about areas that I do: preventing suicide, stamping out bullying and discrimination, and making sure all New Zealanders have the tools to improve their mental health and wellbeing.
“The MHF is an amazing and wonderful asset to New Zealand, and I wanted to make a lasting impact through my estate." - Anonymous.

Where will my money go?

The Mental Health Foundation has been New Zealand’s leading mental health charity for nearly 50 years. Your gift will help us:

Advocate for a better mental health system and society
Promote everyday actions that lift mental wellbeing
Provide free tools that support people through tough times.

We rely on the generosity of donors. Your gift costs you nothing today, but helps us plan for the future.

Request an info pack

Your questions answered

What are the different kinds of bequests?

There are many ways to leave a gift in your will. Any size donation, no matter how big or small, helps us plan for the future and maximise our impact.

It is important to us that you take care of your loved ones first. You may wish to let your close whānau and friends know of your intentions, and why you've chosen to make a bequest to the Mental Health Foundation.

Here are some of the ways people choose to leave us a gift:

Residual gift

You bequest a percentage of your estate (e.g. 1%) to us, after other gifts are distributed.

Percentage gift

You donate a fixed percentage of your estate to us.

Contingent gift

Your gift only takes effect if other beneficiaries have passed away or are unable to inherit.

What wording do I need to use for my bequest?

To avoid creating unnecessary work for your loved ones, it’s important the wording is accurate. Our suggested wording to use in your will is as follows:

I give to the Mental Health Foundation of New Zealand (CC11140) xx% share of my residuary estate

[or]

the sum of $xx

[or]

the following property or assets [insert here] for its general purposes and declare that the receipt of the Chief Executive of the Foundation or other proper officer shall be sufficient discharge for my Trustee.

Do I have to use Footprint?

No. We’re sharing Footprint as a free option, but you can use your existing lawyer, or another will provider. The Retirement Commission’s Sorted website has some useful information about how to create a will.

I don’t have much to give. Is it worth it?

Your gift, no matter the size, will help us care for communities, promote mental health, and build a brighter, healthier future for generations to come. Even leaving 1% of your estate is a meaningful way to reflect your values and support our mahi.

Bequest guide

Complete the form below and we will mail you a free copy of the Bequest Guide.

If you are considering leaving a gift in your Will to the Mental Health Foundation, or have any questions about doing so, please contact our Fundraising team who will be able to help.

Email:
fundraising@mentalhealth.org.nz

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There is no health without mental health

Help ensure everyone in Aotearoa has the tools to enjoy positive mental health and wellbeing.

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