About Simply Probate
If someone in your family has died, the bank, KiwiSaver provider, and other institutions will usually ask for a court order before they release the money. That order is called a Grant of Probate (if there's a valid will) or Letters of Administration (if there isn't). Simply Probate prepares that application for you, at a fixed fee, run by a New Zealand lawyer.
About Rion Norris
The lawyer reviewing every file.
Rion Norris is a New Zealand lawyer based in Christchurch. His background is in dispute resolution and civil litigation — areas of law where accuracy, process, and attention to detail are essential.
He started Simply Probate to make the probate process more accessible and straightforward for New Zealand families. Applying for probate still requires careful preparation and compliance with Court requirements, but modern technology can make the process more efficient and reduce unnecessary costs for clients.
Every document submitted through Simply Probate is reviewed by a qualified NZ lawyer — Rion personally. Technology helps streamline the administrative side of the application, allowing more focus on what matters most: ensuring each application is accurate, complete, and ready for the Probate Registry.
Scope
What we do — and don't.
What we do
We prepare the court application. You file it. We do the legal preparation — drafting Form PR1, Form PR2, and the supporting documents — so the application is correct, complete, and ready to lodge with the Wellington High Court.
What we don't
We're not an estate administration firm. We don't open trust accounts or distribute money to beneficiaries. Once the Grant issues, you (as the executor) administer the estate — we'll tell you what to do next at every step, but you stay in control.
What it costs
Fixed fee. No hourly billing.
Process
How it works.
Answer some questions online
No appointment needed — you can do it from anywhere in New Zealand, at any hour.
We prepare your documents
Form PR1, Form PR2, and supporting paperwork — drafted and reviewed by a qualified NZ lawyer.
You sign and file
Sign the affidavit in front of a JP or solicitor, post the application to the Wellington High Court. The court posts the Grant back to you.
Probate usually takes 1–2 weeks at the court. Letters of administration take 2–4 weeks.
Ready to start?
Begin the online interview when you're ready, or book a free 15-minute call to talk it through first.