Probate Application Form NZ: PR1 & PR2 Guide (2026)

Navigating the Probate Application Process in New Zealand

Applying for probate in New Zealand requires specific documentation and careful attention to detail. This guide walks you through everything you need to know about the probate application form NZ process, helping you avoid common mistakes and delays.

Whether you’re an executor handling an estate for the first time or simply planning ahead, understanding the probate application requirements will make this challenging time more manageable. Before completing the form, check whether probate is required for your estate.

Required Documents for Probate Application in NZ

To apply for probate in New Zealand, you’ll need to prepare several key documents:

1. Application for Probate (Form PR 1)

This is the main application form that starts the probate process. It includes:

• Details of the deceased
• Information about the executor(s)
• Details about the will
• Estimated value of the estate. Joint property must be declared separately. See joint property and probate for guidance.

2. Affidavit of Executor (Form PR 2)

This sworn statement confirms:

• The executor’s identity and right to apply
• That the will submitted is the valid last will
• Details about the deceased and the estate

3. The Original Will and Any Codicils (i.e. formal amendments to the Will)

The High Court requires:

• The original signed will (not a photocopy)
• Any codicils (amendments) to the will
• An explanation if the original cannot be found

4. Death Certificate

An original or certified copy of the death certificate may be required (not always as this depends on how the death is proved in the executor affidavit).

Step-by-Step Guide to Completing the Probate Application Form NZ

Step 1: Get the Right Forms

• Form PR1 and Form PR2 are prescribed by Part 27 of the High Court Rules 2016 and are set out in the schedules to the Rules themselves
• The current versions are available on the New Zealand Legislation website (legislation.govt.nz)
• Always work from the current consolidated version of the Rules — the prescribed forms are updated from time to time

Step 2: Complete the Application for Probate (Form PR 1)

• Fill in all sections completely
• Use the deceased’s details as recorded in the Will (explain any differences in names or spellings)
• List all executors named in the will

Step 3: Prepare the Affidavit of Executor (Form PR 2)

• Complete all required information
• This document must be sworn or affirmed before an authorised person (solicitor, Justice of the Peace, or Registrar)
• The original will must be included (but not attached) as an exhibit to this affidavit

Step 4: Submit to the Probate Registry

• Send the complete application at the Probate Registry at the Wellington High Court (all NZ probate applications are centrally processed here)
• Pay the filing fee (currently $269)
• Provide the original will with your application
• Note that fee waivers may be available for those who qualify financially (this must be applied for separately)

Common Mistakes to Avoid on Probate Application Forms

Missing Information

• Missing details about the deceased
• Failure to include all executors

Inconsistent Information

• Name differences between the will and other documents
• Date of birth or death inconsistencies
• Address variations across documents

Form Execution Errors

• Affidavit not properly sworn or affirmed
• Missing signatures
• Improper witnessing of documents

Will Issues

• Submitting a photocopy instead of the original
• Missing pages or attachments
• Staple holes or marks suggesting pages were removed Affidavit not properly sworn or affirmed
• Missing signatures
• Improper witnessing of documents

Online Options for Probate Applications in NZ

While the complete probate application process is not fully online in New Zealand, there are digital aspects that can help streamline the process:

What Can Be Done Online

• Downloading the application forms
• Researching court requirements
• Paying filing fees electronically

What Still Requires Paper Submission

• The original signed will
• Sworn/affirmed affidavits
• Original Will

Some law firms offer digital services to help prepare your application, though final submission to the Court still requires physical documents. Once the form is complete, you can apply for probate online through Simply Probate. If you prefer to complete the forms yourself, see our DIY probate guide for a detailed walkthrough and the common mistakes to avoid.

Probate Application Costs in New Zealand

The costs associated with applying for probate in NZ include:

Court Fees

• Standard application fee: $269
• Additional copies of the grant: $30 each
• Fee waivers may be available for those who qualify financially (must be applied for separately)

Estimated Legal Fees (If Using a Lawyer)

• Simple estates: $1,000 - $2,000
• Medium complexity: $2,000 - $3,500
• Complex estates: $3,500+

These legal fees typically include preparing all required documents, filing the application, and obtaining the grant of probate. It is advisable to ask for an estimate before proceeding.

Court Fees for Probate Application Processing

After submitting your application, typical processing times are (these can vary):

• Initial review: 1-2 weeks
• Requisitions (requests for more information): Adds 2-4 weeks if required
• Grant issuance: 4-6 weeks from submission if no issues arise

Factors that can extend these timeframes include court backlogs, incomplete applications, or complex estate situations.

What Happens After Submitting Your Probate Application

Court Review Process

1. The Probate Registry staff at the Wellington High Court checks the application for completeness
2. The application is reviewed by a registrar
3. Any issues or questions (“requisitions”) are sent to the applicant
4. Once satisfied, the registrar approves the application

Receiving the Grant

• The formal Grant of Probate document is issued
• This legally authorises the executor to administer the estate
• Multiple official copies can be requested for dealing with different institutions

Next Steps After Approval

For a full overview of what executors must do, see executor duties in NZ. Once probate is granted, the executor must:

• Notify banks and financial institutions
• Transfer or sell assets as needed
• Pay debts and liabilities
• Distribute the estate according to the will

DIY vs. Professional Help for Probate Applications

When DIY Might Work

• Simple, straightforward estates
• Clear, valid will with no complications
• Experienced executor with time available
• No family disputes or complications

When Professional Help Is Advisable

• Complex assets or business interests
• International aspects to the estate
• Family tensions or potential disputes
• Executor unfamiliar with legal processes
• Time constraints or stress considerations

Need Help With Your Probate Application?

At Simply Probate, we specialise in making the probate application process as smooth as possible. Our team can:

• Prepare all required documentation accurately
• Fast, efficient process using automation technology
• Ensure applications meet court requirements

Contact us today for assistance with your probate application in New Zealand.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where do I get Form PR1 and PR2 in New Zealand?

The forms are prescribed by Part 27 of the High Court Rules 2016 and are set out in the schedules to the Rules themselves. The current versions are available on the New Zealand Legislation website at legislation.govt.nz. The Rules are updated from time to time, so always work from the current consolidated version rather than a saved copy.

Do I need a lawyer to complete Form PR1?

No. You can prepare and file the forms yourself. The mandatory cost is the $269 court filing fee. However, the forms are technical and small errors trigger requisitions from the Registry that delay your grant. Simply Probate prepares the full application for a fixed $699 + GST.

What if I cannot find the original signed will?

The High Court requires the original will, not a photocopy. If the original is lost, a copy may be accepted with a supporting affidavit explaining the circumstances of the loss and confirming the will was not revoked. The application becomes significantly more complex and is typically referred to a Judge.

Where do I file the completed probate application?

All New Zealand probate applications are filed centrally at the Wellington High Court Probate Registry, regardless of where the deceased lived. You can file by post, courier, or in person.

What is a “requisition” from the Probate Registry?

A requisition is a formal request from the Registrar for additional information or a correction to your application. Common requisitions involve inconsistent name spellings, missing exhibits, or affidavit format issues. Each requisition typically adds 2–4 weeks to the timeline.

Can I file Form PR1 electronically in NZ?

No. The original signed will must be physically lodged with the court, so the application cannot be fully electronic. You can prepare the documents online (Simply Probate’s service does this), but the final filing requires physical documents and the $269 fee.

This information is current as of 2026 but is subject to change as court procedures evolve. Always check the current version of the High Court Rules 2016 on legislation.govt.nz for prescribed forms and current procedure.