You may wish to consider leaving a bequest to the AOPA NZ Charitable Trust. If so, you’ll find some initial information on this page.
AOPA NZ began as a small group of aviation enthusiasts in 1969, and in 1971 was formed as the Kittyhawk Club of New Zealand. Fast forward to 2025, and we have over 1,100 members around New Zealand (with over 430,000 members around the world). Find out more about the organisation and our history on this page.
Why we need help
We are funded entirely from donations, grants and gifts. The challenges for the future are great. That’s why we are so grateful for the donations bequeathed to AOPA NZ Charitable Trust in a supporter’s will.
Frequently asked questions
Why make a will?
Quite simply, because it will give you peace of mind.
Making a will is the only way to ensure your wishes are met regarding the distribution of your assets. It’s the last opportunity to express appreciation and love to family members and favourite charities.
If you do not leave a will, you run the risk of having your estate incur significant legal expenses, together with confusion and misunderstanding over your intentions.
How do I make a will?
By consulting a solicitor, the Public Trust Office or a trustee company.
Maximise the amount your beneficiaries receive and avoid pitfalls. A will is a legal document that helps safeguard the future of those you care for, by recording precisely how you wish your possessions to be distributed after your death.
Can I change my existing will?
At any time you can review and update your will.
It is recommended you review your will every 5-7 years, or whenever any significant changes occur in your life. When reviewing your will, you have the opportunity to consider making a bequest to AOPA NZ Trust and other charities you would like to assist.
What is a bequest?
A bequest is a provision in a last will.
This enables the gifting of property or cash from an estate to charities of your choice. It may be an insurance policy, property or money. A charitable bequest is the most common form of providing a gift for a cause that will perpetuate your life interest and influence into the future.
Why make a bequest to the AOPA NZ Charitable Trust?
In making a bequest to the AOPA NZ Charitable Trust, you are helping us to assist more people into the General Aviation community in New Zealand. See more about the aims of the trust below.
The AOPA NZ Charitable Trust was established in 2024, gained status as a registered charity in 2025 and is connected to AOPA NZ, but is a separate legal entity.
What do I need to do in order to make a bequest?
If you have a will, you need to make an amendment called a codicil.
Send a copy of this page, and any other relevant instructions, to your solicitor. It should not cost you anything. See your solicitor, or person who handles your legal affairs, and they will add it to your will. A bequest that is not in your will is unlikely to be valid.
What wording should I use?
Suggested clause to be included in your will when prepared by a lawyer or trustee company would be as follows:
“I give, devise and bequeath (free of all duty) to AOPA NZ Trust Charitable Trust the sum of $_________________ (or nominated property or proportion of estate) for the general purposes of the Trust.I declare that the receipt of the AOPA NZ Charitable Trust shall be full and sufficient discharge to my trustee(s) for the same and my trustee(s) shall not be bound to see the application thereof.”
How will the AOPA NZ Trust use my bequest?
Your bequest will will be used to deliver on the objectives of the trust, which are as follows:
- XXX
- XXX
Would you like to talk to us?
If you would like to discuss your intentions with us in complete confidence, we would be happy to come and talk about the benefits your bequest will bring in the future.
To arrange this, please get in touch.
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