Frequently Asked Questions
Answers to Your Questions.
General Questions
Who can use this service?
Anyone involved in sorting out the practical side of someone’s passing. Whether you’re a spouse, friend, family member, or named executor—support is available to help you manage the admin.
Do I have to be the executor?
No. You don’t need to be legally appointed to get help. As long as you’re involved in managing affairs and can sign our Authority to Act form, we can assist with the tasks you need taken care of.
How does it work?
You start with a relaxed, obligation-free chat about your situation. If you’re happy to proceed, we’ll get a short Authority to Act form signed. That allows us to contact companies, cancel services, and sort the admin on your behalf. Everything is handled clearly, professionally, and with as much (or as little) input from you as you like.
Learn more on the Services page
Is this a legal or financial service?
No—it’s practical administration. We don’t manage money, offer legal advice, or make decisions for you. We handle things like cancelling accounts, communicating with providers, preparing paperwork, and offering support to executors and families.
Service Scope
What kind of tasks can you help with?
We can:
Cancel or transfer services like banks, clubs, utilities, and memberships
Redirect mail
Memorialise or close digital accounts
Prepare estate paperwork
Arrange help with property contents
Transfer vehicle ownership
Support executors and help with basic financial admin like unclaimed funds and tax preparation
Learn more on the Services page
Are there tasks you don’t handle?
Yes. Fairlight doesn’t offer legal advice, access or manage bank accounts or funds, or act as an estate executor. We also don’t handle probate or disputes. Instead, we focus on the practical admin—working alongside your lawyer, accountant, or executor to keep everything moving smoothly.
Is it only for recent deaths?
No. Even if it’s been some time and you’re still working through the admin—we can step in and help.
Can I choose only some services?
Yes. You don’t have to commit to a full package. We’ll tailor support to suit what you’re dealing with right now.
Practical Info
How much does it cost?
Pricing depends on what you need help with. We’ll give you a clear, upfront quote before anything begins. No surprises—just transparent, honest pricing.
What if I can't afford to hire you?
We understand professional help isn’t always accessible. That’s why we’ve created a Helpful Resources section with free checklists, guides, and advice to help you navigate things on your own if needed.
Is my information safe with you?
Yes. Everything is handled with care and in line with the Privacy Act 2020. We treat every situation with complete confidentiality and keep a secure record of all actions taken on your behalf.
How long does it usually take?
Every situation is different. Some things can be handled in a day, others take a bit longer depending on providers and paperwork. We'll always give you an estimate and keep you updated along the way.
Do you offer in-person support?
Fairlight is based in Nelson, and local support may be available. Most work, however, is done remotely—by phone and email—which means we can help anyone in New Zealand.
How do I get started?
It’s easy. Just reach out for a no-pressure conversation. If it feels like the right fit, we’ll take it from there.
