New Zealand: locate and read a probate file

ROOT & GENEALOGY · Content updated on 2026-10-29 · Editorial method and sources

Probate files document estate administration after death. A file may contain a will lodged with the court, while an intestate estate may produce letters of administration. Start from documented death and last residence.

The method, step by step

1. Search the name in Collections search, then note the creating court, reference and repository. Archives New Zealand distributes holdings across several locations. The online image location and physical file location are separate information.
2. The digitisation programme with FamilySearch concerns older files; progressive expansion does not mean every file is already visible. Follow the catalogue entry and official access guidance. In an image bundle, verify the beginning and end of the file.
3. Distinguish deceased, executor, administrator, beneficiaries and witnesses. Record explicit relationships and each document’s dates. Compare the people with civil records: a bequest may benefit someone unrelated and a file may be incomplete.

Read the records and build the connection

New Zealand: locate and read a probate file

Record element	What to record and check
Court and reference	Keep creator, series, number and physical repository.
File contents	Identify will, application and grant without merging dates.
Stated relationships	Separate written kinship, administrative role and personal hypothesis.

1. Death and name
2. Court and file
3. Records and relationships