Like many businesses, Black + White Trust Services Limited was based on an idea that took several years to fully develop and several more years to bring to life.  Throughout this time, laws and practices relating to trusts changed.  Despite what might be deemed evolution, both the past and the present show trusts in New Zealand are frequently inappropriately managed and administered or indeed, not managed or administered at all. 

Assets failing to be employed in ways that maximise opportunities to the benefit of beneficiaries, trustees not satisfying their legislative duties and structure, asset protection, estate planning and tax minimisation objectives not succeeding are just some of the problems arising through inappropriate and inadequate trust management and administration.

A review of legal cases and issues shows a lack of knowledge, expertise, systems, and time being contributing factors that lead to problems being experienced by those involved with trusts.

Recent legislation has provided a partial solution to problems that may arise by spelling out in black and white the law relating to trusts.  Whilst bestowing a degree of certainty for trustees and beneficiaries, the legislation has also increased trustee duties and compliance responsibilities.  Increased scrutiny on trustees has negated any set-and-forget approach too as trustees are now held accountable for their behaviour and omission.

Wanting to find a timely, affordable sensible solution to the problems that beset professional advisers, trustees, and beneficiaries, Black + White Trust Services Limited was born.

We are a New Zealand boutique trust management and administration practice, built on 37 years of experience, with skilled staff and robust systems and procedures aimed at helping all those involved with trusts.

Led by Janet Xuccoa, a renowned specialist in trusts and their administration and management, Black + White Trust Services Limited concentrates solely on providing trust administration and management services to lawyers, accountants, financial advisors, individuals and families.

Janet holds two degrees, an LLB and a BCom degree and has over three decades of experience helping hundreds of clients with their trusts. She’s written several books, including one on trusts, and is currently awaiting publication of her fourth book which will undoubtedly help people better understand trusts in today’s environment.

Our philosophy sees us invoke a holistic approach to our work, integrating with individuals and their professional advisers, resulting in a cost-effective, efficient trust management and administration service. 

We can tailor the services we offer to individual needs and circumstances, either completing a particular task or undertaking full annual trust management and administrative compliance work.  We can even act as independent professional trustees where we deem it appropriate.

Should you be a professional adviser seeking assistance and guidance with one of your client’s trusts, or a member of the public needing help, please contact us.  We enjoy sharing our knowledge and welcome the opportunity to step forward and offer a helping hand.