Thinking about leaving a gift in your will?

Māia Health Foundation is the official charity of Canterbury DHB and is a registered charity. Māia was established to provide a pathway for charitable giving to help support our health system in Canterbury. You can make a difference for our community, our children, and our children’s children by leaving a gift in your will to Māia.

Your special gift really will improve lives, providing the best in health services for your community into the future.

What is a bequest?

A bequest, a legacy or gift in your will is a promise you make to give money to an individual, charity or organisation after your death.

You decide on what is included in your will. It is possible to look after loved ones and support causes or charities that are important to you, so that your legacy or vision lives on.

By making a bequest, you take control of the legacy you leave. It is one of the most powerful gifts you can give.

Why make a bequest?

Many people find peace and security in the knowledge that beyond their own lives, their legacy will live on and they will continue to make a difference.

Most people find the process empowering – it gives them the chance to make a long-term impact on the future and to realise their future vision.

Making a bequest is simple. It doesn't impact on your daily life and provides security that your generous spirit and vision will live on.

Why make a bequest to Māia?

Māia Health Foundation is a trusted and respected organisation; one with a strong history of success. We don't just support one hospital or a single service – we support the entire health system in Canterbury and the wider South Island.

To date we have raised more than $10 million dollars and invested that money directly back into our health system.

When you make a bequest to Māia, you are leaving a legacy directly to enhance the health of your community and for future generations. We are simply here to bring your wishes to life. Māia is a strong, respectable organisation. You can have confidence that 100% of the gift you entrust to us will go toward your vision for our future.

What is the process for making a bequest?

Think about the difference you want to make. Is there a specific service or need you'd like to assist with? We do recommend you speak with your immediate family about your intention to leave a gift in your will. It will help them understand why this is important to you, so that they can help us realise your vision.

You can choose whether you want your bequest recognised. You may be happy for your legacy to be celebrated and shared, or wish your gift to remain private – we will work with you to respect your every wish.

If you do let us know that you are considering leaving a gift to Māia in your will, this will allow us to acknowledge your wishes, provide you with information, and most importantly – to thank you.

We hope it will be many years before your gift is realised, and it may be that during that time the needs of our health system will change. So, we encourage you not to be too specific with your gift. You can trust us to ensure that your gift will go towards what is critically needed at the time, so that it makes the greatest difference.