Affidavit Of One And The Same Person Template for New Zealand

An Affidavit Of One And The Same Person is a sworn legal declaration that formally establishes you are known by multiple names or have changed your name. Under New Zealand law, this document provides crucial legal proof that different name variations all refer to the same individual, ensuring compliance with strict identity verification requirements across various official processes.

When do you need this document?

You'll typically need this affidavit when applying for a mortgage or purchasing property, as banks and conveyancers require absolute certainty about your identity. Immigration New Zealand often requests this document when your passport shows a different name from other supporting documents. Employers may require it during background checks, particularly for roles requiring security clearance or professional licensing. Financial institutions frequently request this affidavit when opening accounts or accessing services under different name variations. Government agencies also require this document when processing applications where your identity appears inconsistent across various official records.

Key legal considerations

Your affidavit must include your full current legal name, occupation, and residential address as the deponent. You must clearly state all previous names, alternative spellings, maiden names, or any other name variations you've used, along with the reasons for these different names. The document requires supporting evidence such as birth certificates, marriage certificates, divorce papers, or deed poll documents demonstrating your name changes. You must swear or affirm that all information provided is true and correct, understanding that false declarations constitute perjury under New Zealand law. The affidavit must be witnessed by an authorised person who can verify your identity and administer oaths.

Legal requirements in New Zealand

Under the Oaths and Declarations Act 1957, your affidavit must be witnessed by a Justice of the Peace, solicitor, Commissioner for Oaths, or Notary Public. The Evidence Act 2006 governs how this document can be presented in court proceedings if required. When used in High Court matters, your affidavit must comply with specific formatting requirements under the High Court Rules 2016. The Births, Deaths, Marriages, and Relationships Registration Act 1995 provides the framework for verifying official identity documents that support your affidavit. The Lawyers and Conveyancers Act 2006 establishes who can provide legal certification of your identity documents. Your witness must verify your identity through acceptable identification and ensure you understand the serious nature of making a sworn declaration.