Shared Residence Affidavit Template for New Zealand

A Shared Residence Affidavit is a sworn legal statement that formally documents shared living arrangements in New Zealand. This document serves as official proof of your residential circumstances when you need to demonstrate the nature and duration of your shared housing arrangement to government agencies, courts, or other institutions. Under New Zealand law, this affidavit carries significant legal weight as evidence of your living situation.

When do you need this document?

You will need a Shared Residence Affidavit when applying for various visas or residence permits, particularly when Immigration New Zealand requires proof of your living arrangements. The document is also essential when claiming social benefits that depend on household composition, such as accommodation supplements or Working for Families payments. Financial institutions may request this affidavit when assessing loan applications where shared living costs affect your financial position. Additionally, the document proves valuable in legal proceedings involving tenancy disputes, family law matters, or situations where your residential status impacts legal outcomes.

Key legal considerations

Your affidavit must accurately reflect the true nature of your shared living arrangement, as providing false information in a sworn statement constitutes perjury under New Zealand law. Include comprehensive details about all residents, their relationship to you, and how shared spaces and costs are managed. The document should specify whether you have separate tenancy agreements or share a single lease, as this affects your rights under the Residential Tenancies Act 1986. You must also consider privacy implications under the Privacy Act 2020 when sharing personal information about co-residents, ensuring you have their consent to include their details in your affidavit.

Legal requirements in New Zealand

Under the Oaths and Declarations Act 1957, your Shared Residence Affidavit must be sworn or affirmed before an authorized witness such as a Justice of the Peace, solicitor, or other qualified person. The witness must verify your identity and ensure you understand the oath's significance before you sign. Your affidavit must comply with the Evidence Act 2006 requirements for admissibility in legal proceedings, including proper formatting and witnessing procedures. The Property Law Act 2007 may also apply if your shared arrangement involves property ownership rights or formal co-tenancy agreements. Ensure your affidavit includes all required elements: your full legal details, complete property description, specific residence periods, detailed living arrangement description, and financial contribution information.