Story: Divorce and separation

Protecting income and assets

In this 1890 order from the Napier magistrates’ court, Phillippa Terrill gained control over her own earnings and any property she had or might acquire. Her husband, John, had stopped supporting her, and was last heard of living in Ashburton. Phillippa sought the right to keep her own money and possessions not just from her husband, but also from his creditors. Any money or property owned by a wife could be claimed if her husband fell into debt.

Using this item

Archives New Zealand - Te Rua Mahara o te Kāwanatanga
Reference: AAOW W3244 267

All images & media in this story

How to cite this page:

Megan Cook, 'Divorce and separation - Maintenance and the division of property', Te Ara - the Encyclopedia of New Zealand, http://www.TeAra.govt.nz/en/zoomify/29839/protecting-income-and-assets (accessed 4 May 2024)

Story by Megan Cook, published 5 May 2011, reviewed & revised 8 Nov 2018