A step-by-step guide to getting married or having a civil union in New Zealand.
The Department of Internal Affairs have revamped their website so it’s alot easier to follow the info. Check it out here: https://www.govt.nz/browse/family-and-whanau/getting-married/how-to-get-married-in-nz/
1) Decide how
There are 2 ways to get married or have a civil union in NZ:
-
By a registered marriage celebrant
You can choose:
- when and where you’ll get married
- to write your own vows
- a religious or independent celebrant.
In a registry office
Registry office ceremonies:
- are held during normal office hours
- use standard vows, and you can’t customise the ceremony.
2) Arrange a marriage licence
You have to arrange a marriage licence at least 3 working days before you want to get married. If you’re being married by a celebrant, you’ll need their name and the location and approximate date of the wedding when you apply.
3) Get married
Your celebrant or the registry office will register your marriage and give you a “Copy of particulars of marriage”.
4) Get a marriage certificate
If you need to show anyone legal proof of your marriage, you can order a marriage certificate.
5) Changing your name
If you want to change your last name after you’re married, you don’t have to do anything special — but some places like banks or government agencies might ask to see a copy of particulars or marriage certificate.
