How to get married in NZ

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:
  1. 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.

    Find a marriage celebrant

    In a registry office

    Registry office ceremonies:

    • are held during normal office hours
    • use standard vows, and you can’t customise the ceremony.

    Registry office weddings

    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.

    Get a marriage licence

    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.

    Get 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.

    Changing your name after you get married

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