A registry ceremony is a way to get married in New Zealand with the least amount of stress and cost. One of two marriage ceremony options, the other being a personalised ceremony, it is also the least flexible option.
A registry ceremony is right for you if you...
- Want the lowest cost option
- Are happy to choose from a limited number of qualified marriage celebrants
- Are happy to use standard wedding vows and ceremony format
- Are happy to get married during business hours
- Are happy to have a maximum number of twenty guests
Let’s take a look at what you’ll need to organise a registry-office style marriage ceremony...
Getting Married in a Registry Ceremony
If you’ve decided to go ahead with a registry ceremony, there are a few things you’ll need to know and do first:
- Decide upon a location for your ceremony
It is best to discuss a venue with your celebrant before booking. Some celebrants offer a venue at their own home. Otherwise, they’ll agree on a venue with you when you contact them. To find a qualified celebrant near you, browse our list of marriage celebrants that can legally marry you in a registry-office style wedding. - Apply for your marriage licence
You can apply for a marriage licence either online or in person at your local Registrar of Marriages. By filling out the Notice of Intended Marriage form, you are making a statutory declaration that you are both legally able to marry. It must be applied for at least three working days ahead of your ceremony and it is valid for three months. You will need to give information about the wedding date, venue, celebrant, full names and contact details for you and your fiancé, and both sets of parents. If you have been married or in a civil union before, this must also be declared. - Bring two witnesses to the ceremony
You are required to bring two people to witness your marriage. To meet the requirements, the witnesses must be able to understand what is happening during the ceremony, be certain they can identify both of the people getting married and believe that you are both freely giving your consent to get married.
Just like any marriage ceremony, the registry option does require you to book ahead. It’s important to note that registry ceremonies can only happen during business hours.
For further information on both a registry and personalised ceremony options, take a look through our articles on marriage celebrants and ceremonies.