New Zealand offers couples two primary wedding ceremony options: Personalised Ceremonies and Registry Ceremonies. Each provides a unique approach to celebrating your love and commitment.
PERSONALISED CEREMONIES: Crafting Your Dream Wedding
You can have a personalised ceremony at any time, date and place you want. You write your own vows. It costs $150 for the marriage licence, plus the amount the celebrant charges for the ceremony.
Personalised ceremonies offer ultimate flexibility and creativity for couples looking to make their wedding truly unique. Here are the key features:
- Complete Freedom: Choose any date, time, and location
- Custom Vows: Write your own heartfelt promises
- Meaningful Elements: Incorporate cultural traditions and special activities
- Flexible Timing: Available on weekends, holidays, and at any time
Steps for a Personalised Ceremony
1. Choose Your Venue
- Select a meaningful location
- Include a backup venue in your application
- Ensure physical presence of all participants
2. Find a Celebrant
- Research local celebrants
- Discuss ceremony details and fees
- Confirm availability and style
3. Apply for Marriage Licence
- Submit application at least 3 working days before the ceremony
- Pay the $150 licence fee
4. Arrange Witnesses
- Organise two witnesses for the ceremony
- Ensure they can be physically present
5. Ceremony Day
- Receive "copy of particulars of marriage"
- Celebrant registers the marriage with the government
REGISTRY CEREMONIES: A Structured Approach
A registry ceremony has standard vows and must take place during business hours on a weekday (9am to 5pm, Monday to Friday). You cannot hold the ceremony on a public holiday. You must pay $150 for the marriage licence and a set fee of $90 for the ceremony, which you pay to the celebrant in advance. You should contact your celebrant before you apply for a marriage licence to make sure they will be available.
Registry ceremonies offer a more formal, streamlined wedding experience:
- Limited Guest List: Maximum of 10 guests
- Weekday Timing: Between 9am and 5pm, Monday to Friday
- Standard Vows: Use prescribed ceremonial script
- Fixed Costs: $150 licence fee + $90 celebrant fee
Steps for a Registry Ceremony
1. Select Location
- Choose a venue within 10 kilometres of your celebrant
- Consider home, garden, or public park locations
- Obtain necessary permissions
2. Apply for Marriage Licence
- Submit online application
- Pay $150 licence fee
3. Arrange Witnesses
- Bring two witnesses to the ceremony
4. Ceremony Execution
- Follow standard ceremony script
- Pay $90 celebrant fee in advance
- Receive "copy of particulars of marriage"
Important Legal Considerations
- Virtual Weddings: Not legally recognised
- Physical Presence: Couple, celebrant, and witnesses must be in the same location
- Documentation: "Copy of particulars of marriage" is not a marriage certificate
Final Thoughts
Whether you choose a personalised or registry ceremony, New Zealand offers flexible options to celebrate your love. Consider your preferences, budget, and personal style when selecting your perfect wedding approach.
Remember to plan ahead, communicate with your celebrant, and most importantly, enjoy the journey of creating your unique wedding experience.
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