A Guide to Wedding Celebrants and Venues in Australia & New Zealand

A wedding day is one of the most significant moments in a couple’s life, and finding the right celebrant and venue can make all the difference. In this guide, we will explore everything you need to know about wedding celebrants and venues in Australia and New Zealand. From the legal requirements to finding your dream venue and celebrant – we’ve got you covered.

Can I Get Legally Married by Celebrants in Australia?

Yes, you can get legally married by a celebrant in Australia. In fact, a marriage celebrant is the most common way for couples to get married in Australia. A marriage celebrant is a professional authorised by the Attorney-General’s Department to conduct legal marriages in Australia.

To become a marriage celebrant in Australia, one must complete a Certificate IV in Celebrancy and apply to register with the Attorney-General’s Department. A registered marriage celebrant can perform marriages anywhere in Australia, including public places such as parks, beaches, and gardens. Now, isn’t that just so exciting?!

Couples must meet some legal requirements when it comes to getting married in Australia. These include being over 18 years old, not being closely related, and being free to marry (i.e., not already married or in a registered relationship). Couples must also give at least one month’s notice of their intention to marry and complete the necessary legal paperwork with their celebrant.

How to Legally Get Married in New Zealand

To legally get married in New Zealand, there are a few legal requirements that couples must meet. These include being over 18 years old, not being closely related, and being free to marry (i.e., not already married or in a civil union). Couples must also obtain a marriage license from the Registrar of Marriages at least three days before their wedding day.

The marriage license is valid for three months from the date of issue, and couples can apply for it online or in person at any Births, Deaths, and Marriages office in New Zealand. On their wedding day, couples must have two witnesses sign their marriage certificate, which their celebrant will provide. The marriage certificate is a legal document that couples must register their marriage with the relevant authorities in their home country.

The Top Wedding Venues in Australia

Australia offers many beautiful wedding venues that cater to different styles, budgets, and preferences. From beaches and vineyards to historic buildings and gardens, there is a venue to suit every couple’s vision of their dream wedding.

Some of the top wedding venues in Australia include:

• The Grounds of Alexandria, Sydney – a charming industrial-style venue with a beautiful garden, courtyard, and greenhouse for weddings.

• Stones of the Yarra Valley, Victoria – a stunning vineyard and winery that offers breathtaking views of the Yarra Valley and a rustic barn for wedding receptions.

• The Estate Trentham, Victoria – a luxurious country estate that offers beautiful gardens, a lake, and a grand ballroom for weddings.

• Sirromet Wines, Queensland – a picturesque winery that offers stunning views of the rolling hills and vineyards of Mount Cotton, as well as a beautiful chapel and reception venue.

• The Abbotsford Convent, Melbourne – a unique venue that offers a range of beautiful spaces, including a historic chapel, gardens, and courtyards, for weddings.

The Top Wedding Venues in New Zealand

New Zealand is renowned for its breathtaking natural landscapes, and many wedding venues take advantage of this by offering stunning views of mountains, lakes, and forests. Whether you’re looking for a rustic barn, a modern industrial space, or a luxury lodge, there is a wedding venue to suit every couple’s taste and budget.

• Mudbrick Vineyard and Restaurant, Waiheke Island – This stunning vineyard is located on the picturesque Waiheke Island, just a short ferry ride from Auckland. With panoramic views of the Hauraki Gulf, Mudbrick Vineyard is the perfect location for a romantic wedding.

• Queenstown Hill, Queenstown – If you’re looking for a dramatic backdrop for your wedding, Queenstown Hill is hard to beat. With views of Lake Wakatipu and the Remarkables mountain range, this location offers stunning photo opportunities.

• The Winehouse, Gibbston Valley – This boutique winery is located in the heart of the Gibbston Valley wine region, just a short drive from Queenstown. With a rustic barn, landscaped gardens, and stunning mountain views, The Winehouse is the perfect location for a relaxed and intimate wedding.

• Old Forest School, Bay of Plenty – This unique venue is located in an old schoolhouse in the Bay of Plenty region. With vintage decor, a large outdoor space, and a cozy indoor area, Old Forest School offers a quirky and memorable wedding experience.

• The Boatshed, Waiheke Island – This stylish waterfront venue is located on the beautiful Oneroa Beach in Waiheke Island. With a modern interior, stunning ocean views, and an outdoor deck, The Boatshed is the perfect location for a chic and elegant wedding.

What is a Marriage Celebrant in Australia?

A marriage celebrant is a person who is authorised by the Australian Government to perform legal marriage ceremonies in Australia. Marriage celebrants must meet certain criteria and be registered with the Australian Government’s Attorney-General’s Department.

Marriage celebrants can provide a range of services, from assisting with the legal paperwork and conducting the ceremony to providing guidance and support throughout the wedding planning process. They can also offer a variety of ceremony styles and traditions to suit different couples’ preferences.

How to get legally married in New Zealand?

Are you planning to tie the knot in New Zealand? If so, you may be wondering if you can have a celebrant marry you, especially if you’re a tourist. The answer is yes; New Zealand celebrants can marry locals and tourists alike.

In New Zealand, marriage celebrants are authorised by the Department of Internal Affairs. They can perform legal marriages anywhere in New Zealand, including at non-traditional locations like beaches, parks, or even on a mountaintop.

To get married in New Zealand, you’ll need to obtain a marriage license from a registry office or an authorised marriage celebrant. You can do this up to three months before your wedding date, and you’ll need to bring along the necessary identification and paperwork.

Once you have your marriage license, you can choose a celebrant to perform your wedding ceremony. There are plenty of celebrants to choose from in New Zealand, so finding one that suits your style and personality shouldn’t be a problem.

To find a celebrant in New Zealand, you can start by searching online. There are many websites and directories that list wedding celebrants, including The Celebrant Directory, which is a great resource for finding a celebrant near you. You can also ask for recommendations from friends, family, or your wedding planner.

When choosing a celebrant, finding someone who shares your vision for your wedding day is important. You want someone who is willing to work with you to create a personalised ceremony that reflects your values and beliefs.

In addition to creating a personalised ceremony, your celebrant will also help you navigate the legal requirements for getting married in New Zealand. They’ll ensure that your marriage is legally recognised, and they’ll handle all the necessary paperwork.

If you’re a tourist getting married in New Zealand, there are a few additional things to keep in mind. Firstly, you’ll need to provide proof of your identity and residency status. This can include a passport, visa, or other documentation.

You’ll also need to provide proof of your eligibility to marry. This can include a certificate of no impediment or a similar document from your home country.

Finally, it’s important to note that marriages performed by a New Zealand celebrant are legally recognised in most other countries. However, it’s always a good idea to check with your home country’s embassy or consulate to ensure your marriage will be recognised when you return home.

So, if you’re getting married in New Zealand as a tourist, you can definitely have a celebrant marry you.

In conclusion, with so many talented celebrants to choose from, you’re sure to find someone who can help you create the perfect ceremony for your special day. And with the help of The Celebrant Directory, finding the right celebrant for you is easier than ever before. So go ahead and start planning your dream wedding in New Zealand or Australia today!

Photography credit: Ariele Chapman Photography