How to get legally married in New Zealand

You may have just gotten engaged. Congrats! That’s super exciting, and next on your agenda for wedding prep is understanding how you do this legally. We totally get that and will run through how to get legally married by wedding celebrants in New Zealand, so you have all the juicy details to get you started.

What Are the Legal Requirements for Marriage in New Zealand?

New Zealand is a beautiful country that is a popular destination for weddings, both for locals and international couples. Getting married in New Zealand is a straightforward process, but it is essential to understand the legal requirements to ensure that your wedding is legally recognised.

To get married in New Zealand, both parties must be over 18 years old, and the marriage must be between two people who are not closely related. You will also need to fill out a Notice of Intended Marriage form, which is available from the Registrar of Marriages. This form must be completed at least three days before the wedding date, but it is recommended to do it as soon as possible to avoid any complications.

How Many Witnesses Do You Need to Get Married in New Zealand?

You will need two witnesses to be present at your wedding ceremony in New Zealand. They must be over 16 years old and be able to understand the ceremony. If you are having a small wedding, you can ask friends or family members to be your witnesses. If you are having a larger wedding, you can hire professional witnesses.

Either way, having witnesses there can make it even more special!

What Do You Need to Get Married?

To get married in New Zealand, you will need to provide the following documents:

• Your passport or birth certificate.
• Evidence of any name changes.
• A completed Notice of Intended Marriage form.
• If you have been married before, you must provide evidence of the termination of your previous marriage.
• If you are an international couple, you must apply for a marriage visitor visa before entering New Zealand.

How to Find Wedding Celebrants

A wedding celebrant is a person who will perform your wedding ceremony in New Zealand. There are many celebrants to choose from, so it is important to find someone who suits your style and preferences.

To find a wedding celebrant in New Zealand, you can search online for celebrant listings or ask for recommendations from friends or family members who have been married in New Zealand. You can also attend bridal expos and wedding fairs, where you can meet with celebrants in person and ask any questions you may have.

When choosing a celebrant, it is important to consider their experience, style, and personality. You will want to find someone who can create a meaningful and personalised ceremony that reflects your love and values.

If you are planning a French wedding in New Zealand, you may want to consider finding a celebrant who speaks French or who has experience with French weddings. Many celebrants in New Zealand are multilingual and can provide ceremonies in different languages.

In addition to finding a celebrant, you will also need to find a suitable venue for your wedding. New Zealand has many stunning wedding locations, from beaches and gardens to vineyards and historic buildings. You can search for venue listings online or ask your celebrant for recommendations.

In conclusion, legally marrying in New Zealand is simple and enjoyable. By understanding the legal requirements and finding the right celebrant and venue, you can have a wedding that is unique and special to you. So, start planning your dream wedding in New Zealand, and get ready to say “I do” in one of the most beautiful countries in the world!

Photo credit: Alisa Roberts