New registry wedding ceremony process comes into effect

1 July 2019

The process for registry ceremonies has changed, you’re no longer required to go down to the Courthouse or local council office for your ceremony.

If you live outside of Auckland, Wellington or Christchurch, you can now have your registry ceremony in a location of your choosing, to ensure your day is exactly what you want.

Our online validated network of celebrants lets you choose a celebrant to perform a registry ceremony in a location near you.

"Using our online marriage service means you spend less time on the phone, at the counter, or mailing paper forms" says Jeff Montgomery, Registrar-General Births, Deaths and Marriages.

"It's easy to plan your registry ceremony online, anywhere in New Zealand, thanks to our list of validated celebrants running from Kerikeri in the North to Invercargill in the South" Mr Montgomery says.

Whether you want to get married at home, or a special place, you can now decide on the location of your ceremony with your celebrant.

The registry ceremony rules still apply, and the set cost of $90 remains the same for the new registry-style weddings.

Registry ceremonies will still be held at four of the Department of Internal Affairs’ sites, located in Auckland, Wellington, Manukau and Christchurch. To plan your registry-style wedding, or for more information, visit: https://www.govt.nz/browse/family-and-whanau/getting-married/registry-ceremonies/

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Media Desk
Te Tari Taiwhenua Department of Internal Affairs
Mobile: +64 27 535 8639 email: media@dia.govt.nz