1. Check you’re good to go!
• You’re both 18+ (or 16–17 with parental consent).
• Not already married or in a civil union.
• Not closely related by birth, marriage, or adoption.
2. Apply for your Marriage Licence
You will need to know the name of your booked Celebrant to include in the paperwork.
• Pay the fee (around $150 NZD).
• Wait at least 3 days — your licence is valid for 3 months.
3. Choose your Celebrant
• Pick an approved registered celebrant.
4. Make sure you have two witnesses
• Anyone can witness — they just need to understand what’s happening and be over 18
• Friends, family, or even helpful strangers!
5. Say “I do” and sign the papers!
• You, your partner, your celebrant, and both witnesses sign the licence during your ceremony.
6. Get your official Marriage Certificate
Following the ceremony, your celebrant will send the signed paperwork to Births, Deaths, and Marriages to officially register your union.
You can request an official marriage certificate when you apply for your licence.
