Thrilled to have you here! Are you an American getting married in New Zealand? See below on how to get married in New Zealand.
Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to get married in New Zealand:
- Apply for a marriage license online or using a paper form at least three working days before your wedding. It costs $150 NZD and is valid for three months.
- Decide between a personalized ceremony with a celebrant or a registry ceremony, which includes an additional $90 fee.
- Hire a wedding photographer
- Include a back-up venue on your license application and bring two witnesses for your ceremony.
- Say your vows, sign the registration forms, and let your celebrant file the paperwork to finalize your marriage.
- Congrats! You're married!
How to Apply Online as a US Citizen
Applying online as a US Citizen is very easy. Just visit the New Zealand Marriage Services website, fill out the form, upload any required documents, and pay $150 NZD with an international credit card. Your license will be emailed to you or your celebrant. If using the paper form, have the statutory declaration signed by a notary public or similar and mail it to the Department of Internal Affairs in Wellington.
Using a Celebrant
You’ll need a celebrant to officiate your ceremony and ensure it’s legally binding. Celebrants are listed on the New Zealand Registry of Celebrants, and their fees vary.
To find a registered marriage celebrant in New Zealand, you can use the official “Celebrants Online” directory provided by the Department of Internal Affairs. This resource allows you to search for independent marriage and civil union celebrants by name or location. You can access the directory here:
Additionally, the “My Celebrant Guide” website offers a comprehensive directory of celebrants across New Zealand, categorized by occasion and location. This can be a helpful tool to find a celebrant that fits your specific needs:
For a more localized search, “My Wedding Guide” provides listings of marriage celebrants in specific areas, such as Hamilton:
These resources should assist you in finding a suitable celebrant for your wedding in New Zealand.
FAQ for American Citizens Getting Married in New Zealand
1. Do I need to be a New Zealand citizen to get married there?
No, visitors can legally get married in New Zealand regardless of citizenship or residency.
2. How do I apply for a marriage license?
You can apply online at marriages.services.govt.nz or complete the paper BDM58 form. The license costs $150 NZD and must be submitted at least three working days before your wedding.
3. Do I need to be in New Zealand to apply for the marriage license?
No, you can apply online from the U.S. or by mailing the paper form. However, you’ll need to visit a Registry Office upon arrival to sign a statutory declaration if using the paper process.
4. How long is the marriage license valid?
A New Zealand marriage license is valid for three months from the date of issue.
5. What documents do I need?
You’ll need personal information about both partners, proof of dissolution of any previous marriages (if applicable), and a valid passport for identification.
6. Can same-sex couples get married in New Zealand?
Yes, same-sex marriage has been legal in New Zealand since 2013.
7. Do I need witnesses?
Yes, you need at least two witnesses at your ceremony. They can be anyone who understands the significance of their role, including children.
8. Who officiates the wedding?
You’ll need a registered celebrant or a registry office celebrant. Celebrants can be found on the Celebrants Online Directory.
9. Can I bring my own officiant from the U.S.?
No, the officiant must be a New Zealand-registered celebrant to ensure the marriage is legal.
10. Can we bring an American photographer?
Absolutely! Pink Penguin Studios specializes in destination weddings and is ready to capture your epic New Zealand wedding.
11. What’s the legal marriage process in New Zealand?
During the ceremony, both partners must exchange vows, sign the marriage registration forms, and have the forms signed by the witnesses and celebrant.
12. Will my marriage in New Zealand be valid in the U.S.?
Yes, your New Zealand marriage is legally recognized in the U.S. However, you may need to register your marriage with your local county or state.
Looking to hire a US photographer for your New Zealand wedding?
Pink Penguin Studios has you covered! Based in the U.S. but experienced in destination weddings, we’ll travel to New Zealand to capture your epic day with style and authenticity. Let’s create something so good together!
