FAQs

What’s the deal with getting a Marriage Licence?

You will need to apply for a marriage licence at some point in the three months before your marriage date. You can do this online via this website. You will need a RealMe login if you wish to do it online. The process isn't difficult, and there is a cost of $150 plus $30 for the marriage certificate which you will pay online when you do the application (not covered in my fee). I will remind you closer to the time to do this, but it might help if you pop a note in your diary too! You will be sent paperwork via email that you can forward to me and I print everything to bring with me on the wedding day.

After the marriage ceremony I will send the paperwork to the Register of Births, Deaths and Marriages - then they post your marriage certificate to you.

Who can be a witness to our marriage?

You will need two witnesses to the marriage, both of whom will sign your marriage documents during the ceremony. Your witnesses can be a friend, relative or someone else entirely! Your witnesses cannot be intoxicated and must be able to understand what’s happening.

If your witnesses are children, they have to be old enough to understand the ceremony, and be able to explain their understanding in court later if required (my suggestion is that you use witnesses over the age of 12). If you witness speaks a different language to you and your celebrant, you’ll need an interpreter. The interpreter has to sign a declaration before the ceremony to say they’ll interpret what you say accurately.

How far in advance should we book a celebrant?

You can book a celebrant anytime prior to applying for a marriage licence, but if you want some choice I suggest booking your celebrant as soon as you can, especially if your wedding date is in the summer on a weekend. Booking a celebrant once you have your venue locked in is a safe bet.

Do we have to write our own vows?

Only if you want to! Personal vows are optional, and there are many ways we can structure your vows. As your celebrant, I will help you navigate the details of the ceremony, from the very traditional to completely bespoke.

Do you offer registry ceremonies?

I am not able to perform registry ceremonies, but if you are interested in a smaller, registry-style ceremony then get in touch.

Registry office weddings at a Government building are no longer available in Aotearoa New Zealand, and if you are looking for a pure Registry Ceremony you will need to find a celebrant who offers this. I suggest you take a look at Celebrants Aotearoa and use their search engine. You may also find some useful information on the New Zealand Government website.

Do you offer celebrant services for funerals or memorials?

I am open to officiating at funerals, however I have limited experience in this area. Please contact me if you would like to discuss your requirements.