What is a Marriage Licence and How to Get One in New Zealand? A Complete Guide for Couples

Planning to elope or get married in New Zealand? One of the first and most important legal steps you need to take is obtaining a marriage license. New Zealand is renowned for its stunning landscapes, friendly people, and simple, hassle-free marriage process, making it a popular destination for couples worldwide. Whether you’re eloping on a mountain top in Queenstown or planning an intimate ceremony by the beach, you’ll need a marriage license to make it official.

This guide will take you through everything you need to know about obtaining a marriage license in New Zealand: what it is, how to apply, the costs involved, legal requirements, and tips for ensuring everything goes smoothly on your big day.

What is a Marriage Licence in New Zealand?

A marriage license is a legal document that grants you the right to get married in New Zealand. It is required by law for all weddings, whether you are a local or an overseas visitor. A marriage license ensures that the marriage complies with New Zealand’s legal framework, allowing your union to be recognized both in New Zealand and, in most cases, in your home country.

Unlike some countries, New Zealand’s marriage license process is straightforward and accessible to both residents and non-residents. Whether you’re planning a large wedding or an intimate elopement, obtaining a marriage license is the first step in making your marriage legally binding.

Key Features of a New Zealand Marriage Licence

Four key features and requirements:

• Validity Period: A New Zealand marriage license is valid for three months from the date of issue. This gives you flexibility in your wedding date, but it’s important to ensure you don’t let the license expire before your ceremony.
• Application Timeline: You must apply for a marriage license at least three working days before your wedding. However, it’s recommended to apply earlier, especially if you are traveling from overseas and want to avoid last-minute stress. Delay can also occur so it is beneficial to apply early, but not too early as mentioned above.
• Witnesses: To make the marriage legally binding, two witnesses (aged 18 or older) must sign the marriage license during the ceremony. If you’re eloping with just the two of you, don’t worry—your celebrant, photographer, or even a hotel staff member can serve as a witness. If you say I do on mountain top, the pilot is often requested to act as a witness also.
• Celebrant: The marriage must be officiated by an authorized celebrant for it to be legally recognized. New Zealand has a wide range of celebrants, many of whom specialize in elopements and weddings for overseas couples.

Step-by-Step Guide to Obtaining a Marriage Licence in New Zealand

Now that you know what a marriage license is and why it’s necessary, let’s dive into the step-by-step process of obtaining one.

Step 1: Decide on Your Wedding Date and Location

Before you apply for a marriage license, you’ll need to decide on the date and location of your wedding. When you submit your marriage license application, you’ll need to provide the specific details of when and where your ceremony will take place. Whether you’re getting married on the shores of Lake Wakatipu in Queenstown or in a cozy lodge, having these details ready will streamline the process.

• Location: You don’t need an exact address for outdoor or remote locations. For example, if you’re planning to elope on a mountaintop, simply providing the general area (like “The Remarkables, Queenstown”) will suffice.
• Date: Your wedding date must fall within three months of receiving the marriage license.

Step 2: Complete the ‘Notice of Intended Marriage’ Form (BDM 60)

The next step is to complete the Notice of Intended Marriage form (BDM 60), which you can download from the New Zealand Department of Internal Affairs website. This form is straightforward and requires basic information about you and your partner.

Information Needed for the Form:

• Full names of both parties (as they appear on your passports).
• Your birthdates and places of birth.
• Nationalities and current addresses.
• Details of any previous marriages, including proof of dissolution (e.g., divorce or death certificate of a former spouse).
• Intended date and location of the wedding.
• Name of your chosen celebrant (you’ll need to confirm that the celebrant is authorized).

Once completed, the form can be submitted either in person at a New Zealand Registrar of Marriages or by mail if you’re applying from overseas.

Step 3: Pay the Marriage Licence Application Fee

When submitting your Notice of Intended Marriage form, you’ll also need to pay the marriage license fee. The cost is relatively affordable and can be paid in-person or online, depending on how you apply.

Marriage Licence Costs:

• For celebrant-led ceremonies: NZD $150.
• For registry office ceremonies: NZD $240 (this includes the cost of the ceremony).

Payments can usually be made via credit card or bank transfer, and the fees are non-refundable. It’s important to check the specific requirements of the local office handling your application if paying in person.

Step 4: Processing Time and Receiving Your Marriage Licence

Once you’ve submitted your application and paid the fee, your marriage license will be processed. The processing time is typically three working days (excluding weekends and public holidays). However, it’s a good idea to apply earlier than the minimum three days, especially if you are arriving in New Zealand just before your wedding.

If applying from overseas, you can choose to collect the license in person once you arrive in New Zealand, or it can be sent to your registered celebrant in advance.

Step 5: Ensure You Have Two Witnesses

As part of the legal requirements for getting married in New Zealand, you will need two witnesses to sign your marriage license during the ceremony. Witnesses must be over the age of 18 and present at the ceremony. If you are eloping alone, don’t worry—your celebrant, photographer, or even hotel staff can act as witnesses.

• Note: The witnesses will need to provide their full names and signatures on the day of the wedding, so ensure this is arranged in advance if you’re relying on local witnesses.

Step 6: Hire a Celebrant

New Zealand law requires that an authorized celebrant officiate your wedding for it to be legally recognized. Celebrants in New Zealand offer a wide range of services, from traditional ceremonies to more personalized elopements. You can find a list of authorized celebrants on the New Zealand Department of Internal Affairs website, ensuring your chosen celebrant is legally allowed to officiate your marriage.

Celebrants are familiar with the legal requirements for completing the marriage documentation, and they will guide you through the process on the day.

Important Details and Requirements to Consider

A. Marrying in Remote or Outdoor Locations

New Zealand offers a wide array of stunning wedding locations, including beaches, forests, lakes, and mountains. If you’re planning to marry in a remote or outdoor location, there are a few extra considerations to keep in mind:

• Weather: New Zealand’s weather can be unpredictable, particularly in regions like Queenstown, which is surrounded by mountains. Always have a backup plan for bad weather, such as an indoor alternative or a flexible timeline.
• Transport for Your Celebrant and Photographer: If you’re marrying on a mountaintop or a remote beach, ensure that your celebrant and photographer can access the location. In some cases, this may involve arranging helicopter transport (for mountaintop elopements) or boat transfers (for secluded beaches).

B. Documents Needed for the Marriage Licence Application

To ensure your marriage license is processed without delays, it’s important to have all the necessary documents ready. Here’s what you’ll need:

1. Valid Passports: Both parties must provide their passports as proof of identity.
2. Proof of Dissolution for Previous Marriages: If either party has been previously married, you’ll need to provide proof of divorce or a death certificate if a former spouse has passed away.
3. Intended Marriage Location: You must specify where the marriage will take place (city, town, or general area).
4. Celebrant’s Name: Include the full name of the authorized celebrant who will officiate your wedding.

C. What Happens After the Wedding?

Once your wedding ceremony is complete, your celebrant will submit the signed marriage license to the New Zealand Department of Internal Affairs to register your marriage. Afterward, you can apply for an official marriage certificate, which serves as proof of your legal marriage.

How to Apply for a Marriage Certificate:

You can apply for a marriage certificate online or in person. The certificate costs NZD $33, and processing typically takes about 10 working days. If you’re returning to your home country and need your marriage certificate sooner, you can request urgent processing for an additional fee.

For international couples, you may also need to have the marriage certificate apostilled or legalized to ensure it is recognized in your home country. New Zealand’s Department of Internal Affairs offers an apostille service for this purpose.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Getting a Marriage Licence in New Zealand

1. How long does it take to get a marriage licence in New Zealand?

The marriage license takes about three working days to process, though you should apply as early as possible to avoid delays.

**2. How much does a marriage licence cost in New Zealand?

The cost of a marriage license in New Zealand is NZD $150 for celebrant-led ceremonies. If you are having a registry office wedding, the fee is NZD $240, which includes the ceremony.

3. Can international couples get married in New Zealand?

Yes, New Zealand welcomes couples from all over the world to get married. There are no residency requirements, and the marriage license process is the same for international and local couples. Just make sure you have all the necessary documents, including passports and proof of dissolution if you’ve been previously married.

4. Can we get married the same day we apply for a marriage licence?

No, there is a mandatory waiting period of at least three working days from the time you submit your application before your marriage license is issued. It’s a good idea to apply earlier to avoid any last-minute issues.

5. Do we need witnesses for our wedding in New Zealand?

Yes, New Zealand law requires two witnesses to be present at the ceremony. These witnesses must be at least 18 years old. If you’re eloping with just the two of you, your celebrant, photographer, or other locals can serve as witnesses.

6. How long is a New Zealand marriage licence valid for?

A marriage license in New Zealand is valid for three months from the date it is issued. This gives you some flexibility in planning your wedding, but be sure to have your ceremony within that three-month window, or you will need to reapply for a new license.

7. What if we’re getting married in a remote or outdoor location?

Many couples in New Zealand choose to marry in remote or outdoor locations, such as mountaintops or beaches. While the marriage license process is the same, you should plan for any logistical challenges, like transportation for your celebrant, witnesses, and photographer. Also, consider weather conditions and have a backup plan in case of bad weather.

8. How do we get an official marriage certificate after the wedding?

After your celebrant registers your marriage with the Department of Internal Affairs, you can apply for an official marriage certificate. The certificate costs NZD $33 and is usually processed within 10 working days. If you need it urgently, you can request expedited service for an additional fee.

9. Will our New Zealand marriage be recognized in our home country?

In most cases, marriages conducted in New Zealand are recognized internationally. However, you may need to have your marriage certificate apostilled or legalized to meet the legal requirements of your home country. You can apply for this service through New Zealand’s Department of Internal Affairs.

Tips for a Smooth Marriage Licence Process

A. Apply Early

While the minimum waiting period is three working days, it’s always a good idea to apply for your marriage license well in advance of your wedding. This is especially important if you’re planning a wedding in a remote location, during peak travel times, or over holiday periods when government offices may be closed.

B. Double-Check Your Documents

Before you submit your application, make sure all the information on your Notice of Intended Marriage form is accurate, and that you have the correct documentation. This includes valid passports and proof of any previous marriages being dissolved. Any errors or missing documents could delay the process.

C. Communicate with Your Celebrant

Ensure that your chosen celebrant is authorized and that they are available on your wedding day. You’ll need to include their name on your marriage license application, so confirm these details early in the planning process. If you’re getting married in a remote or outdoor location, make sure your celebrant can access the site easily.

D. Prepare for Your Witnesses

If you’re traveling alone or eloping, arrange for witnesses well in advance. Your celebrant or photographer will likely be happy to act as witnesses, but it’s a good idea to confirm this ahead of time. Alternatively, ask someone at your accommodation to assist.

Conclusion

Getting a marriage license in New Zealand is a straightforward and stress-free process, whether you’re a local couple or traveling from overseas. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you’ll be well on your way to obtaining the legal paperwork you need to make your wedding day official.

New Zealand’s marriage process is designed to be accessible and welcoming to all couples, which is why the country is such a popular destination for weddings and elopements. From the stunning landscapes of Queenstown to the beaches of the North Island, New Zealand offers endless options for your dream ceremony, and with a simple marriage license process, you can focus on enjoying your special day.

So, whether you’re planning to elope on a mountaintop, in a vineyard, or by a pristine lake, getting a marriage license in New Zealand will be one of the easiest steps in your journey toward becoming legally married. Happy planning!