Legal Matters

Here, all the nuts and bolts to know, before saying “I do”.

DECIDE HOW

There are two ways you can get married. The first option is the most popular: you get married with a registered celebrant. With this option, you can personalise your vows, align your wedding with your religion and choose when and where you get married – anywhere from a beach, to a restaurant, to a temple. Alternatively, you can say “I do” at the local registry office. With this option, your big day will be held during standard office hours in a non- customisable ceremony.

ARRANGE A MARRIAGE LICENCE

This has to be done between three months and three working days before you want to exchange vows. It costs $150, and you have to know who your celebrant will be, and where you’ll be getting married. If you’re getting married outside (on a beach, for example), it could be wise to list a backup venue in case factors such as the weather make this impossible. You can apply for your marriage licence online at govt.nz, but one of you must sign the application in front of your local Registrar of Marriages (probably found at your local district court).

RECEIVE THE PAPERWORK

A marriage licence takes three days to be issued. You can pick up or be sent the licence (depending on your preference) plus two copies of the Copy of Particulars (documents you have to sign during the ceremony). Hand over all three of these documents to your celebrant before you walk down the aisle.

GET MARRIED

Wherever you get married, there have to be at least two witnesses in attendance who can sign the documents and attest to your newlywed status. Additionally, your vows have to include “I [name] take you [partner’s name], to be my legal[wife/ husband/partner]” (or something similar) at some point in the ceremony.

APPLY FOR YOUR MARRIAGE CERTIFICATE ( IF YOU WANT)

You can order a marriage certificate by filling out the form on the back of the Copy of Particulars. It’ll be posted to you after the marriage has been registered, and costs $ 33.

CHANGING YOUR NAME

When you get married you can keep your name the same, or alternatively, there are numerous options for changing it: you can change your surname to your partner’s, your partner can change their surname to yours, or you can both change your names to hyphenated or combined versions of both names. In terms of logistics, there isn’t too much you have to do. You’ll simply be sent a form to update your details on the electoral role, and will also have to apply for a new driver’s licence and updated passport.

GETTING MARRIED OVERSEAS

Most overseas marriages are valid in New Zealand, and your marriage will be registered in the country it takes place – there’s nothing you need to do here. You’ll need to check the country’s guidelines carefully though – some require you to reside in the country for a month prior to exchanging vows. This may mean it’s easier to say “I do” at home, and simply have a blessing overseas, instead of an official ceremony. W

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For more information on Cordis weddings and pricing, visit cordishotels.com/auckland or email cdakl.events@cordishotels.com.