So, you’re getting married in New Zealand? Congratulations! 🎉 Whether you’re dreaming of an intimate beach elopement, a grand vineyard wedding, or a cozy backyard celebration, there’s one thing every couple should know: marriage comes with legal rights and responsibilities.
But don’t worry—I’m here to guide you through the legal side of marriage in NZ in a way that won’t put you to sleep. From marriage licenses to property rights, prenups, and name changes, let’s break it all down (with a little humor along the way).
Step 1: Are You Legally Allowed to Get Married?
Before you start writing your vows and picking out flowers, let’s make sure you can actually say “I do” in New Zealand.
✅ You must be at least 18 years old to marry without restrictions. If you’re 16 or 17, you’ll need permission from a Family Court judge.
✅ You cannot be already married or in a civil union with someone else. (Yes, that includes if you “forgot” to get a divorce.)
✅ You cannot marry a close relative. (Seems obvious, but hey, the law had to make it clear.)
✅ Same-sex marriage has been legal in NZ since 2013! Love is love. ❤️
📌 Need official info? Check out New Zealand’s official government page on marriage laws.
Step 2: Getting a Marriage License in New Zealand
New Zealand is pretty chill about weddings, but you do need a marriage license before the big day. Here’s how to get one:
🔹 Apply at least three working days before your wedding. (But let’s be real—do it earlier to avoid stress!)
🔹 The license costs $150 and is valid for three months.
🔹 Both partners don’t need to be present when applying, so if your fiancé(e) is too busy perfecting their dance moves, you can handle the paperwork solo.
Once you have the license, your celebrant will handle the rest, making your marriage official! 💍
📌 Apply for a marriage license here: NZ Government Marriage License Application
Step 3: Choosing a Celebrant & Saying “I Do”
In New Zealand, you can customize your ceremony as much as you like—just make sure to include a legal declaration, such as:
🗣️ “I, [Name], take you, [Partner’s Name], to be my legal [wife/husband/partner].”
Who Can Officiate Your Wedding?
🔹 A registered marriage celebrant (find one here).
🔹 A religious or civil officiant.
🔹 A friend or family member (but they must apply for a one-time celebrant license!).
💡 Want a low-key ceremony? A registry office wedding costs just $240 and includes a government-appointed celebrant.
Step 4: Your Legal Rights as a Married Couple
Alright, now you’re legally hitched—what does that mean in terms of your rights?
1. Property Rights & Assets
In New Zealand, marriage, civil unions, and even long-term de facto relationships fall under the Property (Relationships) Act 1976.
Here’s the deal:
✔️ Most assets acquired during the marriage (house, cars, savings) are split 50/50 if you separate.
✔️ If you owned something before the marriage, it might remain yours—unless it becomes “relationship property.”
✔️ If you separate after less than three years of marriage, things may be different.
📌 Read more: New Zealand Law Society – Relationship Property Rules
💡 Thinking of a prenup? You can sign a contracting-out agreement to decide how property is divided in case of separation. (Not romantic, but practical!)
2. Name Changes: To Hyphenate or Not to Hyphenate?
After getting married, you don’t have to change your last name, but if you want to:
🔹 You can take your spouse’s surname immediately—no paperwork needed.
🔹 To update your passport, driver’s license, or bank details, you’ll need a copy of your marriage certificate ($33 fee).
🔹 Hyphenating or merging names? You’ll need to formally change your name via Births, Deaths, and Marriages NZ.
Step 5: If the Fairy Tale Ends (Divorce & Separation Laws)
We hope you live happily ever after, but let’s keep it real—sometimes things don’t work out.
💔 To legally divorce in NZ, you must be separated for two years before applying for a dissolution of marriage.
✔️ It’s a no-fault system, meaning you don’t have to prove anything—just confirm the marriage is over.
✔️ If you have kids, the court may ask about parenting arrangements.
✔️ New 2024 update: If domestic violence is involved, some couples can bypass the two-year waiting period.
📌 Read more: NZ Family Court – How to Get a Divorce
Bonus: Quick Checklist for Getting Married in NZ
✅ Apply for a marriage license at least 3 working days before the wedding.
✅ Book a registered celebrant (or have a friend apply for a one-time celebrant license).
✅ Plan your ceremony and legal vows (make sure to include the required declaration!).
✅ Decide whether to change your last name (or keep things as they are).
✅ Understand property rights and whether a prenup (contracting-out agreement) makes sense for you.
✅ If things go south, know your divorce and property settlement rights.
Let’s Capture Your Love Story 📸
Your wedding day is more than just paperwork—it’s the start of a new chapter, full of love, laughter, and memories you’ll cherish forever. That’s where I come in.
As a destination wedding photographer, I specialize in capturing the raw, unscripted moments that make your day unique. Whether it’s a stolen kiss at sunset, a joyful tear, or that epic dance floor moment—we’ll make sure it’s beautifully documented.
📷 See my wedding photography portfolio: Your Happy Moments Blog
💍 Explore my photography packages: Photography Investment
📩 Let’s chat about your wedding plans: Contact Me
Here’s to love, adventure, and a lifetime of happy moments. Cheers! 🥂
