New Zealand is the land of breathtaking landscapes, world-class wine, and, let’s be honest, an impressive number of sheep. But beyond the postcard-perfect scenery, it’s also one of the most inclusive and welcoming countries in the world for LGBTQ+ couples looking to tie the knot. Whether you dream of exchanging vows by a serene lake in Queenstown, on a black sand beach near Auckland, or even atop a glacier (yes, that’s a thing!), New Zealand has wedding planners who specialize in making your vision come to life.
But let’s be real—wedding planning can be overwhelming. That’s why we’ve created this ultimate guide to LGBTQ+ weddings in New Zealand. From top wedding planners to the most stunning venues and legal tips, we’ve got you covered.
Why New Zealand is the Perfect LGBTQ+ Wedding Destination
First off, let’s talk about why Aotearoa is such a dream spot for same-sex weddings.
✅ Legal & Progressive – New Zealand legalized same-sex marriage in 2013, making it one of the first countries in the world to do so. Love is love, and here, it’s celebrated without restrictions.
✅ Stunning Scenery – Picture saying “I do” with a backdrop of snow-capped mountains, lush vineyards, or turquoise lakes. Your wedding photos will look like they belong in a high-end travel magazine.
✅ LGBTQ+ Friendly Culture – Kiwis are known for being open-minded and welcoming, and the wedding industry is no exception. From wedding planners to celebrants and venues, you’ll find plenty of businesses that embrace diversity.
Top LGBTQ+ Wedding Planners in New Zealand
Planning a wedding is like organizing a music festival, but instead of bands, you have florists, caterers, and your slightly dramatic cousin who insists on giving a speech. That’s where professional wedding planners come in. Here are some of the best LGBTQ+ wedding specialists in New Zealand:
1. Gay Weddings NZ
🏳️🌈 Specializing in LGBTQ+ weddings, this team is known for personalized, intimate ceremonies. They offer everything from small elopements to grand celebrations.
🔗 Website
2. Eloping Weddings
✨ Want to elope in style? This company offers same-sex elopement packages at jaw-dropping locations like waterfalls, mountains, and beaches.
🔗 Website
3. Boutique Weddings NZ
📍 Based in Queenstown and Wanaka, they’ve been planning LGBTQ+ weddings for years, offering customized experiences tailored to your love story.
🔗 Website
Best Wedding Venues for Same-Sex Couples in New Zealand
Choosing the right venue is like finding the perfect pair of wedding shoes—it needs to be stunning, comfortable, and totally your vibe. Here are some LGBTQ+ friendly venues that will make your wedding unforgettable:
🌊 The Oyster Inn (Auckland)
A boutique coastal venue with stunning ocean views and a relaxed, stylish atmosphere. Ideal for an intimate wedding with a touch of class.
🔗 More Info
🏡 Autumn Farm (Takaka)
A charming rural retreat that has been hosting LGBTQ+ weddings for over a decade. The award-winning gardens are a major highlight.
🔗 More Info
🏔️ Skyline Queenstown
If you want a mountain-top wedding with jaw-dropping views, this is it. Take a gondola ride up and say your vows with the Remarkables mountain range behind you.
🔗 More Info
Legal Aspects of LGBTQ+ Weddings in New Zealand
Before you get lost in the Pinterest rabbit hole of wedding decor ideas, let’s cover the legal side of getting married in New Zealand:
✅ Marriage License – You’ll need to apply for a New Zealand marriage license, which costs about NZD $150. Apply online at the New Zealand Department of Internal Affairs.
✅ Registered Celebrant – You must be married by a registered celebrant. New Zealand has plenty of LGBTQ+-friendly celebrants, like Jade Whaley and Jonathan Kirkpatrick.
✅ International Couples Welcome – You don’t need to be a New Zealand citizen to get married here, making it a great destination wedding spot.
🔗 Official Info
Tips for Planning a Stress-Free LGBTQ+ Wedding in New Zealand
💡 Plan Ahead – Some venues book out 1–2 years in advance, especially in popular locations like Queenstown and Wanaka.
💡 Consider an Off-Peak Wedding – Getting married in spring or autumn can save you money and give you even better lighting for photos.
💡 Choose LGBTQ+ Friendly Vendors – From photographers to florists, work with people who genuinely celebrate your love story.
FAQ: Your Top Questions Answered
❓ Can LGBTQ+ couples legally marry in New Zealand?
✅ Yes! Same-sex marriage has been legal since 2013.
❓ Where’s the best place for a gay wedding in New Zealand?
✅ Queenstown, Wanaka, Auckland, and Lake Tekapo are among the top choices.
❓ Can we elope in New Zealand?
✅ Absolutely! Many companies offer LGBTQ+ elopement packages in stunning locations.
Capturing Your Love Story with Stunning Photography
Your wedding day is a once-in-a-lifetime moment, and you deserve photos that capture the magic of your love. That’s where I come in—Serg, the creative force behind “Your Happy Moments”. I specialize in destination weddings and LGBTQ+ love stories, blending candid emotion with breathtaking backdrops.
📸 Explore my portfolio: yourhappymoments.net/blog/
💍 Photography packages: yourhappymoments.net/investment/
📩 Let’s chat about your dream wedding: yourhappymoments.net/contact/
Final Thoughts
New Zealand isn’t just a place; it’s an experience. Whether you’re dreaming of a simple elopement or a grand celebration, this country has everything you need to create a wedding that reflects your unique love story. And with the right wedding planner, venue, and photographer (hi, that’s me! 😉), your big day will be nothing short of magical.
Ready to start planning? Let’s make wedding magic happen! 🚀
