Registry Ceremony
A Registry Ceremony in New Zealand is a straightforward, legally binding marriage option designed for couples seeking a simple and efficient way to tie the knot. Previously conducted in registry offices, these ceremonies are now performed by registered independent marriage celebrants approved by Births, Deaths and Marriages.
This no-frills approach to marriage is ideal for couples who prefer a quick, intimate, and budget-friendly ceremony that focuses solely on the legal aspects of getting married. For those desiring a more personalized experience, celebrants offer custom ceremony options outside the registry format.
Key things to note:
To have a Registry Ceremony, legally you must follow the below guidelines:
- Timing:
Held on weekdays (Monday to Friday) between 9am and 5pm, excluding public holidays and the Christmas/New Year period. - Standardisation:
The ceremony and vows are standardised to meet legal requirements. - Duration:
The entire process takes less than 20 minutes, including vows and paperwork. - Location:
Must be within 5km of my home in Chartwell, but not in wedding venues or function centers. - Guests:
Limited to a maximum of 10 guests, including two required witnesses. - Simplicity:
Must not include additional elements like bridesmaids, groomsmen, or professional photographers. - Cost:
There’s a set $90 fee paid directly to the celebrant in advance and about $190 for Internal Affairs fees to be paid via online application.* - Booking:
Can be booked up to three months in advance, with at least two weeks’ notice recommended. The ceremony paperwork expires 3 months after being issued by Internal Affairs.
These are not allowed:
- No photographers, videographers, music, or installations which are the typical features of a personalised ceremony.
- No weekend or public holiday booking (these are personalised ceremonies).
- Traveling more than 10-15 minutes for the celebrant.
- No meeting of the celebrant prior to the ceremony, all questions need to be asked in the booking form or via email.
The Celebrants Aotearoa (CANZ) has provided guidelines for couples to understand the criteria for a registry ceremony.
DIA paperwork and courier services
Department of Internal Affairs (DIA) is also known as Births, Deaths & Marriages.
To be legally married you must apply online for your personalised wedding legal paperwork from Internal Affairs:
The Internal Affairs fees to be paid via online application:
$ 150 *DIA Govt ceremony paperwork (emailed to your celebrant)
$ 33 *DIA Govt Wedding Certificate (Standard post included)
$ 5 *DIA Govt Courier (if needed for delivery of your Certificate)
This ceremony paperwork expires 3 months after issued by Internal Affairs
When you are ready, fill in the booking form with your ceremony date and let me know you wish for a Registry Ceremony. I will confirm the details and see you on the day.