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Civil Unions

Civil Unions

 


A civil union is a legally recognised status that provides the criteria, requirements and processes for same sex or opposite sex couples to have their relationship officially recognised in New Zealand.

 

 

 

Who can have a civil union?

 

Any persons who are at least 16 years of age may have a civil union. If either party is 16 or 17 years of age the consent of a parent, guardian or Family Court judge must be obtained.

You may not enter a civil union with someone who has a close familial relationship to you e.g. uncle, cousin, brother, sister.
If you have previously been married or in a registered civil union you must supply evidence of the legal dissolution of that relationship.

If you live in another country.  You will need to complete specific forms relating to couples who normally live outside New Zealand. Further details of the requirements can be found on the Births, Deaths and Marriages link at the end of this section.
If you move from New Zealand , your Civil union is still legal.
However, you should be aware that the country you are moving to may not recognise your civil union.

 

To arrange to have a civil union?

 

You will need to:

 

  • Contact a civil union celebrant or Registrar of Civil Unions to arrange a time and place for the ceremony.
  • Complete the Notice of Intended Civil Union, take this to an office of a Registrar of Civil Unions and sign a statutory declaration.
  • Pay the fee of NZ$120

 

I  AM  A  CIVIL  UN ION  CELEBRANT!

 

 

 

Does a civil union have to follow a particular format?

 

The Civil Union Act 2004 requires that:

 

  • The civil union be performed at the place stated on the licence
  • The civil union be performed in the presence of a civil union celebrant or Registrar of Civil Unions
  • The civil union be performed in the presence of two witnesses
  • Each party must identify themselves and acknowledge that they are joining in a civil union of their free will
  • Each party, the two witnesses and the civil union celebrant or Registrar of Civil Unions must sign the registration forms


Other than these legal requirements there is no specific format or wording that must be used.
Are there any rules about where and when I can have a civil union?

You can have your civil union at any time or place that you arrange with your celebrant. You can nominate two places on the licence so it is a good idea to have a wet weather alternative if you plan on an outdoor ceremony.
Where can I get more information about civil unions?

Information and forms can be found on the Births, Deaths and Marriages site within the Department of Internal Affairs website.
Click on the link below for further information:
http://www.bdm.govt.nz