The legal side of marriage
While we get swept up with the romance of love and marriage we can't forget the legal implications of marriage.
Basic legal requirements
- A current marriage license which you must apply for (go to the website www.dia.govt.nz and click on "Births, Deaths and Marriages" for more info).
- To have the correct location of the marriage ceremony written on the licence.
- To have two witnesses be present at the marriage ceremony.
- Celebrant, bride, groom and the witnesses must all sign the marriage licence.
- In the ceremony the bride and groom must say: "I Sally Jones take you Henry Smith to be my legal husband" or words to that effect, and vice versa.
- You can marry just about anywhere - including on a boat or plane. If you want to use a public beach or park, contact your local council for bookings.
- If you were previously married, either your spouse is deceased, or you are divorced and have the papers to show so.
- You cannot marry a close relative, eg your parent, step-parent, grandparent, child, sibling, uncle/aunt etc. See your marriage license application form for more details.
- You must be at least 16 years of age. If you are under 20 and have not been previously married you must have the consent of your parents/guardians.
- A registrar, civil celebrant or religious celebrant (eg priest) must conduct the marriage ceremony.
Changing names
There is no legal requirement for the bride (or groom - it happens!) to change surname. However if you wish to you have several options. Suppose Mary Blake and Gary Webb marry. They can then be known as Mr & Mrs Blake, Mr & Mrs Webb, Mr & Mrs Webb-Blake, Mr & Mrs Blake-Webb, or Ms Blake and Mr Webb!
If you are going to change your name ensure you cover the following documents:
- Passport
- Bank Account
- Credit Card
- Mortage
- Drivers Licence
- Insurance policies etc
- Your Marriage Certificate
Your marriage certificate
After your ceremony the celebrant will hand you your original marriage certificate (s/he will post the other certificate back to Births, Deaths and Marriages so they can record that your marriage took place). Keep this document in a safe place - it is your legal proof of marriage.
