Just Married
A legal wedding ceremony in Auckland doesn’t need to be complicated. Just Married is designed for couples who want a short, relaxed ceremony without the detail of a fully personalised wedding.
For couples who want the simplest way to become legally married, without a personalised wedding ceremony. Just Married is a short, legal-only ceremony that includes the required marriage wording, signing of documents, and your two witnesses.
This legal wedding ceremony in Auckland is ideal for couples who want simplicity, flexibility and no unnecessary fuss.. It is ideal for couples who want something brief, relaxed and fuss-free, while still marking the moment with warmth and care.
You are also welcome to have your ceremony at my home in Takanini, although there is a maximum of 10 guests.
The Process
1. Phone call or email chat
We confirm what you need, where you would like the ceremony to take place, and whether this option is the right fit.
2. Marriage licence guidance
I will guide you through applying for your marriage licence and make sure the correct details are in place.
3. Confirm the details
We confirm the date, time, location, witnesses, and any simple practical details for the day.
4. Wedding day
I arrive, guide you through the required legal wording, witness signatures and marriage documents.
5. Marriage registration
After the ceremony, I complete and submit your marriage registration.
Other Wedding Services
Just Married
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this a registry wedding?
No. A registry wedding strictly adheres to guidelines set by Births, Deaths and Marriage. Just Married offers more flexibility around times and venues.
What are the legal requirements?
In New Zealand, the things you need to do to legally marry are pretty simple…
1. You need a Marriage licence at a cost of $158. You do this through the Births, Deaths and Marriages here.
2. You need to be married by a Registered Marriage Celebrant.
3. During the ceremony, you need to say “I AB take you CD” to be my husband/wife.
4. You need two witnesses (they can be anyone, as long as they fully understand what they are witnessing)
5. The two of you, your two witnesses and I must all sign the marriage licence
6. After the ceremony, I am responsible for ensuring your marriage is registered.
And that’s it!
How do I apply for my marriage licence?
You can apply here.
You need to arrange your licence at least 3 working days before you get married (but best not to leave it too late!.
It expires after 3 months.
Only one of you needs to complete the application, but you need information about both of you.
It costs $158
What's the difference between a 'registry wedding' and a 'wedding'?
A registry wedding keeps things simple: the legal wording, the required witnesses, and a short ceremony.
A personalised wedding ceremony offers a little more flexiblity.
You can find out about the different options I offer here.
What's the difference between a marriage licence and a marriage certificate?
Good question! The first you order before your wedding, the certificate you receive afterwards. I highly recommend that you preorder this when you apply for your licence. (It costs an extra $35)
How do I change my name once I am married?
In New Zealand, you don’t usually have to do anything special if you want to change your name after you get married or have a civil union. When you get married, you can keep your last name, take your husband, wife or partner’s last name, hyphenate or use a combination of both your last names.
When changing your name on official documents such as your drivers licence or passport, you will need to use your marriage certificate.
What happens if the celebrant can't do the wedding on the day?
If, for unforseen circumstances, I am unable to be there on the day (and this has never happened yet – touch wood), I have a network of wonderful colleagues that I would turn to, to step in for me. Don’t worry, I would never leave you in the lurch!
What is Celebrants Aotearoa and why does it matter?
Celebrants Aotearoa is the professional association for celebrants in New Zealand, and I am proud to be a VCANZ validated member. VCANZ recognises experienced celebrants who have demonstrated ongoing professional development, reflective practice and a commitment to professional standards. For couples and families, it offers added reassurance that I take my role, my responsibilities and your ceremony seriously.
Celebration of Life or Celebration of Love.
The Right Celebrant for You.
