If you’re planning to elope in New Zealand, the good news is that the legal side of things is much simpler than most couples expect. Here’s a step-by-step guide to make sure your marriage is recognised both here and at home.

Step 1: Apply for a Marriage Licence

• You’ll need to complete the Notice of Intended Marriage (BDM 60) form. Notice of Intended Marriage (BDM 60) form
• This can be done online or by paper application through New Zealand’s Department of Internal Affairs.
• The licence is valid for 3 months from the date it’s issued, so plan your timing carefully.

Step 2: Choose Your Celebrant

• In New Zealand, a legal marriage must be conducted by a registered celebrant. I only work with trusted, experienced celebrants who are legally authorised, you can read more about how I plan and personalise elopements on my main site, New Zealand Dream Weddings
• Once confirmed, your celebrant will also receive a copy of your marriage licence before the ceremony.

Step 3: Your Wedding Day

• On the day, your celebrant will guide you through the legal wording you must include in your vows.
• You’ll sign your marriage papers along with two witnesses (I often help organise this if needed).
• From that moment, you’re legally married in New Zealand!

Step 4: Getting Your Marriage Certificate

• After the ceremony, your celebrant lodges your paperwork with Births, Deaths and Marriages (BDM).
• You can then order an official Marriage Certificate, which is the document you’ll use for any legal name changes or proof of marriage.

Step 5: Apostille for Overseas Couples

• If you live outside New Zealand, most countries will ask for your certificate to be apostilled or authenticated.
• This is simply a government stamp that confirms the certificate is authentic.
• I handle this process for my couples so you don’t have to worry about paperwork delays.

Final Thoughts

Getting married in New Zealand is not only breathtakingly beautiful, it’s also straightforward legally. With the right guidance and timing, you can focus on the joy of your day while knowing the legal side is fully taken care of.

The paperwork might sound daunting, but it’s one of the many things I quietly take care of for my couples. From the marriage certificate to the apostille or authentication, I’ll guide you through it all, so you can simply focus on the joy of your day. And that’s exactly how it should be.

If you’d like to ask me a question about eloping in New Zealand, you’re always welcome to reach me at elopement.journal.nz@outlook.com. I love hearing from couples who are dreaming about their day.

If you’re still deciding on when to plan your elopement, you might enjoy my blog on the Best Time to Elope in Queenstown

Warmest,
Donna x

Because the best memories aren’t planned, they’re lived.