Celebrants 


How do I find a celebrant?
Is it true that if you want to get married on board a ship, you can get the captain to perform the ceremony?


How do I find a celebrant?

A Celebrant is a person who has the legal authority to marry people. They could be a Registrar of Marriages, an independent marriage Celebrant, a church minister, priest, or other religious leader, or another person connected with an approved organisation.

You need to feel comfortable with the person you have chosen to be your wedding celebrant because they will play an important role on your wedding day. To find the right Celebrant, you could try asking your friends and family to recommend someone. It’s a good idea to meet with your prospective celebrant first before you ask them to take on the role.  You’ll need to allow yourself enough time for ‘shopping around’ in case the first Celebrant you meet is not a ‘good fit’ with you.  

If you decide you don’t like them after meeting with them, or don’t know anyone suitable, you can search the Celebrants’ Association of New Zealand website or aCelebrant.co.nz. Celebrants are available across New Zealand, and prices vary depending on their experience.


Is it true that if you want to get married on board a ship, you can get the captain to perform the ceremony?

You can get a ship’s captain to perform the ceremony in some circumstances – if the captain has the legal right because he is a judge, a justice of the peace, a minister or a recognised official such as a Public Notary. In some cases, the captain can get a temporary permit to perform your wedding at sea.

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