
A Simple Registry Ceremony in Wanaka
Not every couple wants a large wedding. A registry ceremony in Wanaka is a simple, legal wedding ceremony that lets you focus on what matters most — making your commitment to one another in one of New Zealand’s most beautiful places.
Whether you are planning a quiet ceremony for just the two of you, or sharing the moment with a small group of loved ones, your Wanaka registry wedding can be warm, meaningful and memorable.

Traditionally, registry weddings were held in a government office with a simple, no-frills ceremony. Today, a Registry Celebrant can conduct your legal registry ceremony in one of Wanaka’s beautiful outdoor locations, giving you the simplicity of a registry wedding with the relaxed and memorable setting of Lake Wanaka and the surrounding mountains.

What is Included in Your Wanaka Registry Wedding?
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An authorised marriage celebrant
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A relaxed registry ceremony in a stunning Wanaka location.
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Completion of the required legal paperwork.
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Lodgement of your legal marriage with Births, Deaths and Marriages.
Wanaka Registry Wedding Pricing
A Registry Wedding in Wanaka is a simple and affordable way to be legally married in a stunning location.
Your costs include:
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$175 — Paid to the celebrant for your Registry Wedding ceremony
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$158 — Paid to Births, Deaths and Marriages for your marriage licence
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$35 — Paid to Births, Deaths and Marriages for your marriage certificate
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Total cost: $368
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Yes — you can have a simple, legal, wedding ceremony in beautiful Wanaka, surrounded by the lake and mountains for only $368.
Is a Wanaka Registry Wedding right for you?
A Registry Wedding could be perfect if you:
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You want a simple, legal wedding ceremony without months of planning.
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You are eloping, having an intimate celebration, or planning a larger celebration at a later date.
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You want to get married in one of Wanaka's beautiful outdoor locations.
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You would prefer to focus on the moment rather than plan a large wedding.
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You would like a meaningful, relaxed and stress-free wedding experience.

Before you Book your Wanaka Registry Wedding...
Registry ceremonies in New Zealand have specific legal requirements, including standard vows, a marriage licence and two witnesses. As a Registry Celebrant, I conduct your ceremony in accordance with these requirements.
Before booking your Wanaka registry wedding, please take a few minutes to read the official New Zealand Government information below. This will help you understand the requirements and decide whether a registry ceremony is right for you.
Before your ceremony, you will need to:
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Apply for a valid New Zealand marriage licence at least 3 working days before your ceremony.
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Arrange two witnesses to be present at your ceremony.
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Choose a suitable location and celebrant for your registry ceremony.
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Meet the legal requirements for a New Zealand registry ceremony.
Looking for a More personal wedding ceremony?
A Registry Wedding is perfect for couples who want a simple, legal ceremony.
If you are looking for more flexibility, would like to include personal vows, or want a ceremony that's uniquely yours, one of my other Wanaka Wedding ceremony options may be a better fit.
Short and Sweet Wedding Ceremony-
A little more personal, while keeping things beautifully simple.
Fully Personalised Wedding Ceremony
A bespoke ceremony created around your story, your people and your vision.
Wanaka Registry Wedding FAQ's
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Can we have a professional photographer or videographer? No. Registry Ceremonies have specific government requirements and do not include professional photographers or videographers. If capturing your ceremony professionally is important to you, a Short & Sweet or Fully Personalised Ceremony may be a better option.
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Can we write our own vows? No. Registry Weddings follow a prescribed legal ceremony with standard vows. If you would like to write your own vows or personalise your ceremony, please consider a Short & Sweet or Fully Personalised Ceremony instead.
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Can we have bridesmaids, groomsmen or a wedding party? No. Registry Weddings are intended to be simple legal ceremonies and do not include the traditional elements of a personalised wedding. Bridesmaids and groomsmen are not included in a registry ceremony.
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How many guests can attend? Registry Weddings are limited to 10 guests.
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Do we need witnesses? Yes. You must arrange two witnesses to be present at your registry ceremony.
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When can we have a registry Ceremony? Registry ceremonies must take place during business hours on a weekday, between 9am and 5pm, Monday to Friday. They cannot be held on public holidays. If you would like a weekend, evening or public holiday ceremony, a Short & Sweet or Fully Personalised Ceremony may be a better option.
Ready to book your Wanaka Registry Wedding?
Get in touch and check your preferred date is available so we can get you married!