FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Celebrants Aotearoa (CANZ) is welcoming the Government’s decision to increase the fee
payable to celebrants for delivering Registry Ceremonies, following the outcome of the
marriage and civil union fees review.
From 18 June 2026, the fee paid to celebrants for delivering a Registry Ceremony will
increase to $175.
Celebrants Aotearoa President Anna Flanagan says while the increase does not fully meet
the level advocated for by the association, it is a significant and meaningful step forward.
“Registry Ceremonies may be simple in format, but they still carry significant legal,
professional and administrative responsibilities,” says Flanagan.
“This increase recognises that celebrants bring skill, care, preparation, accountability and
professionalism to every ceremony they deliver. It is an important acknowledgement of the
work involved.”
The new fee represents a 94.4 percent increase from the current Registry Ceremony fee of
$90, which couples pay directly to the celebrant. Registry Ceremonies are standard
ceremonies with set requirements, including weekday delivery and limits around ceremony
size and format.
CANZ has been actively involved in advocacy throughout the review process, seeking better
recognition of the time, administration and responsibility required of validated celebrants who
deliver Registry Ceremonies across Aotearoa New Zealand.
“Advocacy often takes time, and change rarely happens overnight,” says Flanagan.
“While this is not the full outcome we hoped for, it is a positive and practical step forward for
celebrants. It shows that the professionalism of our sector is being heard and increasingly
valued.”
Celebrants Aotearoa also acknowledged the members who contributed to the advocacy
work, particularly Mel Stuart, Rachel Clark, Brenda Chapman and Sheryl Mungall, along with
others who shared their experience, insight and expertise throughout the process.
“We are incredibly grateful to those who gave their time, knowledge and lived experience to
help strengthen this submission,” says Flanagan.
“This outcome is a reminder of what can be achieved when celebrants work together, speak
clearly about the value of their work, and continue to advocate for fair recognition.”
Flanagan says CANZ will continue to advocate for the recognition, support and professional
standing of celebrants throughout Aotearoa.
ENDS
About Registry Ceremonies
Registry Ceremonies are no longer held within courtrooms throughout New Zealand, which
was once referred to as the registry office or court-house ceremonies. They are now
officiated only by accredited members of Celebrants Aotearoa within the community.
More information about Registry Ceremonies can be found here. Guidelines for Registry
Ceremonies can be found here.
About Celebrants Aotearoa
Celebrants Aotearoa is the only national professional association for celebrants in New
Zealand. The organisation provides networking, education, resources, and advocacy to
support its members in delivering high-quality, meaningful ceremonies.
For media enquiries, please contact:
Kineta Knight Booker
Communications Manager – Celebrants Aotearoa
comms@celebrantsaotearoa.co.nz, 0274 546 382, celebrantsaotearoa.co.nz