By Kineta Knight Booker
Our President Anna Flanagan welcomes the fee increase for Registry Ceremony celebrants as a “meaningful step forward”.
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.
Anna 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,” she says.
“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,” Anna says.
“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.”
CANZ acknowledges 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,” Anna says.
“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.”
Registrar General Russell Burnard says the new fee should apply for services ‘delivered’ on or after 18 June.
“It is up to the celebrant’s discretion as to whether they go back to a pre-booked or pre-paid couple with a ceremony date after 18 June and ask for the new fee,” he says.
However, he adds, “I personally think that couples already booked have agreed to a price so that might be a driver towards maintaining that price. Bookings made from now on for after 18 June can rightly charge the higher price. What can’t happen is to charge the higher price before 18 June 2026.”
To be a Registry Celebrant you need to be a validated member of CANZ. Find out more about working towards your VCANZ accreditation here.
