The 2026 renewal period for independent marriage and civil union celebrants closes at midnight on Monday 5 October 2026.
You will have received the online renewal application over email. Late applications will not be accepted.
Who needs to renew?
Current independent marriage and civil union celebrants will need to complete the renewal process.
Celebrants approved after 1 April 2026 do not need to apply for renewal this year. They will be required to renew from next year onwards.
Celebrants can continue accepting bookings and performing marriages and civil unions while renewal applications are being considered. Applicants will be notified whether their renewal has been approved before 13 November 2026.
Celebrants with low activity levels
Celebrants who have performed either no marriages or civil unions, or only one, during the past 12 months will be asked to explain why they should be renewed for another year.
Activity levels dating back to April 2023 will also be considered.
Historically low demand from the public or a particular community may indicate that a celebrant’s services are no longer required. Low activity can also present a risk to a celebrant’s ability to maintain the relevant skills, competence and performance required for the role.
If this applies to you, allow time to provide a clear and considered response as part of your renewal application.
Do not miss the deadline
Applications must be submitted before 5 October.
Celebrants who do not apply during this period will be removed from the list of celebrants when the new list is published in the New Zealand Gazette on 13 November 2026. From that date, they will no longer be authorised to marry couples.
Anyone who later wishes to become a celebrant again will need to submit a fresh application, pay the full application fee and provide new supporting documents.
Renewal fee
A fee of $63 must be paid when the online renewal application is submitted.
Payment can be made online using a credit card, debit card or Prezzy Card. The fee covers the application process and will not be refunded if the renewal is declined.
Questions
Questions about the 2026 renewal process should be sent to celebrants@dia.govt.nz.
