Ko wai mātou | About Us
Nā tō rourou, nā taku rourou, ka ora ai te iwi
With your food basket and my food basket, the people will thrive.
While this proverb mentions “food baskets” (rourou), it is rarely just about literal food. In the context of a special day, gathering, or milestone, it represents Community & Togetherness – acknowledging that the celebration is made special because everyone brought their energy, love, and presence, Shared Joy – the idea that we are stronger, happier, and more fulfilled when we come together to mark significant moments and Gratitude – thanking those who contributed to making the day happen.
Being a member means you're never doing this alone
Whether you’re just starting out or you’ve been a celebrant for years, we’ve got your back.
You'll be visible
Your profile sits in New Zealand’s most trusted celebrant directory. When someone’s looking for a celebrant, you want to be where they’re searching.
You'll be supported
Connect with 850+ celebrants across Aotearoa New Zealand. Share ideas, get honest feedback, and grow alongside people who genuinely understand what you do.
You'll be covered
Public liability insurance is included with your membership. as your practice grows, having that cover in place means you can focus on the ceremony, not the ‘what ifs’.
The people who lead Celebrants Aotearoa New Zealand
We started in 1999 with a simple belief; that celebrancy deserves to be recognised as a proper profession. More than 25 years later we represent over 850 celebrants from Northland to Southland, across every type of ceremony you can imagine.
Our 12 branches across New Zealand offer local events and networking opportunities, so you can meet other celebrants and share ideas and practice too.
We offer a voice and advocacy specifically to the Department of Internal Affairs, Births, Deaths and Marriages, and to the Funeral Sector.
We’re not a stuffy institution. We’re a working community of people who love what they do and want to see celebrancy thrive in Aotearoa New Zealand.
Anna Flanagan (she/her)
Anna leads the Celebrants Aotearoa New Zealand national executive. She brings warmth and a genuine love of ceremony to everything she does.
Brenda Chapman (she/her)
Brenda is an experienced celebrant who brings energy and dedication to her role on the executive. She is passionate about supporting celebrants to do their best work.
Dr Iwi Te Whau
Iwi brings a deep connection to tikanga Māori and a wealth of experience across multiple regions. He is a valued voice for cultural diversity within Celebrants Aotearoa New Zealand.
Wendy Eynon
Wendy is a celebrant who supports members while bringing a warm and practical approach to her executive role.
Libby Carson (she/her)
Libby is a celebrant who looks after members and is known for her professionalism and commitment to the celebrancy community.