How to legally elope in Wanaka
Dreaming of eloping in the breathtaking landscapes of Queenstown and Wanaka? While elopements feel spontaneous and wild, there are still a few legal boxes to tick before you can officially call yourselves married.
We can help with all your elopement planning including the legal stuff but here is a step-by-step guide to help you legally elope in New Zealand—stress-free.
1. Apply for a Marriage Licence
To legally marry in New Zealand, you need to apply for a marriage licence at least 3 working days before your ceremony. You can apply online or in person if you're already in the country.
What you’ll need:
Full names and details for both partners
ID (passport or birth certificate if local)
The date and location of your ceremony
The name of your registered celebrant
💡 Pro tip: You don’t need the exact GPS coordinates—just a general location like “Lake Wanaka Foreshore” or “Mt Roy Summit.”
Here’s the official link to apply:
👉 https://marriages.services.govt.nz
2. Choose a Registered Celebrant (or let us choose one for you)
Only registered celebrants can legally marry you in New Zealand. The good news? There are lots of wonderful celebrants who specialise in elopements and are happy to hike or helicopter with you to your ceremony location.
Your celebrant will also guide you through your vows, legal wording, and what paperwork needs to be signed on the day.
3. Bring Two Witnesses
To make it official, you’ll need two witnesses present at your ceremony who are old enough to understand what’s happening (usually 18+). They don’t need to be NZ residents or know you personally.
What if you’re truly eloping just the two of you? No problem!
Your photographer and videographer (or even a pilot or guide) can often act as your witnesses—this happens all the time with intimate elopements.
4. Sign the Paperwork
On your elopement day, your celebrant will bring the legal documents:
The Copy of Particulars of Marriage
The Marriage Licence
You, your partner, your two witnesses, and your celebrant will sign the papers—usually right after your vows.
💡 Don’t worry, this doesn’t take long!
5. Receive Your Marriage Certificate
After the ceremony, your celebrant will submit your paperwork to the New Zealand government. You can then order your official Marriage Certificate online—it usually arrives within 2–3 weeks.
This certificate is what you’ll need to:
Change your last name (if you choose to)
Prove your marriage legally anywhere in the world
Bonus Tips for a Smooth Legal Elopement
International couples are absolutely welcome to marry in NZ—no residency required.
Be mindful of the weather and travel logistics. If you’re heading into alpine or remote locations, have a backup plan in case of flight cancellations or closures.
Don’t forget your vows and rings (they’re not legally required, but they make it feel real!).
Final Thoughts
Eloping in New Zealand is an unforgettable way to marry—wild and beautiful. And once the paperwork is handled, you’re free to focus on what really matters: being present with your person in one of the most magical places on Earth.
If you’re looking for a photographer who can guide you through the elopement journey (and act as a witness too!), I’d love to help.
Let’s create a day that’s not just legal—but legendary.