What types of ceremonies do you officiate?

I officiate a range of personalised ceremonies including weddings, elopements, funerals, memorial services, vow renewals, and other special life celebrations. Every ceremony is tailored to reflect your values, personality, and wishes.

Can you help create a personalised ceremony?

Yes. Every ceremony is written specifically for the individuals or family involved. I take the time to understand your story, preferences, and any traditions or special elements you would like included.

Do you travel throughout the Coromandel?

Yes. I am based in Matarangi and regularly travel throughout the Coromandel Peninsula and surrounding areas. Travel arrangements can be discussed when making your booking.

How far in advance should I book a celebrant?

For weddings and elopements, booking several months in advance is recommended, especially during peak wedding seasons. Funeral and memorial services are usually arranged on shorter notice, and I do my best to accommodate families when needed.

Can ceremonies be at private homes or outdoor locations?

Yes. Ceremonies can be held in a variety of locations, including private homes, beaches, gardens, parks, venues, and other meaningful places, subject to any necessary permissions.

How long does a typical ceremony last?

The length varies depending on the type of ceremony. Weddings typically last between 20 and 40 minutes, while funerals and memorial services can range from 30 minutes to over an hour depending on the programme and participation involved.

FAQ

QUESTIONS I GET ASKED

Maree Taylor Celebrant

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FAQ's

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the legal requirements for getting married in New Zealand?

You need a Marriage Licence. This confirms it is legal for you to marry.
You apply through Birth, Deaths & Marriages here.
You will need to arrange this at least 3 days prior to your wedding date. Once the licence has been issued it is valid for 3 months. Don’t leave it too late to apply.
Only one of you needs to apply. To complete the application form you will need to know details about yourself and your future spouse (for example, the names of your parents and your future spouse’s parents).
You must be married by a Registered Marriage Celebrant – this is where I can help you. You must name your celebrant on the application. Contact me to find out more.
You need two witnesses. They can be anyone as long as they understand what they are witnessing.
The marriage licence must be signed during your ceremony by the two of you, your two witnesses and myself.
At some point in your ceremony, usually in your wedding vows, you need to say “I AB take you CD” to be my husband/wife (or words to that effect).
Following your ceremony, I will be responsible for sending the completed form to Births, Deaths and Marriages for registration.The rest of the ceremony is completely up to you. I can help customise a perfect ceremony that reflects you both.

How and where do I apply for my Marriage Licence?

You apply here.
You will need to arrange this at least 3 days prior to your wedding date. Once the licence has been issued it is valid for 3 months. Don’t leave it too late to apply.
The cost for a Marriage Licence is $158.

What is the difference between a Marriage Licence and a Marriage Certificate.

A marriage licence is what you require for your wedding day, and it must be signed during your ceremony. Your Marriage Certificate is what receive after your wedding has been registered. I highly recommend that you pre-order this when you apply for your Marriage Licence. The cost for a Marriage Certificate is $33.

How do I change my name when I get married?

In New Zealand, you don’t usually have to do anything special if you want to change your name after you get married or have a civil union. Visit here for further information.

What happens if it is raining on our wedding day?

Well as we all know there is no guarantee on what the weather will do. It is essential to have a backup alternative venue and put this on the marriage licence application. There is space for two addresses on the application. If you only put the outside venue, then this is where you must have your ceremony. Make sure you make is clear to your guests that in the event of bad weather your outdoor ceremony will be moved indoors to the alternative venue.

What is an unplugged wedding?

An unplugged wedding ceremony is one where the couple requests guests to refrain from using their phones or cameras during the ceremony itself (and the entire wedding if you wish to do so). This means no snapping photos, recording videos, or live streaming the event. This enables your guests to be present in the moment. You have hired a professional photographer for your day and he or she will be able to capture the important moments.

Creating Ceremonies with Warmth and Compassion

Every love story is unique. Every life has its own story. Every ceremony should honour that.

Whether it’s a joyful wedding, an intimate elopement, a heartfelt funeral, or a meaningful memorial service, I create personalised ceremonies that reflect the people at the heart of each occasion. With warmth, compassion, and careful attention to detail, I work alongside couples and families to craft ceremonies that are authentic, memorable, and deeply meaningful.

From relaxed beachside weddings to intimate farewells and memorial services, my aim is to make the planning process as easy and stress-free as possible, allowing you to be fully present for the moments that matter most.

Wedding Celebration

Your wedding celebration should be a true reflection of your love story — personal, meaningful, and filled with unforgettable moments shared with the people who matter most.

Funerals & Memorials

Funeral and memorial services should honour a life with warmth, dignity, and compassion, creating a meaningful farewell that brings comfort to family and friends.

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Take the Next Step!

Ready to begin planning your dream ceremony? Connect with Maree today for a personalised consultation and start turning your vision into reality.

FAQ