New Zealand Weddings Traditions tips for a cool Kiwi reception

Church weddings are the most traditional marriage celebrations in New Zealand. The bride wears a white wedding gown and is attended by bridesmaids. The groom wears a gray or black suit with a white shirt and tie, and he is supported by a best man and groomsmen. According to custom, the groom should not see the bride before she joins him at the front of the church on their wedding day.

Weddings in New Zealand may also reflect the traditional culture of the island. Maori weddings will include a ceremonial welcome to the bride and groom, known as a Powhiri, and a traditional warrior challenge. The wedding ceremony will be conducted by a tribal elder and the couple will be blessed in the Maori language.

Wedding rings made of carved bone or greenstone are also popular amongst those wishing to include the ancient culture of the Maori people in their wedding. Traditional Maori 'infinity loops' have a spiritual meaning of never-ending love.

Civil celebrants performed 53% of marriages in 2001, and of all marriages, 32% of all marriages, church and celebrant, are estimated to end in divorce.

In the same census, 72% of couples stated that they had cohabited before marriage, although this does not stop many of these couples eventually celebrating a legal marriage, sometimes with their children present, in simple or elaborate ceremonies which may be devised by the bride and groom themselves.

he wedding ceremony will be conducted by a tribal elder and the couple will be blessed in the Maori language. Wedding rings made of carved bone or greenstone are also popular amongst those wishing to include the ancient culture of the Maori people in their wedding. Traditional Maori 'infinity loops' have a spiritual meaning of never-ending love.

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