Same sex couples from overseas contemplating marrying in New Zealand because same-sex marriage is not available to them in their own countries need to be aware of the laws relating to marriage and divorce here and in their own countries, according to the Registrar-General of Births, Deaths and Marriages. And, says Jeff Montgomery, the same applies to New Zealanders considering marrying overseas. His comments come after an Australian woman who married her partner in New Zealand has discovered, now that the couple are headed for divorce, that they cannot get divorced in Australia due to their marriage not being recognised there. And New Zealand divorce laws mean one of the pair would have to be resident in New Zealand for an extended period to be able to initiate divorce here. "Unfortunately this is something people don't think about as they contemplate getting married," Montgomery says. He says a new government website being launched tomorrow as a one-site stop for government information will include information and requirements regarding divorce alongside information on getting married. As the issue has become more talked about he says he has had enquiries from marriage celebrants asking if they should be offering such advice as they prepare couples for their big days.
Credit: GayNZ.com Daily News staff
First published: Tuesday, 3rd May 2016 - 7:19pm