Kōrero: Marriage and partnering

Shown here are Ewart Gray and Michael Edie, the first couple to be joined in a civil union in Dunedin. Behind the couple stands celebrant and Presbyterian minister Geoffrey Vine.

Feelings within the gay and lesbian community about civil unions were mixed. Some argued that it was a lesser form of marriage and should be rejected. Others felt that marriage was a heterosexual idea not worth taking up. But for many couples the opportunity to celebrate their relationship and have it legally recognised was of great importance. Marriage became available to same-sex couples in August 2013.