In New Zealand, a Civil Union may be entered into by any couple over the age of 18 years, providing neither partner is already married or in a civil union. Partners in a Civil Union may be same sex or of the opposite sex and the vows of commitment are required as in a normal marriage ceremony. However, a Civil Union entered into in New Zealand will only be recognised in countries where gay marriage, (or the equivalent) is already legal.

An excerpt from a Civil Union Ceremony:

"We are here today to celebrate with ... and ... as they join together in Civil Union. Under New Zealand Law, this ceremony recognises that they can now equally stand together as one. Having found one another, they are cementing their relationship and to give it special significance, they are celebrating it with you. As witnesses, friends and family, I ask you all to be supportive and encouraging of ... and ... as they take this step. Today, I, ..., commit myself to you, ..., I promise to encourage and inspire you, to laugh with you, to comfort you in times of sorrow and struggle. I promise to love you in good times and in bad, when life seems easy and when it seems hard. These promises I make to you today until the end of our days together."