Couples − heterosexual or homosexual − were now able to register their relationship as a civil union.
The change meant that all couples in New Zealand, whether they were married, in a civil union or in a de facto partnership, now had equal legal rights and obligations.
Marriage between two adults of the same sex was legalised in August 2013 by the Marriage (Definition of Marriage) Amendment Act.
Read more on NZHistory
Reforming the law – Homosexual law reform
External links
- Civil Union (Department of Internal Affairs)
- Civil Union Act (Legislation online)
- Gay activism and law reform (Te Ara)
How to cite this page
'Civil unions come into effect', URL: /civil-unions-come-into-effect, (Ministry for Culture and Heritage), updated 23-Feb-2016
