Media Release 19 September 2006

Civil union numbers steady

The 600th civil union has been registered today. Civil union services have been available since April 2005. In the first year, till April 2006 there was a total of 460 civil union registrations.

The Registrar General for Births Deaths and Marriages, Brian Clarke says there have been 226 civil unions between males, 264 between females and 109 between males and females.

“The registrations show that couples from all over the country have chosen civil union, from Punakaiki to Kerikeri. Most civil unions were registered in Auckland where there have been 128 in 18 months. I’m pleased with the role of the Department of Internal Affairs in delivering the smooth running of this service.”

The Department of Internal Affairs appoints and registers celebrants, provides a registry service, issues the licences and certificates, and provides information about entering into a civil union.

People can get more information about civil unions and marriages from the website www.bdm.govt.nz or Freephone 0800 22 52 52.

ENDS

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