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How are marriage and divorce defined?
Marriage (registered)
A registered marriage is the act, ceremony or process by which the legal relationship of husband and wife is constituted. In New Zealand, marriage may be solemnised either by a celebrant or before a registrar of marriages. A licence must be obtained from a registrar before a marriage by a celebrant can be solemnised, and notice must be given by one of the parties.
Divorce
An application for marriage dissolution can be made by either the husband or wife on the grounds that the marriage has broken down irreconcilably, provided a two-year separation requirement is satisfied. Dissolution Orders are granted by the Family Court.
What are marriage and divorce statistics used for?
Statistics on marriages and divorces (along with births and deaths) are often referred to as 'vital statistics', as they provide the basic demographic information about a population and its changes over time. Marriage and divorce statistics can be used to monitor demographic and social trends, and to plan for future community services and needs.
Resources
Marriage and divorce data and analysis
From information releases published by Statistics New Zealand, available quarterly from 1998.
Marriage and divorce trends
From annual reference reports published by Statistics New Zealand, available from 1997.
Marriage and divorce - tables
Includes additional tables to those in the above links. Published by Statistics New Zealand, 2004.
Marriage and Divorce in New Zealand
A review of the major trends in marriage and divorce over the last three decades. Published by Statistics New Zealand, 2001.
Positive Ageing in New Zealand
Status report that provides a snapshot of the situation of older people in New Zealand, including marital status. Published by the Office for Senior Citizens, 2001.
Experts
For further information email the Demography Division of Statistics New Zealand or write to:
Robert Didham
Demography Division
Statistics New Zealand
Dollan House
401 Madras Street
Private Bag 4741
Christchurch.
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