Question 1

What are the legal requirements to get married in the Cook Islands?

Accepted Answer

You will need to complete a marriage license application form, and visit the Registrar of Marriages in Avarua, Rarotonga at least three full working days before your wedding date. Bring with you your original birth certificates, valid passports, and if either of you have been married before, divorce papers or the death certificate of a deceased spouse. These documents must be the originals and written in English. Our wedding team will guide you through the process.

Question 2

Will the Registry Office be open every day?

Accepted Answer

No, the office is only open on business days, Monday to Friday from 9am until 3pm.  It is closed on public holidays.

Question 3

Do you need to be a minimum age?

Accepted Answer

Yes, you can only obtain a marriage license if you are at least 16 years old, and anyone under the age of 21 years will require consent from their parents.

Question 4

What days of the week can we book our wedding?

Accepted Answer

Wedding ceremonies can be performed from Monday's to Saturday's.
We are unable to provide weddings on Sunday's or public holidays.

Question 5

Can I bring my own Wedding Celebrant?

Accepted Answer

No, you will need an officiating Minister or Marriage Celebrant who is registered with the Ministry of Justice in the Cook Islands to have a legally recognised wedding.

Question 6

How do I get my Marriage Certificate?

Accepted Answer

The wedding team at The Grand Resort will assist in obtaining your official marriage certificate for you.

Question 7

Will my marriage be recognised in my home country?

Accepted Answer

Your wedding will be recognised world wide but you will only be legally married and registered in the Cook Islands.  You can however use your official marriage certificate to change your name.

Question 8

What happens if I can't get to the Registry Office in time?

Accepted Answer

If you are unable to visit the Registrar of Marriages three working days prior to your wedding, you can apply for a wedding license waiver at an additional cost (minimum of 24 hours to process).

Question 9

Do we need to stay at The Grand Resort to have our wedding there?

Accepted Answer

Yes, to make your wedding experience as seamless as possible, we recommend staying at least 3 nights at The Grand Resort.

Question 10

Can I customise the Beach Wedding Package?

Accepted Answer

Absolutely!  The Beach Wedding Package includes everything you would need to have a complete Cook Islands wedding experience, so you are unable to remove the package inclusions.

To make your wedding day special and uniquely yours however, we encourage you to add additional enhancements and personalised touches.  Our wedding team can work with you to design the wedding of your dreams.

Question 11

Can you arrange hair, makeup, photographers and entertainment?

Accepted Answer

Yes, our wedding team can assist with recommendations of local suppliers.

Question 12

Where can I have my wedding reception?

Accepted Answer

SKYBAR Lounge rooftop offers elegant dining under the stars for small groups, or a romantic dinner for two can be set up at Blu Restaurant beachfront, or in your own private suite. With a variety of delicious five-star catering options and wine pairings, our French Executive Chef can create a special menu just for you. A wedding reception is required at The Grand Resort as part of your celebration.

Question 13

Do my guests have to stay at The Grand Resort?

Accepted Answer

Our team at The Grand Resort are attentive but not intrusive. We anticipate the details and go the extra mile to ensure a memorable experience for your entire wedding group. This may include a welcome cocktail party on arrival, private group tours, a hen's celebration in the spa, or stag do on the golf course.  We therefore recommend that your wedding guests stay at The Grand Resort to ensure they experience our seamless service.  Ask our wedding team about special rates for your group.

Weddings in Rarotonga

Intimate Weddings in Paradise

Beach Wedding Package

Frequently Asked Questions