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Wedding Traditions in New Zealand
Church weddings
are the most traditional marriage celebrations in New Zealand. The
bride wears a white wedding gown and is attended by bridesmaids.
The groom wears a grey or black suit with a white shirt and tie,
and he is supported by a best man and groomsmen. According to custom,
the groom should not see the bride before she joins him at the front
of the church on their wedding day.
Weddings
in New Zealand may also reflect the traditional culture of the island.
Maori weddings will include a ceremonial welcome to the bride and
groom, known as a Powhiri, and a traditional warrior challenge.
The wedding ceremony will be conducted by a tribal elder and the
couple will be blessed in the Maori language.
Wedding rings made of carved bone or greenstone are also popular amongst those
wishing to include the ancient culture of the Maori people in their wedding. Traditional
Maori 'infinity loops' have a spiritual meaning of never-ending love.
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