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NZ approves gay marriage

April 17, 2013

New Zealand has become the first nation in the Asia-Pacific region to legalize same-sex marriage. The country becomes the 13th worldwide to approve extending marriage rights to gay couples.

https://p.dw.com/p/18HGS
AUCKLAND, NEW ZEALAND - APRIL 17: Celebrations begin at the Caluzzi Bar and Cabaret venue after New Zealand MP's gathered today to vote on the gay marriage bill at Parliament House on April 17, 2013 in Auckland, New Zealand. The Marriage Equality Bill, proposed by Labour MP Louisa Wall, passed the vote, meaning same-sex marriage will soon be legal in New Zealand. (Photo by Phil Walter/Getty Images)
Image: Phil Walter/Getty Images

The bill, proposed by Labour MP Louisa Wall, was passed by lawmakers on Wednesday 77 to 44. It was also given overwhelming support in a preliminary vote last month. It is likely to come into effect in August.

Leaders of most political parties encouraged lawmakers to vote according to their consciences, rather than along party lines.

The country, of 4.4 million people, gave same-sex relationships partial legal recognition in 2005, through the establishment of civil unions.

The bill was opposed by conservative political, social and religious groups, including the Roman Catholic Church.

Hundreds of jubilant advocates have marked the bill's passing at New Zealand's parliament in Wellington, including a group who sang the country's national anthem in the indigenous Maori language.

Same-sex marriage is currently recognized in the Netherlands, Belgium, Spain, Canada, South Africa, Norway, Sweden, Portugal, Iceland, Argentina and Denmark. Uruguay last week approved a law its president Jose Mujica is expected to sign.

jr/kms (AP, AFP, dpa)