Vicar steps in after Anglican Church says no to gay wedding

Glynn Cardy says the church is 'sorry' it can't hold the same-sex wedding, but that's the 'policy'. Photo / Steven McNicholl

A vicar has stepped in to marry a gay couple as part of a radio station competition after an Anglican parish was unable to host the ceremony.

Reverend Dr Matt Tittle of the Auckland Unitarian Church in Ponsonby will officiate at the wedding of the couple that wins ZM's Fabulous Gay Wedding competition.

The broadcaster had hoped to hold the event - on August 19, the day legislation allowing same sex marriage comes into force - at St Matthew-in-the-City parish in central Auckland.

But St Matthew's vicar, Reverend Glynn Cardy, said he was unable to oblige because Anglican officials will not solemnise gay weddings. The parish had offered to host a blessing after the legal ceremony was held elsewhere.

Reverend Tittle says he called ZM as soon as he heard the wedding could no longer be held at St Matthew's.

"Our church has always been supportive of gay marriage and this was just a stroke of luck. We are very excited about this wedding,'' he says.

Although the Unitarian Church is not as big as St Matthew's, it can accommodate up to 150 people.

Reverend Tittle says he expects the venue to be "more than full'' on the big day.

The results of the competition will be anounced next Friday.