New Zealand House of Reps bursts into song after legalizing same-sex marriage
Supporters serenade MPs with ‘Pokarekare Ana’ love song
New Zealand lawmaker Louisa Wall, who sponsored the gay marriage bill, stands on the steps of Parliament in Wellington before voting for the same-sex marriage Tuesday, April 16, 2013. New Zealand has become the 13th country in the world and the first in the Asia-Pacific region to legalize same-sex marriage. Hundreds of jubilant gay-rights advocates celebrated at New Zealand’s Parliament today after lawmakers vote 77 to 44 in favor of the gay-marriage bill. (AP Photo/Nick Perry)
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New Zealand passed a bill allowing legal same-sex marriage Wednesday, prompting a jubilant celebration in the House of Representatives.
The bill passed with 77 in favour and 44 against, making New Zealand the first country in the Asia-Pacific region to legalize same-sex marriage, reports BBC News.
As the speaker read out the votes, noting that the bill had passed, spectators watching in gallery started singing the New Zealand love song “Pokarekare Ana.” Below, MPs hugged Louisa Wall, who sponsored the bill.
New Zealand has allowed civil unions between same-sex couples since 2005. This new law will allow same-sex couples to enjoy all the same rights as any married couple. This includes adoption and having the marriage recognized in other countries, reports The Associated Press.
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