Gay couple married in Bay of Plenty stay up to see in Australia's same-sex marriage law change

Tara and Sarah Whitchelo married in Tauranga last year. Photo supplied/Courtney Horwood

Tara and Sarah Whitchelo have a new anniversary - the day their Kiwi marriage became legal in Australia.

The Victoria same-sex couple, who married in Tauranga 18 months ago, stayed up until 12.01am on Saturday to see in the moment their union became legal the country where they met and made a home together.

Gay marriage became law in Australia after it was overwhelmingly endorsed by Parliament last Thursday.

The marriages of gay couples who wed overseas are now recognised in Australia, and same-sex weddings will be able to take place from January 9.

Tauranga-born Sarah (nee Cooke) said the recognition felt ecstatic.

"I was covered in goosebumps and had a sense of relief."

Tara and Sarah Whitchelo have no plans for a second wedding in Australia just yet. Photo supplied/Courtenay Harwood

She hoped the law change would promote a cultural and attitude change in Australia, as well as allowing her to tick the "married" box on government paperwork.

"I'm hoping now when I tell people that I have a wife; they won't look at me so confused and puzzled."

The Whitchelos, both 27, considered having another wedding in Australia, but decided to stick with a nice dinner for family and friends come January as their first wedding was "perfect" and there was no rush.

Sarah said they might renew their vows when they have a family of their own and can involve their future children.

"For now we are just so thrilled that we can say we are married and be accepted as being married."