EARLIER TODAY, POLITICIANS in New Zealand voted to legalise same-sex marriage, becoming the first country in the Asia-Pacific region to do so.

The move was met with rapture by people watching in the gallery of the House of Representatives who burst into spontaneous song. Some lawmakers even joined in for the rendition of traditional Maori love song, Pokarekare Ana.



(YouTube: inthehouseNZ)

Twelve countries around the world, including Spain, Canada, Iceland and Argentina, have already legislated to allow for same-sex marriage, while a number of other countries – including Ireland – recognise civil partnerships.