The opening shots have been fired as the two sides of the gay marriage debate prepare for a battle both in and outside of parliament.
It comes after Labour MP Louisa Wall's marriage equality bill was pulled from parliament's ballot, with its first reading expected within weeks.
It's not yet clear whether the bill will have the numbers to pass its first reading, with many MPs saying they're yet to make up their minds on how they'll cast their conscience vote.
The Catholic Diocese of Auckland is opposed to the bill, and wants MPs to "keep marriage as defined as between a man and a woman", as civil unions are available to gay couples.
"To propose any alternative definition would have implications in law, and in society, but also for education and the family structure which throughout history has been seen as the fundamental unit in every society," Bishop of Auckland Patrick Dunn said.
Conservative Party leader Colin Craig failed to make it into parliament at last year's election, but he's not shying away from his view on the debate.
"It's just not intelligent to pretend that homosexual relationships are normal,” he said.
The bill is likely to also enable gay couples to adopt - which Mr Craig also opposes.
On the other side of the debate is Wellington church St Andrews on The Terrace.
Reverend Margaret Mayman says the church is delighted the bill has been drawn, and hopes it will become law.
She says it is likely St Andrews will make a submission supporting the bill, if it is sent to a select committee, as it did on civil unions.
NZN