Anglican church allows blessings of gay relationships

The Anglican Church has voted to allow the blessing of same-sex relationships - but only if the local bishop agrees. An overwhelming majority of church leaders supported the change this week at the Church's biennial General Synod in New Plymouth.

However, Anglican churches in the Pacific opted out of the debate by passing a resolution that they would not vote on the issue.

The Diocese of Polynesia released a statement saying the "constitutions and cultures" of its nations were reflected in its position.

The Archbishop of the Māori tikanga branch of the church, Don Tamihere, told RNZ reporter Lois Williams the solution accepts the differences within the church on the issue.