Unique survivor of Napier Quake to get top recognition
New Zealand Historic Places Trust Information Release
26 May 2008
A rare brick survivor of the 1931 earthquake, the Waiapu Diocesan Office
Building and former Synod Hall, known to most locals as the St John's
Cathedral Hall, is recommended for Category I registration by the New
Zealand Historic Places Trust. Research just completed reveals a large
amount that was previously unknown about the building.
As an example historian and local branch committee member Judy Siers
discovered the building was designed by prominent Napier architect Walter
Finch and built by William Angus. Though the building was damaged in the
earthquake, and its Norman-style tower was lost, it largely survived and
was able to be repaired. Finch was also likely responsible for the repairs
and alterations which enabled members of the Synod to return to the building
for their annual meeting in October 1931.
NZHPT Heritage Architect Alison Dangerfield comments in the report that
"Finch designed a building of efficiency and dignity combining all
the needs of the Diocese, as well creating a suitable companion for the
Mountfort Cathedral, destroyed in the Napier quake." Discerning locals
and visitors to Napier appreciate view-shafts of this surprising Gothic
reminder during their inner city walks. The building stands as a sole
reminder of the much admired Gothic features of St John's Anglican and
St Paul's Presbyterian Cathedrals.
"Just as this building is one of a small handful to emerge from
the rubble and ashes to tell of the devastating quake and of Napier's
reconstruction, so this research provides us with a sense of discovering
something very special" says Ann Neill, Central Region General Manager
for New Zealand Historic Places Trust. "It's also easy to see why
this building has been overlooked in the past with the rush to celebrate
the modern and new city through the Art Deco story."
"With the exciting recent commitment of Napier City Council to World
Heritage nomination, this building refurbished and conserved has the potential
to be one of the jewels in Napier's Art Deco Precinct and to benefit from
tourism earnings. We have done some homework in terms of seismic strengthening
costs and possible alternative ownership/uses and suggest that with some
lateral thinking the building could have a positive financial future"
says Ann Neill. "Around New Zealand heritage buildings are finding
useful new roles within a climate of sustainability and concern for reducing
demolition waste to landfills, and retaining the embodied energy within
an existing building. The Church building could make excellent professional
rooms, regional archives, or a starting point for World Heritage tours
of Napier City.
"At the end of the day NZHPT's statutory role can only illuminate
the outstanding heritage values in a building or site. Decisions to protect
heritage and prevent demolition sit with local authorities-in this case
Napier City Council. Much as we hope this building will survive yet again,
its future is now in the hands of Church leaders and the community."
Submissions on the proposal
for registration can be made by any member of the public before 11
June to
General
Manager, Central Region
New Zealand Historic Places Trust
PO Box 19173, Wellington.
For any queries regarding registration, please contact Imelda Bargas,
Heritage Adviser, Registration, phone 04 802 0000 or email ibargas@historic.org.nz
or visit the Trust's website.
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