A Christmas Gift for Old St Paul's

New Zealand Historic Places Trust information release
17 December 2007

News that they can afford to install carpet to protect the original floorboards comes as a wonderful Christmas gift for staff at one of Wellington's oldest churches.

The early Christmas present came in the form of a generous grant from the Community Trust of Wellington, a philanthropic organisation established in 1988 to help fund local projects.

Old St Paul's is a much-loved and admired Wellington heritage icon. Of the 45 properties that New Zealand Historic Places Trust manages throughout the country, Old St Paul's is one of the most celebrated and popular.

The 19th century wooden church is a popular destination for tourists to the city and last year New Zealand Historic Places Trust recorded over 70,000 visitors there. It is used for weddings, funerals and christenings for all religions, as well as exhibitions, plays and concerts.

Old St Paul's needs to be carefully maintained. As a heritage building, it is an important part of Wellington's history and needs to be protected and preserved as part of our rich Wellington heritage and environment.

However, the increasing use of the building and access by the public means it is subject to the dangers of wear and tear, says Old St Paul's Manager Marie Gillies.

"We love to see Old St Paul's so well used by both local people and tourists - it's what living heritage is all about. However, as with all buildings, use causes wear and tear, so we need to be vigilant in protecting this beautiful place. We're extremely grateful to The Community Trust of Wellington for this grant, which will help us extend the life of the church."

New Zealand Historic Places Trust was thrilled to receive a grant from the Community Trust, which will enable them to lay carpet to replace the protective covering of the original floor boards. Carpet laying will commence as soon as possible.

Frances Russell, the Executive Director of the Community Trust of Wellington says the Trust was delighted to support such a worthy project.

"Old St Pauls is certainly an important part of our cultural heritage in Wellington and it is nice to be able to do it so close to Christmas!"

For more information:

Pete Kerr, Media & Marketing Coordinator
Ph 04 470 8066 or 027683 9065
Email: pkerr@historic.org.nz

OR

Marie Gillies, Property Manager
Old St Paul's
Ph 04 473 6722
Email: oldstpauls@historic.org.nz