Old St Paul's ~
the warming glow of timber, stained glass and time
34
Mulgrave Street, Thorndon, Wellington N.Z.
Old St Paul's is a fine
example of 19th century Gothic Revival architecture adapted to colonial conditions
and materials. Designed by the Reverend Frederick Thatcher, then vicar of St Paul's
parish Thorndon, the first Anglican cathedral of Wellington is considered his
finest work.
Constructed entirely from native timbers, the glowing interior is enhanced
by stunning stained glass windows. The finest applied art creates an outstanding
ambiance.
Social history comes to life in the former cathedral church which tells
of New Zealand's journey from colony to independent nation. Prime Ministers'
funerals were held there, the land wars of the 1860s and soldiers of the
First World War are commemorated in its glass and brass memorials.
No longer a parish church but still consecrated, Old St Paul's remains
a place of spiritual significance to many and is living testimony to one
of New Zealand's greatest heritage battles. It is a well-loved venue for
weddings and other services, concerts, recitals and many other cultural
events.
The
Historic Places Trust Pouhere Taonga is the leading agency for the protection
of sites and buildings in New Zealand that are of historic and cultural significance
to its peoples.
Puritia
nga taonga tuku iho a nga tupuna hei tiki huia ma nga uri whakatupu a Aotearoa.
Keep the treasures
handed down by the ancestors as an adornment for the descendants yet to be born
in New Zealand.
Images taken by Grant Sheehan, except bridal couple: Photography by Woolf
For
more information on what to see and do in Wellington, visit the official tourism
website www.WellingtonNZ.com
The
Historic Places Trust Pouhere Taonga is the leading agency for the protection
of sites and buildings in New Zealand that are of historic and cultural significance
to its peoples.