All Saints’ Church Celebrates 160 Years with Restoration Efforts

In the heart of Dunedin’s university district, All Saints’ Church has marked its significance by celebrating its 160th anniversary. As the chapel for Selwyn College and the parish church for North Dunedin, this historic site also serves as a venue for cultural and musical events. Canon Dr. Michael Wallace, the vicar of All Saints’, emphasizes the church’s rich legacy since its establishment in 1865.

All Saints’ Church stands as a notable example of Gothic revival architecture and holds a Heritage New Zealand Category 1 status. The architectural firm Mason & Wales designed the church, making it one of their earliest projects. Reflecting on the recent anniversary, Canon Wallace noted the community’s efforts to celebrate the milestone with various initiatives.

These initiatives included commissioning a new music piece from Dunedin composer Prof. Anthony Ritchie and creating limited edition woodcuts by local artist Manu Berry. These woodcuts were sold to support ongoing restoration work for the church. Additionally, the church has introduced the George R. West prize, awarded annually to someone who significantly contributes to music at All Saints’.

Rather than opting for demolition, the parish community decided to stabilize the church. This involved removing the slate roof, replacing the Oamaru stone pillars with concrete, and adding structural ties to enhance stability. “It was great foresight on their part to preserve the history of this place, which remains so important to the church and wider communities today,” said Canon Wallace.

The church hosts a variety of activities for local and visiting groups, providing a venue for musicians, choirs, and organists, who perform on the church’s historic 1877 Bevington & Sons pipe organ. The hall is versatile, accommodating events such as ranger meetings and laughter yoga sessions.

All Saints’ Church also features a significant collection of stained glass windows. This includes a window commemorating Arnold Spencer Smith, an Antarctic explorer and photographer for Sir Ernest Shackleton’s trans-Antarctic expedition. The church is currently collaborating with the Dunedin North Parish, Heritage New Zealand, and the Dunedin City Council to restore this historic building.

Restoration needs have been identified, particularly for the roof, which requires a return to slate, along with necessary repairs to spouting, drainage, walls, and wiring. The projected cost for these repairs is expected to reach into the hundreds of thousands of dollars.

“A lot of the work that is needed is the kind of ongoing care and restoration required for any historic building — it is just a fact of life,” Canon Wallace explained. “Overall, the building is in pretty good condition; it just needs some attention in places.”

As All Saints’ Church continues to play a vital role in the community, efforts to preserve its legacy ensure that it remains a cherished landmark for future generations.