St Andrew's Church is described in the N.P.D.C. Heritage Study as, "a traditional English Gothic revival church, very well executed by an architect who was familiar and skilled with this style." The church is a prominent city landmark on the corner of Courtenay and Liardet Streets. It has been transformed in recent years as a result of a major restoration project.

The foundation stone was laid by Rev. Professor W. Hewitson on 1 August 1931

The architect was Frederick de Jersey Clere and the builders were Boon Bros. The cost including land, buildings and furnishings was £12,390. It was opened and dedicated on 16 April 1932 by the Rev. Professor W. Hewitson. 

The only major alteration has been the modern entrance hall to the north, officially opened in November 1979.

Presbyterian services were first conducted in New Plymouth in April 1863. They were held initially in a chapel erected by the "Independents" on Devon Street by the Rev. John Thom. 

The first Presbyterian Church in New Plymouth was opened on 28 October 1866 in Devon Street. Together the building and the site cost £1050. On 19 August 1882 the church was burned to the ground. A new church was built on the same site and was opened on 2 March 1884. 

Related items:

Stained glass windows (Taranaki Herald 28 Nov 1947)

Related Information

Website

Early History of Church (TDN 16 April 1932)

Link

Presbyterian Progress: New Church to be erected (TDN 9 August 1928)

Link

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