St Andrew's Church (Stratford)

The first Presbyterian church in Stratford was opened on 4 May 1890 by Rev. W. Grant of New Plymouth. It was located on the site of the present hall and carpark on Miranda Street. It was built by Mr John Irvine, who had arrived in Stratford in 1880-81.

It appears that in 1895 the church was shifted to a site on the corner of Regan and Miranda Streets, now occupied by Taranaki Farmers.

A second and much larger church was erected at a cost of £730 by the contractors, Elliott and King; the architect was Mr. J. Sanderson. This wooden building was opened for worship on 28 April, 1901. Curved arch supports constructed of laminated heart rimu were a particular feature.

The present church was built in 1964 by Mr. E.J. Whiting of Eltham, to the design of the architect Mr G.E.W. Boon of Hāwera. The old wooden arches were incorporated into the new design. It was opened and dedicated on 26 September 1964 by the moderator of the Taranaki Presbytery, the Rev. J.R. Battersby.

Further reading: A Centennial History of St. Andrew's Presbyterian Parish Stratford, Owen Mander. (TRCT285.293 MAN)