St Mark's Church (Waitotara)

This small church built in 1890 has the distinction of being one of the early designs of noted New Zealand architect, Frederick de Jersey Clere. Over one hundred churches were built to the designs of de Jersey Clere. The building was erected by Messts. Jago and Beaumont and the opening service on 14 September 1890 was conducted by Mr Williams, of Putiki, assisted by the Rev. Mr Cameron. 

Ian Handley writes in the Waitotara School Centennial that in the early days church services were conducted by a visiting minister from Pātea. In 1975 the church was administered by a combined Waverley-Waitotara Parochial District. Moves were afoot at this time to form a Co-operating Parish of Anglicans and Presbyterians. Presbyterians had been using the church for many years prior to 1975. Catholic services were also held in the church in the 1970s.

According to Susan Maclean in her book Architect of the Angels; The Churches of Frederick de Jersey Clere, this was the only de Clere designed church in the first two decades of his work not to include a belfry.

Related document:

St Mark's Church, Waitotara, Waverley Heritage Inventory (2002).