Beneath these vaulted stone ceilings lies a story etched in stone and spirit at Saint Matthew-in-the-City. This historic Anglican church stands as a testament to Auckland’s evolving identity. Saint Matthew-in-the-City is located at 132-134 Hobson Street. It is in the heart of the central business district.
Let’s step back to the 1840s. Auckland was growing and expanding west of Queen Street. Recognizing the need for a place of worship, George Selwyn acquired land. He was New Zealand’s first Anglican bishop. This was in 1843 at the corner of Hobson and Wellesley Street. A timber school building became the first place for Anglican services.
In 1855, Reverend Frederick Thatcher became vicar. He was also the designer of Old St Paul’s in Wellington. Thirty people gathered in the schoolroom on July 13 to establish the new parish of Saint Matthew’s.
Interestingly, eastern Auckland was the established part of the city. Saint Matthew’s became the church for merchants and shopkeepers. Their financial support allowed the parish to thrive. Within ten years, it became self-supporting. By 1868, its income was the largest in the diocese.
As Auckland expanded westward, new parishes emerged. Saint Matthew’s built a mission chapel in Freemans Bay in 1876. It was named St Thomas’.
By 1896, the parish decided to construct a stone church. John Loughborough Pearson was chosen as the architect. He also designed Truro Cathedral and St John’s Cathedral in Brisbane. Sadly, he passed away before completing the plans. His son, Frank Loughborough Pearson, finished the work. In 1902, Governor Lord Ranfurly laid the cornerstone. Saint Matthew-in-the-City was completed in 1905.
Saint Matthew-in-the-City has a piece of St Augustine’s Abbey. It is a 1300-year-old stone. The church boasts a peal of eight bells. They are rung in the change ringing style.
As central Auckland became more commercial, the population declined. Saint Matthew’s became a church for the city’s commercial and civic life. Its size, style, and musical tradition made it a natural venue for civic services. Memorial services for Prime Minister Richard Seddon and King George V’s jubilee were held here. During both world wars, Saint Matthew’s hosted services for departing and returning troops.
Saint Matthew-in-the-City championed social justice. It protested against apartheid in South Africa. It sponsored the Auckland Community Church. This ministry served gays and lesbians. Nelson Mandela thanked New Zealand at Saint Matthew’s in 1996. He recognized the country’s role in ending apartheid.
Saint Matthew-in-the-City supports gay marriage. It invited gay couples to marry here after New Zealand legalized it.
In December 2009, a billboard showing Mary and Joseph in bed sparked controversy. It gained global media attention.
Today, Saint Matthew-in-the-City stands as a Category I Historic Place. It is a testament to faith and social justice. It is a beacon in the heart of Auckland. The church is known for its Gothic Revival architecture and its 3004-pipe organ. Saint Matthew-in-the-City is a blend of history, art, and progressive values.