February 1965. A small group gathered in the Westbrookes’ homes on Prangley Avenue, Mangere. This seemingly ordinary gathering marked the humble beginnings of the Mangere East Baptist Church. Twenty-four souls came together, united by their faith. They decided to form a Baptist Fellowship. Their weekly meetings continued, moving from house to house, creating a sense of community and shared purpose. In September 1965, they finally had a place to call their own. Keith Hay built a hall on Robertson Road, on land belonging to the Abear family. The fellowship grew, their roots deepening in the Mangere community. In 1967, Rev. Murray Campbell, a part-time pastor and traffic officer, was inducted as their first official pastor. The Mangere East Baptist Church continued to flourish. They outgrew their Robertson Road hall. A new church building was needed. The current building, located on Bader Drive, officially opened its doors on February 27, 1972. The old hall was sold to the Mangere Bridge Bowling Club, its legacy living on in a new form. In 1979, as part of a government initiative, the church completed construction on pensioner flats, providing affordable housing for the elderly. The Mangere East Baptist Church has seen a succession of pastors since Rev. Campbell. Jim Urwin, Doug Rushbrooke, Murray Cottle, Graeme Henshaw, Jo Wieland, Dean Clarkson, and currently, John Catmur, have all served the congregation. The church stands today, a testament to the faith and dedication of those who gathered in those early meetings back in 1965. It’s a place where community thrives, where faith is nurtured, and where the story of Mangere East Baptist Church continues to be written.
Mangere East Baptist Church
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