A century and a half. That’s how long Our Lady Star of the Sea Catholic Church has stood in Howick. This church isn’t just a building. It’s a living testament to faith resilience and community.
Our Lady Star of the Sea Catholic Church first opened its doors in 1847. The local Fencible community mainly Irish Catholics established it. They wanted their children to have a Catholic education. A small building served as both classroom and chapel. Lay teachers led the school until 1852.
Father Garin a French priest played a pivotal role. Arriving in 1848 he organized that first humble structure. He was a remarkable man a true pioneer. He not only served as a priest but also a carpenter wheelwright gardener tailor and even a doctor. Father Garin’s dedication to the Howick community laid the groundwork for the church’s enduring legacy.
The Mission Sisters arrived in 1904. They traveled from Ashburton and Christchurch a long journey by pony and trap. Their arrival marked a significant turning point. They taught at the school until 1924. During their time they faced challenges. The Spanish Flu epidemic of 1918 forced school closures. However the Sisters continued serving as nurses providing essential care. The Howick and Eastern Bus Company even provided them with free service in recognition of their tireless efforts.
In 1925 Bishop Cleary bought land on Granger Road. He established an orphanage there and expanded the school. This orphanage housed up to 80 girls. They had a farm providing milk cream vegetables eggs and wood. The Sisters ran the Star of the Sea orphanage for over 30 years. Sadly a fire destroyed the original building in 1929. The Sisters rebuilt it. The new building opened in 1931. The orphanage closed in 1977. The Sisters continued to teach at the school until 1980. The school was then staffed by lay teachers.
The church underwent significant changes. In 1996 the school moved to its present location on Oakridge Way. This move reflected the growing needs of the Catholic community in Howick. Our Lady Star of the Sea Catholic Church continues to thrive. The church and its school celebrate 175 years of serving the Howick community. It’s a place of peace prayer and enduring faith. A place where history resonates within its walls. A place that continues to inspire.