Saint Andrew’s Church

“Did you know that St Andrew’s First Presbyterian Church in Auckland boasts a history spanning over 150 years?” St Andrew’s stands proudly at the corner of Symonds Street and Alten Road. This imposing building with its ornate tower and sturdy bluestone walls has been a familiar sight for generations of Aucklanders. Its story began in May 1847. A committee was formed to build a Presbyterian church and find a minister. Construction started in December 1847. However delays and disputes with the contractor plagued the project. The first minister Rev George Panton didn’t arrive until January 1849. Until then services were held in the Court House. The original design by Walter Robertson was never fully realised. Cost overruns meant the planned tower and portico were initially omitted. The completed building in April 1850 resembled a barn. This plain rectangular stone structure was eventually enhanced. In 1882 architect Matthew Henderson added the impressive tower and portico. A gallery was also added around this time. The church took on its name St Andrew’s in 1860. This was thanks to Rev David Bruce. His 23-year ministry helped establish the congregation and expand the church’s influence throughout Auckland and beyond. St Andrew’s played a vital role in the community. It provided a place of worship for generations of Aucklanders. It welcomed new settlers to New Zealand. In the mid-1880s it started hosting an Indonesian worship group. The group’s growth led to the appointment of Rev Jusak Susabda as associate minister in 1990. St Andrew’s celebrated its 150th anniversary in 1997. This was a significant milestone. A new church hall replaced the old one built in 1904. The church’s interior needed refurbishment by the mid-1990s. A full restoration began in 2001. The restoration involved removing louvres from the windows. These were replaced with stained glass featuring emblems linked to St Andrew’s history. St Andrew’s received funding from the ASB Charitable Trust and Auckland Council. This helped restore the building. Today St Andrew’s continues its vital role as a multicultural church. It stands as a testament to the enduring faith and resilience of its community. A beautiful and historic landmark in the heart of Auckland.