TUIA TE MUKA TANGATA - WEAVING PEOPLE TOGETHER

New Zealand's oldest stone church, built in 1846, will be strengthened and the stories embedded in the historic site will be shared using exhibitions, tours, events and digital resources. Sensitive developments will transform the site into a significant heritage, education and visitor destination.It will be a catalyst for peace and reconciliation, community building and collaboration in the heart of New Plymouth.

Te Whare Hononga -The House That Binds , is being developed with mana whenua Ngāti Te Whiti. This whare will be a waharoa (gateway) to the many important stories linked within this special place and will be the heart of a compelling vistor experience.

Our work will see a significant evolution of the historic Taranaki Cathedral site.

Te Whare Hononga (a striking contemporary building) will be sited beside the Cathedral. The vicarage will be brought forward and re-purposed for Church hospitality downstairs and the Sir Paul Reeves Education Centre upstairs. A courtyard will be created between buildings. The site will be open and welcoming to all. 

The sanctity of Taranaki Cathedral will be enhanced, with sensitive strengthening and interior modifications designed to make the space more flexible and comfortable for contemporary worship and other appropriate opportunities for fellowship, such as live performances.

The design of Te Whare Hononga will be a permanent expression of the vision for peace and reconciliation on this site. Architects Tennent Brown are currently developing ideas (including those pictured on this page) that incorporate strong elements of Te Āo Māori design.

An artist's impression of Te Whare Hononga (the house that binds) and the relocated Vicarage. Te Whare Hononga will be a striking contemporary example of Māori architecture designed to invite, challenge and engage visitors. A carefully curated exhibition space it will act as a dynamic tourism drawcard and education hub, grounded in the wairua and heritage of the historic site. Developed together with Ngāti Te Whiti hapū, mana whenua of the site, it will combine with the site to provide a place of deep pilgrimage and learning, with historical, community and faith-based programmes and events.

The essence of a cathedral is that it belongs to the community and mirrors whatever makes that community rejoice or sorrow. God requires that of us." - Sir Paul Reeves 2010

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