The foundation stone of the first Cathedral was laid in September 1886 and the brick building of traditional English design was consecrated two years later. On February 3rd 1931, while communion was being served, the building was totally destroyed by an earthquake with the loss of one life. In 1946 it was decided to rebuild and the foundation stone was laid on 12th October 1955. The chapel, chancel and most of the nave were dedicated by the Bishop of Waiapu and Archbishop of New Zealand, The Most Reverend Norman. Lesser, in 1960. But it was 1965 before the building was completed and the Cathedral was consecrated on 8th October 1967. In 2019, the choir stalls were moved from behind the altar to the main floor, level with the pews. This enabled amazing acoustic of the lofty building any sound tends to carry clearly. Although, with the acoustic of the building any sound tends to cary clearly. Not long after the choir stalls moved, the organ followed suit being moved behind the left set of choir stalls.
The Choirs:
Two choirs ensure that music at the Cathedral is at its best: an adult choir and a children’s choir. The adult choir has around 24 members, and sings in 8 part harmony (Soprano, Alto, Tenor and Bass), performing pieces from many different genres from chants to waiata to choral anthems, old and new. The most recent special event that the choir took part in was an all-comers sing-in of Handel’s Messiah with special guests Wellington Catholic Cathedral Choir. The children’s choir was formed in 2018 ago and consists of around 10 children - the smallest being only 5 years old - who sing fun pieces. This choir never fails to impress and they have performed in concert with the adult choir, singing John Rutter’s "All Things Bright and Beautiful" as well as participating in some Sunday services.