The $3.3 million Te Awamutu Presbyterian Centre has been in the pipeline for more than a decade – as of late March, the debt-free project was completed.
The presbyterian centre property planning committee and construction team Jamie Budd (from left), Rev Ron Bennett, Mary Morriss, Val Milne, Robin Morriss, Ray Miller (project convenor), Trina White (WCML), Shanon Gibbs (WCML), Gary White (WCML), Dulcie Coombes. Photo: Jesse Wood
The Mutu St land once occupied by St Andrew’s Presbyterian Church, now holds a new building to house the church congregation, meetings, seminars, events and counselling services.
With a commercial kitchen and video link available, the usage possibilities are endless for the multipurpose facility.
The project was funded by gifts and pledges from parishioners, insurance money from the Ngāhinapōuri church fire, the sale of the parish manse and community donations including grants.
Project convenor Ray Miller has been there since the start and is extremely satisfied with the finished product and paid tribute to community organisations, groups and individuals who contributed.
“The building has always been about being community focused – a gathering place – and leaving a legacy for future generations.”
Church services will be held in the auditorium on Sundays, but it’s a place the whole community can use. Photo: Jesse Wood
The previous Hinuera stone church building, opened in 1960 was deemed earthquake prone in October 2013 and it was decided to start afresh.
The following month saw the last church service before the building was closed. It was demolished in 2015.
A property planning committee, headed by Miller, was formed in August 2017. In September 2018, concept building plans for a new 1086m2 building were started.
Building consent was received in November 2019 and a three-year fundraising programme was established with a view to having the new building by late 2023.
The effects of Covid-19 significantly increase the building costs and the planning committee had to revisit the project.
Fundraising continued before construction began in July 2024.
Te Awamutu-based firm Waikato Construction Management Limited were tasked with the construction.
“It’s a great milestone to bring this build from design and planning through to completion,” WCML owner Trina White said.
Miller said feedback on the design and colour scheme of the building had been very favourable.
We look forward to the community hiring and using the facility. It’s not a church building – church services will be held in the auditorium on Sundays – but it’s a place the whole community can use.”
The first church service in the new centre will be held on Palm Sunday, April 13, at 10am. There will be a ceremonial opening in May.
The $3.3 million centre is now ready for use. Photo: Jesse Wood
