Two Into One – compiled by Jean D.Turvey

Page 1 Two Into One – compiled by Jean D.Turvey

Page 2 Two Into One – compiled by Jean D.Turvey Published by Kaiapoi Co-operating Parish 53 Fuller Street Kaiapoi Email - [email protected] ISBN 0-476-00222-2 ©Copyright Kaiapoi Co-operating Parish, February 2004 Printed by Wickliffe Print 482 Moorhouse Avenue Christchurch

PREFACE This is a story of three parishes - one Methodist, one Presbyterian, and one Co- operating - worshiping and witnessing in Kaiapoi in three different centuries. It starts with pioneer settlers in a small village half a world away from their homes. It ends - at least this part of the story does - in a burgeoning satellite town. Letters and news originally took months to arrive. Now they are as instant as emails and television. However, through the dramatic changes of the last 150 years runs the common thread of faith. This is a story which needs to be read twice. The first time, read what Jean Turvey has written. In any history there are those people who stand out because of their leadership, strong personalities, or eccentricities. Ministers loom large, simply because they are involved in most aspects of parish life. Buildings feature, because they provide a focal point for congregational life. The second reading of this history is more difficult. You need to read between the lines, to focus on what is not written. The unrecorded history of these three parishes is just as vital as the narration of obvious events and personalities. It consists of people whose names are unknown, but who worshipped faithfully and gave life to these local churches. They were members of women’s groups, singers in the choir, Sunday School pupils or teachers, welcomers at the door. They lived out their faith with their families, in the mills and businesses, and in the organisations of Kaiapoi. This book offers just the first chapters of our history. We write the next chapters as we worship and serve God in the future. Barry Harkness

Page 3 Two Into One – compiled by Jean D.Turvey

Page 4 Two Into One – compiled by Jean D.Turvey CONTENTS Introduction Kaiapoi Co-operating Parish • Chronology • Parish history • Ministers Methodist Parish • Chronology • Parish history • Ministers St. Paul’s Presbyterian Parish • Chronology • Parish history • Ministers Choirs Christian Education Girls’ and Boys’ Brigades Groups In Memoriam Organs Parish Craft Shop People Swannanoa, Ohoka, Eyreton and Clarkville Churches This and that Appendices • Parish Councillors • Circuit Stewards • Elders • Glossary • Bibliography Author’s note on the Earthquake Damage.

Page 5 Two Into One – compiled by Jean D.Turvey INTRODUCTION The history of the Methodist, Presbyterian and Co-operating Parishes in Kaiapoi, is also a history of the Kaiapoi area itself. Although Canterbury was planned to be an Anglican settlement, Methodists and Presbyterian settlers were also drawn to the Kaiapoi area because of the river port and the fertile farm land. Some of the first class meetings’ of Methodists outside of Christchurch, were held in Kaiapoi. Later Kaiapoi became the base for a much wider Circuit to the north and west. Likewise, Kaiapoi was the base for Presbyterians living in North Canterbury. After the Woollen Mill was established in the 1870s a recruitment drive for skilled workers resulted in many Methodists and Presbyterians coming to Kaiapoi. Mr. George Blackwell, one of the founding directors of the mill, was proud that the immigrants provided the district with not only excellent workers, but folk who went on to become community leaders. Pauline Wood in her history of Kaiapoi noted that “these people gave the town an atmosphere unlike any other settlement in Canterbury. The enthusiasm for rowing, the affection for brass band music and the non-conformist beliefs already present in the town were strengthened by the north of England origins of these new inhabitants.” Kaiapoi, once a small industrial centre has become a bedroom community of 10,000 people who work mainly in Christchurch. The Parish has had to change to reflect this. We have moved from minutes kept in copperplate handwriting to word processed copies, and newsletters compiled using desktop publishing. E-mail is the means of communication. The tracing of a parish history is relatively easy for its buildings, the coming and goings of clergy, and the names of its office bearers, but it is the people in the past, and at the present time, who make up the parish. What cannot be adequately conveyed in this history is the vitality of life and fellowship, a life that is best experienced, rather than read about. There are many worthy and dedicated people who have contributed to the life and mission of these parishes who I have not mentioned. Some minute books are missing, and the time to research everything was not possible. My apologies to them or their descendants for any omissions. Acknowledgements I wish to acknowledge the help of Elaine Bolitho, David Blackwell, Gavin Gray, Barry Harkness, Rita Hewson, Bill Inglis, Nola Johnstone, John McKenzie, Fred and Sheila Pinkham, Betty Tindall, Betty Williams, Marcia Baker of Methodist Archives, the staff of the New Zealand room at Christchurch City Library, Pam Mackintosh at Rangiora Museum, the Kaiapoi District Historical Society, and Zane Purdom of Business Resources Ltd, Rangiora. Thanks also to the PAC Media Fund and other subscribers for their assistance. Jean D. Turvey Page 6 Two Into One – compiled by Jean D.Turvey KAIAPOI CO-OPERATING PARISH - CHRONOLOGY 1979 Inauguration service of the combined parish held on Sunday 4th February, 1979. The Rev. Tony Bell, appointed by the Methodist Conference, was inducted. Parish Craft Centre opened in September. The weekly newsletter ‘Korero’ commenced. 1980 On 3rd February, the first anniversary of the Co-operating Parish was celebrated. The Rev. R. Rogers, the parish’s liaison officer from the Joint Regional Committee was the preacher. The first edition of the newsletter ‘The Messenger’ was distributed, with the aim of communicating in particular with those in the parish who did not attend services regularly. 1982 The stained glass window was dedicated at a service on 7th March. The Rev. Roger Herft conducted a programme designed to help parishes find a fresh understanding to Evangelism. 1984 In October, a service was held to celebrate the 50th Anniversary of the laying of the foundation stone of the Wesley Centre Church. 1985 The 50th Anniversary of the opening of the church was held on Sunday 10 February. New Church House in Otaki Street purchased. The Manse in Sewell Street, the Ohoka Church and the section in Fuller Street sold. A Stewardship programme ‘Vision ‘85’, led by Stewart Collis was held. 1989 A farewell service for Tony, Colleen, Jennifer and Cohn Bell, followed by lunch was held on 5th January. The Rev. Errol Hildreth, a Presbyterian minister, inducted on 16th November. 1990 The Parish joined with the other Kaiapoi Churches to hold a Community Service in the Kaiapoi High School Auditorium to celebrate New Zealand’s 150th Anniversary. 1994 The Rev. Hildreth retired early for health reasons. 1995 The Rev. Brian Metherell, also a Presbyterian minister, conducted his first service in March. He was at first ‘Stated Supply’ but was inducted later in the year. 1996 St. Paul’s Centre sold to the Waimakariri District Council for use as a community facility. In November a final service was held there attended by a large congregation and visitors.

Page 7 Two Into One – compiled by Jean D.Turvey 1997 The Rev. Metherell retired at the end of the year. 1998 Rev. Barry Harkness inducted in February. The Parish Craft Centre closed in March. 1999 The 20th year of the Co-operating Parish was celebrated. 2000 A monthly evening service commenced. 2001 A committee was formed under the leadership of Margaret Topp, to plan the extensions to the Wesley Lounge. 2002 The extensions were opened on Saturday the 9th March. Several speakers spoke on the theme of “The church as people” 2003 Monthly evening service discontinued. 2004 The 25th year of the Co-operating Parish celebrated, together with about 150 years of the parent churches, Methodist and Presbyterian, in the town of Kaiapoi.

Page 8 Two Into One – compiled by Jean D.Turvey KAIAPOI CO-OPERATING PARISH Background The first union parish in New Zealand was at Raglan in 1943. Since then there have been many changes, both in name and direction, but the concept is spreading throughout New Zealand. The Church Union movement in New Zealand has had a long and tortuous history commencing with the first Presbyterian proposal to the Methodist and Congregational Churches in 1902. It was raised intermittently over the years. A Church Union Committee was appointed in 1930 ‘to ascertain the mind of the Church on this matter’, and the first tentative possibility of including Anglicans raised. Following a ballot by the Presbyterians in 1933, 147 sessions were in favour of negotiations with Methodists and Congregationalists, and 48 against. It was agreed that the opposition and indifference to union was too great. Faced with the uncertainty of war, the Methodist Conference of 1939 called ‘for an emphatic assertion of Brotherhood in Christ which transcends all difference of Race and Nation’ and indicated that it was open to negotiations with Congregational and Presbyterian Churches. In 1971 a plan for union to form the Church of Christ in New Zealand involving the Associated Churches of Christ, the Anglican Church, the Congregational Union, the Methodist Church and the Presbyterian Church, was put to the vote but was not endorsed strongly enough to proceed. However, co-operative ventures continue to be formed. The Forum of Co-operating Ventures (now the United Congregations of Aotearoa New Zealand) and Joint Regional Committees provide the umbrella under which the vision of the earlier years remain. The Kaiapoi Circuit Quarterly Meeting and the Session of St. Paul’s discussed the question of forming a joint parish several times over the next few years. A co- operating venture becoming a reality, commenced when a representative committee comprising seven Methodists and seven Presbyterians began meeting in September 1977. A brochure was produced outlining a plan to pool resources, people power, buildings and finances. Voting by a large majority was in favour of forming a co- operative venture. Settling in of new venture The culmination of the efforts by the combined committee, and their parent churches, resulted in the Inauguration Service being held on Sunday 4th February, 1979. The Rev. R. H. Allen, Chairman of the North Canterbury Methodist District, and Mr. L. G. Parke, Moderator of the Presbytery of Christchurch were present. The preacher was the Rev. W. I. Bacon. The Rev. Tony Bell, appointed by the Methodist Conference, was inducted.

Page 9 Two Into One – compiled by Jean D.Turvey The first Parish Council was formed with ten representatives from each denomination. They were: Alan Baines, Evelyn Bannan, Catherine Blackburn, Lloyd Cleland, Hugh Diver, Garven Eggleston, Marion Eggleston, John Farquhar, Rita Hewson, David Johnson, Jillian Johnson, Evan McGregor, Audrie McKenzie, John McKenzie, Serv. Moore, Fred Pinkham, Betty Poultney, S. L. Stephens, Linda Stone, and Betty Tindall. Lloyd Cleland was appointed the first Secretary. Rita Hewson (Methodist) and Evan McGregor (Presbyterian) were Joint Treasurers while their respective parish finances were incorporated into the Co-operating Parish account. Rita took over as sole Treasurer at a later date and is still in the position. In the wider sphere of the Church, the Parish was represented on the North Canterbury Methodist Synod by John Mckenzie, and the Presbytery of Christchurch by Lloyd Cleland. All concerned were involved in developing the new Parish in a spirit of true Christian unity. During that first year substantial progress was made towards that goal. Services of worship were held at 10 a. m. and 7 p. m. each Sunday, the latter being held in the lounge during the winter months. At Swannanoa a service was held at 11 a.m. on the second Sunday of the month, the service at the Wesley Centre being concluded by a lay preacher to allow Rev. Bell to attend. It was decided that Communion Services be held monthly. A good deal of time was spent exploring alternative forms and practices for this important aspect of Christian Worship. The Manse in Sewell Street remained the residence of the minister, while a flat at the back of the Parsonage was occupied by tenants. The rest of the Parsonage was used for Christian Education classes and a creche, while Wesley Lounge was for Christian Education and meetings for both church and public groups. At St. Paul’s Centre two rooms were used for a minister’s study and Church Office. The office was supervised in the mornings by a group of ladies who supplied clerical and other assistance. As well as use by the Bible Class on Friday evenings, the Centre was used by other church groups and a number of public and private organisations. In the report by the Visitation Committee at the end of 1980 on the matter of the mission of the Parish, ‘the congregation saw as its main task that of nurturing the fellowship of the worshipping community and reaching out to the fringe people beyond. It inherited what was described as “a slow sinking situation’ but they had in their brief history, achieved a greater stability”. Finances In these early years with ever present inflation, the Finance Committee had the continuing task of ensuring that income was sufficient to meet the expenses of running the Parish. It became evident to the Property and Development Committee, that the burden of maintenance of so much property was very considerable, especially when the funds required were limited.

Page 10 Two Into One – compiled by Jean D.Turvey The task was considerably lessened with the improvement in finances consequent upon the Planned Giving Programme conducted in March 1982 with Rev. Bill Vinten as Director. Evangelism Also in 1982, Rev. Roger Herft of Sri Lanka visited to conduct a programme designed to help find a fresh understanding to evangelism within the Parish. As part of this work Rev. Bell attended a School for Evangelism and a House Group began meeting. Community Social Workers Early in 1982 Miss Marilyn Mehrtens and Mrs Daphne van der Meys came to the Parish as Community Social Workers. Miss Mehrtens was concerned mainly with low income people and grief support. The work with the low income people involved craft and job skills training and support, and in addition, activities to encourage communication with others, and personal growth. A small Grief Support group was formed to assist the bereaved in their adjustment to their changed circumstances. Mrs. van der Meys main involvement was working in the community to assist individuals and groups with particular problems. Both workers were involved with the Friday Fun evenings with youth groups and they organised the school holiday programmes. As they were employed for just one year the aim was to set up the groups and programmes to operate independently on the termination of their employment. Community Youth Advisor In 1983 the idea was mooted that the Parsonage be let at a nominal rent to a family who would devote specified time to the youth of the parish. Mike Gilligan’s involvement with youth developed on many levels and his wife Karen was involved within the Sunday School. During Mr. Gilligan’s tenure of this position the Parish Council heard very favourable reports of his work in the community. Young people in youth groups, in the schools, and on the streets came under his care and influence. His brand of caring was witnessed by parents, teachers and police officers. S.T.E.P.S. Programme At the end of 1984 the Parish was approached by the Labour Department to set up a S.T.E.P.S. (School Leavers Training and Employment Preparation Scheme) in Kaiapoi. The six week courses were spent on life skills, communication, self esteem, cooking, personal care, and outdoor recreation programmes. Marilyn Mehrtens was Supervisor with Mike Gilligan leading the recreation training. The project was 100% funded by the Labour Department and had a benefit to the Parish as well as the trainees.

Page 11 Two Into One – compiled by Jean D.Turvey These programmes, after a trial basis, were such a success with many of the trainees finding employment or going on to specific job skills training, that they continued for several years. The name of the programmes changed but the aim was the same. The Parish gave personal and financial support. Linsey Burgess was involved assisting the leaders with the finances of the programme. Mavis McKenzie was a listening ear at the Church Office, while Jill Bell-Neal dealt with the clerical work. Tony Bell worked hard, with often outspoken, but obvious support, to provide the leadership for such a programme to be successful. In February 1989 the decision was made to stop these programmes because of changes to Government Policy. The involvement of the Parish in this outreach work showed to the wider community the practical Christian love and concern of parishioners for other people in society. Stewardship Campaign - Vision ‘85 Under the able directorship of Mr. Stewart Collis, an intensive campaign was organised. The programme was extensive and far outreaching, the general quality was good, especially the house meetings, which proved excellent forums at which all manner of concerns were raised. Participants were able to take a good look at what it costs to do the work of the Church, think about priorities, enjoy some fellowship, and even air some frustrations. Results of the campaign were gratifying - not only in terms of increased giving. The Parish and the team of workers were congratulated by Rev. Bell and Mr. Collis on their efforts. New Church House Prior to the Co-operating Parish being formed, St. Paul’s Parish purchased the house at 17 Sewell Street as a temporary Manse leading to upgrading the minister’s housing. This upgrade did not occur. Also the Methodist Parish had problems with the Parsonage as it was a cold house and the roof needed attention. In 1980 the Visitation Committee drew attention to the shortcomings of the Manse and this was again raised in 1984 by another Visitation. It was made clear then that Presbytery would not let the Parish move to call another minister until the housing was up to standard. Plans had begun to alter the Manse. Even at the early planning stage it was apparent that the required alteration would be expensive, so costing was done to see if building new would be a better alternative. In July 1985, the house at 72 Otaki Street was offered to the Parish by the owners who were moving. After checking a valuation report it was realised that the purchase price of $128,000 was less that the cost to build new. All relevant committees of both

Page 12 Two Into One – compiled by Jean D.Turvey Presbyterian and Methodist Churches fully approved the purchase and actively helped and encouraged the Parish. To provide the finance for the purchase, the Ohoka Church property, the section in Fuller Street (previously the Sunday School Hall site) and the Sewell Street Manse were sold. A dedication of the new residence was held on 17 November 1985. Rev. Ian McBride (Moderator of Presbytery) and Rev. Albert Grundy (District Superintendent) attended. Farewell to Rev. Bell January 5th 1989 a farewell service for Tony. Colleen, Jennifer and Cohn Bell was held, followed by lunch. His 10 year term had ended. The Parish was well served by Tony who had the daunting responsibility of getting the cooperating venture off to a good start His contribution to the wider community, especially his efforts in obtaining a permanent Community Worker appointed for Kaiapoi was much appreciated. Vacancy year 1989 Being without a minister for most of 1989 was made easier by having the Rev. Cohn Hay as Interim Moderator. Rev. Hay reported that “it has been gratifying to see how the pastoral work has continued and has been exercised in a most faithful and proficient manner by your team of dedicated members. Numbers attending worship have remained constant and the Parish has obviously continued in its work with enthusiasm and purpose.” Margaret Cleland, Bessie Stewart and Diane Murray carried out hospital and other visiting. The Parish Council were most appreciative of the encouragement and the message brought to the Parish by the visiting Preachers both Lay and Ministerial. John McKenzie undertook the task of arranging the Preachers Sunday by Sunday. Parsonage Roof A big item of maintenance to church property was the re-roofing of the Parsonage at a cost of $13,000. With the building now more weatherproof, the decision was made to relocate the Parish Craft Shop to the Parsonage. Rev. Errol Hildreth Following Presbyterian procedure, a call was made and accepted by Errol Hildreth. He was inducted at a service on 16th November 1989. The Christmas Social in December doubled as a welcome to Errol and Barbara. The Parish Council was delighted with his approach and his ideas for the Parish and its future. In his report to the Annual Meeting of 1990, Rev. Hildreth noted that “the Parish sustained the vacancy in the Pastorate very well, in fact benefited from it. A strong spirit of unity and expectation was obvious on his arrival.”

Page 13 Two Into One – compiled by Jean D.Turvey The following years of Errol’s ministry were challenging as well as rewarding. The Kaiapoi Community experienced a number of changes, as well as population growth and housing development. Increasing demands were made to answer crisis requests from the Parish Food Bank and Emergency Relief Fund. Pastoral need and counselling demands increased. Against this backdrop, continuing loyalty and personal involvement within the life of the Church brought encouragement. In 1991 the official Visitation by members of J.R.C., gave a sympathetic and supportive report. A Giving Review, led by Robert Fenwick, brought the Parish some way toward financial viability, always a continuing concern. The following year, finances were maintained at the expense of not meeting the wider work commitments of the parent churches. Sadly, Rev. Hildreth retired for health reasons before his term had expired. A farewell for Errol and Barbara was held at the morning service of 13 November 1994, followed by morning tea. The Parish Council expressed its sincere thanks to both Errol and Barbara for their faithful and caring work during their five years of ministry within the Parish. Rev. Brian Metherell At the time of Errol’s retirement Mr. Ross Lawn of the JRC presided over a meeting of Parish Council to outline the possibilities open to the Parish in respect of the vacancy. Option one was to continue under the Presbyterian Church for the remaining 2 years of Errol’s term. Presbytery would assume responsibility for the appointment of ‘stated supply.’ The other option was to opt to change back to Methodist oversight, even though the Presbyterian term had not been fully used. However because a Methodist appointment required action by March of one year to ensure an appointment for the following February, the Parish would be without a resident Minister for over a year. It was resolved to recommend to a Parish Meeting “That we ask for stated supply for one year with the option to continue the same for a further year.” Rev. D. R. (Bob) Reid of the Rangiora Presbyterian Parish was appointed temporary Moderator. The outcome was that Rev. Brian Metherell was invited as stated supply for initially one year. He started at a Service on 19 March 1995 followed by a pot-luck lunch to meet parishioners. Later in the year a formal Call was extended to Rev. Metherell for a term ending in December 1997, coinciding with Brian’s previous intention of retiring from the Ministry at that time. Brian instituted the practice of having the Bible carried in prior to the Minister at services, to emphasis that the Minister is a Servant of the Word, and under its authority.

Page 14 Two Into One – compiled by Jean D.Turvey He also enjoyed being back in a congregation that had a choir willing to tackle hymns other than those sung for the previous 50 years. Sale of St. Paul’s Centre One of Brian’s concerns on coming to the Parish was that of having two centres in Kaiapoi - Wesley and St. Paul’s. The site of the two properties on opposite sides of the river caused a divided witness. Parish officers could be seen as poor stewards of resources. Thus the Parish Council asked the congregation at the 1995 Annual Meeting for permission to investigate the possible sale of St. Paul’s Centre. Permission was received from the parent churches and congregation to sell. Tenders were called and that of the Waimakariri District Council for $215,000 was accepted. Everyone expressed relief and pleasure that St. Paul’s would remain as a Community facility. Before the District Council took possession at the end of November 1996, a final service was held there, attended by a large congregation and visitors. Guests spoke on their reminiscences of the fund raising undertaken to have St. Paul’s built, and all the subsequent activities held in the building. The Moderator of Presbytery, Hamish Galloway wrote expressing good wishes. Presbytery realised that the building had been a significant part of the Parish for many years and that those in the Parish of a long standing Presbyterian background would find the sale tinged with sadness. Clearly the sale also looked to the future, and the best use of resources for God’s Mission in Kaiapoi. The transfer of everything to the Wesley Centre was a mammoth task. Fred Pinkham, Peter Nicholas, Dennis Fraser, Evan McGregor, Kathleen Campbell and many others put in hours beyond counting. There was cleaning to be done and a garage to shift. As Rev. Metherell said in his report to the Annual Meeting that it would be foolish to suggest that there was no tension on the way. Fitting everything in the space available was not easily resolved. The Parish Council spent many hours debating this. The foundation stone of St. Paul’s was replanted on the Wesley site. Jack and Diane Murray unveiled an appropriately inscribed plaque at a special ceremony. In 1967 Jack had placed the stone in its original position at St. Paul’s. End of Rev. Metherell’s Ministry At the end of 1997 Brian ended 40 years of what was for him, hard, intensive, but deeply satisfying work - 7 years as a student and 33 years in Parish Ministry. A Choral Service and pot luck lunch was held on the 21st December 1977 to farewell Brian and Christine and to wish them well in retirement.

Page 15 Two Into One – compiled by Jean D.Turvey Parish profile At the time of preparing the Parish profile in 1997, the Roll stood at 82 members, 350 families on the Pastoral Roll, 15 children (Pre-school - Form II) enrolled at Sunday School, no Youth Group functioning, and one Study Group. Average size of congregations was 56. The approximate percentage age of parishioners was - under 50 years, 22% and over 50 years, 78%. Rev. Barry Harkness The Stationing Committee of the Methodist Church suggested Rev. Barry Harkness as Minister from 1998. He met with the Parish Council, representatives of parent churches and others, with the outcome that Barry became Minister, working five- sixth’s time. His induction service was held on Wednesday the 4th February, 1998. After a service in the Church, people met in the Lounge. Barry was welcomed by Arthur Taylor, Chairman of the J.R.C., and Rev. Peter Axcell on behalf of the Kaiapoi Ministers. Supper and a time of fellowship was then enjoyed by everyone. As Barry did not require accommodation, the Church House was let. It was decided about this time to close the Craft Shop in the Parsonage. The Parish Council regretted this, but space was needed for the Parish Office. Repairs and Maintenance A major work in 1999 was the re-roofing of the Church and Wesley Centre. This was done not too soon, as water was getting in, but no real damage had occurred. The original wooden shingles were replaced by a modern product. A generous bequest from Nancy Hills enabled this work to be done. Building Extensions to Wesley Lounge From the beginning of the Co-operating Parish, the size of the Wesley Lounge limited the functions that could be held there. St. Paul’s was used for many gatherings, but its situation on the other side of town precluded it from being used for funerals and other after church meetings. After St. Paul’s was sold, the position was exacerbated. The decision was made to proceed with what had originally been planned when the Wesley Lounge was built. That the extension was needed reflected the fact that the parish was enjoying a slow but steady growth in numbers. Margaret Topp headed the Building Committee. After consultation with building experts and the congregation, plans were drawn up. The architect was Tim Goodwin. Progress was slow with planning permission required from the parent churches and the District Council, but eventually tenders were called. In conjunction with building the extension, the tower at the front of the church was repaired. Water had been

Page 16 Two Into One – compiled by Jean D.Turvey seeping in for a number of years causing the reinforcing to rust and expand, thus breaking off chunks of concrete. Finance for the project was from a Community Trust grant of $40,000, the Statham Trust, some of the proceeds from the sale of St. Paul’s, the sale of the section at Eyreton where the church had been, and the realisation of some legacy investments. The total, including fees, building, and floor coverings was about $225,000. The opening was held on Saturday, March 9 2002. After a short service in the Church, the congregation moved to encircle the whole complex. In recognition of her efforts as Convenor of the Building Committee, Margaret Topp cut the ribbon. The theme of the opening was that “the Church is not buildings, it is people”. Invited guests each spoke on an aspect of people and the Church. Parish Secretaries Special mention must be made of the outstanding work of the first Secretary of the Co-operating Parish, Mr. A. Lloyd Cleland. Through his meticulous attention to detail .and record keeping, the new venture got off to a good start. Mr. Cleland was followed by the late Linda Stone until her resignation in 1985. For the next eight or so years John and Mavis McKenzie were Joint Secretaries until their resignation after John’s illness while away on Synod business in the North Island. The Parish Council recorded “special thanks for work well done and the best wishes and prayers for John’s future health.” Mr Gavin Gray, previously a Session Clerk at St. Paul’s for many years, agreed to take on the position as an interim measure. During his year in office he re-organised the committees to facilitate Parish Council work, with the aim of having smaller more active committees. After Mr. Gray, Marion Eggleston continued in the position for about six years until her retirement from Parish Council. Nola Johnstone was appointed in 2000 and continues in the position. Parish Office Several people have given their time at the parish office, situated at first at St. Paul’s Centre, where Mavis McKenzie gave valuable assistance. In recent years Rita Hewson has assisted at the office in the Parsonage. Paula Capstick has helped produce the weekly ‘Korero’ for a number of years. J.R.C. and Negotiating Churches Unity Council. The Joint Regional Committee - Rev. Ro Rogers was the liaison person at the beginning of the co-operating venture. The Parish Council recorded their gratitude to Ro for all the help that he had provided during those first years. The other liaison

Page 17 Two Into One – compiled by Jean D.Turvey persons since Ro have been: - Rev. Helen Wallis, Ross Lawn, and to the present, Ada Smith. We have been represented on the N.C.U.C. Mavis McKenzie was appointed as one of two representatives of co-operating ventures in the top of the South Island. Fred Pinkham is at present on the local J.R.C.

The Congregation 14/12/2003

The Choir 14/12/2003

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The Parish Council 2003-2004 Back Row: Rev B. Harkness, F. Pinkham, R. Lambert, A Thomson (partially obscured), J.Cole, R. Hewson Front: M.Groocock, J.Mawson, N.Johnstone, C Blackburn, C.Steere, A.Hulston.

Junior Church Service 14/12/2003 Page 19 Two Into One – compiled by Jean D.Turvey 2004 The forming of the co-operating venture may have been from a ‘slow sinking situation’ of the Presbyterian and Methodist Parishes, but the coming together of resources and people has resulted in a parish of strength. The present Parish Council members are Catherine Blackburn, John Cole, Mike Groocock, Rita Hewson, Ann Huiston, Nola Johnstone, Dick Lambert, Joan Mawson, Fred Pinkham, Cynthia Steere, and Andrew Thomson. The roll at present stands at approximately 70 members, with 119 families under pastoral care. 24 children are on the roll of the Children’s Church, under the enthusiastic leadership of Kathleen Campbell. An average of around 16 young people attend youth activities ably led by a creative young couple - Stephen and Melanie Ede. Groups continue to play a worthwhile part in parish activities. Women’s Fellowship continues as it has for over 100 years, a Women’s group meets for friendship and outings, likewise a Senior Men’s Group. As part of the parish’s outreach to the community, Kathleen Campbell co-ordinates a craft group, and a holiday programme for children. A monthly coffee morning is held for older women who are in rest homes or live alone. They are brought to the Wesley Lounge for a get-together and a laugh. As Tony Bell reported after the first ten years of the Co-operating Parish, the task at the start was to ensure the co-operating venture became a viable Parish. This has been well and truly achieved with the help, skills and gifts of many people. Our Parish has also made a significant contribution in our community. Sometimes too, it has been easy to get slightly depressed or frustrated about things, especially those not able to be achieved.” As emphasised at the opening of the extensions to the Wesley Centre: - the Church is people who meet God; the Church is people of faith; the Church is people who follow Jesus; the Church is people who are thankful to God. the Church is people who work; the Church is people who care for those in crisis; the Church is people who reach overseas; the Church is people who journey together.

Page 20 Two Into One – compiled by Jean D.Turvey MINISTERS OF THE CO-OPERATING PARISH Bell, A. N. Rev. Tony Bell had the daunting task of getting the new co-operating venture off the ground as well as establishing his own ministry in the parish. Born 1944 in Lower Hutt, he trained as a telephone technician, starting at Hawera. He transferred to Wellington and went into installations and later maintenance of PABXs. When the manufacturing of PABXs began in New Zealand, he became the production supervisor and chief test technician. He contended that the supervision of a large number of female employees served him in good stead when he later took up pastoral duties. After training, his first appointment was at the Cambridge Union Parish, followed by the Ashburton Methodist Circuit. Next was the Kaiapoi appointment. He left Kaiapoi after ten years for the Matamata Union Patish (Methodist/Church of Christ), then Avondale Union Parish where he was responsible for the English Speaking Fellowships. While at Avondale, Waterview Methodist Church was added to his list. His next appointment was to Gisborne as a Parish Superintendent and Joint Presidential Commissioner with his wife Deaconess Shirley-Joy Barrow, working in transitional ministry. Tony is remembered for his involvement in the wider community of Kaiapoi. The work he put in to have a much needed Community Development worker in Kaiapoi took five years from the first discussions, to the appointment. He led the way in many other community programmes, served on committees, and with his son Cohn was a strong supporter of the BMX Club, helping to set it up. Hildreth, E. A. Errol Athol Hildreth was ordained in 1957 in the Baptist Church. During his ministry he served with the Leprosy Mission and the Bible Society. In 1982 he was received by the Presbyterian Assembly, serving as Stated Supply at Heriot. In 1983 he was inducted in the parish of Waikouaiti. Errol was called to Kaiapoi and inducted on 16 November, 1989. Retired due to ill-health in 1994. Appointed a Minister Emeritus 30.11.1994. Metherell, B. Brian Metherell was born at Rangiora in 1934. Worked as a farmhand and freezing worker in Southland prior to training for the ministry at Otago University and Knox Theological Hall. He was ordained at Murupara-Galatea Parish 3.12.1964. Other charges were at Pio Pio, Knox-St. Mark’s Wanganui, Eveline Oamaru, and Mackenzie Co-op Parish at Fairhie. Page 21 Two Into One – compiled by Jean D.Turvey Rev. Metherell began in Kaiapoi in 1995 as Stated Supply following Rev. Hihdreth’s retirement. Accepted a call to the parish and remained until his retirement at the end of 1997. Minister Emeritus January 1998. Harkness, B. Barry was born in Dunedin in 1943. After attending university he was an importing clerk before training for the ministry. His first appointment was at the Wanganui North Methodist Parish in 1969. From 1971 to 1976 he was at the St. Albans Methodist (Edgeware Road/Aldred), Parish. During 1977 he had time out from parish work and became a labourer/driver. South East Christchurch Union Parish (Linwood Avenue) was his next appointment from 1978 to 1987, followed by Halswell Union 1988 to 1997. He commenced his time at Kaiapoi in February 1998. In March 2002 the Joint Regional Committee and the Parish Council agreed that he should have a further five year’s ministry in Kaiapoi. The Parish Council and congregation feel extremely fortunate and grateful that Barry chose to come to us, and appreciates all the good work that he continues to carry out. Barry has contributed at different times to the wider work of the church, namely serving as a Methodist representative on the Executive of the Conference of Churches, a member of the Justice, Peace and Service Programme committee, Ministry candidates convenor for the Methodist Synod and chairing the Journey’s End Campsite committee.

Page 22 Two Into One – compiled by Jean D.Turvey METHODIST CHRONOLOGY 1853 Rev. John Aldred formally appointed to Canterbury, arriving in March 1854. 1855 Rev. Aldred reported “that there are now several church members at Kaiapoi and that that village needed more attention.” 1856 The first Methodist service was held during a snowstorm on 12 August 1856, in James Baker’s house. Kaiapoi became part of the High Street Christchurch Circuit. 1858 The building of a chapel was commenced using timber cut by James Baker. Until 1868 Kaiapoi was served by preachers who came out from Christchurch. Rev. Aldred was followed as Superintendent of the Christchurch Circuit by the Rev. James Buller. He was succeeded by Rev. T. Buddle, followed by the Rev. William Cannell in the years 1864 to 1866. Cannell was followed by the ministry of the Rev. G. S. Harper from 1866 to 1868. 1860 The first Wesleyan Chapel on a site in Fuller Street to the west of the present building, was opened on Easter Day 1860. 1864 The first marriage ceremony recorded was that of Richard Allen and Emily Martha Ellen, at the residence of Mr. G. Ellen, on 26 December 1864. 1868 Kaiapoi became a separate Circuit, the same year Kaiapoi became a Borough. It was also the year of a major flood which covered most of the area between the Ashley and Waimakariri Rivers. The Circuit was a large one, comprising Kaiapoi, Rangiora, Woodend, Waikuku, Southbrook, West Eyreton, Cust, Coutts Island, Leithfield, Raithby (Loburn), Ashley Downs, Mandeville Plains and Rangiora Bush (Southbrook). Of note is that the first candidate nominated for the Wesleyan ministry from the Kaiapoi Circuit, was William Keall. A Parsonage was erected for the Rev. Richardson. An interesting Marriage Registry entry for 1868 was for George Henry Blackwell and Anne Shearsby. 1869 Rev. W. Beck appointed to assist in the Circuit. 1870 Rev. R. S. Bunn came and he worked the outlying areas. A new church was erected on the site of the present Wesley Centre, with the original used as a Sunday School. 1871 At a meeting in October, a move was made by Kaiapoi laymen to separate the New Zealand Methodist Church from the Australian Conference. Conference had selected a minister for Kaiapoi whose appointment was felt to be “prejudicial to the interest of the church.” Later when the Rev. W. Beck left Kaiapoi, the Circuit officials got their way and their preferred man, the Rev. R. Bavin became the new minister. Page 23 Two Into One – compiled by Jean D.Turvey A proposal was made to establish a Methodist Cemetery in Kaiapoi, but this never eventuated. 1872 Rev. T. F. Reeve replaced the Rev. Bunn. 1873 At a meeting in September, presided over by the Chairman of the District, the Rev. James Buller, it was resolved to divide the Circuit in two, creating a new Circuit at Rangiora. Kaiapoi Circuit now included Coutts Island, Mandeville and East Eyreton. A church was opened at Swannanoa debt free. The Rev. Bavin was now the Superintendent of the Circuit with the Rev. H. Bull as second minister. 1874 The reduced Circuit saw the budget balanced. There were 84 members. 1875 The Rev. Bavin relinquished his Superintendency and was followed by the Rev. W. H. Beck who remained until 1878. A church was opened at East Eyreton, also debt free. 1876 This was the year that Mr. G. H. Blackwell was elected as lay representative to Conference. 1877 Kaiapoi Church extended. Mandeville was handed over to the care of the Rangiora Circuit, and a move made to also annex the Ohoka Society to Rangiora but Kaiapoi did not agree. The membership had declined to 53. 1878 Rev. J. Armitage appointed to Kaiapoi. 1879 Pipe organ built by Edgar Jenkins was installed. 1881 Rev. J. H. Simmonds came to the Circuit. 1882 Sunday School Hall built on the site of the first church building in Fuller Street. 1884 Rev. J. H. Luxford succeeded the Rev. Simmonds. The membership was now 129 members, 237 Sunday School pupils and 23 teachers. 1886 An enlarged Circuit now comprised Kaiapoi, Clarkville, Coutts Island, Woodend, Sefton, Waikuku, Leithfield, Amberley, East Eyreton, Swan nanoa and Mandeville. The Rev. J. T. Pinfold was the minister based at Woodend. 1887 Rev. P. W. Fairclough became the Superintendent Minister. 1889 The Circuit was reduced to Kaiapoi, Clarkville, Coutts Island and East Eyreton. Woodend and all places north formed the new Woodend Circuit. 1890 Rev. George Bond came to the Circuit. 1891 The Bible Christians joined with the Wesleyans. Their building, known as the North Kaiapoi Church was shifted to Clarkville. Mr. R. Coup resigned after 15 years as Secretary of the Trust. Page 24 Two Into One – compiled by Jean D.Turvey 1893 Rev. J. Smalley began his term. 1895 At the Conference of 1895, the Wesleyan Methodist Church of New Zealand, the United Methodist Free Church, and the Bible Christians united, becoming the Wesleyan Methodist Church. Rev. Fairclough appointed for a second term. 1897 The Circuit was again enlarged, with the addition of Swannanoa, Ohoka, Belfast and Marshlands. 1899 Rev. John Orchard appointed. 1901 An earthquake caused the Parsonage chimneys to come down. 1902 Rev. John Dukes appointed. 1905 Rev. H. E. Bellhouse. The Circuit was reduced, with Marshlands and Belfast added to the City Circuit. 1906 The first fifty years celebrated with a Jubilee Anniversary Tea and Concert sponsored by the Sunday School. G. H. Blackwell, R. Coup and W. Weston gave short reminiscences. 1907 Rev. T. Trestrail. 1909 Rev. C. Roberts joined the Circuit, stationed at Ohoka. 1910 Rev. A. Mitchell. 1911 Rev. H. Orchard replaced Rev. Roberts at Ohoka. 1913 Circuit divided to only Kaiapoi, Coutts Island and Clarkville. The death recorded of Joseph Stanton, who was a Trustee for over 40 years. 1914 Rev. P. W. Fairclough returned for a third term. 1915 At the January Quarterly Meeting, the death of Mr. G. H. Blackwell was recorded. 1917 Rev. Fairciough died after an operation. The Circuit was supervised while without a resident minister by the Chairman of the District, the Rev. A. C. Lawry. Deaconess Sister Constance was the interim appointment until the Rev. W. Ready was invited. 1920 Rev. W. B. Scott succeeded the Rev. Ready. The first move to erect a new church was made. A telephone was installed in the Parsonage, with the Minister paying half the rental. 1921 The death of Mr. Richard Evans was recorded. 1925 Rev. W. G. Slade. Two long standing church officers resigned in this year. Mr. Fred Thorne, Secretary of the Trust since 1904, and Mr. W. E. Bate. Treasurer for seventeen years. Page 25 Two Into One – compiled by Jean D.Turvey 1928 Further progress was made for a new church when Miss S. E. Evans was appointed Treasurer of the ‘New Church Fund.’ 1929 Rev. O. Burnet. It was during his ministry that through “his gracious personality and winsome ways” that the new church became an accomplished fact. 1931 Mr. J. W. A. McDougall was elected Secretary of the Trust, and the ‘New Church Building Fund.’ 1934 The stone laying ceremony of the new church was held on the 1st September. 1935 Official opening of the new church took place on Saturday February 9th, 1935. Rev. Burnet left to be followed by the Rev. L. C. Horwood. 1939 Rev. H. L. Richards. His ministry was during the first years of the Second World War. 1943 Rev. G. Parker. During his term a MenIs Fellowship began. 1944 Rev. G. B. Hinton. 1945 Mr. A. J. Kennett resigned as Superintendent of the Sunday School, after 20 years service. 1948 The first combined services with the Presbyterians during the holiday period commenced, and continued thereafter almost every January. 1949 The Rev. O. Burnet began a second term. 1952 The death of Abraham Blakeley marked the passing of another outstanding personality in the life of Kaiapoi Methodism. 1954 Rev. B. H. Riseley. 1955 An enlarged Circuit now comprised Kaiapoi, Clarkville, Ohoka, East Eyreton and Swannanoa. Finances of the Circuit were healthy, the membership stood at 170 adult members, while the Sunday Schools and Bible Classes were in good heart. 1956 Centennial of 100 years of work, witness and worship in Kaiapoi and District. 1957 Membership recorded as Kaiapoi 125, Ohoka 34, Eyreton 4 and Swannanoa 2. 1960 Rev. H. V. Utting. 1961 Eyreton Church removed to the Methodist Leigh Camp at Loburn. 1964 Rev. J. H. Thompson.

Page 26 Two Into One – compiled by Jean D.Turvey 1966 A memorial window ‘The Last Supperl was dedicated. Ohoka Church celebrated its centenary in March. 1967 A modern ‘Beat Service’ for young people was attended by a large audience. 1969 Rev. H. A. Cochrane. 1972 Rita Hewson was appointed Circuit Treasurer. 1973 The Centenary of the Swannanoa Church was celebrated on the 12th October. 1974 Approval given for the building of a Christian Education Centre at the rear of the church. 1975 Rev. S. C. Grant’s ministry at Kaiapoi began. The 93 year old Sunday School building in Fuller Street was demolished.

Demolishing Sunday School Hall, Fuller Street, 1975. 1977 Plans were completed for the Christian Education Centre. Letter received from the Session Clerk of St. Paul’s Presbyterian Church regarding union. The Quarterly Meeting moved “that we give further consideration and that a committee from each church should meet and discuss the matter.” 1978 The Christian Education Centre was officially opened on 19 February, 1978 by Mr. Ron Hide. Page 27 Two Into One – compiled by Jean D.Turvey The Methodist representatives on the combined committee to discuss aspects of a co-operative parish were:- Evelyn Bannan, Betty Tindall, Margaret Read (Topp), Serv. Moore, Ron Hide, John McKenzie and the Rev. Stuart Grant.

Methodist Communion Card

Page 28 Two Into One – compiled by Jean D.Turvey METHODIST PARISH Early days Methodism’s roots in Canterbury go beyond the first days of Kaiapoi European history. Wesleyan Missionaries had laboured in New Zealand from the 1820s. A Methodist minister, the Rev. James Watkin recorded in his diary that in 1851 he baptised 18 Maoris at Kaiapoi. By the 1850s however, the Maori Mission in Canterbury was declining and it soon became apparent that the Maori work would wane and the European work grow as the Canterbury settlement became established. Although Canterbury was intended to be an Anglican settlement, Methodists were among the tradesmen, servants and farm workers who accompanied the first settlers. It has been recorded by W. H. Doubleday that “meetings peculiar to Wesleyanism were held regularly upon one of the four ships on the voyage out to Canterbury. Their prayer meetings were continued after arrival and were held chiefly at the various homes of those settlers”. Of all the religious faiths, Methodism made the most determined effort to reach the small farming settlements of North Canterbury. The first Methodist pastor, the Rev. John Aldred, arrived in Christchurch in 1854, and almost immediately visited Kaiapoi, although the European population was small. The Rev. Aldred reported in 1855 “that there are now several church members at Kaiapoi and that the village needed more attention.” The first Methodist service was held during a disastrous snow-storm in the home of James and Sarah Baker, on August 12th 1856. James and Sarah Baker, with their family had arrived in the Cressy in 1850 and lived for twelve months in a cave on the Lyttelton side of the Port Hills, In 1853 they came by bullock dray to Kaiapoi, building a sod house somewhere near Otaki Street. This house became the centre of religious worship for Kaiapoi and was used by other denominations for services and celebrations until they were able to build their own churches. The Anglicans had services at 6 p.m., the Roman Catholics at 7 p.m. and the Wesleyans at 8 p.m. Kaiapoi became part of the High Street Christchurch Circuit, and services were held in the Baker’s house for the residents on the south side of the river and occasionally in the home of Mr. J. Jones of Sidey Quay, for those north of the river. The Maori population had its own special services conducted by the Rev. Aldred. The branches of Methodism Three branches of Methodism had meeting places in Kaiapoi in the early days; the Wesleyans, the Primitive Methodists, and the Bible Christian Church. The Lyttelton Times of 7.9.1882 reported the opening tea-meeting of the Primitive Methodists in their newly purchased building in Raven Street. Mr. Miller was in the Chair, and addresses were given by the Rev. J. Simmonds and Mr. Jones, representing the Wesleyans.

Page 29 Two Into One – compiled by Jean D.Turvey The Bible Christian Church, known as the North Kaiapoi Church, was taken over by the Wesleyans in 1891. Their building was shifted to Clarkville. The Wesleyans, the United Free Methodists and the Bible Christian Church in New Zealand united in 1896 to become the Wesleyan Methodist Church. By 1913 with the Primitive Methodists, the four groups had joined to form the autonomous and independent Methodist Church of New Zealand. First church at Kaiapoi The completion of the first Wesleyan Church in Kaiapoi and its opening on Easter Day, 1860, was a red letter day in the lives of those early Methodist people. This church was erected on a section in Fuller Street just west of the present church and cost 700 pounds. The builders were Mority and Fraser. The clergy at the opening were Rev. J. Aldred and Rev. T. R. Fisher. Dr. W. Morley in his history of Methodism in New Zealand reported that “With its ecclesiastical windows, numerous spirates and buttresses, it was esteemed a triumph of architecture.” It was an ambitious enterprise considering the small number of church members, and the difficulty in obtaining materials. It was an outstanding example of the spirit of those early Methodists. At the time of its opening only 148 pounds was owing.

Ist Kaiapoi Methodist Church 1860, sited about 41 Fuller Street.

Page 30 Two Into One – compiled by Jean D.Turvey Unfortunately, the building rocked badly during north-westerly gales and had to be stabilised by numerous buttresses to counteract the steep and heavy roofing. The first Trustees were Charles Fairweather, Matthew Hall, William Hills, William Morgan, William T. Newnham, Edwin Parnham, William Wake, Alfred Weston, William Weston, Isaac Wilson, Thomas Wilson and Henry Wyatt. Local preachers came out from Christchurch. Messrs Broughton, Connal and others walked there and back on the same day for that purpose. Mr. Garrick was frequently appointed and was always welcome. Mr. Matthew Hall, the first Mayor of Kaiapoi, was also an able preacher and often supplied when the stated preacher failed to attend. Kaiapoi Circuit 1868 was the year Kaiapoi, and the area north as far as Leithfield, and west to West Eyreton formed a circuit separate from Christchurch. The boundaries of the Circuit were adjusted many times over the years, but the area around Kaiapoi, namely Clarkville, East Eyreton, Swannanoa and Ohoka were the main circuit parishes. A strong area of early Methodism in the Kaiapoi Circuit was at Woodend. The settlers who arrived in 1857-8, were soon walking weekly to Kaiapoi to attend class meetings before their church was erected. Woodend Brethren served the Circuit in many capacities until 1889, when their own Circuit was formed. Present at the first Quarterly Meeting were Rev. Thomas Buddle, Chairman of the District, the Rev. J. B. Richardson, the first resident minister, and Messrs Atkinson, Graham, Keall, Little, Newnham, Patrick, Wake, Weston, Isaac Wilson, and Veysey. The first Circuit Stewards appointed were T. Wilson and Matthew Hall. There were 156 adult members. Income at the end of the first quarter was 68 pounds, 5 shillings and 2 pence. Expenditure was 70 pounds, 1 shilling and 9 pence. The minister’s stipend was to be 220 pounds per annum with 10 pounds travelling allowance. A resolution of this first meeting was “to thank the Christchurch Quarterly Meeting for the liberal vote of 60 pounds to the Kaiapoi Circuit, and to the local preachers for their efficient aid.” A Parsonage was erected for the Rev. Richardson. It was a plain and unadorned structure, costing 300 pounds. At the second Quarterly Meeting a resolution was passed to appoint a second preacher, with the Rev. R. Bavin to be the minister based at Rangiora at a stipend of 160 pounds. However, he did not take up the position until later. Eventually William Keall was appointed to the position. New Church In 1871 a new church costing 650 pounds was opened with a debt of 200 owing on it. The Parsonage had just been built, and after paying all liabilities there was a balance in hand of 51 pounds and it was resolved that this amount should form the nucleus of the new church fund. The fact that the building was decided upon when there was so little money actually in hand affords a demonstration of the great faith of the people. Page 31 Two Into One – compiled by Jean D.Turvey The plans were drawn by a Mr. Rutland of Christchurch, the builder Mr. Robert Wright. Captain William Morgan laid the foundation stone in 1870, and the building was opened in January 1871. The preachers for the day being the Revs. J. Aldred and W. Beck.

2nd Methodist Church at corner of Peraki and Fuller Streets.

The old church survived another twelve years and was used as a Sunday School. All this development took place within fourteen years of the initial start at Kaiapoi. It shows the energy and enterprise of the pioneer Methodists in Canterbury. The Parsonage was added to in 1874, the cost being nearly as much as the outlay for the original. Extensions to the church costing 370 pounds, were undertaken in 1877, but ten years later the Trustees were becoming concerned about the weakness in the roof of the church. Disagreement with Conference At the Quarterly Meeting of 2 April, 1884, attended by Rev. J. H. Simmonds in the chair, and Messrs Blackwell, Coup, Heap, Ward, Burnet, Ellen, Brighting, Pashby, Martin and Burrows. Mr. Blackwell moved a hearty vote of thanks to the Rev. Simmonds for the manner in which he had filled the position of pastor to their church

Page 32 Two Into One – compiled by Jean D.Turvey and expressed regret at his removal necessitated by the rule of the Australasian Conference. The Rev. Simmons replied, expressing the pleasure he had had in ministering to the congregation. Messrs Blackwell and Pashby then handed in their resignations as Circuit Stewards, as did Messrs Ward and Sutherland the Society Stewards, because of the way in which the Conference had disregarded the wishes of the congregation on the ministerial appointments. The appointment of new office bearers in their place was allowed to stand until the next meeting. At the request of the Chairman Mr. Burnet promised to attend to the finances until new officers were elected. The next meeting was chaired by Rev. W. Morley, Chairman of the District, with the new minister the Rev. J. Luxford, and Messrs R. Alexander, E. Butcher, J. T. Burrows, R. Coup, R. Evans, G. A. Ellen, J. Heap, E. Hornby, T. Burnet and S. Neville. Messrs R. Coup and G. Ellen were elected the new Circuit Stewards. From a nil deficit in the balance sheet at the previous meeting, the amount had climbed to 43 pounds. It was moved “that the Circuit plans be printed with the Balance Sheet attached, and distributed gratis.” Mr. T. J. Burnet was thanked for his valuable services during the last quarter. The first twenty-five years. The first twenty-five years of Methodist history in Kaiapoi was one of financial struggle, and a small membership. The early pioneering days of the larger Circuit were the most encouraging with the wider interest and fellowship, but it should be remembered that those were the days of poor transport, and a lack of ready money. Expenditure always seemed to be more than the income, but the deficit was often made up by those present at the Quarterly Meeting. What devotion and loyalty to Christ those early parishioners displayed. New Sunday School building The year 1882 marked a new era in the history of the Kaiapoi Church. In May a special meeting was convened to consider plans for a new Sunday School. The Trustees of church property at that time were Messrs. Anderson, Blackwell, Harper, Kirk, Neville, Parnham, Stanton, Weston and Wyatt. However, the task of erecting the new building was undertaken by a special Sunday School Building Committee they called ‘Begging and Building.’ This committee knew that the Church Trustees had borrowed 120 pounds belonging to the Sunday School and requested its return. It took over a year to get it. However, the Sunday School contract was duly signed. The builder was Mr. Weston and price 627 pounds. This building was considered “the model of a modern Sunday School.” The roll numbered 225 pupils with 22 teachers. Classes were held morning and afternoon. In 1893 the roof of the Kaiapoi Church had become a problem, and was reshingled at a cost of 60 pounds. (The current church had similar problems in the 1990s.) In 1896 when the Rev. Fairciough started his second term the Parsonage was again enlarged. Page 33 Two Into One – compiled by Jean D.Turvey Debts and loans, with bazaars and lectures to raise funds seemed to follow each other with monotonous regularity. The bazaar held in 1896 must have been a monster affair because over 300 pounds was realised, liquidating all debts on the church properties.

Postcard picture of Methodist Church corner of Peraki and Fuller Streets. Mission weeks were held. In 1913 gratitude was expressed for the gracious work in connection with the recent mission. Everyone seemed to throw their heart and soul into this mission and the choir, organist and organ blower received special comment for they “turned out regularly night after night during the mission.” In 1914 the Rev. Fairclough returned for a third term. During those sad war years, many in the parish lost family members. In June of 1913 a move was afoot to build a new Parsonage at Kaiapoi and in January 1914, it was reported that 400 pounds was available on loan for 8 years. The Quarterly

Page 34 Two Into One – compiled by Jean D.Turvey Meeting voted 50 pounds towards the project. The architect was Mr. Lovell-Smith. This building has a Historic Places Trust classification.

Kaiapoi Methodist Church, H Blackwell’s Wedding. At rear Roman Catholic Church steeple. War years By January 1917 the full impact of the war was being felt, with reports of the death in action of several parishioners. Sorrow followed sorrow, and in April 1917 the death occurred of the minister, the Rev. Fairclough. Extracts from a resolution at the Quarterly Meeting was “that this meeting expresses its profound grief at the loss of our beloved Minister - we wish to record our sense of the profound loss that New Zealand Methodism generally, and our Circuit in particular, suffers by his death.” His last letter to the church officials was an offer to reduce his stipend and a donation to reduce the Circuit debt. The months that followed were difficult ones without a resident minister, but a Deaconess, Sister Constance, served in the parish. The Chairman of the District the Rev. A. C. Lawry took over the oversight of the Circuit until a new minister could be appointed. By December 1917, the Circuit was able to invite the Rev. William Ready. New Church building The first move to erect a new church was made in 1920, but it was not until 1928 that further progress was made when Miss S. E. Evans was appointed Treasurer of the New Church Fund. By 1931 on the election of Mr. J. W. A. McDougall as Secretary of the Trust, the Trustees had found a suitable and gifted man to lead the New Church Building Committee. Although a good start had been made to collect the necessary finance, these were the days of the depression, and ‘caution’ was the key word. The

Page 35 Two Into One – compiled by Jean D.Turvey minister of that time, the Rev. O. Burnet offered to take a cut in salary that was not accepted that year, but was the following year.

Queen Carnival 1934. The foundation stone of the new church with the wording ‘To the Glory of God’ was laid by Miss S. E. Evans on September 1st 1934. The stone has the date 25 August, 1934 but the ceremony was postponed a week because of wet weather. The Church was built in reinforced concrete with the outside walls covered in a textile finish, with the roof of dark stained shingles. The weather vane which had been on the old church nearly sixty years previously, was installed on the tower. The architect was Mr. R. Lovell-Smith and the builder Mr. W. C. Tourell of Kaiapoi. This building also has a Historic Places classification. On Saturday 9 February, 1935 a great crowd gathered in beautiful weather for the eagerly awaited opening. The Rev. O. Burnet requested Mr. Fred Thorne, the oldest Trustee and Society Steward, to open the door. Mr. Thorne was presented with a miniature gold key. A Dedication Service was conducted by the Rev. C. Eaton, President of Conference, assisted by the Revs. E. Drake, R. Pratt and Burnet. The organist was Mrs. J. H. Blackwell. The choir under the leadership of Mr. A. Blakeley, sang a Consecration Hymn, with Miss E. Thorne singing the first solo in the church.

Page 36 Two Into One – compiled by Jean D.Turvey Four people who attended the opening, Mrs.T. Hassall, Mrs. R. Baker, Mrs. S. Brighting, and Mr H. Keetley were present in 1860 when the first church was opened. Others present remembered the opening of the second church in 1870. The font was donated by Mrs. H. H. Blackwell. On the 17 February, Helen Poole nee Blackwell, and Graham McDougall were the first babies to be baptised in the new church. The Christening was performed by the Rev. W. Bramwell Scott, with Rev. Burnet officiating at the service.

Standing: Julie McDougall, Lois Archer, Brenda Johnstone, Sally Evans, Jeanette Mealings, Melva Vickery Seated: Joan Hopkins, Cynthia McEwen. The Second World War The Rev. H. L. Richards was the minister during the early years of the Second World War. At the Quarterly Meeting of October 1942 the matter of an invitation for him to remain for another year came up for discussion. The Rev. Richards intimated “that as there appeared to be some feeling in the Circuit concerning his holding pacifist views, some people feeling that they could neither attend, nor support the church under those circumstances, that he did not feel justified in remaining another year.” A protracted discussion followed, the meeting being of no one mind as to whether there should be a change of minister or not. It was eventually decided to adjourn the meeting in order that the Chairman of the District might come out for consultation and advice, but later it was disclosed that some members were so opposed to this that they would not be

Page 37 Two Into One – compiled by Jean D.Turvey prepared to attend such a meeting. The minister then stated definitely that he would not be remaining in the Circuit for another year. A motion, leaving the appointment to Conference was carried. It was recorded “that no accusation was made against the Rev. H. L. Richards that he advocated Pacifism from the pulpit, or ever in any way violated the Conference pact of 1940 on the subject.” Building plans For the next twenty to thirty years ideas and plans for new buildings came and went. In 1947 the minister called the attention of the Trustees to the unsatisfactory state of the Sunday School building. A proposal was put forward for a new Sunday School in 1950, and a site was sought from the Railways Department for a section opposite the church, but the Department would not sell. Rev. B. H. Riseley From about 1955 reports were stating that the finances of the Circuit were healthy, the membership stood at 170 adult members, while the Sunday Schools and Bible Classes were in good heart. This was a period of economic and population growth in Kaiapoi. To extend its life for a few more years, the Sunday School was renovated in 1954, with even the Rev. Ben Riseley donning overalls to help. He also donated materials for the work.

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Kaiapoi District Historical Society - On left Rev B Riseley (developer of the Riseley Block)

100 years of work and witness 1956 marked 100 years of work, witness and worship at Kaiapoi. The celebrations were held over a week, beginning with a reunion of old members and adherents in the Sunday School Hall on Saturday afternoon of the 24th November. At the 11 am service on the Sunday the Preacher was the Rev. W. G. Slade and the evening service the Rev. Dr. Raymond Dudley was the Preacher. Monday evening, a Centennial Banquet was held with the Chairman of the North Canterbury District, Rev. Blight attending. Tuesday the Sunday School Scholars held a concert. On Wednesday a United Service of Thanksgiving was held in the Church, with the Dean of Christchurch, the Very Rev. Martin Sullivan preaching. Music was by the Combined Kaiapoi Choirs. The festivities ended with the Sunday School Anniversary Service on Sunday 2nd December. Fifty years ago they certainly knew how to celebrate the achievements of the parishioners and their consistent faithfulness to Christ. The Rev. Riseley in his farewell address 5.10.1959, said he was pleased to have worked in the Kaiapoi Circuit and he appreciated the harmony that existed. He felt that he had not achieved some things, ie a new church at Ohoka, or a new Sunday School Building at Kaiapoi. He was also concerned at the age of the congregation.

Page 39 Two Into One – compiled by Jean D.Turvey Building plans again A special meeting was held in October 1965, regarding the replacement of the Parsonage and the Sunday School Hall. A deputation had attended the previous Quarterly Meeting and expressed their view that a large number of church members had lost confidence in the present policy in regard to planned buildings, and that the financial aspects as well as alternative plans had not been given sufficient consideration. A section at the corner of Peraki and Fuller Streets had been donated, but it was not expected that the Church Building & Loan Fund would allow a Sunday School on that site. Plans were drawn up for a new Parsonage, and in 1968 it was moved that plans be also drawn for the proposed Sunday School. When the Clarkville church and section was sold, permission had been granted to use the proceeds for the Parsonage. However, at the meeting in July 1968 the finance committee recommended that the building programme be held in abeyance. Not until 1974 was approval given by the Church Trustees for the building of a Christian Education Centre at the rear of the church. The previous resolution made in 1966 to erect a new Parsonage was rescinded. Rev. S. Grant The next year the 93 year old Sunday School building in Fuller was demolished. Long regarded as a model building of its type, it had become very dilapidated and a considerable fire risk. By 1977 plans were at last completed for the Christian Education Centre. Tenders were to be called in two stages: - First the kitchen, lounge, toilets and storeroom, and the second for a hall. The second stage did not proceed until the extension was constructed in 2001. The official opening was on 19 February 1978. The architect was originally Mr. Paul Pascoe, and after his death, Mr. Simon Pascoe. The builder was Maurice Carter Contractors Ltd. The project was a challenge for the architect because of the need to adjoin and blend with the design of the church and brick Parsonage. The total cost was about $58,000. Finance for the project was from funds accumulated in the building fund for some years, sale of some sections and a loan. The opening was preceded by a service in the church. The main speaker was the Rev. R. H. Allen, Chairman of the North Canterbury Methodist District, who spoke of the first parishioners meeting in tents and private homes. Mr. Allen said “that people were always more important than unchipped paintwork. Signs of wear would mean the building was being used for people.” After the service, the congregation moved to the main entrance of the centre, where the Rev. Stuart Grant dedicated the building, which was then opened by Mr. Ron Hide, a long serving Church Trustee and Circuit Steward. In July 1977, discussions were held regarding building flats for low-income

Page 40 Two Into One – compiled by Jean D.Turvey people on the old Sunday School section in Fuller Street. The matter was referred to the Trustees. This development did not proceed. Towards a Union Parish In 1977 at a Quarterly Meeting a motion was passed in regards to giving further consideration to an approach from the Session of St. Paul’s Presbyterian Church, for a union parish. The Kaiapoi Circuit retained a tradition of having the services of some of the outstanding ministers of the Methodist Connexion. At least thirteen were Presidents of Conference. As Dr. W. Morley said of Kaiapoi Methodism early in the 20th Century “Kaiapoi Methodism is distinguished for the zeal, liberality, and loyalty of its laymen.” This comment remained true throughout its history.

Page 41 Two Into One – compiled by Jean D.Turvey BRIEF BIOGRAPHIES OF THE METHODIST MINISTERS Aldred, J. John Aldred was brought up in the Anglican faith, but became a Methodist by conviction and choice. He and his wife Mary with their five children, arrived in Auckland in 1849. He was first appointed to Taranaki, then to Nelson, and after other appointments, settled in Christchurch. An educated, painstaking preacher and a most efficient pastor. He was a man with a kind heart. He died in 1894. Richardson, J. B. The Rev. J. B. Richardson, son of an English Wesleyan minister, was the first resident minister in Kaiapoi from 1868 to 1870 He was not a fluent speaker, but was thoughiful. Elected President of Conference, he was on his way to the General Conference in Adelaide, and lost his life in the wreck of the ‘Tararua’, April 29th 1881. Keall, W. William Keall assisted in the Circuit in 1869. A native of Lincoinshire he was tender hearted, yet a strict disciplinarian. He was the first local man nominated as a candidate for the ministry by the Kaiapoi Circuit. President of Conference 1893. He died in 1906. Beck, W. H. The Rev. W. H. Beck assisted in the Circuit in the years 1869- 71, and served a second term in 1875-78 as Superintendent. He came from Sussex, and converted under the Rev. Aldred, ministry. Amiable in temperament, sympathetic and a captivating preacher. He was a master in the use of illustration in sermons. Died in 1922. Bunn, R. S. Arrived in the Circuit in 1870 and worked the outlying areas. Came from Victoria Australia in 1863. He had great energy, was a powerful preacher, and having had experience of Australian goldfields, was a favourite with seafaring men. His health failed and he returned to Sydney. Died in 1907. Gilbert, H. G. C. He followed the Rev. Beck in 1871 as second man in the Circuit. Bavin, R. The Rev. Rainsford Bavin, 1872 to 1874. Born in Lincoinshire, he converted at the early age of 12, began preaching at 16, became a school teacher, then a candidate for the ministry in 1864. Arrived in New Zealand in 1866. Fervent in spirit, genial, a successful minister. In one New Zealand Circuit he won over 300 converts. President of Conference in 1883. In 1889 he left for Australia and died in 1905. Reeve, T. F. Assisted in Circuit as second man in the years 1872-1873, and resided at Leithfield. Bull, H. The Rev. H. Bull, a native of London, assisted in the Circuit 1873- 74 based at Woodend. He was a man of force and energy, a painstaking preacher, diligent

Page 42 Two Into One – compiled by Jean D.Turvey pastor and careful administrator. He possessed a wonderful store of facts relating to early Methodism in New Zealand. President of Conference in 1886. Died in 1919. Armitage, J. The Rev. John Armitage 1878-81. Born in 1834, he became a printer, and in 1863 came to New Zealand with his wife and children. He started work with ‘The Press’, but when asked to work on Sundays transferred to ‘The Lyttelton Times.’ In 1869 he and J. T. Smith setup a printing business in Christchurch. In 1870 he published the ‘Christian Observer’ and in 1871 this publication was incorporated in ‘The NZ Wesleyan,’ the first Methodist newspaper. He later became Editor. Since the age of 16 he had been a local preacher and continued preaching when he came to New Zealand. He became a Home Missionary at Leithfield, was ordained at Oamaru before coming to Kaiapoi. His sister Ann, while visiting John, met and married local farmer and businessman, George Coup. A month after leaving Kaiapoi for Leeston, he lost his life in the ‘Tararua’ on the way to Australia for the Conference.( Zealand in 1973. Exceedingly genial, vivacious, animated (Baker, Marcia. “The Armitage Family’ Crosslink, April 2000 and May 2000) Simmonds, J. H. Rev. Simmonds 1881-84. A man before his time. Born in Nelson, became a missionary to Fiji but returned because of ill-health. He was studious, thoughtful, spoke with great precision, a teacher, and musician. Became Principal of Three Kings College. President of Conference in 1895. He died in 1936. Luxford, J. H. Born in Wellington. His first charge was Woodend. Saw service in the BoerWar as a Chaplain and volunteered for World War I, going to Gallipoli with the main body where he was wounded. A painstaking poetic preacher of compact sermons. He had a great regard for the ‘dignity’ of worship, and inculcated reverence for the Lord’s House. President of Conference 1903. Died in Auckland in 1921. Fairciough, P. W. The Rev. Paul Wynyard Fairclough, served three terms in the Kaiapoi Circuit, 1889-90, 1897-99 and 1914-17. He was born in South Australia in 1852, and came over to the West Coast at the time of the gold rush. There he became a local preacher and was recommended for the ministry. Widely read, and a lucid and effective writer, he was editor of the Connexional Paper for six years. Rev. Fairclough had a love of astronomy and was a Fellow of the Royal Astronomical Society. President of the first historic United Conference held in Wellington in 1887. He died after an operation while in his third term at Kaiapoi. His last letter to the church officials was an offer to reduce his stipend, and a donation to reduce the Circuit debt. Page 43 Two Into One – compiled by Jean D.Turvey Bond. G. Rev. George Bond, 1890-93. Born near Durham England, he came to New Zealand in 1973. Exceedingly genial, vivacious, animated speaker, beloved by all, especially the young. Smalley, J. S. Rev. J. S. Smalley, 1893-1896. A native of London, became a Connexional Evangelist, a man of more than ordinary gifts, he attracted large congregations. Orchard, J. Rev. John Orchard, 1899-1902. A tireless work, genial in disposition. Originally a Bible Christian minister, a church builder and organiser. President of Conference in 1899, he died in 1907. Dukes, J. Rev. John Dukes, 1902-05. He came from Staffordshire in 1879. Of slight physique, he was a gifted preacher and organiser, friend of all, enemy of none. He had outstanding faith and courage. He died in 1919 after much suffering. Bellhouse, H. E. Rev. Bellhouse, 1905-06. Born in Yorkshire, he came to New Zealand at an early age. A gifted preacher and writer. President of Conference in 1919, he died in 1948. Trestrail, T. Rev. T. Trestrail, 1907-10. He was an aggressive type, with a rugged personality. A faithful pastor and organiser. He died in 1920. Blamires, E. O. Rev. Blamires, second minister in the Circuit, appointed to Ohoka in 1906 until 1908. Roberts, C. Rev. Roberts, 1909-11. He was stationed at Ohoka. Unassuming, an excellent pastor, beloved by all. He retired from the ministry in 1945. Mitchell, A. Rev. Arthur Mitchell, 1910-14. A minister in Bible Christian Church, he was born in Victoria Australia. Amiable, courteous, a splendid singer, and an able preacher. He died in 1951. Orchard, H. Rev. H. Orchard, 1911-13. Stationed at Ohoka. He was an able preacher and administrator. He retired in 1947. Olds, Constance. Sister Constance was supplied as an interim appointment after the death of Rev. Fairclough. She was a sister of Revs. C. H. and E. T. Olds, and later married Rev. A. Bensley and they served as missionaries in the Solomon Islands for many years. Ready, W. Rev. William Ready came to Kaiapoi at the end of 1917. He was born in London, one of a family of twelve. His parents were Irish Roman Catholics and both died early leaving William an orphan at seven. For five years he was a city waif until rescued by a City Missionary. He was sent to an orphanage in Bristol and there learned to read. Apprenticed to a miller, a member of the Bible Christian Church, he was converted and proceeded on to school and then local preaching. Attended the Bible Christian College before coming to New Zealand about 1888.

Page 44 Two Into One – compiled by Jean D.Turvey During the war years he was a Padre in the Services before his timely return in 1917 when he was placed as Superintendent of the Kaiapoi Circuit. No doubt his chaplaincy service had enriched an already exciting life and he was one of our most delighiful preachers. 1918 proved to be a time of joy for the Rev. Ready, for his son Lieutenant Ready returned from the war, and in gratitude to God for his goodness, paid for the concrete paths around the Parsonage. A small memorial for his son R. C. Ready killed in action, is etched into the concrete by the front steps of the Parsonage. So pleased were the folk with their Minister, that they voted him a 10 pound bonus in January 1919. He moved to Durham Street Christchurch in 1920. President of Conference in 1912. He died in 1927. Scott, W. B. Rev. William Bramwell Scott was a man who endeared himself to the Kaiapoi Church and the Community, becoming a Borough Councillor. He was known as the ‘Football Parson’, but was also a lover of beautiful things. He, together with Mr. H. Trousselot and others, formed the Kaiapoi Beautifying and Burgesses’ Association. They undertook the improvement of the river banks but their most ambitious scheme was the rose garden, previously the site of a rubbish dump. This garden remains today as the ‘Scott Rose Garden.’ - Rev. Scott was an excellent preacher, popular with young people. Served as a Chaplain in WW I. He died in 1935.

Rev. W. B. Scott. The Scott Rose Garden was named after him. Slade, W. G. The Rev. W. G. Slade, M.A. and D.D., came to Kaiapoi in 1925. Under his ministry the spiritual life of the church was developed and the emphasis upon

Page 45 Two Into One – compiled by Jean D.Turvey Evangelism maintained. He later became Secretary to the Board of Examiners, and Secretary of Conference. He was honoured with the degree of Doctor of Divinity, an honour justly given. Rev. Slade ministered in many of the leading Circuits with conspicuous success. President of Conference in 1947. He went as representative of our New Zealand Church to the Methodist Ecumenical Conference in the U. S. A. Burnet,O. Rev.O. Burnet, 1929-35, and again 1949-54. Rev. Burnet, quiet and unassuming, his ministry was ably supported by his wife, and they both endeared themselves to the youth of the church, as well as to the adult congregation. It was during his term that the present Wesley Centre Church was opened. Retired from active ministry in 1954. Horwood, L. C. Rev. Horwood, 1935 to 1939. He was supported by his gifted wife, the daughter of T. E. Taylor. Rev. Horwood’s able method of presenting the Gospel was forceful and he attracted quite a few ‘outsiders’ to the Church. Richards, H. L. Rev. H. L. Richards, ministered during the critical war years, 1939 to 1943. A gifted and thoughtful preacher. Retired from active ministry in 1948. Parker, G. In 1943 the Rev. Gordon Parker came to Kaiapoi. After two years, he left for England to further his studies where he obtained the degree of Ph. D. He was a lover of the outdoors and his ministry was marked by his genuine friendliness. During his term as Superintendent, the Men’s Fellowship came into being. Hinton, G. B. Rev. G. B. Hinton came to the Circuit in 1944, and remained until 1949 when he retired from active ministry because of ill-health, although in 1956 he was still serving as a Hospital Chaplain, and acting as supply for Ohoka and East Eyreton. He had a wide experience in the ministry in England and New Zealand, leading to the Superintendency of some of the leading Circuits. “In all his Circuits he has laboured unceasingly as an earnest preacher and zealous pastor... he has been rich in esteem and affection of his people.” Riseley, B. H. Rev. Ben H. Riseley, 1954-1960, left his mark on Kaiapoi with his name being associated with the Riseley Block subdivision. He bought a block of farm land west of Otaki Street with the intention of building accommodation for the elderly. This idea was abandoned because of the difficulty in getting Council consent, but eventually the low priced sections were sold on easy terms to assist young people get their own homes. The names of the streets are all of a Methodist tradition. Before becoming a clergyman, Rev. Riseley had been a successful businessman. After a trip to Europe in 1938 he was deeply concerned at the drifts in world and community patterns of living, so offered himself for full- time service in the church. He and Mrs. Riseley began work in a Home Mission supply post at Cromwell. Periods at Dunedin and Auckland followed. He was ordained in 1949. He came to Kaiapoi in 1954 and left to lead the social services work of the Wellington Central Circuit. Mrs. Riseley Page 46 Two Into One – compiled by Jean D.Turvey gave special assistance there in work among the Samoan people arriving in New Zealand. They then moved to Auckland where Mr. Riseley became the Methodist hospital chaplain. After retirement Mr. and Mrs. Riseley went to Australia on holiday, but were persuaded to accept several supply appointments. Shortly after their return to New Zealand in 1975, Mr. Riseley died. Mr. Ron Hide, church secretary at the time of Rev. Riseley’s ministry remarked “that Mr. Riseley was very strong minded, domineering and outspoken. He’d do a thing and ask afterwards. He didn’t like authorities. He was a very good church man, giving one building section to the church, and during renovations to the Sunday School, he paid for a new floor and the lining of the interior walls.(Ward, Pat When Kaiapoi had its very own Housing Minister’. The Press, 23 July 1981) At one stage during his term, he had the backing of the Quarterly Meeting to stand for Mayor of Kaiapoi, but permission from Conference was not forthcoming. Utting, H. V. Rev. Harry Victor Utting, 1960-1964. Born in Auckland, he attended Dunholme Theological College from 1924-26. Ordained in 1931.After serving in parishes throughout New Zealand, he came to Kaiapoi. Retired in January 1964 to become Chaplain at Princess Margaret and Coronation Hospitals. He died in Christchurch in 1965. Thompson, J. H. John Herbert Thompson was born in Reefton in 1908. On leaving school he commenced his working life in gold mines, later transferring to sawmills and Public Works on the West Coast. In 1935 while working as a bushman he met with an accident which almost took his life. After a period of recuperation he was appointed Secretary of the YMCA at the Buller Gorge work camps. In 1939 he married Olive Thwaites, a Salvation Army Officer. From 1941 he was a Home Missionary while studying for the ministry by correspondence. His ordination was in 1954. He served in several parishes before coming to Kaiapoi in 1964. Left for Otaki in 1969. Ill-health forced an early retirement in 1970, but he kept busy with church and community activities. He died in Christchurch in 1989. Bert was widely respected and loved by all who knew him. An honest upright and friendly man, whose faith and commitment brought comfort and strength to others. Cochrane, H. A. Bert Cochrane was born in Christchurch in 1909. While attending the Cambridge Terrace Church he first became involved in local preaching. From 1932 he served in a number of Home Mission Stations. This period saw the development of gifts of preaching, pastoral work and Church administration, leading to ordination in 1943. Served in a number of parishes before coming to Kaiapoi in 1969, from where he retired. With his secretarial and administrative gifts, he served on a number of church committees, assisting regularly at Conference. His ministry was marked by a complete devotion to Christ, and a warm friendliness and concern for all.

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Taken in front of the Parsonage summer 1975. Back: Michael Eder, Steven Kappelle, Graham Moore, Unknown, Annette Hewson, Yvonne Moore, Bruce Joslen, Jamie Moore Barbara Stone, Margaret Read, Rev Bert Cochrane, Russell Read, Robyn Lee Unknown, Catherine Kappelle, Rosemary Pinkham, Robert Kappelle Taken Summer 1975 Grant, S. C. Stuart Grant was born in Auckland in 1942. He qualified in law and worked in legal offices in Auckland and Hamilton before beginning theological training at Trinity College Auckland. He was appointed as a probationer to St. John’s Fendalton in 1973, from where he was ordained in 1974. Appointed to Kaiapoi in February 1975, until the co-operation venture began in 1979. While in his last year at Kaiapoi, Rev. Grant was part of the interim committee working towards the formation of the co-operating venture. On leaving Kaiapoi he went to the Greytown-Featherston Parish until 1983, then to Stoke (Nelson) from 1983 to 1990 where he was District Superintendent for Nelson-Marlborough-West Coast. For 5 years from 1990 he went to the Lutheran Church in Stuttgart-Hedelfingen, Germany as a guest pastor. On his return to New Zealand in 1995, was appointed to Palmerston North, and at present is in the Hawkes Bay-Manawatu Parish. Rev. Grant regarded the time spent in law offices very valuable in his ministry, especially in getting to know people and human nature.

Page 48 Two Into One – compiled by Jean D.Turvey ST. PAUL’S PRESBYTERIAN PARISH - CHRONOLOGY 1856 The Rev. Charles Fraser arrived in Canterbury. 1857 The first services were held in the newly built St. Andrew’s Church in Christchurch. 1858 An article in the Lyttelton Times of 5 June 1858 notes “the erection of a Presbyterian Church at Kaiapoi has been for some time projected, and the undertaking is being well supported by subscriptions. Mr. Sidey has given a site upon which it is expected that the edifice will be commenced before long.” 1860 A school and church building erected in Sewell Street. 1863 The Rev. William Kirton was called to the Kaiapoi-Rangiora charge on 6 February, 1863. About this time the Rev. William Hogg, an Irish Presbyterian arrived in Canterbury, too late for the Kaiapoi appointment, but as his own charge he was given the vast expanse of the area between the Waimakariri and the Clarence Rivers, using Kaiapoi as his base. 1864 A manse was built in Sewell Street. 1870 Land was acquired near the manse in Sewell Street for a new church. 1871 Rev. Kirton died 27 August 1871. 1872 Rev. W. McGregor inducted 26 June 1872. 1874 The new church in Sewell Street was finally erected. (Pile found dated 20 October, 1874). The original church was sold and moved to become the Orange Hall. (Now the site of the Auction Rooms in Charles Street). 1880 Rangiora became a separate parish. Through much discontent and internal lobbying, the Rev. W. McGregor resigned the charge on 22 July 1880. Presbytery was called on at least once to intervene. 1881 Rev. Robert McGregor was ordained and inducted, 17 February 1881. 1886 Belfast was attached to the Kaiapoi Parish. 1891 Rev. McGregor resigned because of ill-health on 5 February 1891. Rev. W. Gow was inducted on 24 July 1891, at a stipend of 240 pounds. 1893 St. Paul’s Presbyterian Mutual Improvement Society was formed. The object of the society was to be the moral and intellectual improvement of its members by means of literary and musical evenings.’

Page 49 Two Into One – compiled by Jean D.Turvey 1898 Belfast disjoined in May 1898, causing the Rev. G’s stipend to be reduced to 200 pounds. 1900 Rev. Gow left in December 1900. 1901 Rev. W. Ritchie called to Kaiapoi in May. The Sunday School Roll numbered 70 children with 8 teachers.

Sunday School Teachers of St Pauls 1902. Minister Rev. W. Ritchie. 1903 Rev. Ritchie resigned 31 May 1903. 1904 Rev. W. McDonald was ordained at St. Paul’s 17 March 1904. 1905 The matter of a new manse before the next winter was raised as the area seemed to be suffering from damp. 1906 Rev. McDonald resigned in February because of ill-health. Rev. J. Reid was inducted 12 July 1906. Problems with drainage at the church and manse were again recorded, and it was agreed to try and obtain a more suitable site. 1912 The church was shifted to its new location in Cookson Street (now Williams Street), and a new manse at the corner of Cookson and Sewell Streets purchased. Rev. Reid ended his charge in June. Page 50 Two Into One – compiled by Jean D.Turvey

St Paul’s Bible Class about 1913. 1913 Rev. Alfred Laishley inducted in February. 1915 New pipe organ purchased. The Sunday School Roll numbered 80 children with 7 teachers. 1916 On 4 April 1917, a committee was set up to confer with an expert regarding the installation of electric lighting. In May, the offer of ‘a friend’ to lend 40 pounds for the work was accepted. 1919 The Sewell Street property was sold. 1920 The Communicant Roll stood at 80. 1922 A Scotch Concert was held at the Grand Theatre in Kaiapoi by the Christchurch Scottish Society, in aid of the Kaiapoi Presbyerian Church. Rev. Laishley retired in December due to ill-health. 1923 Rev. F. Robertson was ordained in March. Between the years 1923 to 1955, the parish was a Home Mission Station. It is not clear just when it became reduced to this state. 1924 Rev. Robertson left in September, followed by the Rev. G. Aitken who came to Kaiapoi in December. In this year the loan for the electric lighting installation was at last repaid. Special services and a Jubilee tea held to mark 60 years of St. Paul’s Parish. Page 51 Two Into One – compiled by Jean D.Turvey 1926 A hymn board was donated by the family of David Heney, an early settler and an elder of the parish. (Now in the Wesley Centre) 1927 Rev. Aitken retired in September due to ill-health. The Communicant Roll was 99. The Communion Table was presented by the Girls’ Club. (This table is now in the Wesley Centre) 1928 Rev. G. Hercus came to St. Paul’s in March. His ministry included the difficult years of the Depression. The Sunday School Roll stood at 56, with 5 teachers. 1937 Rev. Hercus left. 1938 Rev. N. Stevenson ordained at St. Paul’s in June. 1939 In June an agreement was reached with the Methodists to hold evening services in the Rialto Theatre in an attempt to reach the souls of men.’ The first service was reported as successful. Services were started at Pines Beach. 1940 The deficit in the general account of that year was nearly 100 pounds. 1941 Rev. Stevenson was appointed to the Cust-Oxford Parish, followed by the Rev. T. Cuttle who was inducted in June. 1944 Rev. Cuttle retired in April. 1945 Rev. J. Clark arrived at St. Paul’s in February and stayed for 18 months, resigning from the ministry in July 1946 to go farming. 1947 Rev. D. Martin came to Kaiapoi in January. Mrs. R. Wylie presented the font in memory of the Forrest and Jeffery Families. 1948 Rev. Martin resigned in July to join the P.S.S.A. staff in Christchurch. The first combined services with the Methodists took place during the January holiday period and this practice continued thereafter. 1949 R. Leishman, a Home Missionary, came to Kaiapoi in February. He studied for the ministry by correspondence, leaving at the end of 1952. 1953 Rev. G. Densem came to Kaiapoi in February 1953. He inspired the parish to again stand on its own feet. Finances were out of the red and had been for a few years. The parish was therefore not requiring all of the ‘subsidy’ to maintain a minister. It was resolved to again become a fully sustained charge. 1955 Rev. D. Blyth was inducted in June 1955. He encouraged and developed the parish during the longest sustained ministry since its establishment in 1863.

Page 52 Two Into One – compiled by Jean D.Turvey 1956 The Sunday School Roll was now 109, with 5 teachers. The Communicant Roll about this time reached as high as 110. 1963 On the 21st April 1963, the first 100 years of St. Paul’s Parish was celebrated at a special service and morning tea. 1967 Building commenced on the Youth Block. The foundation stone was sealed into place by C. J. (Jack) Murray on 29 October. 1968 The Moderator of the Presbytery of Christchurch, Mr. George Wallis opened the Centennial Youth Centre at an Opening and Dedication Service held on Sunday 11 February, 1968. 1970 Rev. Blyth left the parish in December. 1971 An agreement was reached with the Anglican Parish whereby a combined Sunday School and Youth Group was held using the facilities and resources at St. Paul’s and St. Bartholomew’s. Rev. Lindsay Day was inducted in December. 1974 The Anglican Parish withdrew from the combined Christian Education activities. 1976 St. Paul’s Church ceased as a worship centre, with all services now held in the Youth Block. After a life of more than a century spent on two sites, the building was demolished. 1978 New Manse purchased at 17 SeweIl Street, opposite the Youth Block. In April a committee was established of Presbyterian and Methodist representatives to form a Co-operating Venture. The Presbyterian members were Rev. Lindsay Day, Alan Baines, Ian Bagrie, A. Lloyd Cleland, Garven Eggleston, Anne Richmond and Linda Stone.

Page 53 Two Into One – compiled by Jean D.Turvey ST. PAUL’S PARISH Early years The tolerance of the Anglicans towards other faiths, and the action of the Provincial Government in granting financial aid to other faiths, enabled the pioneers to establish their own denominational parishes. By 1854 a nucleus of the Church of Scotland was in Canterbury and with the arrival of more Presbyterians they were encouraged to seek a minister of their own faith. The Rev. Charles Fraser, the man selected, arrived in April 1856 with a mission charge from the Presbytery of Aberdeen. As a portent of happenings over a century later, “the Rev. Charles Fraser preached to a very fine congregation in the Wesleyan Church, Lyttelton.” The Wesleyans had generously granted to the Presbyterians the use of their chapel until such time as their own church was ready for public worship. 1 After a campaign for funds to build a church, Fraser delivered his first sermon at St. Andrew’s Christchurch, in 1857. As more Presbyterians arrived and spread into the countryside, Fraser was conducting occasional services at Kaiapoi as well as serving his own congregation and visiting the Banks Peninsula Presbyterians. The services in Kaiapoi were usually held in the home of Henry Jones, Charles Sidey’s carpenter, or in Sidey’s own home, for Sidey had been among the founders 2 St. Andrew’s. The congregation was a small one, only twenty or so Presbyterian families having settled in the district at that time. By 1860 enough funds had been raised to erect a school and church building in Sewell Street. The teacher was a man named Somerset, but the church services were still taken by Fraser. In 1861 the Presbyterians in Kaiapoi and Rangiora met together and obtained a list of subscribers willing to provide a stipend of 260 pounds for the services of a settled minister for the combined charge. In 1863, relying on these promises, the Rev. William Kirton whose position was not very comfortable in Wellington, and who had already become acquainted with Miss Mary Blackett of the Rangiora family, accepted the call. First weddings in Marriage Register The first wedding recorded in the Register took place on the 8th April 1863, in Kirton’s house. It was between David Farrall, Stable Keeper and Lucy Hamlett. The Rev. Kirton must have travelled long distances in his Parish because the second is recorded as taking place at the Commercial Hotel, Saltwater Creek on 24.6.1863 between Alexander Petrie, Blacksmith and Mary Ann Woods. The first in the Register

1 Dickson. History of the Presbyterian Church of New Zealand, p. 156. 2 Charles Sidey, a merchant and one of the pioneer settlers of Kaiapoi. Built hotel and store at ferry landing in Charles Street. Page 54 Two Into One – compiled by Jean D.Turvey as taking place in the ‘Scottish Church, Kaiapoi’ was between William Lorimer, Farmer and Jane Lennie. Manse and new Church About 1865 a manse was built in Sewell Street costing 400 pounds. Samuel Farr was the architect - the design described as ‘early colonial - domestic gothic’. It still stands today (56 Sewell Street). In 1870 land was acquired in Sewell Street near the manse. In 1874 funds were subscribed for a new, bigger church of wood and iron, even though money for paying the stipend was always difficult to raise. The first building was sold and moved to become the Orange Hall. Rev. Kirton’s pecuniary support Unfortunately, the promised stipend never reached the amount promised, and in his eight years of ministry he received only 603 pounds in all.3 The original subscribers were too far scattered to give much coherency or strength to the congregation. Only about 20 of them lived in and around Kaiapoi. At the Rev. Kirton’s request, Presbytery was asked to intervene on his behalf, but with little fruit. Doubtless there was more than one cause for this parsimony, which necessitated that the minister of Kaiapoi in those days should be ‘contented wi’ little an’ cantie wi’ mair.4 The Rev. Kirton died in August, 1871. Disharmony and financial troubles The ministry of the second parson, the Rev. William McGregor, appears to have been one of disharmony and internal lobbying by members of the congregation, not helped by the difficulties in meeting the promised stipend. In June 1879, a meeting was held for the purpose of receiving a deputation from Presbytery, who had been sent to enquire into the circumstances of the chapter at Kaiapoi and to ascertain if it could afford to maintain a pastor independently of the Rangiora district. After a long and careful consideration of the whole matter, it was resolved “that the district was not at present in a position to support a pastor independently.” A special meeting of Session was held on the 5th January 1880, to settle the matter ‘of disturbance in the congregation.’ Present were the Rev. W. McGregor, Messrs Lammie, James Kidd, and Charles Young. Charles Ross arrived late. A letter was read by the Moderator (Rev. McGregor) from a Mr. Johnston –

3 At the height of the gold rush the little congregation of Hokitika could offer its minister the princely sum of 450 pounds per annum and a manse! 4 Dickson, 175. Page 55 Two Into One – compiled by Jean D.Turvey “9.10.1879. To the Elders and Committee of the Presbyterian Church, Kaiapoi. Gentlemen, I am informed that the Rev. P. R. Monroe is not to be allowed to preach here on the next Sabbath as myself and others were led to expect. Were I a member of the Presbyterian Church, I should certainly lodge a strong protest against the palpable antagonism on the part of the Rev. McGregor and the Presbytery to the wishes of a large number of the Church and Congregation.” It appears that the Rangiora congregation were not very happy with the actions of Rev. McGregor and Presbytery, regarding the Rev. Monroe. The Rev McGregor had written a letter to a Mr. McMillan about the matter and read a copy to the meeting which stated that there was no connection between Mr. Monroe’s work and his - “he is now immediately under the jurisdiction of Presbytery.” He went on to say that “as this matter has called you together and the peace of the Church is undoubtedly being undermined by this question, and as my sermon on 14.9.1879 also I believe gave offence, let both matters be brought up at a meeting with Presbytery.” A very acrimonious discussion between Mr. Kidd and the Rev. McGregor, regarding both letters, followed. Mr Ross arrived at the meeting after this discussion and when told the business he seemed surprised for he understood the matter had been settled sometime before. Further arguments ensued between the Moderator and Mr. Young. Mr Ross said that ‘this does not seem like making peace and he did not think this quarrelling would do any good in the congregation.’ At the following meeting on the 15 January, only the Rev. McGregor, Charles Young and James Kidd were present with a representative from Presbytery. Mr. Kidd would not withdraw certain charges. The Rev McGregor appealed to Presbytery and requested that formal accusations be laid against him. Mr. Young then handed in his resignation. He also asked that any charge against the Rev McGregor that he had made at the previous meeting be withdrawn from the Minute Book. The next entry in the Minute Book was that Communion was dispensed by the Minister assisted by Messrs. Robertson and Ritchie, Elders, to 43 members of the Congregation, on 4.4.1880. At a Presbytery meeting of 8 April 1880, a deputation from Rangiora sought k close their association with Kaiapoi, and this was granted on the condition that the amount of 20 pounds due to the Rev. McGregor be paid, which was done immediately.5 It appears that, either pages have been removed from the Minute Book, or there were no meetings held, because the next record is for a meeting held on 26 April 1881. Present were the new Minister the Rev. Robert McGregor, and Messrs Young and Kidd.

5 The year the Rev. McGregor was inducted in the KaiapoilRangiora Parish, the members of the Rangiora area felt that the time had come when they should possess a church in Rangiora, and subsequently in September, 1872 their building was dedicated under the name of ‘John Knox Church’ Page 56 Two Into One – compiled by Jean D.Turvey Meetings as reported in the ‘Lyttelton Times.’ A meeting of the congregation was held at the Orange Hall on the 29 June 1880, to sort out matters regarding the debt on the church building. The Rev. McGregor had refused to call the meeting because his stipend was considerably in arrears. A meeting was duly advertised to take place on 13 July 1880, so that a full, fair and correct account of how the matters really stood might be elicited. Presbytery representatives were the Rev. Elmslie (Chair) with the Reverends Mckee and Bruce. Twenty-five members attended holding proxies for 91 parishioners in total. As reported in the Lyttelton Times of 14 July 1880, a very heated discussion took place. The congregation was unhappy that the Rev. McGregor was holding two positions - that of Master at a public school (Eyreton) while minister at St. Paul’s. The outcome was that the Rev. McGregor decided to give up the church position as soon as his stipend was paid, and at the request of Presbytery, agreed to forgo the bonus and retiring allowance that under other circumstances would have been paid to him. It was stressed that the deputation that day had not come to consider or hear any complaints against the Rev. McGregor, but only to arrange matters as to payment of what was due, amounting to 143 pounds. The Rev. McGregor had agreed on 100 pounds then and the 43 pounds in six months time so as not to press unduly on the congregation. The Treasurer reported that only 2 pounds 10 shillings was in hand and only 12 pounds 10 shillings had been paid to Rev. McGregor in the last quarter. The Rev. Bruce said that the deputation was there to take into consideration matters in dispute without prejudice one way or the other. He thought that those present would see that the Rev. McGregor was entitled to the amount stated, and would be much better to act as Presbytery advised, both from a Christian spirit and also as a business matter. He thought they would be all glad afterwards, when they knew that they had done what was honourable and fair to Rev. McGregor. Rev. McKee thought that considering the time the Rev. McGregor had worked amongst them, they should let bygones be bygones. Mr. Stevenson proposed that the Rev. McGregor should only be paid to 1 April as that was when he started at Eyreton. He thought that the congregation had suffered by his doing so, and he objected to paying the Rev. McGregor after that date. The Chairman pointed out that the Rev. McGregor had suffered as well as the congregation, and had made very great concessions. After further discussion and amendments to motions, it was agreed to pay the Rev. McGregor the full amount owed. His formal resignation was on 22nd July, 1880. His successor, the Rev. Robert McGregor was ordained and inducted in February 1881, so Kaiapoi was without a resident minister for 7 months.

Page 57 Two Into One – compiled by Jean D.Turvey Church and Manse changes Many of the early ministers left the parish because of the ill-health of themselves or family members. The area in Sewell Street of the first manse and church had many problems of dampness, so this may have contributed to the health of the occupants. In 1905 the matter of a new manse before the next winter was raised as the area seemed to be suffering from damp. Problems with drainage at the church and manse were again recorded in 1906 and it was agreed to try and obtain a more suitable site. The church was inspected and declared fit to move. Six years later in 1912 the church was shifted by traction engine to its new location in Cookson Street (now 202 Williams Street), and a new manse at the corner of Sewell and Cookson Streets purchased from a Mr. Anderson. (This house is still standing). Sunday School and Church meetings were held in the back portion of the church.

Shifting St Pauls from Sewell St to Cookson St in 1912. Page 58 Two Into One – compiled by Jean D.Turvey A struggling parish So, for more than one hundred years the parish continued, but for most of the time struggled for finance, and with the minimum of office bearers. At times there were very few elders, with only one or two present at Kirk Session. In 1886 Belfast was attached to Kaiapoi. By 1891 when the Rev. W. Gow was inducted his stipend was set at 240 pounds. In 1898 Belfast was disjoined, thus reducing the salary by 40 pounds. The Communicant Roll was 90, total revenue 308 pounds, and there were 4 Elders.

St Paul’s Presbyterian Church in Sewell Street. The Rev. Laishley The Visitation Committee in 1914 of the Rev Rodgers of Papanui and the Rev. Millar of Rangiora, gave a favourable report. Both men expressed their pleasure at the signs of progress in the church work and congratulated the Rev. Laishley on the success of his efforts. At the last meeting of Session for 1914, attended by the Rev. Laishley and Messrs Richardson and Douds it was reported that “evident signs of blessing have attended the ministry of Rev. Laishley, despite his long illness from which he has now recovered. All the organisations of the church have kept strong and vigorous, and so many young people take a warm interest in the needs of the congregation and in the mission schemes of the church.” At the same meeting it was agreed that a list of names of those young men who had joined the Expeditionary Forces be kept by Session. Correspondence had been received regarding the Temperance Party’s request to seek temperance pledges for

Page 59 Two Into One – compiled by Jean D.Turvey total abstinence during the length of the war. It was decided that a book and cards be obtained for the purpose. A generous donation had been received of five dozen cups and two trays for use at Communion Services. In 1915 the debit balance was 48 pounds. Three years later it was 30 pounds. The Church Committee requested that a special effort be made at the planned Sale of Work. Also that attempts be made to increase church membership. By September of 1918 the accounts showed a credit of 10 pounds. The organist was paid 15 pounds per annum. The ladies of the Church appealed to the congregation to support the Box Committee who had in view “the extinction of the debt on the church properties.” During the 1920s, an ‘Assessor’ from the Rangiora or Papanui parishes was pointed by Presbytery to assist the minister because St. Paul’s did not have enough Elders. ibe report of the Visitation Committee in May 1922 was quite censorious. Points made were: An earnest effort be made to obtain Elders - the parish cannot be carried on successfully without organisation • The congregation is numerically small and weak - 30 or so regulars is not enough • Sink all differences and give to the Minister unanimous support • Consider extending boundaries to include Ohoka and Woodend if Rangiora agrees. Rev. Laishley resigned because of ill-health at the end of 1922. Young Minister In 1923 the Rev. Fred Robertson was ordained at St. Paul’s. At his welcome, the Mayor of Kaiapoi Mr. J. H. Blackwell said that “the Rev. Robertson had the opportunity to put Kaiapoi on the map. The town for once was served by clergy who were all young. The Anglicans had the Rev. Knight who gave lectures, the Rev. Scott, the Methodist minister, was involved with the Beautifying Society, and Rev. Robertson had already been asked to join the football club. Mr. Blackwell acknowledged that Kaiapoi was a difficult charge and wished Mr Robertson well.6 Jubilee Service In July 1924 special services and a Jubilee Tea was belatedly held to celebrate 60 years of the Parish. The great success of the celebration was largely due to the Rev. Robertson’s enthusiasm and mastery of details. Unfortunately Rev. Robertson only stayed for one year.

6 Kaiapoi Record 21.3.1923 Page 60 Two Into One – compiled by Jean D.Turvey Home Mission Years Between 1923 and 1955 the parish was reduced to a Home Mission Station with the Minister’s stipend augmented. The ministers often had the additional task of Sunday School Superintendent. During these years many of the ministers appointed only stayed for a year or two. The parish often had to struggle on without a resident minister for between six months and a year between those appointments.

Cantata with St Paul’s Sunday School children. The Depression years The Rev. Hercus was the minister from 1928 to 1937 - the difficult depression years. In 1933 Mrs. R. Wylie the Treasurer reported a fall in revenue. There had been a big drop in the proceeds from the Sale of Work and the Flower Show. The year had begun with an overdraft of 48 pounds, and this amount had increased to 74 pounds by year’s end. The Rev. Hercus was asked to volunteer a drop in his stipend of 39 pounds. He was also asked to arouse greater interest in the parish. He left in 1937. 1938-1941 By 1938 things had not improved. The Home Mission Committee paid a subsidy of 20 pounds towards the stipend. Numbers had decreased at worship. There was still a Page 61 Two Into One – compiled by Jean D.Turvey mortgage on the Manse. In 1941 parishioners were upset when the Home Mission Committee moved the Rev. N. Stevenson to the Cust-Oxford Parish after 3 years in Kaiapoi. 1941 -1953 The Rev. T. Cuttle was the minister for 3 years during the Second World War, retiring from the Ministry in April 1944. From then until the Rev. Densem was appointed in 1953, St. Paul’s struggled on with a succession of vacancies and ministers. After Rev. Cuttle retired there was a vacancy for almost a year until the Rev. Clark arrived. He only stayed for eighteen months before leaving the ministry. Next was David Martin for a year and a half before he resigned in July 1948, to join the P.S.S.A in Christchurch. Robert Leishman was a Home Missionary studying for the Ministry by correspondence. When he qualified in 1952 he was called to another parish. Post War Years The years after the Second World War showed an improvement in finances and numbers of parishioners, as was the case in most parishes. In the Annual Report of 1946, Mr. Eric Gray the Treasurer reported that the financial position could be considered very healthy indeed, thanks to the excellent response of members to the appeal for a special effort to meet certain urgent requirements. The general account was still in debit but showing a steady improvement. In 1940 the debit was about 100 pounds, a large amount for those days, but by 1946 this was down to 29 pounds. (The stipend for 1946 was at 260 pounds per annum.) However the building fund account still had a credit of 52 pounds, after much needed maintenance had been carried out. George Densem During George Densem’s term from 1953 the parish was inspired to again stand on its own feet. At the beginning of 1955 he wrote a letter to all parishioners pointing out that “the twin emblems of our faith, the Church and its Manse were erected by the love and labours of a previous generation of Christian people, so that Christian faith and action would direct and ennoble the life of this community. To a large extent we have not succeeded in accepting their God-given responsibility either for ourselves or for our children. The Buildings remain much as they were - the town is growing steadily, but we are still a ‘Home Mission’ charge, not yet willing or able to assume the responsibility of calling and supporting our own Minister. Christian faith and hope demand that we enlarge our influence and help others.” The finances were showing a credit balance, and the Sunday School was flourishing under the leadership of David Beggs. The Rev. Densem’s plea to the congregation to stand on its own feet must have succeeded, because from 1955 the parish again became a fully sanctioned charge.

Page 62 Two Into One – compiled by Jean D.Turvey The period of growth The Rev. D. A. Blyth’s term between 1955 and 1971 was the longest sustained ministry the parish had. It coincided with Kaiapoi’s population increasing because of improved services, the opening of the motorway, and new housing subdivisions. Parishioners all attest to the stimulus and enthusiasm generated by the activities of that period. By 1956 the Sunday School Roll stood at 109, with 5 teachers. The Communicant Roll reached as high as 110. About this time the church was in much need of painting, repair and renovation. This work was carried out on Saturdays by a large team of some 50 parishioners, carefully organised by the Board of Managers, with the Rev. Blyth making direct personal contact with the men of the parish. He must have been a very persuasive person as the Session reached a maximum of 16 members, and the Board of Managers had a very able and enthusiastic membership. Four or five study groups met for rousing Christian discussion. A company of the Girls’ Brigade was formed. 100 years of St. Paul’s On the 21st April 1963 the first 100 years of St. Paul’s Parish was celebrated at a service conducted by the Rev. D. G. Shaw, Moderator of the Christchurch Presbytery. The Rev. R. M. Rogers of St. Andrew’s Christchurch, St. Paul’s mother church, preached the sermon. Over 300 past and present parishioners and clergy attended. Mrs. A. McNab, one of the oldest parishioners present, cut the cake at the morning tea after the service. New Youth Block. As early as 1923 the general feeling was that a new church building would be required before long. By 1956 the steadily increasing number of Sunday School children and Bible Class members made it necessary to find much needed accommodation. Some of the youth groups were meeting in other buildings around Kaiapoi. The concept of a new Youth Block came into future planning for the parish to undertake as a Centennial Project. In December 1956 the decision was made to buy Mr. Cotty’s vacant house and section in Sewell Street (formerly the residence of Richard Moore, Mayor of Kaiapoi 1884-87, and M. P. for the Kaiapoi Electorate.) There were some funds in a Building Account. A generous parishioner lent 1000 pounds interest free for a year to enable the property to be purchased. It was in an ideal position - off the main road, and close to the existing Church and Manse. An endeavour was made to pay the 1000 pound loan off quickly. The Rev. Blyth challenged the members of St. Paul’s to pay off the debt by offering 5 pounds if 199 others did the same. By April 1959 the financial situation was reported in the Parish Magazine. Not enough to repay the loan had been contributed by direct donation. A

Page 63 Two Into One – compiled by Jean D.Turvey 500 pound loan was secured from the Presbyterian Church Centenary Fund (the maximum permitted for any one project). The house was used as a temporary Sunday School and Bible Class Centre, even though it was an ancient, unpainted, unsightly building. The decision was made in 1958 to change the time of Morning Services from 11 a. m. to 10 a.m. to enable families to share in worship and Sunday School. Because Sunday School had been held in the hall at the rear of the Church, it met at 10 p.m., but the move to the house enabled parents and children to meet at the same time. The Session hoped that the change would help people make Sunday - the Lord’s Day - more of a family day. The building committee was H. James McIntosh, Convenor, Gilbert Hirst, Secretary, David Beggs, Linda Stone, Harry Benson, Ian Scott, Cohn Murray, Bill Inglis and Rev. Blyth. George Lucking a Christchurch architect prepared the plans with David Beggs contributing to the layout with his wise and experienced understanding of the teaching requirements of such a building. The completed plans were designed for three stages of development, the first a Youth Block, the second a Church, and the third a Hall. The second two did not eventuate. By 1963 approval was given for the tremendous task to raise 12,000 pounds, the estimated cost of the Youth Block. The parishioners asked “how are we going to do this”. The answer was “by the same method used by our people for 100 years - by sacrificial giving.” The Sunday School children started with a weekly penny trail. Thanksgiving Services and Stewardship campaigns were held when cash was received or pledged. The major project was the growing of potatoes and other crops. Land was leased and parishioners of all ages became involved with the planting and harvesting. Farming parishioners provided their expertise and machinery. By 1967 enough had been raised to call tenders. A major set back occurred when the expected Government grant for church halls was withdrawn. A bank loan was obtained to meet the shortfall, but it meant potato and pumpkin crops were needed over several more years to clear the debt. The successful tenderer was W. N. Betteridge & Son. The foundation stone was sealed into place on 29 October 1967, by C. J. (Jack) Murray, a plasterer and long time parishioner and Board of Managers member.

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Laying Foundation Stone of Youth Centre in 1967. The Opening and Dedication was held on Sunday 11 February, 1968, by the Moderator of the Presbytery of Christchurch, Mr. George Wallis. After the opening the Maori members of the congregation were hosts at a hangi, the food being served from tables set up in the grounds surrounding the hall.

The New Youth Centre in Sewell Street. From that time the building was used by the Sunday School and Youth Groups and for Church socials, fairs and for a time the Annual Flower Show. Outreach programmes for the wider community were also started.

Page 65 Two Into One – compiled by Jean D.Turvey Manse renovations When the Rev. Blyth resigned the charge at the end of 1970, Presbytery required the Manse to be repaired and renovated before a call could be made for a new Minister. A parishioner kindly loaned some of the funds for this to be done. Rev. Lindsay Day The parish was without a resident minister for nearly a year before the Rev. Day accepted a call to St. Paul’s and began at the end of 1971. His induction service was attended by representatives from Presbytery and local churches. At the get-together held after the service, the opportunity was taken to thank the Rev. Ron Simpson for his work as Interim Moderator, and Mr. Charles Manning for his sterling efforts as the principal lay preacher during the vacancy. A step forward in faith and unity The early 1970s was the time that the Plan for Union of 5 denominations in New Zealand was being discussed. Kaiapoi had a Joint Committee of the Negotiating Churches. Combined services were held at St. Paul’s, St. Bartholomew’s and the Methodist Church. St. Paul’s and St. Bartholomew’s operated a combined Sunday School and Bible Class for several years, using the resources and people of both parishes. At the dedication service for the Leaders, Mr. Gavin Gray on behalf of St. Paul’s Session, emphasised the unity of the move and expressed the cherished hopes of many, that out of the growth in understanding experienced by the children, all may be led to total unity in the days to come. A resolution was passed at Session in May 1973 “that immediate steps be taken towards implementing union with the Methodist and Anglican Churches in Kaiapoi, either collectively or singly.” The Plans for Union did not go ahead. Demolition of St. Paul’s Church In 1976 St. Paul’s Church ceased being used with all services now held in the Youth Centre. After a life of more than a century spent on two sites, the building was demolished. Members of the Works Committee shouldered the heavy load of responsibility, especially in the dismantling and final disposal of the old church building and its contents, all done by voluntary labour. The bell tower was presented to St. Augustine’s Church, Clarkville and other items were auctioned. A house at 17 Sewell Street opposite the Youth Block was purchased for a manse, the funds coming from the sale of the old manse and the church section. They were sold to Alexander’s Cordials, (the business on the opposite side of Williams Street), but are now private residences.

Page 66 Two Into One – compiled by Jean D.Turvey Last years of St. Paul’s Parish Unfortunately over the last ten years of St. Paul’s history, with the changing social conditions, the energy of the previous decade abated. At the time of forming the Co- operating Parish the Session was down to 10 members, with between 20-30 on the Sunday School Roll. In 1977, a $3000 grant from Assembly was required to augment the stipend. The Finance Committee repeatedly brought to the notice of the parish its very real concern regarding the financial situation brought about by increasing expenses caused by inflation. Special Appeals were launched, a ‘Talents Programme’ being one. Session agreed that Presbytery be asked to consider the suggestion that the parish might be linked with another, with the view of sharing a Minister. Presbytery indicated its interest in such a development. Rev. N. Sheat of the Presbytery Ministry Committee attended a meeting of Session to offer some ideas towards solving the financial problems. The suggestion to work in with a city parish did not eventuate. Rev. Sheat said that the shuffling of boundaries of parishes, or continued handouts, did little to solve the real problems facing the Church nationwide. However, also in 1977, an agreement between Session and the Methodist Quarterly Meeting was arrived at. A group of representatives from each parish began to meet to discuss the possibility of forming a co-operative venture. Loyalty of Parishioners. Even though St. Paul’s struggled throughout most of its existence, visitation reports over the years stated that in spite of the peculiar difficulties faced, the work of the congregation was maintained by eager and loyal workers. Many of these faithful people contributed for years to the varied tasks required in a parish.

St. Pauls Sunday School Back: Gretchen Sheehan, Adair Botting 2nd: Pam Merrin, unknown, Catherine Yellowlees, Kaye Zwart Front: Stephanie Sheehan, Janet Ching, Margurite Ching, Jan McPhail, Heather Ruddenklau Page 67 Two Into One – compiled by Jean D.Turvey

St Paul’s Stewardship dinner.

Presbyterian Communion Card

Page 68 Two Into One – compiled by Jean D.Turvey MINISTERS OF ST. PAUL’S Fraser, C. Rev. Charles Fraser of the Free Church of Scotland, arrived in Christchurch in April 1856, with a mission charge from the Presbytery of Aberdeen. In February 1857 he delivered his first sermon in St. Andrew’s Christchurch. By the next year, Fraser was conducting occasional services in Kaiapoi. He was also instrumental in the formation of the parishes at Sydenham, North Belt and Lyttelton. Peter Matheson in ‘Presbyterians in Aotearoa 1840-1 990’ noted that few of the early ministers in New Zealand seemed to have been outstanding preachers - Charles Fraser being a notable exception. Kirton, W. Scottish born William Kirton arrived in Kaiapoi from Wellington in 1863. He had been called to the Kaiapoi/Rangiora charge on 6 February. His second wife was Mary Blackett of the well-known Rangiora family. In 1864 he became the first Moderator of the Presbytery of North Canterbury. His early years in the parish were difficult. He found few supporters, and although they provided him with a residence, his promised salary of 260 pounds barely reached 75 pounds a year. The descent from Wellington to Kaiapoi had been a steep one, but Kirton persevered until his death in August 1871. Hogg, W. William Hogg was born in Ireland in 1863. Arrived in Kaiapoi too late for the Kaiapoi appointment so was given as his own charge the lonely area of tussock between the Waimakariri and the Clarence Rivers. He resigned in 1872 to take up an equally difficult task at Ross, South Westland. Left there for Sydney in 1876. He returned to New Zealand and was at Goldsborough Westland in 1899. McGregor, W. Rev. W. McGregor, began in Kaiapoi on the 26th June 1872. During his term, Rangiora became a separate parish. After much controversy and disputes with and between parishioners, he resigned his charge on 22 July 1880. McGregor, R. Robert McGregor was called on 17 February 1881, and resigned because of ill-health on 5 February 1891. Was able to return to the ministry at Hawera on 9 September 1891, resigning that charge in 1894. He died in 1895. Gow, W. Rev. William Gow was born in 1852 at Carmyllie Scotland. Came with his parents (Rev. John Gow) to New Zealand in 1865. After 11 years in business he studied for the ministry and was ordained at Reefton in 1884. He came to St. Paul’s 2 July 1891 and left 2 December 1900 to a call at St. Peter’s Christchurch. He died 21 October 1937 at Papatoetoe. “Outstanding feature of his life was his transparent goodness - he was a real saint.” Ritchie, W. William Ritchie was born in 1856 in Scotland and came to New Zealand in 1898. Inducted at the Wairarapa South Parish 1899. Called to Kaiapoi 9 May 1901, and resigned 31 May 1903. Next parish was at Edendale in Southland in 1904. He retired from the ministry in 1908.

Page 69 Two Into One – compiled by Jean D.Turvey After retirement he was engaged for some years lecturing and organising for the New Zealand Alliance (for abolition of liquor trade). In 1910 went to Palmerston North where he was engaged in business. He died suddenly 8 September 1945 at Palmerston North. McDonald, W. Rev. William McDonald was born in Scotland in 1868. Went first to Australia before coming to New Zealand. Ordained at Kaiapoi 17 March 1904, and resigned 13 February 1906 due to ill-health. After a visit to Scotland, his health restored, he went to Maori Hill Parish in Dunedin. After serving in other parishes he again resigned because of ill-health in 1932. He returned to Inverness Scotland where he died 7 March 1933. Reid, J. John Swanson Reid, born 1868, studied at the Theological Hall Dunedin before ordination at Middlemarch in 1893. Came to Kaiapoi from the Waitahuna Parish 12 July 1906, leaving for Dunsandel 7 June 1912. He retired in 1922 and died in 1942. Stewart, R. Robert Stewart came to New Zealand from the Shetland Islands at the age of 12, working in the gold-mining and sawmilling industries on the West Coast before studying for the ministry. He served in several parishes for 20 years, chiefly Greymouth. He died suddenly in September 1912 when under call to Kaiapoi. Laishley, A. Rev. Alfred Laishley was born in 1858. From the Congregational church in England. Received by Assembly in 1902 before induction at Bluff in 1903. Called to Kaiapoi in 1913 and retired 31 December 1922 because ill-health. There were happy memories of his term, particularly because of the involvement of his daughters in parish affairs, particularly with the children. While at the Bluff Parish they, together with their mother Sarah, established the ‘Busy Bee’ Movement. He died at Dunsandel in 1926. Robertson, F. Frederick Robertson was born in 1894 in Australia and came Christchurch as a boy. After service in WWI, he attended the Theological Hall 1920- 22. He was ordained at Kaiapoi 20 March 1923. Called to the LincoIn Parish in 1924. In 1946 he went to Scotland and served in several parishes until retirement in 1960, returning to Christchurch where he died 19 August 1969. Aitken, G. K. Rev. George Keillor Aitken was born in Montrose Scotland in 1858. He was an engineer, going first to Australia before coming to New Zealand in 1906. Served first as a Home Missionary before ordination at Foxton in 1910. Was at the Featherston Parish before coming to Kaiapoi 18 December 1924. Retired due to ill- health 30 September 1927. He died 24 October 1941. “He proved himself an ardent pastor and preacher, and an active worker in the interests of Protestantism.” Hercus, G. W. T. George Watson Thomson Hercus, born in 1879, began working life as a printer in Dunedin before becoming a Home Missionary in 1905. Attended Theological Hall 1908-10. Ordained at Tapanui in 1911, then moved to Methven

Page 70 Two Into One – compiled by Jean D.Turvey Parish. Called to Kaiapoi 29 March 1928. Left for Fordell Parish in Wanganui in 1937 and retired 1952. He died in 1964. His brother, D. M. Hercus was also an ordained minister, and two sisters A. O. and M. H. Hercus were Deaconesses. Stevenson, N. J. Norris Johnston Stevenson was born in 1907 at Gore. Because of ill- health in childhood he did not attend high school, but after seven years farm work decided to enter the ministry and attended Otago University, graduating in 1934. Ordained at Kaiapoi 23 June 1938. Moved by the Home Mission Committee to Cust- Oxford Parish in 1941. Died in 1947 while still in office at Weston Parish, North Otago. Cuttle, T. N. Thomas Nevin Cuttle, was born in Dunedin in 1878. Worked in menswear shops in Dunedin and Wanganui before ordination at Milburn Parish, Clutha Presbytery in 1911. Came to Kaiapoi 10 June 1941, and retired 30 April 1944. He died in 1968. Clark, J. S. The Rev. Clark came to Kaiapoi in February 1945 for short stay, resigning from the ministry in July 1946 to go farming. In his letter contained in the Annual Report of June, 1946 his message to the congregation “was to get together as often as possible in the social side of life, cultivate that fellowship which is essential in keeping the people of the Church together.” Martin, D. David Martin was born in 1906. Began farming before joining the Home Missionary staff in 1929. Came from the Takaka Parish to Kaiapoi in January 1947, resigning July 1948 to join the Presbyterian Social Services Association staff in Christchurch. In 1952 became Superintendent of the Auckland PSSA, and later joined the staff of the Waikeria Training Centre. He died suddenly in 1968 in Kihikihi. Leishman, R. Robert Leishman, was born in 1906. He was a Home Missionary in several parishes before coming to Kaiapoi 3 February 1949. He studied for the ministry by correspondence and was ordained at the Pukurau Parish in 1953. He died in 1982. Densem, G. George Densem was born in Queenstown. He began working life as carpenter. In 1915 he became a Home Missionary for the Methodist Church, and during WW I worked with the YMCA. In 1944, he was accepted by the Presbyterian Church, again as a Home Missionary, serving at Hinds and thence to Kaiapoi in February 1953. The Rev. Densem inspired the parish to again stand on its own feet. He died in 1976 in Christchurch. Blyth, D. A. David Alexander (Alex) Blyth, was inducted on 14th July 1955, coming from the Maheno-Incholme Parish. He encouraged and developed the parish during the longest sustained ministry St. Paul’s had since its beginning in 1863. It was during his leadership that the parish really flourished. Page 71 Two Into One – compiled by Jean D.Turvey The St. Paul’s Youth Block was built, the Session and Board of Managers had an able membership, the Sunday School Roll increased, and Study Groups met. He left in December 1970 for the Rakaia Parish. Rev. Blyth died in 2001. Day, L. S. Lindsay Day, was born in Balclutha in 1934. He worked in freezing works and was a teacher before training for the ministry at Knox College. His parish ministry was at Duntroon, North Otago from 1966 to 1971, followed by the call to Kaiapoi in December 1971. When St. Paul’s Parish became a co-operating venture he went to the Reefton Union Parish, combining that with being area consultant covering the West Coast, Nelson, and Marlborough through the Parish Development and Mission Department. His next Parish was at Newlands Union in Wellington from 1982 to 1988, followed by a move back to the South Island at St. Martin’s Christchurch.

Page 72 Two Into One – compiled by Jean D.Turvey CHOIRS Choirs have played a major part in the life of the churches. It is difficult to give a completely accurate record of the services rendered by these choirs as some records have not been kept and not all details have been recorded. Methodist The first Choirmaster at the Methodist Church is thought to have been Isaac Wilson, who gave over 20 years service in the very early days. About 1874 a Mr. Neville tendered his resignation as Choirmaster, as did Mr. Edwin Lock in 1875. It was about this time that it was reported that the discipline of the choir was questioned, and the minister was asked to draw up a code of rules for their guidance. In their reports to choir meetings several of the Choirmasters stressed “that if a Choir was to achieve success, each member should endeavour to attend practices and services as regularly as possible, and put zeal and enthusiasm into the work”. Mr. G. H. Blackwell took over in 1875 and resigned in 1884 with Mr. R. Blakeley taking over the task of Choirmaster as well as organist for about a year. Mr. Blackwell took over again and remained until 1898, when Mr. J. H. Blackwell was appointed to replace his father. The resignation of a Mr. Johnson was received in 1901. Mr. F. Burrows, father of Brigadier Burrows, was Choir Leader in the early 1900s.

Kaiapoi Methodist Church Choir 1913-14 H. Blackwell, C. Bennett, W. Lintoff, R. Mitchell, R. Rule, A. McPherson, S. Collins, F. McArthur, W. Thorne, J. Varcoe Gladys Blazey, E. Blakeley, K. Parnham, E Doubleday, G. Ellen, J. Hoskin, E. Thigance, M. Varcoe, D. Stanton, E. Thorne, Grace Blazey M. Ellen, N. Hayman, R. Richards, B. McFall, J. Tourell, S. Evans, A. Ellen, L. Rule, E. Blakeley, M. Stanton Mrs Mitchell, M. Hayman, J.H. Blackwell, A. Blakeley, G.H. Blackwell, Rev Mitchell, Mrs Parnham, Mrs Ashley Bob Hayman, Len Parnham, Allan Eagle Page 73 Two Into One – compiled by Jean D.Turvey About 1907 there appeared to have been a difficulty with the minister and it was reported that on one occasion the Choir walked out over the singing of vespers. In the early 1900s Mr. A. Blakeley became Choirmaster and leader of an orchestra. Those were the days when there were 39 active members, with an average attendance of 25 members twice on Sundays, and at practice. At the Quarterly Meeting of April 1924, a hearty vote of thanks was passed to the soloists, choir, organist and Choirmaster J. H. Blackwell, for the splendid rendering of the Crucifixion at the Sunday evening service. Others to render excellent service in leading the Choir were Mr. E. H. Martin, Mr. A. Hirst and in the 1950s Mr. Arthur Withers. Over the years the Methodist Choir and the Orchestra were renowned for their musical contribution to the community of Kaiapoi.

Kaiapoi Methodist Orchestra about 1929-1930 W. Lintott Sen’r, W. Lintott Jn’r, C. Brocklebank, J. Johnson, E. Forrest, J. Whyte, A. Bollington J. Howarth, R. Blackburn, F. Rinaldi, A. Blakeley, M. Allison, A. Hutson, C. Green K. Vickery, G. Martin St. Paul’s Choirs at St. Paul’s over the years contributed to the church services, and to the Kaiapoi Community. In reports in the Kaiapoi Record in 1909 and 1911, St. Paul’s Choir gave concerts in aid of the Fire Brigade. This choir also put its efforts into raising the funds for the Bevington Organ. In 1915 the organ had been secured “by the splendid efforts of George Millar, conductor, and members of the choir. Their generous and persevering efforts, have in so short a time enabled them to hand over

Page 74 Two Into One – compiled by Jean D.Turvey the instrument, free of debt”. Mr. Millar was presented with an inscribed baton. In appreciation, the ladies of the church gave a social with the choir members as guests.7 At the Session meeting of 13.2.1918 Mr Millar tendered his resignation as Choirmaster and was thanked for the excellent service he had rendered. However at the April meeting it was reported that he was willing to continue. Some of the other Choirmaster over the years were: Mr. Robilliard c1910, Mr. R. Logan ci 921 and Mr. Gilbert Hirst. When Gilbert was Choirmaster at St. Paul’s, his brother Arthur filled the same position at the Methodist Church. In the latter years of St. Paul’s, Catherine Powell led the choir. They visited Woodchester Home for the Aged in Christchurch on several occasions to entertain the residents. Co-operating Parish Shortly after the formation of the co-operating parish a choir was formed and has continued leading the singing at worship and assisting with productions by the children. Choir leaders have been Malcolm Weir, Joan Fenwick, Garven Eggleston and Barry Harkness. Members over the 25 years have been: Enid Baker, Jean Blackwell, Maude Candy, Beryl Duncan, Marion Eggleston, Mary Forrest, Rita Hewson, Rosaline Hosking, Jennifer Kirk, Betty McGregor, John McKenzie, Ada Pearce, Val Oram, Sheila Pinkham, Ursula Saunders, Cynthia Steere, Betty Tindall and Brian Williams.

7 Kirk Session minutes 1915. Page 75 Two Into One – compiled by Jean D.Turvey CHRISTIAN EDUCATION Church Schools D. N. Hawkins noted that of the 274 people north of the Waimakariri at the 1884 census, only 99 could both read and write. The Anglicans began holding classes in 1857, but a piece of provincial legislation ended the Church of England’s monopoly over education by granting money from the land fund to the other churches, for educational purposes. In 1860 therefore, both the Presbyterian and Wesleyan Churches were able to start schools in Kaiapoi. One of the aims of these schools, was that pupils would learn to read the Bible, and so take an active part in their congregations. The Kaiapoi Presbyterian Boys’ School was held in the church with a Mr. Somerset as teacher. The Wesleyan School was in a building attached to the first Wesleyan Church in Fuller Street. It served both sexes, with the opening roll being 20 and by 1863, 41 scholars were enrolled. The teacher was Mr. Thomas Veysey. The fee for these schools was one shilling a week. They ceased operating when the Government sponsored schools began. A divided town An unusual aspect of religious affiliation in Kaiapoi was the division in the town caused by the river. People living on each side would say, “our side” and “the other side”. Before the days of widespread car ownership Methodist and Presbyterian families would often send their children to the nearest Church/Sunday School rather than have them cross ‘the big bridge.’ Methodist Mr. Thomas Wilson started the Methodist Sunday School about 1868. By 1882, the year the Sunday School building was erected, the roll stood at 225 scholars with 22 teachers, with both morning and afternoon classes. During those early years Mr. G. H. Blackwell had a prominent roll in the school, first as a teacher, then for some years its Superintendent, and on retiring from that office took charge of the Young Women’s Bible Class. One of the most conspicuous and consistent activities in connection with Kaiapoi Methodism was the inauguration in January 1914 of a “Morning Star Brigade”. The brigade began with 70 members with a Mr. Blazey as Captain and Mr. Fred Heald as Lieutenant. The aim of this group was to encourage children in their attendance at worship, and continued until 1955. The First World War had its effect upon the work of the Sunday School as the teaching staff had been depleted to such an extent that an appeal was made for “men and women who love the Saviour to volunteer as teachers”. In 1919 the roll numbered

Page 76 Two Into One – compiled by Jean D.Turvey 165 scholars. In March 1920, the death was recorded of Mr. G. A. Ellen, who served many years as Superintendent. Ruth Thorn formed and trained a Junior Choir about 1950-53 They sang an introit and one piece at Sunday morning services. The highlight of the year for the children was the Anniversary Concert. The following is an extract from an article in the North Canterbury Gazette of 28 October, 1958: “The annual Kaiapoi Methodist Sunday School concert took place last Monday in the Sunday School Hall, which as usual was filled to capacity. Varied fare was provided - from the uninhibited performances of the tiny tots, up to a well- costumed and acted biblical play by the Junior Girls’ Bible Class, with one ‘ring-in’ from the Boys’ Bible Class to act the part of a soldier. There were sketches, concerted items, dainty and tuneful, and others that relied upon burlesque to make their appeal. The latter were of course, boys’ items, one of which imitated a famous Girls’ choir. The junior choir, under the direction of Mrs. B. Riseley, presented their items with customary efficiency and a Boys’ Brigade group gave a creditable display of gymnastics. Individual items, so necessary when continuous stage changes are being made, were given by the following: Lesley Harper, songs; Susanne Wyatt, sailor’s hornpipe; Catherine Pottinger, recitation; Suzanne Ashley, recitation; Barry Forrest, piano solo; and Raymond Harper, bagpipe solo. Faye Hammer led a community sing of popular songs. At the conclusion, the Chairman the Rev. B. H. Riseley thanked all who had assisted”. The annual picnic was another eagerly looked forward to treat. A report in the N.C. Gazette of the 1958 picnic records that the crowds set off by buses for Diamond Harbour in pleasant weather, but upon reaching the Port Hills met a squally storm, reaching its destination amid driving rain. A second bus broke down at Governor’s Bay, and the first bus was required to return to pick them up. The picnickers were hard put to find shelter, but with a smoky fire and hot cups of tea everyone was made fairly comfortable. The spirit of “the show must go on” proved to be the correct one, for the weather changed to warm and sunny so that the programme of races, games and swimming was carried out in very pleasant conditions. Some of the people who served as Superintendents over the years were: G. H. Blackwell, E. Butcher, J. H. Blackwell, G. A. Ellen, Rosaline Hosking, Arthur Kennett, W. Lintott (Snr), J. Panckhurst, Fred Pinkham, George Thorn and T. B. Ward. Bible Class Young Men’s and Women’s Bible Classes were also active. Some of the leaders were George Blackwell, Miss C. Blackwell, Mrs. Burnet, Mr. Richard Evans, Miss S. E. Evans, Mrs. B. H. Riseley, Robin Riseley, Mr. N Gust, and Mr. W. Gust. Elaine Bolitho (nee Wilson), recalls that her time as a member of the Bible Class in the 1950s, were great days - “the camaraderie, the sense of being part of a group that Page 77 Two Into One – compiled by Jean D.Turvey was part of something bigger - geographically and spiritually. There was a good balance of spiritual, physical, social and intellectual activities. The Rev. Riseley started a youth club which met on Friday nights, had games like basketball, and things for running off energy. Saturday nights were often social nights, shared with other churches in the area - Ohoka, Clarkville, Rangiora, St. Paul’s and St. Bartholomew’s. By then they were allowed to have dances. Earlier Methodist Trustees would allow only one or two dances within a social programme, not a whole evening of dances. The Riseley family were unusual for that time in owning three cars, but when it came to moving the Bible Class out to other events it was very handy that they could pack the young people all in.” Elaine also attended Easter Camps at the Leigh Methodist Camp, Loburn. The boys went to a camp at Amberley. “Great studies, great music, a wonderful lively Christian atmosphere and great fun. 8 Presbyterian At the Annual Meeting of 1892 Mr. T. Millar, as Superintendent, reported that there were 80 scholars attending the Sabbath School, with an average attendance of 70, with 12 teachers. The school for St. Paul’s children was held in a room at the rear of the church. In 1915 Rev. Laishley was the Superintendent with 80 children on the roll and 7 teachers. He was ably assisted by his wife and two daughters. They were the founders of the ‘Busy Bee’ movement when at their previous parish at Bluff.9 Muriel Laishley was congratulated for winning the Presbytery prize for an essay. In the 1939 annual report Miss Jessie Stark gave a very lengthy and comprehensive report on the very important branch of the church, the difficulties under which they worked, and an appeal for more teachers. This was listened to with sincerity by the members of the congregation, and it was hoped to stimulate more interest in that branch of the church organisation. Also in 1939 Miss Nan Stark was a Bible Class leader with Miss Henderson undertaking the recreational side of the class. Mr. A. Cattermole, the leader of the Boy’s Bible Class reported that attendance was steadily growing. In 1941 Jessie Stark resigned because of work commitments, and Mrs. Cuttle, wife of the minister, took over. By 1944 Mr. Peter McNab was the Superintendent. Sunday School teachers mentioned in the 1946 Annual Report were Mrs. Molly Chapman, Misses Nan Stark, E. Gray, B. Hirst, L. Inglis, and J. Davies. 1949 saw Mr. Hugh Elder as the Superintendent, and the reinstitution of the Bible Class. About this time

8 . Reminiscences of the Kaiapoi Methodist Parish by Elaine E. Bolitho nee Wilson. 9 The motto of ‘Busy bees’ was “the whole wide world for Jesus”. Page 78 Two Into One – compiled by Jean D.Turvey Mr. David Beggs arrived in Kaiapoi. He and his family gave excellent service to the work of the Sunday School and Bible Class from their arrival in Kaiapoi, until leaving for Palmerston North in the 1980s. In the January 1957 issue of St. Paul’s magazine the following report on the Sunday School was included: - “On Sunday, November 18th, some 80 children took part in their Anniversary Services in the morning and evening. While the children’s singing was evidence of the thorough preparation which had been carried out under the baton of Miss Lois Wilcox, the very large congregation were an inspiration to the whole Sunday School Staff. Special mention must be made of the very successful use of descant in some of the songs. It was no mean accomplishment to be able to produce a group of children for such a purpose and we express our thanks to Miss Wilcox for a fine piece of service to the children and the Church.” “Significant too, was the Children’s Christmas Service on Family Sunday, 16th December. As on other occasions this year extra chairs had to be placed in the aisles of the Church to accommodate the congregation. Once again the work of the Sunday School staff was in evidence through the Christmas playette presented by the children under the leadership of Miss L. Hamel, and a children’s choir trained by Miss Wilcox.” Teachers about this time were: David Beggs (Superintendent), David Beggs (Jnr) , Nola Burgess (Johnstone), Jean Claridge, Mary Ellmers, Louise Hamel, Mr. D. Moffat, Nan Stark and Lois Wilcox. The steadily increasing number of Sunday School children and Bible Class members made it necessary to find much needed accommodation. The concept of a new Youth block came into future planning for the parish. In 1956 the decision was made to purchase a vacant house and section in Sewell Street, and from then until the opening in 1968 of the newly built Youth Centre, classes and activities were held there. The children’s contribution to the fundraising efforts for the new building was a weekly ‘Penny Trail.’ The aim was to collect a mile of coins. The trail was set out at the entrance to the Church every Sunday morning. It was measured, the pennies counted, and the result of the distance reached, announced. Also on display was a model of the new youth block with a hole in its roof through which silver coins could be dropped. The opening of the new building in 1968 provided the Sunday School and Youth Groups with much enhanced facilities. Sunday, 14th February 1971 marked an important occasion in the life of the Anglican and Presbyterian communities in Kaiapoi, when Rev. Goldsmith, Vicar of St. Bartholomew’s dedicated the Superintendent and leaders of the Sunday School and Bible Classes of the new United Youth Departments of the two denominations. About

Page 79 Two Into One – compiled by Jean D.Turvey 135 children were on the roll of the Sunday School with 30 enthusiastic Bible Class members. David and Jillian Johnson led the Youth I members, and Mr. and Mrs. Keith Thompson of the Anglican Church, the Youth II group. Classes for Standard I to Form 2 were held after school on Tuesday afternoons. Family Services were held monthly at St. Paul’s or St. Bartholomew’s. The combined Sunday School and Youth Groups ceased in 1974 when the Anglican Parish decided to withdraw from the programme. After school classes for the Presbyterian children continued for a short period before reverting to meeting on Sunday mornings. Co-operating Parish When the Co-operating Parish was formed the roll from the creche to Form 2 numbered 65. As well as spending time on the organisation of classes, members of the Christian Education Committee gave much attention to the reorganisation and use of all the resources available. The work during the second year was still hampered by the lack of sufficient leaders and a non- teaching Superintendent. By the third year, the committee had made good progress as the interest of the children showed. Offerings were given to a specific project and this policy led to a greatly increased response. As always, the work was hampered by a lack of helpers but the roll had increased to 90. A Sunday School was also held at the Swannanoa Church for several years, with about 20 attending. Mrs. Sharon Hawkes was appointed Superintendent in 1982, and several new teachers had been recruited. Family teas and fun evenings were held on Friday evenings. After Mrs. Hawkes left Kaiapoi, Dick Lambert became the Superintendent. Colleen Bell helped in the music area, with the children responding well to that important area of teaching. About this time Kathleen Campbell joined the team. The valuable services of Colleen and Jennifer Bell were lost in 1989 when the family transferred. The roll dropped to about 20 with the changing life styles of families, and attendance on average was very small. About the mid 1 990s Kathleen Campbell became the leader of Christian Education, with the able assistance of Bonny MacAlpine and others. Since 1998 the roll has been steadily growing. A feature of recent years has been the preparing and presentation of a programme in church at the end of each term. Although very nerve racking for all concerned, the children seem to enjoy being able to take part in the services. Sadly, in 2001 Bonny MacAlpine passed away. Her faith and contribution to the parish have been greatly missed. Over the years the children have participated in exams and quizzes held by the North Canterbury Methodist Sunday School Union, with excellent results. The shield for the best results from a small parish has been won on several occasions. Page 80 Two Into One – compiled by Jean D.Turvey As at 2003 the name had undergone a change - the Children’s Church’ - under the continuing leadership of Kathleen Campbell, with assistance from Catherine Blackburn, Claire Maslin, Julie Thomson and relievers John Cole and Beatrice Warwick-Reynolds. Youth Groups Over the years of the co-operating parish young adults have been meeting for fellowship, study, games evenings, social outings and attending camps. In 1979 when the Methodist and Presbyterians came together, an eager group of 25 young people met on Sundays and then Friday nights at St. Paul’s Centre, under the leadership of Rev. Bell, but organised by members themselves. Jennifer Diver, Kim Regan and Chris Thompson took leading rolls. In 1983, Mike Gilligan was appointed by Parish Council as a Youth Leader with continuing Bible Study, trips and activities. A year later Catherine and Harvey Blackburn began work with the younger group with Mike continuing with the Young Adults. From 1985 until she left Kaiapoi, Sharon Hawkes led the youth group, with Russell Stone and Malcolm Williams leading the Young Adults. Colleen and Rev. Bell with help from Donald McKenzie kept the dwindling membership active until 1990 when Barbara Hildreth with help from Lois Hawthorne and Donald led a small group. In 1993 this group went into recess but was restarted in 1999 when Leonie Stapleton started working with Form 1 to Form 4 young people, meeting at night for devotions, prayer, games and crafts. Since her arrival in Kaiapoi, Irene Nel has assisted. At present Melanie and Stephen Ede work with the group. Holiday Programme – For many years an activity programme for children has been held in the school holidays, in St. Paul’s Centre and in the last few years at the Wesley Centre. Among those who co-ordinated these programmes have been Alison Yellowlees, Heather Bell and Rosalie Holmes. Since 1989 Kathleen Campbell has been leading this outreach work of the parish with support from Scott Campbell and other helpers assisting the children in their activities and craft work.

Page 81 Two Into One – compiled by Jean D.Turvey GIRL’S AND BOY’S BRIGADES Girls’ Brigade A preliminary meeting of those interested in the formation of a Girls’ Life Brigade was held in the Kaiapoi Presbyterian Schoolroom in 1955. It was decided to form a Company under the leadership of Florence Moffat, with representatives of other Kaiapoi Churches on the governing committee. While the Company was affiliated to the Presbyterian Church, it was stressed that it was an interdenominational movement. The aim of the brigade was for the spiritual, physical, educational and social benefit of its members. The enrolment service for the 1St Kaiapoi Company was held on 31 July 1955 at St. Paul’s, when 41 girls and 3 officers were enrolled. The service was conducted by Rev. D. A. Blyth, who spoke to the girls on the importance of truth, honesty and faithfulness in the lives. In 1980 a Church Parade was held at the Wesley Centre to celebrate their 25th Anniversary. The first Captain, Mrs. Moffat was guest of honour. The sermon was taken by the Regional Chaplain, Rev. Bert Cochrane an exminister of the Methodist Parish. This company continued with fluctuating rolls under the auspices of the Presbyterian Church and the Co-operating Parish until it went into recess about 1995. Captains of the Company were: Florence Moffat, V. Hayden, H. V. Dodge, E. L. Hamel, R. Dodge, Anne McMaster, Denise Gray, June Leney, and Barbara Clegg. Lieutenants (who did not go on to become Captain): G. Parry, M. Moore, C. Wright, B. Lindsay, L. Dabinett, Margaret Read (Topp), H. Turner, Colleen Bell, and P. Barnes. Boys’ Brigade The minutes of a meeting of St. Paul’s Session in April 1939, reports on a discussion to form a Boys’ Brigade Company. Eric Price was appointed Captain and Albert Cattermole Lieutenant. Presumably, the war years must have caused that company to cease. The 1st Company of the Kaiapoi Boys’ Brigade began in 1954 under the leadership of Cyril Bisseker and Ed. Pollard, with 34 boys meeting in the Baptist Church Hall. Two years later the Company moved to the old Methodist Sunday School Hall in Fuller Street, remaining until 1975 when that hall was condemned. During those years the Company was overseen by the Methodist Parish. In 1979, the Methodist Church formally asked the Company to change affiliation to St. Bartholomew’s because the new Co-operating Parish was going to be involved with the Girls’ Brigade.

Page 82 Two Into One – compiled by Jean D.Turvey Over those fifty or so years, many Methodist young men and boys passed through its ranks and were leaders. Mr. Bisseker gave over 30 years of dedicated service to the movement. Family involvement At the time Anne McMaster was Captain of the Girls’ Brigade, her husband Ron was equally involved as Captain of the Boys’ Brigade. GROUPS LADIES’ GUILDS AND MISSIONARY UNIONS No record would be complete without the inclusion of the excellent work of the women of the parishes. Both the Presbyterian and Methodists had similar groups - the names changed over the years, but the fellowship at meetings, outings, and work carried out, have remained the same. Ever since their establishment these organisations have done an immense amount of good work, whether it has been raising money with bazaars and sales of work, cleaning the church, or providing the flower arrangements. Spring cleaning of the Manse or Parsonage in readiness for new ministers and their families had been another service. The Methodist Ladies in particular, always had a special interest in the Parsonage, assisting in the provision of amenities and in the regular maintenance of the furnishings. Not the least of these activities has been the visiting of sick and elderly parishioners, and welcoming newcomers to the district. Members of the Missionary Unions supported Home and Overseas Missions and Missionaries of their respective denominations.

Methodist Ladies Guild at Mrs L. Evans. Page 83 Two Into One – compiled by Jean D.Turvey In the annual report of St. Paul’s Session for the year 1956, the Session Clerk Mr. R. W. Smith reported “that the faithful work of the P.W.M.U. and Ladies’ Guild is a valuable contribution to the whole parish. This year greater Missionary interest is shown by the increased number of Mission Boxes distributed and the larger sum received from them. The Ladies’ work in the Spring Flower Show met with great success and their initiative in starting an Autumn Flower Show proved to be a means of fellowship and a real help to congregational finances.” The flower shows were organised by the ladies over many years, from at least the 1 920s to about 1971. About 1964 both denominations reformed their Guilds and Missionary Unions into the Association of Presbyterian Women and the Methodist Women’s Fellowship respectively. Cradle Roll Keeping in touch with the families of the district has been another roll of the Women’s Fellowships. An annual Cradle Roll party was organised by the A.P.W. with mothers and children enjoying games and competitions. Co-operating Women’s Fellowship Since 1979 and the formation of the Women’s Fellowship the work has continued, ably led over the 25 years by Marion Eggleston, Margaret L. Moore, Diane Murray, and Margaret Cleland, with Treasurers Evelyn Bannan, Betty Poultney, and Eileen Nicholas. Mary Forrest has been Secretary in recent years. The President’s duties have been shared amongst the committee members for the last few years. The main fundraising has been by way of catering for funerals and regular sales tables at the meetings. For the last two years a very successful luncheon has been held to raise funds for the Special Projects of A.P.W. and M.W.F., both here in New Zealand and Overseas. The Women’s Fellowship has made a most worthwhile contribution to the work of the church both locally and in the wider field. Delegates have represented the Parish at A.P.W. and M.W.F. meetings, with Marion Eggleston serving as President of Presbyterial and on the Executive of the National Council of Women. Sheila Pinkham was appointed to the M.W.F. Executive. Other groups and clubs The churches over the years, have provided fellowship for parishioners and others in the community. The groups have had different names, but the objective has been the same. Evening group of A.P.W. Young Wives, 30- 50 group, Indoor Bowling Clubs, Men’s Fellowship, the present Friendship group, and Young Families, are just some of the many. From the opening of St. Paul’s Youth Block and especially in the early years of the Co-operating Parish under the direction of Tony Bell, the parish reached out to the community, providing activities and get-togethers for those in need.

Page 84 Two Into One – compiled by Jean D.Turvey St. Paul’s Activity Centre - From the 1970s classes were held in the morning at St. Paul’s Centre. Cane work, macrame, crochet, pottery, home repairs, budgeting, and New Outlook courses for women returning to the work force were just some of the subjects covered. Some of the crafts produced by those participating led indirectly to the setting up of the Craft Shop as a commercial outlet. St. Paul’s Playgroup A creche had been operating in conjunction with the Activity Group at St. Paul’s. When the activity side ceased, the playgroup for pre-school children was continued. It provided a place where mothers could get together and discuss their problems with advisors, while their children could play with others of the same age. Craft Group - In 1984 a craft group was organised out of concern for housebound, lonely and unemployed people in order to fulfil some of their social, creative and emotional needs. A variety of craft activities have been undertaken, under the guidance over the first years by Heather Bell, Colleen Bell, Rosalie Holmes, Jeanette Jordan, Marilyn Mehrtens and Alison Yellowlees. Since 1988 Kathleen Campbell with help from Scott, has continued coordinating the group, which still meets most weeks apart from school holiday time. Coffee Morning Group - For many years Marie, (and until recently the late Ron Regan) has been running the Coffee Morning group which meets once a month for morning tea, a chat and a laugh. Transport has been provided to enable elderly folk to attend. In the winter, groups met to play cards. Young families This group meet monthly for social activities for families. They have assisted at working bees - when new paths replaced the broken ones between the office and Wesley Centre the fit young people helped with lifting the broken up pieces and loading them on a truck. Camps have been held at the Methodist Journey’s End Campsite. Girls’ Clubs Both denominations had Girls’ clubs in their history. The Presbyterians have records of the Girls’ Club donating the Communion Table (at present in the Wesley Centre Church) and a set of silver plates for Communion, given by the Girls’ Sunshine Club. Haeremai and Pollyana Clubs In the 1920s, there was a strong Methodist Girls’ Bible Class and it was felt that the girls should have a social side to Bible Class life, so it was decided to form a Girls’ Club. The girls were keen to join and a meeting was called and officers elected. The name Haeremai Club was chosen. Many happy evenings were enjoyed by the girls, with a programme of devotions, physical jerks, quick thinking contests, and games. Throughout the years the girls staged many concerts with plays, choruses and Page 85 Two Into One – compiled by Jean D.Turvey tableaux, and in other ways helped to raise funds for the Church. After the club had been running for some years the numbers so increased that the room was not large enough and it was decided to divide into two groups. Those under sixteen were formed into another club - the ‘Pollyanna Club.’ The younger girls had very happy socials and moonlight picnics, with the two sections joining for any special effort or occasion. Some pessimists had prophesied that the clubs would not last six months, but they were still going strong after 21 years. Gradually the interest waned, and eventually the clubs ceased. IN MEMORIAM Rolls of Honour METHODIST - The World War I Honours Board was given to the Kaiapoi Methodist Church by the parents of Private Eric J. Parnham who was killed in action at Gravenstafel on October 4th 1917. This Honours Board also contains the names of five other Parnhams. Miss S. E. Evans had been made the Convenor of the Committee for the collection of the names. PRESBYTERIAN - This World War I Memorial Scroll was presented to St. Paul’s Presbyterian Church by Mrs. Kenneth Mcintosh (Snr). Her son William G. McIntosh was killed in action in France, in 1918. The inscription reads “Greater love hath no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends”. When St. Paul’s was demolished in 1976 the scroll was put into storage until a question was raised at the Annual Meeting in 1992 as to its whereabouts, the outcome being that it was restored and placed in its present position in the Wesley Centre Church. A rededication was held on Sunday 23 April 1995 with representatives from the Kaiapoi R.S.A. present. Stained glass window IN THE WINGS OF THE MORNING from Psalm 139. This beautiful stained glass window was designed and made by Graham Stewart of Stewart Stained Glass Ltd Christchurch, in remembrance of Richard and Fanny Evans, and Joseph H. and Margaret B. Blackwell. The estates of their daughters, Sarah E. Evans and Margaret M. Blackwell provided the funds. The window was dedicated at a service on 7 March 1982. A polycarbonate protection was added a few years later. A plaque has the inscription “This window was presented by Sarah (Cis) Evans and Margaret Blackwell to beautify this sanctuary in memory of their parents.” This window replaced another created by a new process - THE LAST SUPPER. - provided by the Estate of Sarah E. Evans who died in 1964, but unfortunately it deteriorated. The families concerned decided to commission Mr Stewart to create the present window.

Page 86 Two Into One – compiled by Jean D.Turvey Lecturn Rev. Ben Riseley, incumbent minister of the Kaiapoi Circuit from 1954 to 1960 provided the lecturn in memory of his father Ernest Charles Riseley, born Greendale, 1871-1947. Parsonage Steps The Parsonage had been built in 1914. Rev. W. Ready who was the resident minister in 1918 paid for the concrete paths around the Parsonage in gratitude to God for the return of his son Lieutenant Ready. A small memorial is written for his son, R. C. Ready, killed in action. The inscription is still visible at the front steps: - “R.C. Ready, Messines, June 7th, 1917.” Communion Set (Presbyterian) A small communion set for use in house visits has the inscription: “To the glory of God and in memory of Mina & Arthur Stewart Palmer, Kaiapoi”. Hymn Board The Hymn Board by the pulpit has the inscription : - Sing unto him - Sing praises unto him St. Paul’s Presbyterian Church Kaiapoi. It was donated by his family to the memory of David Heney, a pioneer of Presbyterianism in the district and an Elder of this congregation. Font (Presbyterian) The font that was at St. Paul’s, was given about 1946 by Mrs. R. Wylie, nee Forrest, in memory of the Forrest and Jeffery families. The Rev. L. M. Rogers, Interim Moderator received it on behalf of the congregation, the dedication being “for God’s work in the church”. Chairs (Presbyterian) Four communion chairs presented by Mrs. Simpson in memory of her late husband Gilbert Simpson, a former Elder, were received and dedicated at a service on March 13, 1949. The Cross (Presbyterian) Now standing on the Communion Table at the Wesley Centre, this cross has the inscription “To the Glory of God” - ‘in memory of Mr. E. Moses.’ Mr. Moses was a brother of Mrs. A. Titheridge. Both Mr. & Mrs. Titheridge and Mr. Moses were active members of St. Paul’s.

Page 87 Two Into One – compiled by Jean D.Turvey ORGANS St. Paul’s The Bevington pipe organ in St. Paul’s, was purchased in 1915, and cost 60 pounds plus 33 pounds for repairs and installation, paid for by the fundraising of the choir. It was built by Bevington and Sons in 1870 for St. Mary’s Anglican Church Merivale. Oxford Terrace Baptist Church next bought it in 1880 for 100 pounds, its original cost, where it served for 35 years. In 1923 Mr. Brockelbank the organist, offered to run a public concert to raise money for an electric organ blower, but by 1927 it was moved and seconded that the organ blower and bellringer’s salary be raised to 10 shillings a quarter. In the 1 930s a vote of thanks was made to the boys of the Bible Class for blowing the organ. In 1951 an electric blower was at last installed. On the occasion of its 100th birthday, an organist wrote “During a recent visit to Kaiapoi I was delighted to see the old organ virtually unaltered. The casework and the painted designs on the pipes are still exactly as shown in old photographs of the church interior. The organ is in remarkably good condition and has a clear bright tone”. This organ served St. Paul’s for 61 years until 1976 when the church was demolished. Tenders were called and the successful tender was from the parish of the Christchurch Cathedral of the Blessed Sacrament, who bought it for $1000 to replace their own organ while it was being restored. Back in 1915 when the organ was sold to St. Paul’s, the Rev. J. J. North wrote in his parish magazine - “The old church organ is a turncoat! It commenced history as a fully-fledged Anglican and gave evensong and matins for 10 years. Then its eyes were opened and it forsook Ritualism and took to Puritanism, and for 35 years it was a Baptist. But its final colour is to be blue. From now on it is a Presbyterian, and will be heard on the banks of the Waimakariri. Whether it will try the Methodist connection before it suddenly collapses we cannot say. But we can believe it. The old sinner is probably contemplating such an outgoing”. While the Rev. North never dreamt of the old sinner becoming a Catholic, he sadly underestimated the organ’s staying power. Some of the organists over the years were Mr. Charles Brockelbank, Miss Nan Stark for over forty years, Mr. A. Ellen, Mr. Harry Best, Miss Brundell, Peter Rowe and Mr. Malcolm Weir. Wesley Centre The present pipe organ in the Wesley Centre, was purchased in 1879. It was built by Edgar H. Jenkins who had worked for the famous organ builders William Hill & Sons, one of the most outstanding organ builders in the world. Mr. Jenkins saw service in the Crimean War, before coming to New Zealand. He and his brother opened a factory Page 88 Two Into One – compiled by Jean D.Turvey for the treatment of flax on the banks of the Cam River where the present Kaiapoi Mill stands. The venture was not a success and Edgar went back to his old craft of organ building. He built two for Kaiapoi. The other is in St. Bartholomew’s.

The Jenkins Organ In 1927 a discussion took place on the heating of the church, and this matter also concerned the Trustees of the new church after 1935. Investigations undertaken in Page 89 Two Into One – compiled by Jean D.Turvey 1954 proved that cold air was blown into the church through the organ blower, and so the problem was partially solved by heating the air intake. Hugh Blackwell was a regular operator of the organ blower in pre World War I days. The organ was completely overhauled in 1935 when moved from the old church to the new. It was reported that “its rich tones are heard to advantage in the new building.” Mrs. J. H. Blackwell, the organist for many years, donated finance for the move and installation. Another long serving organist, Mrs. L. B. Evans, donated regular funds towards its maintenance. Another major overhaul was carried out in 1996, paid from a fund set up for the purpose, and the Statham Trust. The opportunity was also taken to restore some missing pipes which were available. This organ represents an extremely fine example of Jenkins’ workmanship, and is one of the very few of his organs to have survived in a relatively untouched form. (John Stiller, Documentation of Pipe Organ built by E. H. Jenkins 1981) The organ is considered to possess very fine tone qualities. Organists have been Mrs. Beck, Mr. Gordon Blackwell Mrs. J. H. Blackwell, Mr. A. Blakeley, Mr. B. Wilson Blakeley, Mr. Reuben Blakeley, Mrs. H. Cory, Miss B. Ellen, Mrs. L. B. Evans, A Johnston, Mr. F. Laurence, Miss Lock, Mr. George Martin, Mr. L. Mitchell, Mrs. Pollard, Mr. Tom Rowlands, Mr. T. G. Smith, Mr. Isaac Wilson and Mr. Arthur Withers. Since 1979 we have been fortunate in having Macolm Weir, Lydia Joslen, Alan Burn and Beryl Duncan as our organists.

Page 90 Two Into One – compiled by Jean D.Turvey PARISH CRAFT SHOP September 17th 1979 was a day to remember for a group of keen Co-operating Parish members. It marked the opening of a retail craft centre in Charles Street, in the name of the Church. For several years, first St. Paul’s, and continuing with the Co-operating Parish, a Craft and Activity Programme had been run at the St. Paul’s Centre. The idea was mooted to have a local outlet for the goods produced at these classes. The first Board of Directors was Hugh Diver Chairman, Betty Poultney Secretary, with Rev. Tony Bell, Ken Wooster, David Johnson, and Michael Eder. Parishioners and others staffed the shop on a roster system. Shortly after opening, an opportunity arose to move into a brand new shop in Hansens Mall, with double the showroom area. Goods were sold on commission or bought in. In the first 9 months of operation $2500 profit was made which was put into building up stock. In 1982 the shop moved to a more prominent location at the corner of Hilton and Williams Streets. By the end of the fourth year nearly $40,000 had been paid out to suppliers, mostly to people in the Kaiapoi community. 1984 saw the resigning from the Board of Directors of Hugh Diver and Betty Poultney. Rev. Bell agreed to become Chairman for one year, but remained in the position until he left the parish in 1988. Mrs. Grace Read became Treasurer and Mrs. Edna Booth, Secretary. A changed management policy in 1985 with regards to stock control and buying, resulted in the shop returning a profit after a book loss in the previous year. Sadly, Edna Booth died that year. Ken Wooster retired from the Board. 1986, the year of the introduction of G.S.T. caused some concern and also contributed to a large distortion in sales, but trading soon settled back to normal. After an analysis of the trading figures generated after the first eight years of operation, it was decided to have two paid working Directors, Rita Hewson and Betty Tindall. Between them they worked for 44 hours on a job share basis, and were paid for 20 hours total. 1989 was a time of change and new beginnings for the shop. The new lease proposed for the Williams Street site resulted in the doubling of the rent. Several options were investigated. Among them, closing the shop, subleasing a part of it, or moving. The decision was made to move to the Parsonage, accompanied by a name change to ‘Ye Olde Parsonage Craft Shoppe.’ A new activity now undertaken was providing afternoon tea to groups on bus trips. This resulted in many people returning to the shop with friends and family. 1991 was the most successful year at the Parsonage site, enabling a more generous gift to Parish finances. Grace Read resigned her position as Treasurer in 1994, with Peter Nicholas taking over. During the 1996/7 year Mr. Nicholas resigned with Nola Johnstone combining the role of Treasurer and Chairperson. Page 91 Two Into One – compiled by Jean D.Turvey Regrettably the shop closed on 31 March 1998, mainly to accommodate the parish demands for office space following the sale of the St. Paul’s Centre. It has been closed now for over five years but enquires are still being received from visitors to Kaiapoi looking for ‘the craft shop.’ Over the 19 years of its existence, $22,000 was donated to church funds. Also, items for the Wesley Lounge were purchased - a new stove and donation towards a second, chairs, and some large plates. Some of the people who worked harmoniously together over the 19 years, on the Board, or as volunteers helping in the shop were: - Eleanor Andrews, Robin Bagrie, Tony and Colleen Bell, Edna Booth, Shirley Brown, Ruth Burbery, Paula Capstick (Secretary), Sue Capstick, Hugh Diver, Michael Eder, Edith Fellows, I. Fitzsimmons, Mary Forrest, Rita Hewson, Carol Howard, Barbara and Errol Hildreth, Audrey Hodgson, Melva Inglis, David and Jillian Johnson, Nola Johnstone, Gwenda Jones, Lydia Joslen, Val Kerry, Betty McEwen, Dorothy MacKay, Graham Moore, Margaret Moore, Eileen and Peter Nicholas, Betty Poultney, Grace Read, Marie Regan, Ngaire Ridgen, Pearl Roberts, Moya Robinson, Ursula Saunders, Betty Tindall, Alice Williams, Betty Williams, M. Williams, Esna Wilson, and Ken and Edna Wooster. Several Kaiapoi High School students gained work experience assisting in the shop and helping with the annual stock take. The impact on the Kaiapoi community by the presence of the Craft Centre cannot be overstated. The shop was part of the witness and outreach into the community, as well as providing joy for those working together in it. The contribution they made to the Parish and community can never be measured in just dollars and cents.

Page 92 Two Into One – compiled by Jean D.Turvey PEOPLE To give a complete record of the services rendered by members of the panshes over the 150 years is impossible. Many unrecorded folk have always turned .up at working bees, helped out at fairs, bazaars, fetes, church teas, garden parties and flower shows. Others have been door keepers, committee members, Sunday School teachers - the list is endless. The following are just its some of the many. Evelyn Bannan, sister of the Rev. J. H. Thompson (1964-69), was a Circuit Steward and Parish Councillor. She was involved with Christian Education and M.W.F. Her husband P.J. (Brownie) Bannan served on property committees. David and Clara Beggs came to Kaiapoi in the mid 1940s. David was an elder from 1946 and was a long serving Superintendent of the Sunday School at St. Paul’s. He also gave excellent service for over 10 years to the Boys’ Brigade. Charles Bennett linked up with the Kaiapoi Methodist Church in 1907, and for 43 years rendered devoted and faithful service as a member of the Choir, Circuit Steward, ‘Methodist Times’ agent, and Trustee. George Henry Blackwell took a deep interest in the Methodist Church from his first coming to Kaiapoi in 1866. Pursuing his interest in the young he was first a teacher in the Sunday School, then for some years its Superintendent, and on retiring from that office, took charge of the Young Women’s Bible Class. Mr. Blackwell conducted the choir for over 30 years, securing harmony in more ways than one. For many years he was Circuit Steward with the complete confidence and approval of all parishioners. Ministers found in him a true friend. Mr. Blackwell was one of the best known and most highly esteemed laymen connected with the Methodist Church in New Zealand. He served in almost every capacity that came within a layman’s sphere. For almost 40 years he attended almost every Conference, either as a representative of the Circuit, or of some Connexional Committee. He devoted his business capabilities to several positions, the best known as Treasurer of the Church Building and Loan Fund. As well as commencing the store that still bears his name, he was one of the 12 original shareholders of the Woollen Mill, being Chairman of Directors for over 30 years. A wide range of sports clubs in Kaiapoi also benefited from his assistance. The Temperance Movement had his life-long support, and he was chief officer and Trustee for the Sons and Daughters of Temperance Lodge. His wife Annie, was herself an inspiring influence especially in all Women’s public and private activities. She was a founder of the W.C.T.U. movement in Kaiapoi. Mr. Blackwell served as Mayor of Kaiapoi 1879-1881. Joseph Henry Blackwell, son of George, died in Auckland in 1967 aged 95. Nurtured by devout parents, he began a life that was from the beginning to end a service to God, Page 93 Two Into One – compiled by Jean D.Turvey Church and of his fellow men. When he allied himself with any sort of cause, he seemed to have given it about 25 years of service. He was Superintendent of the Sunday School, and Leader of the Choir. He sang beautifully, music being one of his great delights. Mr. Blackwell was associated with a long sweep of Methodist Church history. He was present in 1909 at the General Conference of the Methodist Church of Australasia where the decision was taken to separate the New Zealand Conference, from which time the Methodist Church in New Zealand really began. In 1919 he was Vice- President of Conference. As well as the family business, he was associated with the Woollen Mill, North Canterbury Freezing Co., and local body affairs, all of which he served for long periods. He was Mayor of Kaiapoi for 11 years, including the difficult First World War years, when he led the war effort of the community. Mr. Blackwell is remembered as a man of remarkable zeal and vigour. He was able to make a real contribution almost to the end of his long life. He was always looking forward, deeply interested in the things of the future - looking forward to the signs of Church Union and rejoicing in them.(Address given by the Rev. Dr. D. C. Williams at Mr. Blackwell’s funeral service. ) At the Quarterly Meeting of July 12th 1937, it was placed on record the long and faithful service for the church of Mrs. T. G. (Emma) Blackwell, . For about 38 years she had been engaged in Sunday School work and other departments of the church. Her great sympathy in visiting the sick and comforting those in trouble endeared her to all. Mrs. H. H. Blackwell held the office of Foreign Mission Secretary for over 20 years. Mr. Reuben Blakeley became the organist in 1881 and remained for 23 years, devoting much time to the composition of church music. Mr. Blakeley was Mayor of Kaiapoi in 1891. His son Abraham followed in his footsteps. At the Quarterly Meeting of February 1952 the following resolution was noted: - “In the passing of Mr. Abraham Blakeley, the Kaiapoi Methodist Church has lost one of its most gifted and devoted members. For over 30 years he was choirmaster and a good part of that time, organist. For a number of years he was also conductor of the Methodist Orchestra which was a great asset to the Church and community. He also held other important offices, including that of Circuit Steward, and he carried out all his duties with thoroughness and devotion.” Alan and Kath Burn are more recent Kaiapoi residents, but have contributed much to the parish since their arrival. Alan, organist and organ minder, Finance Committee Convenor, and until 2003 when he retired by rotation, a Parish Councillor. At the annual meeting of 2003 he was thanked for his tremendous efforts as a Senior

Page 94 Two Into One – compiled by Jean D.Turvey Member of the Council, where he shared the chair duties with Rev. Harkness. Kath as leader of the Social Committee has organised the fair, church dinners and other social activities. Lloyd and Margaret Cleland gave many years service during their years in Kaiapoi; to St. Paul’s, the Co-operating Parish and the wider community, where Lloyd was Headmaster of the Borough School. Both were elders at St. Paul’s and continued as Parish Councillors. Lloyd was the first Secretary of the Co-operating Parish. Margaret served in all branches of the Church. Her association with the Women’s Fellowship and appointment as delegate to the Christchurch Presbyterial gave Margaret an especial pleasure. She was a Kaiapoi Borough Councillor for three terms and was involved with the National Council of Women. Marion and Garven Eggleston came to Kaiapoi in the mid 1970s. Marion has given great service to A.P.W., and Women’s Fellowship, and was Secretary of Parish Council for 5 years. Garven has been Elder, Parish Councillor and Choir Leader. His musical accompaniment on the flute has been especially enjoyed by the congregation. Richard Evans arrived in the district in 1870. He took a keen interest in the young people of the parish for 50 years, being closely associated with the Sunday School as teacher, Superintendent, or Leader of the Bible Class. As a Trustee and Circuit Steward he worked for the Circuit, particularly during the difficult days when the Circuit was large and the financial burden heavy. As Treasurer for the Home and Foreign Mission Funds he served the Church well. He was the Circuit’s representative to Conference on many occasions. In the midst of a very busy life he also served as chairman or member of many local bodies. He died in his seventy-eighth year as the result of a railway accident. His daughter Sarah Edith (Cis) performed varied tasks over many years for the Church, as a member of the Quarterly Meeting, Home Mission Secretary, Treasurer of the New Church Fund, Convenor of the Committee for the collection of names for the Roll of Honour, President of the Ladies Guild, and youth work. In February 1951, tribute was paid to Miss Evans for her long service as a Sunday School teacher, and Bible Class leader - “a service well and nobly done.” Mrs. L. B. (Sally) Evans was the organist for many years. A tribute was paid at the Quarterly Meeting of February 1974 on the devoted service rendered by Mrs. Evans who served the church for many years as organist. Her smile and warmth were appreciated by all who met her. George Gray was Church Secretary in the 1890s when attached to the Kaiapoi Presbyterian Parish. George’s son Eric was encouraged by his mother to have an interest in Church and Sunday School work. At the early age of 17 or 18 he became Secretary and Treasurer at St Paul’s and was a Sunday School teacher, holding both positions until his departure overseas in World War I. In the 1930s when Eric returned

Page 95 Two Into One – compiled by Jean D.Turvey to Kaiapoi it was not long before he again became Secretary Treasurer, helping to improve the church finances to a credit balance. He was also a member of the Choir. During the mid-thirties he fell out with the minister over the rights and wrongs of dancing, and went over to the Methodist Church for a time. He again became involved and was appointed Treasurer. He initiated a scheme for ‘tin money’ - each Methodist household having a tin for spare change. The proceeds were collected quarterly and greatly assisted the finances of the Circuit. On returning to St. Paul’s he was ordained an elder in 1945. Mr. Gray was elected to the Kaiapoi Borough Council and served a term as Mayor in the 1940s. His son Gavin continued the family tradition of serving in the church, being ordained an elder at St. Paul’s in 1954. Soon after, he became Session Clerk with numerous other responsibilities from time to time, including being the Presbytery elder. These duties continued until the early 1970s when he resigned all positions. In 1994 he was asked to become Secretary of the Co-operating Parish after the resignation due to ill- health of John McKenzie. This he willingly did as a temporary measure, undertaking the reorganisation of the Parish committee structure during his tenure. Mr. Gray was also a Lay Preacher for many years. Matthew Hall arrived in Kaiapoi in 1860. He was one of the Trustees when the first Methodist Church was built. When Kaiapoi became a separate Circuit he was appointed Circuit Steward. He was an able preacher and often supplied when the stated preacher failed to attend. He was Kaiapoi’s first Mayor. Mr. T. G. Hardy was Church Treasurer for 10 years at St. Pau’s, ending in 1957 when he left the district. For over 30 years Rita Hewson has been Treasurer, covering the closing years of the Methodist Parish, and the complications associated with the formation of the Co- operating Parish working with the different procedures of two denominations. Rita was a member of the Quarterly Meeting and is a Parish Councillor. Ron Hide served as Secretary of the Kaiapoi Church Trust for 34 years and as a Circuit Steward, for 25 years. He had the honour of opening the Wesley Lounge. Brothers Gilbert and Arthur Hirst gave valuable service to their respective Parishes. Gilbert was an elder, choirmaster, Sunday School Superintendent and Secretary to the Board of Managers at St. Paul’s. Arthur gave many years of faithful service at the Methodist Church, and to the choir. Harold and Rosaline Hosking, and their family were fully involved in the work of the Methodist Parish. Harold was a Lay Preacher, and for 8 years Circuit Treasurer. Rosaline was Sunday School Superintendent for some years. With the Co-operating Parish she was a Parish Councillor and choir member. Their children were involved in Youth Work.

Page 96 Two Into One – compiled by Jean D.Turvey Arthur J. Kennett was an ardent local preacher, and for 17 years Superintendent of the Methodist Sunday School. He always attended services morning and evening. William Lintott (Snr) For nearly 30 years he occupied various positions in the Methodist Church, notably in the Sunday School and on the Trust. William Lintott (Jnr) is remembered for his musical contribution and with his wife, on Sunday School Committees. Grace and Kenneth McIntosh arrived in the Kaiapoi area in the 1850s. Grace was devoted to her religious faith, and despite dust in the summer and mud in the winter, each Sunday the family made their way on foot down the Beach Road track to St. Paul’s. Grace’s affiliation with St. Paul’s Presbyterian Church remained, even when the family lived closer to Rangiora.(Richards. Lynne. ‘A colonising achievement.’ In Our lesser stars: twelve New Zealand family biographies. edited by Colleen P. Main. Auckland: The New Zealand Society of Genealogists, 1990: 15-39.) Her sons, daughters, and grandchildren followed her. Catherine Stark, her eldest daughter followed her mother as an ardent worker at St. Paul’s, becoming a Sunday School teacher, and active supporter. Her granddaughters, the Misses Stark gave many years service. Her son Hector was an elder, as was his son Jim Mcintosh. John Mckenzie, Mavis and their children, Audrie, Heather and Donald, have all contributed to the life of the Methodist Church in Kaiapoi. John has been a Lay Preacher for over 40 years, a Circuit Steward and Parish Councillor. From 1986 to 1993 he was joint Secretary to Parish Council. His children helped with youth work and served on Parish Council. The Miss Mckinlays came to New Zealand from Scotland. Mary was the first in 1915, and her reports and news about New Zealand persuaded Margaret (Maggie), Lizzie and their mother to also come, arriving in Kaiapoi in 1920. They were involved in the Sunday School and Women’s groups. Of the three sisters, Lizzie was the quiet one, Mary the lively one with the thickest Scottish accent, and Maggie the devout one. Several people have said that their memory of Maggie was that before partaking of afternoon tea she always bowed her head and said grace. Both Mary and Maggie lived to over 100 years of age. Miss Nellie McRorie died in her 90th year in 1962. She was the oldest Communicant member of St. Paul’s at the time of her death. She is remembered for being very active in Church affairs. Miss Ida Martin, was a long serving Methodist Sunday School teacher, a leader of the Morning Star Brigade, and a member of the Quarterly Meeting. R. Serv. and Margaret Moore served the Methodist Parish at Ohoka and the Co- operating Parish. Serv. was a Circuit Steward and Parish Councillor. Margaret was Superintendent of the Sunday School at Ohoka and involved with M.W.F.

Page 97 Two Into One – compiled by Jean D.Turvey Jack Murray served for well over 50 years on the Board of Managers of St. Paul’s, and then the Property Committees of the Co-operating Parish. Diane has been associated in various offices in the Women’s activities of St. Paul’s and the Co- operating Parish. Both served terms as Parish Councillors. Fred and Sheila Pinkham have been heavily involved with the Methodist and the Co-operating Parishes. Fred was for a time the Sunday School Superintendent, is a Parish Councillor, Convenor of the Property Committee and a representative of the parish on various committees. Sheila’s association has been with Women’s groups, as a Parish Councillor and in the Choir. Len, Grace and Margaret Read (Topp) The Read family have been involved with the Methodist and Co-operating Parish for many years. Len was a Trustee of the Kaiapoi Church. Grace was Treasurer of the Parish Craft shop. Margaret has been involved in a variety of capacities from a young age. - Parish Councillor, Sunday School work, Girls’ Brigade. As Convenor of the Building Committee for the extensions to the Wesley Lounge she took on an unenvious task, but the result is there for all to see. Ted and Anne Richmond Both Mr. and Mrs. Richmond were elders at St. Paul’s, Anne having the distinction of being the first woman inducted. In the Co-operating Parish she was a member of the Pastoral Committee. Anne was also President of the Ladies’ Guild and P.W.M.U. at St. Paul’s. Moya Robinson contributed to services at St. Paul’s and the Co-operating Parish, with her lively enthusiasm. Miss Annie (Nan) Stark completed some 40 years as organist at St. Paul’s, as well as teaching Sunday School and Bible Class for many years. In addition to her regular attendance to the musical side of Church services, Miss Stark was also active in the work of the various Women’s groups and for many years served on the Board of Managers, including that of Secretary. Jessie Stark was a long serving Sunday School teacher, and Mary was active in the Women’s groups. Mrs Ellen Stocking was for many years a faithful member of the Methodist Church and Choir. She rendered exceptional service as a Sunday School teacher for over 36 years and was a member of the Quarterly Meeting for 27 years. Grace and Hannah Thom, born in Scotland but living in Durham England, came in the mid 1960s to join their brother in Kaiapoi. From their arrival they participated in parish activities, especially A.P.W. They were not backward in providing feedback to the ministers on their sermons. Many an earnest discussion was held after the service, even during the service on one occasion. Fred Thorne was a loyal and keen Methodist. He served as a Circuit Steward, was doorkeeper for over 40 years, and Secretary of the Trust for over 20 years. He married Page 98 Two Into One – compiled by Jean D.Turvey Jane, the daughter of James and Sarah Baker. Slight in build, he was nevertheless full of energy and in spite of his carting and roading contracting business and farming activities he found time to serve long terms as Councillor and Deputy-Mayor, President of the Farmers’ Union and as a member of other local bodies. Betty Tindall has been a Parish Councillor, Choir member, and was involved with the Craft Shop. Mr. and Mrs. Alec Titheridge were involved at St. Paul’s. Alec was inducted as an Elder in 1956, and was Presbytery Elder. In 1957 he became Church Treasurer. Mrs. Titheridge was President of the combined P.W.M.U. and Ladies’ Guild, as well as a member of the Board of Managers, and a vital member of the Flower Show Committee. When they left Kaiapoi at the end of 1960 a farewell evening was held to show the appreciation of the parish for their great service. Arthur Withers, born in Southbrook, came to Kaiapoi when he became headmaster of the Kaiapoi Borough School in 1946. He continued his long association with the Methodist Church, serving as Circuit Steward and as Choir Leader and organist. The church grounds have been tended over the years by willing gardeners. Ray Tavendale, a Trustee of the Methodist Church, lived next door to the Parsonage. He maintained the lawns around the church for many years. George and Ursula Saunders looked after the Wesley Centre and grounds for a number of years, followed by Sheila Pinkham who tended the gardens. In recent times Dennis Fraser has kept the lawns around the Parsonage and Church immaculate. Recently, Ann Hulston has supervised the planting of the gardens surrounding the church and lounge. Roses, camellias and other shrubs have all contributed to a pleasing display.

Page 99 Two Into One – compiled by Jean D.Turvey SWANNANOA, OHOKA, CLARKVILLE AND EAST EYRETON CHURCHES Over the past 150 years the Kaiapoi Methodist Circuit had many boundary changes, but the Swannanoa, Ohoka, East Eyreton and Clarkville Societies were often included. Ohoka and Swannanoa were still in existence in 1979 and became part of the Co- operating Parish. Swannanoa - The land in Tram Road was donated to the community in 1873 by John Evans Brown, an American who had settled in Swannanoa. The Brown family and a Mrs. Peacock were the chief benefactors of the church.(Mr. Brown had married a sister of Hon. J. T. Peacock. (Hawkins. p. 142.) ) The building was opened by the Rev. James Buller. A small cemetery is located at the rear of the section. A Centennial Service was held on 25 November 1973, led by the Rev. W. R. Laws, President of Conference. The Centennial gates, and memorial fence for Mr. John Roland Paterson, were dedicated at the service. Ongoing maintenance of the building and grounds by members of the Trust has continued, with repainting in 1972. In 1994 the Winter Family generously offered to renovate the church, the Co-operating Parish paying for materials only. Rotten window frames were replaced, floors polished and oiled, and the exterior water blasted and repainted. In 1974 a letter was forwarded to Mr. M. Harman stating that “The circuit has appreciated his long and devoted service”. Mr. Harman had served on the Swannanoa Trust for 41 years and had been Secretary for 30 of those years. Mr. Walter Norris was appointed the new secretary and continues to this day. Services have been held intermittently over the years. It is interesting to note that in 1956 services had been discontinued for some time and it was proposed to demolish the building. Services resumed in 1961. In the 1 970s Rev. Lindsay Day of St. Paul’s held a service once a month. At the time of the formation of the Co-operating Parish in 1979 services were being held about once a month, with Mrs. Margaret Stephens as organist. A Sunday School met in the church for several years in the 1980s. The only service held at present is the well attended Christmas Eve torchlight carol service. Ohoka - The Eyre settlers, led by Samuel Bradley and Isaac Wilson, built the Ohoka Methodist Church at 401 Whites Road in 1865. It cost 100 pounds and was designed to accommodate 130 parishioners. Twelve years later the church entrance was altered so that a larger church could be built across the front, creating a ‘T’ shape. There was some discussion in 1958 on purchasing a section in Mill Road with the intention of building a new church, but this did not eventuate. The last service held in

Page 100 Two Into One – compiled by Jean D.Turvey the church was in 1978, and the building sold by auction in 1985. The new owners converted it into a dwelling and redesigned the garden around the established trees. The original Parsonage was built in the 1860s. It was sold in 1961 and still stands today at 547 Mill Road.

Ohoka Sunday School late 1960s. On his resignation because he was leaving the district, Mr. William Ashe was thanked for the work he had done for the Circuit in leading the youth at Ohoka. as a Lay Preacher, Circuit Steward, Leigh Camp Trustee, and his many times as representative at Synod and Conference. Others to serve the Ohoka Parish were Mr. Sheat who gave approximately 35 years service as Secretary of the Trust, Mr. Madeley who looked after the collections for many years, and in the latter years Margaret and Serv. Moore. Margaret was Sunday School Superintendent. After her resignation in 1976 the Sunday School closed. As a fundraiser in the 1950s a successful flower show was organised by the parishioners. East Eyreton - The church in South Eyre road was built on a section donated by Marmaduke Dixon, and opened in March 1875 by the Rev. R. Bavin, Superintendent of the Circuit. It remained in the Kaiapoi Circuit until 1913, when a new Circuit was established comprising Ohoka, Swannanoa, Horrelville and Eyreton. In 1956 it was back with Kaiapoi, a service being held every two months. At the Quarterly Meeting of October 1960, a resolution was passed “that the Eyreton Trust make available their church for removal to Leigh Camp as a Chapel if the building was suitable for

Page 101 Two Into One – compiled by Jean D.Turvey removal”. The decision that services at Eyreton be suspended was also passed. In 1961 the building was removed to the Methodist Camp at Loburn. The camping ground is now in private ownership, but the Chapel is still standing. The section was sold in 2001, the proceeds going towards the extensions to Wesley Lounge. Clarkville - The Clarkville Methodists first met in the school until 1896 when they obtained the small church previously used by the Bible Christians at Kaiapoi. It was shifted at no charge by Mr. O. Holland using his traction engine, to a site donated by James Clothier at 224 Tram Road. In February 1940 it was destroyed by fire, so services were again held in the Clarkville school. In 1946 a Military Hut was purchased, as a smaller building was felt to be more suited to the needs of the congregation. This latter building was sold to the Anglican Church in 1968 and shifted to St. Augustine’s for use as a Sunday School. Services had ceased in 1965. The section was also sold in 1968.

Page 102 Two Into One – compiled by Jean D.Turvey THIS AND THAT Parish Councillors today have some weighty problems to debate at meetings. The following are some of the items debated in the past. At the meeting of 6 October 1868 the question as to the liability of the meeting to pay doctor’s bills on behalf of the minister or his family it was resolved “that the matter remain at rest until sickness actually occurs, and that then the doctor’s bills be paid upon presentation, out of the funds in the hands of the Circuit Stewards”. Travel allowances or the provision of conveyances was another important matter. The salary proposed for the Superintendent minister was 190 pounds per annum plus 10 pounds for horse feed. In 1875 a bill was received from Messrs Keetley ‘for repairs to the trap, caused by the late accident.’ Other items requiring agreement from the Quarterly Meeting were for a paddock to be fenced, a new horse and trap purchased, the old saddle to be sold and 60 bushels of oats to be purchased. In 1884, ‘a hearty vote of thanks was accorded to Mr. R. Belcher for his valuable gift of a horse for Circuit purposes.’ In 1914 the horse and trap were sold but no mention was made of a ‘Circuit Car.’ The only mention was that of a ‘bike’ which apparently required 1 pound per quarter for maintenance. This allowance continued well into the 1950s. The first reference to a car allowance was in 1945, when 25 pounds was paid. Thanking the ladies for supplying sustenance at meetings is also a regular item recorded in the minutes. The Quarterly Meeting of 13 July 1946 was held for some reason at 2.3Opm on Saturday. The minutes record that “During the meeting a very dainty afternoon tea was dispensed by the ladies present and at the conclusion of the meeting a hearty vote of thanks was accorded for their generous action”. At the opening of the Primitive Methodist building in 1882 “The ladies had the superintendence of the comestibIes. (The Lyttelton Times 7.9.1882) The struggle to pay the stipends of ministers, and the upkeep of buildings has been a matter of concern from the beginning of the parishes. Back in 1869 the Income reported for the quarter was 85 pounds - Expenditure 102 pounds. A long discussion ensued on the means of raising funds to ease the situation. It was proposed that a Tea Meeting be held in Rangiora about the time of the ‘full moon’, presumably so that travellers could better see their way. Back in the 1880s, before the days of typewriters and photocopiers, a Presbyterian minister was trying to copy a contentious letter that was on the table at a special meeting of the parish. An elder objected to this, approached the table and promptly snatched the letter and put it in his pocket.

Page 103 Two Into One – compiled by Jean D.Turvey PARISH COUNCILLORS The complete list of Councillors who have served over the 25 years is: McKenzie, John (Secretary) Atkinson, J. Mckenzie, Mavis (Secretary) Baines, Alan McLeod, Lorraine Bannan, Evelyn Mawson, Joan Blackburn, Catherine Moore, Graham Booth, Edna Moore, Serv. Burn, Alan Murray, Diane Capstick, Sue Murray, C. J. (Jack) Cleland, Lloyd (Secretary) Nicholas, Peter Cleland, Margaret Pinkham, Fred Cole, John Pinkham, Sheila Diver, Hugh Pottinger, Dorothy Eggleston, Garven Poultney, Betty Eggleston, Marion (Secretary) Regan, Kim Farquhar, John Rodgers, Heather Gebbie, Lily Spiers, D. Mrs. Gray, Gavin (Secretary) Steere, Cynthia Groocock, Mike Stephens, S. L. Hawkes, Sharon Stone, David Hewson, Annette Stone, Linda (Secretary) Hewson, Rita (Treasurer) Storer, Giselle Hosking, Rosaline Thomson, Andrew Hulston, Ann Tindall, Betty Johnson, David Topp, Margaret Johnson, Jillian Travaille, Bill Johnstone, Nola (Secretary) Walls, Mavis Kappelle, Catherine Williams, Alice Lambert, Dick Williams, Betty McGregor, Betty Winter, Caroline McGregor, Evan Wooster, Edna MacKay, Dorothy Wooster, Ken McKenzie, Audrie McKenzie, Donald

Page 104 Two Into One – compiled by Jean D.Turvey CIRCUIT STEWARDS The boundaries of the Kaiapoi Circuit were altered many times. Some of the following represented the parishes of Clarkville, Eyreton, Ohoka, Swannanoa or Woodend. Alexander, R. McDougall, J. W. A. Ashe, William McKenzie, John A. Bannan, Evelyn Moore, R. Serv. Bate, W. E. Parnham, Herbert Bennett, E. Charles Parnham, W. E. Blackwell, George H. Pashby, T. Blackwell, Joseph H. Roberts, E. J. Blakeley, Abraham Rowlands, Tom Bollington, F. Stanton, Joseph Burnet, T. J. Thompson, Joseph Coup, Robert Thorne, Fred Ellen, George A., Tull, James Evans, Richard Ward, T. B. Hall, Matthew Wilson, Isaac Hide, Ron Wilson, Thomas Holland, Obed C. Withers, Arthur Little, J. Wood, James

Page 105 Two Into One – compiled by Jean D.Turvey ELDERS WHO SERVED AT ST. PAUL’S

This list, with the date of induction, may not be complete as some minute books are missing. Bagrie, Eric, 1974 McGregor, Evan, 1974 (Treasurer) Bagrie, Ian, 1974 MacGregor, G. A., 1925 Baines, Alan J., 1972 Mcintosh, Donald, 1892 Bax, Edward E., 1934 Mcintosh, Hector, pre-1914 Beggs, David, 1946 Mcintosh, H. J. (Jim), 1953 Benson, Harry, 1963 Millar, Thomas, pre-1892 Botting, R. J. E. (Jim), 1949 Miller, Andrew, 1920s Bradley, George, 1916 Moffat, D., 1949 Campbell, James B., 1920 Moore, Mr., pre-1879 Chambers, Russell J., 1967 Murray, Dr. J. A. J., 1892 Chapman, Ray S., 1960 Richardson, William, 1906 Chishoim, James B., pre-1892 Richmond, Anne, 1967 (First woman) Cleland, A. Lloyd, 1971 Richmond, E. A. (Ted), 1963 Cleland, Margaret, 1974 Robinson, Peter, 1968 Corbett, Robert J., 1916 Ross, Charles, pre-1879 De’Ath, H. E., 1961 Rowe, E. Peter, 1960 DeAth, Peter, 1967 Scott, lan, 1963 Douds, T., pre-1914 Shaw, John S., 1929 Eggleston, Garven, 1977 Simpson, Gilbert, 1929 Ferguson, J. W., 1923 Smith, R. W., 1954 (Session Clerk) Galilee, Keith, 1974 Stewart, J., 1923 Gardiner, Boyd, 1960 Stone, Linda, 1969 (Session Clerk) Gray, Eric G., 1945 (Treasurer) Tait, William, 1929 Gray, Gavin, 1954 (Session Clerk) Thorniey, Harry, 1938 (Session Clerk) Guthrie, Robert, 1892 Tinkler, Eimsley, 1956 Heney, David, pre-1892 Titheridge, Alec, 1956 (Treasurer) Hewitt, T., 1925 Warburton, John, 1974 Hirst, Gilbert, 1962 Wilson, David G., 1934 Inglis, W. (Bill), 1968 (Treasurer) Wilson, I. H., 1963 Innes, Donald, 1939 (Session Clerk Wilson, Robert, 1892 Johnson, David, 1974 Worthington, J. A. (Jim), 1960 Kidd, James, pre-1879 Young, Charles, pre-1879 Lammie, Mr., pre-1879 Young, William, 1906 Logan, R. J., 1923 Zajonskowski, K. L., 1961

Page 106 Two Into One – compiled by Jean D.Turvey GLOSSARY ASSESSOR A person who sits beside another; an assistant or advisor. CIRCUIT A group of local Methodist Churches forming a minor administrative unit. CONFERENCE The annual assembly of the central governing body of the Methodist Church. CONNEXIONAL Of or pertaining to a Methodist connection ELDER An official of the Presbyterian Church GENERAL ASSEMBLY The highest ecclesiastical court of the Presbyterian Church. MODERATOR A Presbyterian minister or layman elected to preside over an ecclesiastical body. PRESBYTERY An ecclesiastical court above the Kirk Session and below the General Assembly, consisting of all the ministers and one or two elders from each parish within a given area. QUARTERLY MEETING An administrative meeting of officials within a circuit of the Methodist Church. SESSION Kirk Session. Lowest court in a Presbyterian Church, composed of the minister and elders of a parish. SYNOD An assembly of the clergy (and sometimes laity) of a particular church within a nation, province, district, diocese etc. convened to discuss and decide church affairs.

Page 107 Two Into One – compiled by Jean D.Turvey BIBLIOGRAPHY Books Brockelbank, Charles, comp. Old Kaiapoi : a collection of memoirs. Rangiora: North Canterbury Gazette, 1941. Dickson, John. History of The Presbyterian Church of New Zealand. Dunedin: J. Wilkie & Co, 1899. Gray, Gavin M. By dint of hard labour volume one : from heather to hope : a short history of one Gray family. Kaiapoi: The author, 2001. Hawkins, D. N. Beyond the Waimakariri : a regional history. Christchurch: Whitcombe and Tombs, 1957. Matheson, Peter, and others. Presbyterians in Aotearoa 1840-1 990. Edited by Dennis McEldowney. Wellington: The Presbyterian Church of New Zealand, 1990. Riseley, B. H. Kaiapoi Methodist Church Centennial 1856-1956: brief record and historical survey of 100 years of work, witness and worship at Kaiapoi and District. Kaiapoi: The Parish, 1956. Wood, Pauline. Women of the Waimakakiriri. Rangiora: Waimakariri District WomenIs Suffrage Centennial Committee, 1993. Parish publications Kaiapoi Co-operating Parish (Methodist-Presbyterian) - Annual Reports St. Paul’s Presbyterian Church - Parish Magazines and Annual Reports. Minutes Kaiapoi Methodist Church - Quarterly Meetings, 1868-1 890, 1908-1 927, 1928-1977. St. Paul’s Presbyterian Church, Kaiapoi - Kirk Session Minutes 1879-1894, 1914- 1956, 1956-1972, 1972-1978. Kaiapoi Co-operating Parish - Parish Council Minutes. Newspapers Kaiapoi Record, The Lyttelton Times, The North Canterbury Gazette, The Press, Crosslink, Touchstone Websites

Page 108 Two Into One – compiled by Jean D.Turvey Register of New Zealand Presbyterian Ministers, Deaconesses and Missionaries http://www.archives.presbyterian.org.nz/archivesframe. html (May 2003)

Author’s Note 2017 The Parsonage It was damaged in the Sept 4 2010 earthquake, but only on the side next to the school where a number of cracks had appeared. With all the aftershocks and the Feb 22 2011 Christchurch shake it was decided to move the minister's office on the left side to the church office on the right hand side. The office was moved to the parsonage lounge. But after another bad shock in Dec/Jan 2012 some building inspectors, after their Christmas holidays, were sent by the Methodist Church (who own the buildings and land) to inspect our buildings - the church was OK but had some repairs, but we were not allowed in the Parsonage to collect the minister's and office stuff, computers etc. After much protest a number of us gathered the next day, and clad in hi-viz vests and hard hats we had one hour to get everything out under the supervision of the inspector. After much hassle between the Methodist Insurance, Heritage NZ, (both the church and Parsonage are/were listed as Cat II heritage buildings, the Waimakariri District Council, we gained resource consent to demolish. We are now in the process of building a new Parsonage. Part of our Resource Consent is that we have to include the Rose Window and some stained glass that was in the hallway, and having a large board erected near the front of the section with a history of the Parsonage. A local signwriter has created a great board including pictures. Hopefully all will be done by the end of 2017. Jean D Turvey May 2017

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