New Zealand Historic Places Trust Pouhere Taonga Registration Report for a Historic Place Holy Trinity Church (Anglican), New Plymouth
Holy Trinity Church, July 2010 (B. Wagstaff, NZHPT)
Blyss Wagstaff and Karen Astwood Last amended 6 June 2012 New Zealand Historic Places Trust ©
TABLE OF CONTENTS
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY 3
1. IDENTIFICATION 5 1.1. Name of Place 5 1.2. Location Information 5 1.3. Current Legal Description 5 1.4. Physical Extent of Place Assessed for Registration 5 1.5. Identification Eligibility 6 1.6. Physical Eligibility as an Historic Place 6
2. SUPPORTING INFORMATION 7 2.1. Historical Description and Analysis 7 2.2. Physical Description and Analysis 16 2.3. Chattels 20 2.4. Key Physical Dates 21 2.5. Construction Professionals 21 2.6. Construction Materials 22 2.7. Former Uses 22 2.8. Current Uses 22 2.9. Discussion of Sources 22
3. SIGNIFICANCE ASSESSMENT 27 3.1. Section 23 (1) Assessment 27 3.2. Section 23 (2) Assessment 29
4. OTHER INFORMATION 32 4.1. Associated NZHPT Registrations 32 4.2. Heritage Protection Measures 32
5. APPENDICES 34 5.1. Appendix 1: Visual Identification Aids 34 5.2. Appendix 2: Visual Aids to Historical Information 38 5.3. Appendix 3: Visual Aids to Physical Information 41 5.4. Appendix 4: Significance Assessment Information 47
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EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
Holy Trinity Church was originally opened in early 1845, and as such was the first established Anglican church in Taranaki. When constructed it was referred to as Te Henui Church after its location, which is now known as the eastern New Plymouth suburb of Fitzroy.
The Taranaki region is thought to have been settled by Maori at least 700 years ago, and archaeological evidence suggests that pa were being built in the area as early as the fifteenth century. The area which would become the town of New Plymouth was populated by the people of the Te Atiawa iwi. New Plymouth was the site for New Zealand’s second European colony. In 1841 the first colonists arrived there, and George Augustus Selwyn (1809-1878) was appointed the Bishop of New Zealand. Selwyn visited New Plymouth in October 1842, and set about organising buildings for the fledgling parish. Sites were chosen for Holy Trinity Church and St Mary’s Church (1846) in central New Plymouth, as well as Te Henui Vicarage (1845). Reverend William Bolland (1820-1847) was appointed to be the Deacon in charge of New Plymouth, and along with architect Frederick Thatcher (1814-1890) they began the building process, using funds from Bishop Selwyn to construct Holy Trinity Church.
This initial building was meant as a temporary structure, but because of the Taranaki Wars of the 1860s a more permanent version was not forthcoming until 1872, when board and battens and shingles replaced the existing rustic cladding materials. The period of conflict was economically and socially devastating, but the Anglican Church weathered the storm through the leadership of Henry Govett (1819-1903), the first Archdeacon of Taranaki. Govett fostered the parish for over 50 years, during which he was closely associated with Holy Trinity Church.
The current building is the result of the incorporation of the original building into various expansions. Having been altered in 1872, in 1888 the building was then divided in two to accommodate the creation of transepts. Since then three further significant projects have expanded the size of the building, transforming the small and simple initial building into a modestly sized timber church. The Gothic Revival inspired features of the building reference many other ecclesiastical buildings that Selwyn and Thatcher created together.
Holy Trinity Church is of special historic significance for its direct association with the establishment of the Church of England in New Zealand. The
Holy Trinity Church Historic Place Report 3 association of the place with Bishop Selwyn who is of national historical importance, and figures of considerable local significance, Reverend Bolland and Archdeacon Govett, has relevance as these people shaped the Church in the mid nineteenth century. The original building was a rare survivor of the Taranaki Wars, an aspect which is also historically noteworthy. Holy Trinity Church also has architectural importance because of its associations with Frederick Thatcher and significant local architects, James Sanderson and Francis John (Frank) Messenger.
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1. IDENTIFICATION1
1.1. Name of Place
Name: Holy Trinity Church (Anglican)
Other Names: Church of England, Te Henui; Church of England, Fitzroy; Fitzroy Anglican Church; Henui Chapel; Henui Church; Te Henui Church; Te Henui Anglican Church; Weekestown Chapel; Weekestown Church
1.2. Location Information
Address
12 Henui Street
Fitzroy
New Plymouth
Taranaki
Additional Location Information
When travelling east along Devon Street East from central New Plymouth, Henui Street is the road to the north at the intersection of Devon Street East, Paynters Avenue and Henui Street. Occupying most of the land on the west side is the section where Holy Trinity Church and other church buildings are located.
Local Authority: New Plymouth District Council
1.3. Current Legal Description
Pt Sec 91 Fitzroy District (CT TN123/84), Taranaki Land District
1.4. Physical Extent of Place Assessed for Registration
Extent includes the land described as Pt Sec 91 Fitzroy District (CT TN123/84),
1 This section is supplemented by visual aids in Appendix 1 of the report.
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Taranaki Land District and the grounds and the building known as Holy Trinity Church thereon, and its fittings and fixtures and its following chattels: the picture of Reverend Govett, and the needlework image of The Last Supper, the font, credence table, clergy stalls, lectern, and altar. The extent of registration excludes the Parish Hall, and vicarage buildings north of the church but includes the Norfolk pine to the north of the section, said to have been planted by Bishop Selwyn. (Refer to map in Appendix 1 of the registration report for further information).
1.5. Identification Eligibility
There is sufficient information included in this report to identify this place.
1.6. Physical Eligibility as an Historic Place
This place consists of land and a building that is affixed to land that lies within the territorial limits of New Zealand. This place is therefore physically eligible for consideration as a historic place.
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2. SUPPORTING INFORMATION
2.1. Historical Description and Analysis
The Taranaki region is thought to have been settled by Maori at least 700 years ago.2 Archaeological evidence suggests that pa were being built in the area, which surrounds Mount Taranaki, as early as the fifteenth century.3 A number of iwi hold mana whenua in the west coast of the region, including Ngati Tama and Ngati Mutunga, Te Atiawa and Taranaki.
The area which would become New Plymouth was initially populated by hapu of Taranaki, and then Te Atiawa. Te Atiawa affiliate with the waka Tokomaru and are said to descend from the semi-divine origins of ancestor Awanuiarangi, whose people moved south from Northland to the Bay of Plenty and Taranaki.4 The tribal rohe (district) occupies coastal land from Onuku Taipari north to Te Rau o te Huia, stretching inland for several kilometres to a promontory on the north-east slopes of Mount Taranaki.5 Te Henui, the area following the course of the Te Henui Stream, is recognised as an area of historic and ecological importance.6 In the wider vicinity of the Holy Trinity Church there are the remains of three former pa sites.7
Tribes from Waikato raided Taranaki and Whanganui in the late 18th century, and warfare continued until the late 1830s. Also in the early 19th century, other tribes from the north raided Taranaki, armed with muskets, and enslaved some and took them north.8 The Ngati Toa tribe of Kawhia was also under pressure from Waikato tribes, and they migrated to the Kapiti coast and Wellington area around 1822–1824. On passing through the Taranaki region they were joined by some people of the Te Atiawa, Ngati Mutunga and Ngati Tama tribes. These upheavals and the depopulation of the area altered the balance of power. Between 1834 and 1837 Taranaki iwi defeated Waikato iwi in three battles in
2 Walton, A. Archaeology of the Taranaki-Wanganui Region. Department of Conservation, Wellington, 2000, p.6 3 Prickett, Nigel, Historic Taranaki: An Archaeological Guide, GP Books, Wellington, 1990, p. 5-7 4 Te Ara – the Encyclopedia of New Zealand, Maori Peoples of New Zealand: Nga Iwi o Aotearoa, David Bateman/Ministry for Culture and Heritage, Wellington, 2006, pp.226-227 5 Ibid. p. 227 6 New Plymouth District Council, ‘Te Henui Walkway”, http://www.newplymouthnz.com/VisitingNewPlymouth/Attractions/Walkways/TeHenuiWalkway.htm (Accessed 11 January 2011) 7 Pa sites recorded in the NZAA site recording scheme are P19/148: Pukewarangi, and P19/152: Wharepapa (Fort Niger); Puketarata Pa is also noted as being nearby on the Henui Stream. 8 Te Miringa Hōhaia. 'Taranaki tribe - Relationships with other tribes', Te Ara - the Encyclopedia of New Zealand, updated 6-Apr-10, http://www.TeAra.govt.nz/en/taranaki-tribe/2
Holy Trinity Church Historic Place Report 7 the area and finally a sacred peace known as ‘Hou-hou-rongo’ was negotiated.9
European whalers initially arrived along the Taranaki coast in the first half of the nineteenth century, and generally integrated themselves relatively harmoniously with the local Maori communities.10 By the early 1840s, a Ngati Te Whiti pa at Ngamotu, called Otaka, was still populated but many other Maori strongholds in the region had been abandoned following the major migration of the remnant Te Atiawa population to Otaki, Wellington and Marlborough.11
Organised colonial settlement at Taranaki was first instituted by the Plymouth Company in 1839-1840, who arranged to purchase land from the New Zealand Company for the settlement of immigrants from Devon and Cornwall, although this purchase would be much disputed in the future.12 The site of the township was chosen and laid out by Chief Surveyor Frederic Carrington in February 1841, and settler ships arrived from England from March 1841 onwards.13
By this time the Plymouth Company had fallen into financial difficulties, and was formally merged with the New Zealand Company in May 1841.14 Settler ships continued to arrive, but disputes around the Crown’s role in transferring land out of Maori ownership, and between tangata whenua over who had the authority to transfer land were already evident.
The beginnings of Anglicanism in Taranaki
With the European settlers also came the advent of religion to Taranaki, providing the familiar spiritual and cultural institutions of home to the settlers, and missionary services to the Maori population. Wesleyan missionary teachers had arrived in New Plymouth in 1838 to begin missionary activities for the remnant Te Atiawa population, and the region’s first mission station proper was established in 1841 at Ngamotu.15
9 Ibid. 10 Prickett, p. 6 11 B. Wells, The History of Taranaki, Edmonson & Avery “Taranaki News Office”, New Plymouth, 1878. Reprinted by Capper Press, Christchurch, 1976. p.11 12 Charles A. Lawn, The pioneer land surveyors of New Zealand, New Zealand Institute of Surveyors, Wellington, 2005. Available from www.surveyors.org.nz (Accessed 2008), p. 34; Gail & Ron Lambert, An Illustrated History of Taranaki, The Dunmore Press, Palmerston North, 1983, p. 22 13 Lawn, p. 34; Lambert, pp. 22-25 14 Lawn, p. 36 15 Herbert D. Mullon, These Hundred Acres: The Story of Whiteley Township, City of New Plymouth, H.D. Mullon, New Plymouth, 1969, p.10, p.18
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Although European settlers represented a variety of religious doctrines, many were members of the Church of England. Accordingly, once New Zealand had been proclaimed part of the British Dominion through the signing of the Treaty of Waitangi in 1840, the Church Missionary Society was able to expand on its earlier work by seeking the appointment of a Bishop for New Zealand. This would involve the setting up of the Anglican constitution in the new diocese of New Zealand.16 This undivided diocese initially included the whole country as well as various islands in Polynesia.17 In 1841 George Augustus Selwyn (1809- 1878) was appointed Bishop, arriving in New Zealand in 1842 to begin his ‘almost superhuman’ work.18
Bishop Selwyn visited New Plymouth in October 1842, and set about organising the construction of churches in the parish.19 Sites were chosen for St Mary’s Church in central New Plymouth, and Holy Trinity Church in Weekestown. Weekestown later became known as Henui and now is called Fitzroy.20 Weekestown was about two miles from New Plymouth township and in the mid- 1840s had a population of about 80 people.21 In the late 1840s the Bishop was recognised for having given up ‘literary leisure, elegant and refined society, the companionship of many devoted friends, [and] the prospect of high ecclesiastical position at home, to plant the church by the waters of the Henui…’22
As well as the Anglican church, Henui also gained a Methodist one in late 1845.23 Indeed, the establishment of a number of ecclesiastical buildings in and around New Plymouth by the 1850s was for some a measure of the settlement’s improving social conditions and public security.24
Holy Trinity Church
16 ‘Anglican Church in Aotearoa, New Zealand and Polynesia: History’, http://www.anglican.org.nz/About/History (Accessed 12 January 2011) 17 'The Dioceses', from An Encyclopaedia of New Zealand, edited by A. H. McLintock, originally published in 1966, Te Ara - the Encyclopedia of New Zealand, updated 23-Apr-09, URL: http://www.TeAra.govt.nz/en/1966/church-of-england/1 (Accessed 12 January 2011) 18 G. H. Gavin, The Taranaki Archdeaconry: Its history and associations, 1859-1955, Taihape, 1955, p.5; W. E. Limbrick, ‘Selwyn, George Augustus’ Dictionary of New Zealand Biography , URL http://www.teara.govt.nz/en/biographies/1s5/1 (Accessed 8 December 2010) 19 Cyclopedia Company Limited, ‘Ecclesiastical’, The Cyclopedia of New Zealand (Taranaki, Hawkes Bay and Provincial Districts), Cyclopedia Company Limited, Christchurch, 1908, p. 71, available from www.nzetc.org.tm (Accessed 10 December 2010) 20 St Mary’s Church, Category I historic place (Register no. 148); Gavin, p.33. Weekestown is also sometimes spelt ‘Weekston.’ 21 Gavin, p.32 22 ‘The New Constitution,’ New Zealand Spectator and Cook’s Strait Guardian, 27 October 1849, p.4
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The building is thought to have been opened in either March or May 1845 by Reverend William Bolland (1820-1847).25 The Holy Trinity Church is the ‘oldest edifice erected for [Anglican] Divine service in Taranaki.’26 This original construction date places it among the oldest remaining churches, or remnants of churches, in New Zealand.27 Four other known examples of 1840s churches remain, three of them Anglican. New Plymouth’s St Mary's Church (Anglican) (Register no. 148) is a Thatcher design in stone that has been enlarged and modified. The timber Old All Saints Church (Anglican) & Churchyard (Register no. 11) in Auckland was built in 1847 and extended in the 1860s. Like the Holy Trinity Church, All Saints was constructed on a site selected by Bishop Selwyn and built to a design by Frederick Thatcher. Auckland’s Chapel of St John the Evangelist (Register no. 13) is now the earliest surviving example of a 'Selwyn Church'. Built from timber, it was designed by Frederick Thatcher and was consecrated by Bishop Selwyn in 1847 and extended in the mid-twentieth century. Auckland’s St Andrew’s Church (Presbyterian) (Register no. 20) was built between 1847 and 1850 from stone and modified in the 1880s and in the twentieth century.
The Holy Trinity Church is also a very early surviving example of a European settler building in Taranaki. Other examples include a relocated cottage in New Plymouth (Register no. 895) that dates from 1841, Te Henui Vicarage (Register no. 892) which was completed between March and April 1845, St Mary’s Anglican Church (Register no.148), whose foundation stone was laid in March 1845 and the building opened in 1846, and the Colonial Hospital built in 1847 (Register no. 29).28
Young Reverend Bolland travelled to New Plymouth with his wife Jane, arriving in December 1843, and was appointed Deacon in charge of the parish in New
23 ‘New Plymouth,’ Nelson Examiner and New Zealand Chronicle, 13 September 1845, p.111 24 Lyttelton Times, 27 March 1852, p.2 25 See Figure 1; Gavin, p.32 states that the building was opened on 18 May 1845. Other secondary sources state the church was opened earlier, in March of that year: Cyclopedia Company Ltd, p.72; ‘Local and General,’ Evening Post, 2 June 1923. No available primary sources have been found during the research for this report which to indicate which month of completion, March or May 1845, is correct. 26 Gavin, p.32 27 The oldest remaining New Zealand church is in Russell: Christ Church (Anglican), Category 1 historic place (Register no. 1) originally constructed in 1835. The four comparable examples of 1840s churches referred to in this paragraph are all included on the New Zealand Historic Places Trust (NZHPT) as Category 1 historic places. 28 Cottage, Category 2 historic place (Register no. 895); Te Henui Vicarage, Category 1 historic place (Register no. 892); St Mary’s Church (Anglican), Category 1 historic place (Register no.148); The Gables (Colonial Hospital), Category 1 historic place (Register no. 29)
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Plymouth by Bishop Selwyn.29 Planning for Holy Trinity Church, then more commonly known as the Te Henui Church or Chapel, seems to have been underway by the time of the Bishop’s quick visit to Taranaki in late 1844.30 Bolland and architect Frederick Thatcher (1814-1890) were exploring the idea of an octagonal nave for Te Henui church. However, the eventual design was much more conservative, consisting of a simple rectangular gabled nave, a porch, and a belfry.31
Thatcher was one of the first 15 associates of the British Institute of Architects, and was responsible for the design of a number of New Zealand’s celebrated ecclesiastical buildings, including Old St Paul’s in Wellington (Register no. 38), the Chapel and buildings at St John’s College in Auckland (Register no. 13 and 14), and Selwyn’s Bishopscourt complex at Parnell (Register no. 23).32 Another of his Taranaki buildings was the former Colonial Hospital (Register no. 29), and the 1845 stone extension to the Te Henui Vicarage (Register no. 892), home to Bolland and his family at a midway point between the two churches on his circuit. Thatcher is remembered as a key proponent of the influential ‘Selwyn style’ of architecture.
However, Holy Trinity Church initially seems to have had none of the refinements of Thatcher buildings such as St Mary’s Church. Holy Trinity Church was constructed with timber slabs and had a thatched roof of ferns and bracken, instead of raupo, which gave it a very rustic look.33 Bishop Selwyn described the building as ‘a temporary chapel of pleasing appearance.’34 The thatch was not ideal as it seems to have been a breeding ground for all manner
29 ‘Holy Trinity Anglican Church New Plymouth’ URL http://www.holytrinity.co.nz/documents/History2.html (Accessed 8 December 2010); W. E. Limbrick, ‘Selwyn, George Augustus’; F. Porter, ‘New Plymouth Buildings: St Mary’s Church and Te Henui Parsonage Whiteley Mission House The Gables’ Historic Buildings of New Zealand, North Island, Auckland, 1979, p. 177 30 The church appears to have begun to be commonly called Holy Trinity Church in the late nineteenth century, although references to Henui Church persisted until well into the twentieth century. The first search results for Holy Trinity Church, Henui, on Papers Past is: ‘Harbour Board,’ Taranaki Herald, 18 January 1899, p.2. The church was still referred to as Henui Church in the 1920s: ‘Engagements and Marriages,’ Kai Tiake: the journal of the nurses of New Zealand, October 1924, p.185 31 M. Alington, An Excellent Recruit: Frederick Thatcher, architect, priest and private secretary in early New Zealand, Auckland, c.2007, p.50 32 M. Alington, ‘Thatcher, Frederick’, Te Ara – the Encyclopedia of New Zealand, updated 1 September 2010, www.TeAra.govt.nz/en/biographies/1t92 (accessed 17 December 2010); Old St Paul’s Cathedral, Category 1 historic place (Register no. 38); Chapel of St John the Evangelist, Category 1 historic place (Register no. 13); College of St John the Evangelist Dining Hall and Waitoa Room, Category 1 historic place (Register no. 14); Selwyn Court (Former Bishop’s Court , now the Deanery) Category 1 historic place (Register no. 23); Selwyn Library (Former Cathedral Library) Category 1 historic place (Register no. 24); House, Category 2 historic place (Register no. 2638); St Barnabas’ Chapel, Category 2 historic place (Register no. 2646) 33 See Figure 1 34 Gavin, p.32
Holy Trinity Church Historic Place Report 11 of insects. Congregants are said to have often been distracted during services due to black beetles dropping down on to them, being shaken free from the thatch through the vibrations of the bell.35 The building cost £50, all of which was contributed by Bishop Selwyn. This patronage was recognised with a brass plaque erected in Holy Trinity Church on the occasion of its 60th jubilee.36
Around the same period that Bolland opened Holy Trinity Church, his Oxford University friend, Henry Govett (1819-1903), was ordained as a deacon.37 Govett eventually became the first Archdeacon of Taranaki in 1859. By this time he was the vicar of St Mary’s Church, having succeeded Bolland in this role in 1848.38 Govett then presided over many ceremonies at Holy Trinity Church throughout his long career.39 In the early period regular services at Holy Trinity Church were held every fortnight, and these were led by a combination of lay readers and local Methodist ministers. It was not until 1950 that the church had its own vicar, Reverend M. Richards, when Holy Trinity Parish was established.40 The Te Henui and Bell Block Parochial District had been created in 1915.41
Any plans that the local Anglican community may have had to upgrade the facilities at Te Henui were seemingly stalled by the 1860s conflicts now commonly known as the Taranaki Wars.42 The Taranaki Wars were waged between the Crown and Maori in response to Maori resistance against the enforced alienation of their land. It was provoked by the difficulties caused by the demand for land for the colonists. An enquiry by Commissioner Spain in 1844 had upheld the initial European purchase of 60,000 acres, but this was re- investigated by Governor FitzRoy (1804-1865) and reduced to 3,500 acres.43 Over the next 15 years large blocks of land were purchased by the Governor on either side of New Plymouth, but tensions (both inter-tribal and between Maori
35 M. Moorhead, Historic New Plymouth, North Island, New Zealand: A new look at an old story, New Plymouth, 1977. NZHPT File 12004-461; A. Alexander, Holy Trinity, New Plymouth, 1845- 1970, New Plymouth, 1970, p.10 36 Alington, pp.50-51; ‘Henui Church,’ Taranaki Herald, 23 June 1905, p.3 37 Gavin, p.9; ‘The Late Archdeacon Govett,’ Hawera & Normanby Star, 6 October 1903, p.2. 38 ‘The Late Archdeacon Govett.’ Govett only became a priest in 1847 39 There are many examples of Govett presiding over marriages, in particular, at Holy Trinity Church. A small sample includes: Taranaki Herald, 12 June 1850, p.2; 12 February 1873, p.2; 18 January 1882, p.2; 2 December 1893, p.2 40 Alexander, p.7 41 Parish Magazine, December 1915. Scrapbook on Holy Trinity Church Fitzroy, compiled by Reverend Harold Favell, 1915-18. Holy Trinity Church archive collection. Copy held on NZHPT File 12004-461 42 Gavin, p.11 43 Alan Ward, National Overview – Vol III – Waitangi Tribunal Rangahaua Whanui Series, GP Publications, Wellington, 1997, pp.169-180
Holy Trinity Church Historic Place Report 12 and Pakeha) continued to escalate, erupting into hostilities.44
During the wars the Church’s property was generally respected, but the parish suffered from a mass removal of European settler congregants, especially women and children, to the safety of places such as Nelson. Also, those among the population who did stay often had stretched personal finances, which in turn impacted on the parish’s resources.45
The conflicts during the 1860s caused widespread deprivation, suffering and loss of life and land for iwi, resulting in the heavy confiscation of tribal land taken by the Crown under the Land Settlement Act of 1863. 185,000 acres of land within Te Atiawa’s rohe was confiscated.46 The devastating effects of these actions have since been acknowledged by the Crown through formal apologies and efforts of redress by settlement agreements, although the legacy of disenfranchisement continues to affect Maori.47
The wars of the 1860s saw many buildings – especially those in outlying areas like Henui – fall prey to the fighting, sacked and burned. 187 settler homesteads were known to have been destroyed during the conflicts, all located outside the defensive cordon of the central township.48 The Holy Trinity Church is therefore a rare survivor of this significant period in Taranaki’s history. Its survival could be attributed to the general esteem in which clergy were held, as Bolland and Govett had forged good relationships with the Maori through their missionary activities.
Recovery took time after the devastation of the Taranaki Wars. However, it would appear that Holy Trinity Church’s community were determined to lose no more time in upgrading their building. A contract was advertised in 1869 for repair and restoration of the church, with fund-raising activities, such as
44 Waitangi Tribunal, The Taranaki Report: Kaupapa Tuatahi, available at http://www.waitangi- tribunal.govt.nz/reports/view.asp?ReportID=3FECC540-D049-4DE6-A7F0-C26BCCDAB345 (accessed 25 May 2009) 45 Gavin, p.6 46 ‘Heads of Agreement between the Crown and Te Atiawa: Summary of Historical Background to the claims by Te Atiawa,’ available at www.executive,govt.nz/96- 99/minister/graham/te_atiawa/01.html 47 For example: Waitangi Tribunal, The Taranaki Report; Office of Treaty Settlements, ‘Progress of Claims’, 10 December 2009, accessed 19 February 2010, available from http://nz01.terabyte.co.nz/ots/LiveArticle.asp?ArtID=-1243035403; ‘Heads of Agreement between the Crown and Te Atiawa: Summary of Historical Background to the claims by Te Atiawa’ 48 Day, Kelvin (ed). Contested Ground Te Whenua I Tohea: The Taranaki Wars 1860-1881, Huia Publishers, Wellington, 2010, p. 45, 68
Holy Trinity Church Historic Place Report 13 bazaars, beginning that year as well.49 It seems that it was not until 1872 that the original timber slab cladding was replaced with boards and battens. The thatch was also exchanged for shingles, much to the relief of the users of the building.50
The 1880s seem to have been a time of great change for the building. Increasing numbers of churches were built around New Zealand in the 1870s and 1880s as European settlement spread and early established places matured. This second wave of church building saw the replacement of some of the earliest churches, or their alteration to accommodate larger congregations, such as Holy Trinity Church’s Auckland contemporaries, the Catholic Cathedral of St Patrick and St Joseph and St Andrew’s Church (Presbyterian).51
Therefore it is not surprising that in 1884 Holy Trinity Church was closed while interior alterations were undertaken in order to insert a new organ, as well as rearranging the pews to form an aisle. A new bell was also installed.52 Then in 1888 tenders were called for a significant building programme which resulted in the creation of transepts. The architect, James Sanderson, also created a vestry and a completely new roof encased the expanded building. 53 The extensions were said to give ‘a decidedly architectural look to the building.’54 Once again Archdeacon Govett was involved and he officiated at the church’s re-opening service.55
Although over 40 years after Bishop Selwyn instigated the construction of Holy Trinity Church, it seems like it was only after these extensions that the once rustic building began to look more like a ‘Selwyn style’ church. The style the building takes can be variously described as Antipodean Gothic, Colonial Gothic, Selwyn’s Gothic, or Gothic Revival. Selwyn was interested in bringing this revival of medieval Gothic architecture to New Zealand because of his own belief that it was the only style appropriate for ecclesiastical buildings, which
49 Taranaki Herald, 19 June 1869, p.1; Taranaki Herald, 26 June 1869, p.1; ‘Church of England Bazaar and Concert,’ Taranaki Herald, 7 July 1869, p.2 50 Gavin, p.33 51 This second wave of church building is discusses in the Nelson context by J. McAloon, Nelson: A regional history, Whatamango Bay, 1997, pp.44, 89. Southland was settled later and it is noted that the 1870s saw an intensive period of church building. B. Knowles, ‘A Stronghold of Faith – Christianity in the Deep South,’ in P. Sorrell (ed.) Murihiku: The Southland story, Invercargill, 2006, p.252 52 Taranaki Herald, 27 November 1884, p.2; ‘Henui Church,’ Taranaki Herald, 1 December 1884, p.2 53 Taranaki Herald, 11 May 1888, p.1; Cyclopedia Company Ltd, p.72 54 Taranaki Herald, 28 July 1888, p.2; See Figure 2 55 Ibid.
Holy Trinity Church Historic Place Report 14 was strengthened through his involvement with the Cambridge Camden Society. 56 Thatcher – Selwyn’s architect of choice – was also a member of this society, and together they adapted the style to suit New Zealand conditions and building resources.57 This type of building had become a vernacular style of building in New Zealand by the time of the second wave of church building.
In 1903 the interior was altered again, with the cost primarily borne by Archdeacon Robert Henry Cole (d.1935). The altar was raised at this time to designs by F. Messenger.58 Around this time the Reverend F. G. Evans noted that there was ‘…very progressive spiritual work going on at Henui’ and that the ‘…congregations have largely increased, and the services are always bright, hearty and reverent.’59 The congregation made a concerted effort to acknowledge important figures in the church’s history in the early twentieth century. Several commemorative plaques were installed, dedicated to Archdeacon Govett and to Reverend H. Handley Brown. A diamond jubilee bell had also been commissioned and hung in the belfry.60 There were further changes to the building made by Messenger in the 1920s.61
In the mid-twentieth century Holy Trinity Church became the centre of its own parish and a vicarage was therefore required. This building is currently on the north of the church section and was constructed in 1956. The next building project of the new parish was to complete a parish hall. This building constructed in 1962 replaced a late nineteenth century church hall.62 The current form of the church is a result of further extension in the late twentieth century. These include additions made in 1966 and 1978 that saw the building expanded at its sides in order to boost the seating capacity to 350 people.63
Thousands of divine, wedding, funeral and other Anglican services have been held in Holy Trinity Church since 1845. An early marriage of interest in November 1846 was between local resident Mary Chilman and Thomas King. The fifth child of this union was the eminent New Zealander Sir Frederick Truby
56 John Stackpoole, Colonial Architecture in New Zealand, A.H. & A.W. Reed, Wellington, 1976, p.78 57 Alington, ‘Thatcher, Frederick’ 58 Alexander, p.10; See Figure 3 59 ‘Holy Trinity Church, Te Henui,’ Taranaki Herald, 5 May 1904, p.5 60 ‘Te Henui Church,’ Taranaki Herald, 13 January 1906, p.7 61 Alexander, p.12; See Figure 4 62 ‘Church Halls,’ Holy Trinity Church – New Plymouth, URL: http://www.holytrinity.co.nz/documents/History5.html (Accessed 16 February 2012) 63 ‘Improvements to church,’ Taranaki Herald, 28 April 1966; Church still growing, Taranaki Daily News, 14 June 1978. NZHPT File 12004-461; See Figure 5-9
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King (1858-1917).64 His elder brother, Newton (1855-1927), became a prominent businessman through his namesake company. Indeed, the King family, who had large land holdings just outside of New Plymouth, are said to have ‘belonged to the settlement’s commercial and political elite.’65 The family maintained a relationship with the church, it being the location of Sarah King’s wedding in 1878.66 Holy Trinity Church continues to function as an ecclesiastical building.
2.2. Physical Description and Analysis
Holy Trinity Church is a modest sized timber church located in the east New Plymouth suburb of Fitzroy. The building is positioned at the southern end of a large trapezoidal section and church’s apse is within a few metres of the street front.67 A concrete pad surrounds the building but there are grassed areas beyond this. There is a collection of mature trees and shrubs on the southern boundary. The grounds also include a headstone commemorating the 1857 deaths of Margaret Cudd and her brother William Kelly, although it is unclear whether the headstone has an associated grave. The headstone is located close to the northern side of the apse. Also positioned close to the front of the section, immediately north of the church, is the 1962 single storey rectangular Parish Hall. The complex of church buildings is completed by the 1956 vicarage at the northern end and its garage building. To the north of the site is a tall Norfolk pine reportedly planted by Bishop Selwyn in 1845.68
Form and exterior of church
Since its beginnings as an unassuming, rustic building in 1845, Holy Trinity Church has been significantly altered on several occasions. This has resulted in a modestly sized, weatherboard and board and batten clad, corrugated iron roofed church building. The collection of Gothic Revival-inspired gables and late twentieth century lean-tos combine to create a reasonably complicated roof form. The building has been gradually expanded outwards from the centre since
64 Gavin, pp.33-34; B. Brookes, 'King, Frederic Truby – Biography,' from the Dictionary of New Zealand Biography. Te Ara - the Encyclopedia of New Zealand, URL: http://www.TeAra.govt.nz/en/biographies/2k8/1 (1 September 2010) 65 J. Watson, 'King, Newton – Biography,' from the Dictionary of New Zealand Biography. Te Ara - the Encyclopedia of New Zealand, URL: http://www.TeAra.govt.nz/en/biographies/3k13/1 (updated 1 September 2010) 66 Taranaki Herald, 20 March 1878, p.2 67 See p.1 and Figure 1 68 Bowman, Ian, ‘Conservation Plan: Holy Trinity Church, Fitzroy, New Plymouth,’ December 2010, p. 29
Holy Trinity Church Historic Place Report 16 the late nineteenth century.
The physical and historical nucleus of the building is the current nave. Initially this was a single gabled structure, dating from 1845 and renovated in the 1870s. In 1888 the increasing size of the congregation led to significant alterations to the original building.69 The form of the building was changed by:
‘cutting a piece off of the end of the old church and putting on a large new portion with transepts, at the same time bringing the piece cut off to the other end to serve as a chancel and a vestry.’70
The subsequent history of substantial alteration to the building means it is unlikely that much original or 1870s fabric is still extant, although investigation of the building and archaeology could reveal currently unidentified older fabric. From existing plans and descriptions of the building it seems more likely that there is potential for a small amount of remaining 1888 fabric, particularly in the north transept.71
Alterations to the interior, attributed to architect Frank Messenger, were completed in 1903. It seems probable that these changes included the installation of a reredos, painted on tin panels by an as yet unidentified person, which is visible in a photo from circa1910.72 Three of these panels were recently discovered to be well preserved intact behind later timber wall lining, and have been uncovered for restoration.73 The panels seem to have been covered for many decades as current congregants cannot recall seeing them before their recent rediscovery.74 The raising of the altar on a staging area was also undertaken at this time. This staging may have been incorporated into the design, by the same architect, when the church was extended around 1928. However while the general form seems to have stayed the same the 1903 staging may have been removed in order to widen the chancel in the late 1920s. The square-ended apse was also added at this later time. The works also saw the vestry (on the north side of the chancel) expanded, and a new baptistery added to the west end of what became the nave. It is likely that the belfry on the baptistery gable dates from this section’s construction, but it may be a reuse of the earlier one. Another change was the raising of the roofline to
69 Compare Figures 1 and 2 70 Taranaki Herald, 28 July 1888, p.2 71 K. Astwood to R. O’Brien, 3 May 2012. NZHPT File 12004-461 72 See Figure 3; Bowman, p.9 73 Pers comm Trisha Carter to Blyss Wagstaff, 20 April 2012 74 ‘Art treasure found in church,’ Daily News, 27 April 2012, p.3
Holy Trinity Church Historic Place Report 17 create a main gable form at the same height as the transept gables.75
Then in 1966 lean-to sections extended the nave both northwards and southwards towards the line of the 1888 transept and slightly beyond it on the respective sides. A lean-to vestry, with external access between it and the choir, segments the façade of the north transept. The current porch, which extended the building at its southwest corner, was also constructed.76 Bowman notes that shingles from the 1872 roof replacement were found underneath the corrugated iron roofing at this time.77
The most recent significant changes to the building took place in the late 1970s and focused on the south side of the church. These involved a large extension of the transept gable and the addition of a parallel gable adjoining it to the west, as well the creation of a new vestry off from the chancel. An attempt was made to match the internal and external linings, and the existing ventilating louvers from the apex of the transept gable were reused in the new exterior wall.78
Previous additions had retained a relatively symmetrical plan to the building along its east to west axis. After the late twentieth century additions the building is now more heavily weighted on its south side. The late nineteenth century form of the building is still readable from the north, primarily because additions were single height lean-tos adjoining steep Gothic gables of the church. Lancet windows have been used throughout the building to marry the later additions with the style of the earlier building. It seems that board and batten cladding was used for the circa 1928 vestry (now choir) addition to replicate the existing 1870s or 1880s cladding on this section, and on the new baptistery section, perhaps as in homage to ‘Selwyn style’ churches.79
Interior and fixtures and fittings
The extension of the building is perhaps not as easy to read on the interior, mainly because it seems that most of the interior linings have been replaced, probably as part of one of the late twentieth century alteration projects.80,
75 Alexander, p.10 states that extensions were undertaken in 1927. However, plans of the alterations are dated 1928. ‘Holy Trinity Church, Fitzroy,’ architectural plans, 1928. New Plymouth District Council (NPDC), 428439 BC 87003 76 See Figure 4; Taranaki Herald, 28 April 1966. NZHPT File 12004-461 77 Bowman, p.10 78 See Figures 6-9 79 See Figure 2. In this image the parts of the initial church are delineated through the use of board and batten cladding (to the left and right of the taller gable which is the 1888 transept addition) 80 Compare Figures 3 and 12-13
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However, the discovery of the tin reredos panels preserved behind the timber panelling on the east wall behind the altar suggests that other older fabric could exist behind the later linings. Timber match lining has been used throughout in order to be sympathetic to the interior character of the late nineteenth century building. Although predominantly one large open plan space, some additions are signalled through difference in ceiling height and the presence of support columns.
The height of the main central gable and transepts provide a suitably spacious feeling in the congregational area. The pews in the nave are positioned at a diagonal to the aisle, as well as extending into the 1966 northern lean-to, and also the southern transept. It is unclear when the pews date from. Impressive features of the interior are the arched roof braces of the nave, transepts and chancel. All of these, perhaps with the exception of those in the transepts, would have been created circa 1928 when the main gable roofline was made uniform. The simply styled wall brace corbels at their bases seem to confirm this, as they demonstrate a late 1920s and 1930s aesthetic rather than a more decorative Victorian one.
The chancel extends into the transept through staging. Previously the altar, donated by Archdeacon Cole in 1903, was positioned towards the rear of the chancel, but now it is located towards the intersection of the chancel and the transepts.81 This altar is dedicated to the memories of Bishop Selwyn, Archdeacon Govett, and early New Plymouth clergy, Reverends Bolland and Brown.82 The current altar rails appear to date from the late twentieth century. Other altar furniture populates this area. A late nineteenth century needlepoint work depicting the last supper is located on the back wall, the general position it seems to have held since its donation to the church in 1897.83
There are few decorative fittings in the building aside from memorial windows and the recently uncovered reredos. There are two windows in the apse, both being memorials to the fallen of World War Two. The northern window depicts St George and the Dragon, while its opposite shows St Michael. All of these windows resulted from a bequest and were installed in 1953.84 Other windows in the nave and baptistery depict: St Peter in memory of Lewis George Andrews; Jesus as shepherd in memory of Archdeacon Frank George Evans;
81 Compare Figures 3 and 12 82 Alexander, p.13 83 Ibid. 84 Ibid., p.14
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and St James and St John in memory of George and Jane Giddy.
As well as memorial windows there are a number of plaques around the church, erected at various times. These include a timber framed, embossed copper panel list of congregants who died while serving in World War One. A Roll of Honour for this war is also present, and is calligraphy on paper in a timber frame. There is a group of four brass plaques where the 1966 north additions meet the baptistery.85 The plaque commemorating Bishop Selwyn was first installed in the church in 1905 on the building’s 60th anniversary.86 Accompanying a plaque to Reverend Henry Govett is an image of Govett which is framed in timber which prominent former parishioner and noted historian W. H. Skinner attributed as being original material (pukatea) from the 1845 building. All of this group of plaques appear to have been created in the early twentieth century, and also commemorate church member and benefactor Darius Shuttleworth, and Te Henui priest Sanders Spencer.87
2.3. Chattels
This place includes chattels that contribute to its heritage significance and should be included in the registration.
Identification and Significance of Chattels
Chattels that contribute to the heritage significance include the font and altar, the picture of Reverend Govett, the needlework image of The Last Supper, the font, credence table, clergy stalls, and lectern.88 Most of these items have been donated to the church. They not only serve as important functional items in religious services but decorate the building. They also document various congregants and people who have contributed to the church community. For example, the font was donated by the church’s Women’s Guild. The 1955 eagle lectern was donated in the memory of Adriana Lee, and the credence table (date unknown) as an offering of thanks by Mrs Leatham. The two clergy stalls were also donated around this time in memory of congregants. The image of Bishop Selwyn in a frame made from timber from the original church is also important, and The Last Supper needlework above the altar was bequeathed to
85 See Figure 13 86 Taranaki Herald, 23 June 1905, p.3 87 Holy Trinity Church photographs, B. Wagstaff, 9 July 2010. NZHPT File 12004-461 88 See Figures 12-14. The font is visible on the left side of Figure 13
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Holy Trinity Church by Mrs George Young in 1897.89
2.4. Key Physical Dates
1845 Constructed
1872 Building clad in board and battens and roof shingles
1888 Original building dissected leaving the bulk of it for the nave. Transepts created. Chancel formed out of a part of original building
1903 Interior alterations including reredos and new raised staging for altar
circa 1928 Addition of baptistery, height of main gable roof raised to that or transepts, apse added.
1966 Glass porch added and north side gable extensions; roof repaired
1978 Southwest gable added, south transept extended and southeast lean-to created
2.5. Construction Professionals
Architect (original construction): Frederick Thatcher90
Architect (1888 extensions): James Sanderson (1845-1924)
Sanderson’s career as an architect was primarily in New Plymouth where he was the Education Board architect. He designed commercial buildings for many important companies ‘as well as some of the principle residences.’91 He designed the extensions for Holy Trinity Church, Fitzroy, and the Band Rotunda in Pukekura Park, New Plymouth.92
Builder (1888 extensions): G. Hall
Architect (circa 1928 extensions): Francis (Frank) John Messenger
89 Alexander, pp.13-15 90 M. Alington ‘Thatcher, Frederick’ Dictionary of New Zealand Biography , URL http://www.teara.govt.nz/en/biographies/1t92/1 (accessed 8 December 2010)
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Architect (1966 extensions): R. W. Syme
Architect (1978 extensions): Laurenson Robinson and Jim Boon Architects and Engineers
2.6. Construction Materials
Concrete, glass, timber
2.7. Former Uses
Religion - Church
2.8. Current Uses
Religion - Church
2.9. Discussion of Sources
Analysis of Material Available
A variety of sources were consulted during the preparation of this report. These ranged from primary sources (architectural plans, land information, newspaper articles, and photographs) to secondary sources on New Plymouth’s history, New Zealand’s architectural and religious history, and history of the Taranaki region.
Analysis of Material Accessed
The material assessed has been useful in determining a general picture of the importance of the building locally, as well as placing it within a broader local social and historical context. Reproductions of plans of the building were helpful in determining the original layout for the church and also subsequent alterations to it. Sources, such as Alexander, note that there is very little primary material available regarding the early history of the building. Indeed, no primary sources were readily accessible to confirm secondary information and find out whether the building was completed in March or May 1845. There are numerous photographs and plans of the building were important in chronicling its
91 ‘Personal Items,’ Hawera & Normanby Star, 27 January 1924, p.4 92 Band Rotunda, Category 2 historic place (Register no. 882)
Holy Trinity Church Historic Place Report 22 development, as were newspaper articles, especially those from the late nineteenth century. The 1970 church history was invaluable in fleshing out the primary source information and detailing elements such as when and who donated various chattels and fittings.
Conclusion
There is sufficient information available on this place to support the registration proposal. Sufficient information on this place has been accessed to support this registration proposal.
Bibliography
Available at New Zealand Historic Places Trust, Central Region, Wellington:
Holy Trinity Church (Anglican), New Plymouth 12004-461
Primary Sources
Available from the New Plymouth District Council, New Plymouth:
File 428439 BC 87003
File 428444 BC 87003
Available from Papers Past, http://paperspast.natlib.govt.nz/cgi-bin/paperspast:
Evening Post, 2 June 1923
Hawera & Normanby Star, 6 October 1903, 27 January 1924
Kai Tiake: The journal of the nurses of New Zealand, October 1924
Lyttelton Times, 27 March 1852
Nelson Examiner and New Zealand Chronicle, 13 September 1845
New Zealand Spectator and Cook’s Strait Guardian, 27 October 1849
Taranaki Herald, 12 June 1850, 19 June 1869, 26 June 1869, 7 July 1869, 12 February 1873, 20 March 1878, 18 January 1882, 27 November 1884, 1 December 1884, 11 May 1888, 28 July 1888, 2 December 1893, 18 January
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1899, 5 May 1904, 23 June 1905, 13 January 1906
Secondary/published sources
Alexander, A.C., Holy Trinity New Plymouth 1845-1970, Printed by Taranaki Newspapers, New Plymouth, 1970
Alington, Margaret, An Excellent Recruit: Frederick Thatcher, architect, priest and private secretary in early New Zealand. Polygraphia, Auckland, 2007
Bowman, Ian, ‘Conservation Plan: Holy Trinity Church, Fitzroy, New Plymouth,’ December 2010
Cyclopedia Company Limited, Cyclopedia of New Zealand [Taranaki, Hawke’s Bay & Wellington Provincial District], Christchurch, 1908
Gavin, G.H., The Taranaki Archdeaconry: its history and associations, 1859- 1955, Taihape Times, Taihape, 1955
Knight, C.R., The Selwyn Churches of Auckland, A.H. & A.W. Reed, Wellington, 1972
Lambert, Gail & Ron, An Illustrated History of Taranaki, The Dunmore Press, Palmerston North, 1983
McAloon, J., Nelson: A regional history, Whatamango Bay, 1997
Porter, Frances, Historic Buildings of New Zealand: North Island, Cassell New Zealand, Auckland, 1979
Prickett, Nigel, Historic Taranaki: An Archaeological Guide, GP Books, Wellington
Stacpoole, John, Colonial Architecture in New Zealand, A.H. & A.W. Reed, Wellington, 1976
Sorrell, P. (ed), Murihiku; The Southland story, Invercargill, 2006
Te Ara – the Encyclopedia of New Zealand, Maori Peoples of New Zealand: Nga Iwi o Aotearoa, David Bateman/Ministry for Culture and Heritage, Wellington, 2006
Holy Trinity Church Historic Place Report 24
Ward, Alan, National Overview – Vol III – Waitangi Tribunal Rangahaua Whanui Series, GP Publications, Wellington, 1997
Wells, B., The History of Taranaki, Edmonson & Avery “Taranaki News Office”, New Plymouth, 1878. Reprinted by Capper Press, Christchurch, 1976
Electronic Resources
Alington, Margaret, ‘Thatcher, Frederick’, Te Ara – the Encyclopedia of New Zealand, updated 1 September 2010, www.TeAra.govt.nz/en/biographies/1t92 (accessed 17 December 2010)
‘Anglican Church in Aotearoa, New Zealand and Polynesia: History’, http://www.anglican.org.nz/About/History (accessed 12 January 2011)
Brookes, B., 'King, Frederic Truby – Biography,' from the Dictionary of New Zealand Biography. Te Ara - the Encyclopedia of New Zealand, URL: http://www.TeAra.govt.nz/en/biographies/2k8/1 (1 September 2010)
‘Church Halls,’ Holy Trinity Church – New Plymouth, URL: http://www.holytrinity.co.nz/documents/History5.html (Accessed 16 February 2012)
‘Heads of Agreement between the Crown and Te Atiawa: Summary of Historical Background to the claims by Te Atiawa,’ available at www.executive,govt.nz/96- 99/minister/graham/te_atiawa/01.html
‘Holy Trinity Anglican Church New Plymouth’ URL http://www.holytrinity.co.nz/documents/History2.html (accessed 8 December 2010)
Hoskin, Sorrel, Taranaki Stories: Natural World – Ngamotu – more than just a beach, Puke Ariki, 2003, http://www.pukeariki.com/en/stories/naturalworld/ngamotu.asp (accessed 20 May 2009)
Limbrick, W. E., ‘Selwyn, George Augustus’ Dictionary of New Zealand Biography, URL http://www.teara.govt.nz/en/biographies/1s5/1 (accessed 8 December 2010)
Lawn, Charles A., The pioneer land surveyors of New Zealand, New Zealand
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Institute of Surveyors, Wellington, 2005. Available from www.surveyors.org.nz., (accessed 2008).
McLintock (ed), ‘The Dioceses’, An Encyclopedia of New Zealand, originally published in 1966, available from Te Ara – the Encyclopedia of New Zealand, http://www.TeAra.govt.nz/en/1966/church-of-england/1 (accessed 11 January 2011)
New Plymouth District Council, ‘Te Henui Walkway”, http://www.newplymouthnz.com/VisitingNewPlymouth/Attractions/Walkways/Te HenuiWalkway.htm (accessed 11 January 2011)
Office of Treaty Settlements, ‘Progress of Claims’, 10 December 2009, available from http://nz01.terabyte.co.nz/ots/LiveArticle.asp?ArtID=-1243035403 (accessed 19 February 2010)
Waitangi Tribunal, The Taranaki Report: Kaupapa Tuatahi, available at http://www.waitangi-tribunal.govt.nz/reports/view.asp?ReportID=3FECC540- D049-4DE6-A7F0-C26BCCDAB345 (accessed 25 May 2009)
J. Watson, 'King, Newton – Biography,' from the Dictionary of New Zealand Biography. Te Ara - the Encyclopedia of New Zealand, URL: http://www.TeAra.govt.nz/en/biographies/3k13/1 (updated 1 September 2010)
Holy Trinity Church Historic Place Report 26
3. SIGNIFICANCE ASSESSMENT93
3.1. Section 23 (1) Assessment
Architectural Significance or Value
There is strong evidence that Holy Trinity Church was first designed by noted pioneer ecclesiastical architect Frederick Thatcher. The corpus of religious buildings designed by Thatcher, which are associated with the architectural influence of Bishop Selwyn, were seminal in the development of New Zealand’s Gothic Revival vernacular churches. Subsequent additions to the simple original Holy Trinity Church building have included features of this style, such as transepts, an apse, high steep gables, and lancet windows. The building has local architectural importance because additions were designed by leading late nineteenth and early twentieth century New Plymouth architects James Sanderson and Francis John Messenger.
Archaeological significance or value
The Holy Trinity Church was constructed in 1845 and is associated with the earliest period of European settlement in New Plymouth. As such the site is of archaeological significance. Although the building has been modified over time, the section is likely to contain archaeological deposits associated with its continuous use since 1845, including the possibility of unmarked graves. The section also contains a headstone dated 1857.
Historical Significance or Value
This building is of special historical value. Opened in 1845, the Holy Trinity Church is the ‘oldest edifice erected for [Anglican] Divine service in Taranaki’ and is one of New Zealand’s oldest remaining churches, or remnants of churches. Just four other known examples of 1840s churches remain, all of which have since been extended. Three of these are Anglican churches that like the Holy Trinity Church were constructed through the efforts of Bishop Selwyn to a Thatcher design. Selwyn was a prominent and important member of the early Anglican Church in New Zealand and the Holy Trinity Church, whose site was selected by and its construction paid for by the Bishop, is directly linked
93For the relevant sections of the HPA see Appendix 4: Significance Assessment Information.
Holy Trinity Church Historic Place Report 27 with his work to establish and develop Anglicanism in New Zealand.
The church is also significant for surviving the 1860s Taranaki campaign of the New Zealand wars, one of relatively few buildings around New Plymouth that was not destroyed during this time. The economic hardships and social situation in New Plymouth during the decade of conflict inhibited the evolution of the 1845 ‘temporary’ building. Therefore, the eventual changes to the building’s appearance in the early 1870s are indicative of the community’s determined recovery after this turmoil. The 1870s and 1880s alterations to the building also coincide with a second wave of church building in New Zealand when many other early churches were either replaced or expanded.
Holy Trinity Church has significance for its direct historical connections with influential early local clergy, such as Reverend Bolland, and Henry Govett, the first Archdeacon of Taranaki.
Social Significance or Value
Thousands of members of the local Anglican community have had a close association with the building including the King family. Thomas and Mary King were married in Holy Trinity Church and were influential and prominent in local society and significant land owners. Among their children was Sir Frederick Truby King, who is acknowledged as an important New Zealander through his founding of the Plunket Society and other social programmes. The various donations of commemorative and dedicatory objects and fittings in Holy Trinity Church have local social value. They document the deaths and contributions of many members of the local Anglican community and its leaders. In particular, the World War One and Two memorials, in the form of plaques, a roll of honour, and windows, demonstrate the toll that these pivotal events of the twentieth century had at a local level.
Spiritual Significance or Value
Holy Trinity Church is of spiritual significance nationally as the first purpose built structure for Anglican worship in Taranaki, which was the second New Zealand Company colony, and as one of the few remaining churches which had their foundations in the earliest period of European settlement. Since its construction Holy Trinity Church has been the scene of innumerable Anglican religious services, events, and celebrations and therefore has been directly associated with the spiritual aspect of thousands of local residents’ lives, which means Holy
Holy Trinity Church Historic Place Report 28
Trinity Church is of local spiritual importance.
Summary of Significance or Values
This place has been assessed for, and found to possess architectural, archaeological, historical, social, and spiritual significance or value.
Conclusion
It is considered that this place qualifies as part of New Zealand’s historic and cultural heritage.
3.2. Section 23 (2) Assessment
(a) The extent to which the place reflects important or representative aspects of New Zealand history
Holy Trinity Church has special historical significance for its link to the establishment of the Anglican Church in New Zealand, an aspect of this country’s history that has shaped the lives of a large sector of the population.
(b) The association of the place with events, persons, or ideas of importance in New Zealand history
The building is directly associated with Bishop Selwyn, and dates from the earliest period of his work setting up the Church of England in New Zealand. The building also has strong links to Henry Govett, a figure of great importance in the establishment of the Anglican faith in New Zealand and Taranaki. Govett was the first Archdeacon in Taranaki. He was placed in a challenging position early in this role, guiding the Anglican Church through the tumultuous period of the Taranaki Wars. As a rare survivor of the Taranaki Wars, the building is also significant for its association with this tumultuous period in New Zealand history.
(c) The potential of the place to provide knowledge of New Zealand history
As this property was first developed in 1845, the site surrounding the church is of archaeological significance. There will be remnants of the activities associated the church which could be gleaned through archaeological techniques. The churchyard contains a headstone for an 1857 grave and there is the possibility of other unmarked graves within the grounds.
Holy Trinity Church Historic Place Report 29
(e) The community association with, or public esteem for the place
Holy Trinity Church has been attended by thousands of local people since its construction in 1845 and therefore many have a close personal and family connection with the building. Holy Trinity Church has benefitted from generous community efforts to maintain and beautify the building and the grounds through voluntary labour and donations, which is indicative of a consistent history of local esteem for the place.
(i) The importance of identifying historic places known to date from early periods of New Zealand settlement
The nucleus of Holy Trinity Church was built within a few years of the arrival of the first European colonists to New Zealand, and as such dates from the earliest period of the country’s colonial and ecclesiastical history.
(k) The extent to which the place forms part of a wider historical and cultural complex or historical and cultural landscape
Holy Trinity Church is part of a quartet of sites in New Plymouth which were the result of the collaboration between Bishop Selwyn and architect Frederick Thatcher. Included in this historical landscape are St Mary’s Church, Te Henui Vicarage and the former Colonial Hospital known as The Gables.
Summary of Significance or Values
This place was assessed against, and found to qualify under the following criteria: a, b, c, e, i, and k.
Conclusion
It is considered that this place qualifies as a Category 1 historic place.
As the first purpose built church in the second New Zealand Company colony of Taranaki, the Holy Trinity Church is one of New Zealand’s oldest remaining churches, or remnants of churches, in New Zealand. The Holy Trinity Church is of special historic significance for its direct association with the establishment of the Church of England in New Zealand and for its direct links to figures of national historical importance, such as Bishop Selwyn, Frederick Thatcher, and Archdeacon Henry Govett. Holy Trinity Church was the first of a series of New Plymouth buildings instigated by Bishop Selwyn and designed by Thatcher,
Holy Trinity Church Historic Place Report 30 including Te Henui Vicarage and St Mary’s Church. The Holy Trinity’s 1840s construction and its history of subsequent expansions in the 1870s and 1880s makes it comparable to the few other remaining churches from this period.
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4. OTHER INFORMATION
4.1. Associated NZHPT Registrations
Prior to an audit of the Register in 2004, the NZHPT understood that Holy Trinity Church was registered by the NZHPT Board. The place was given Register Number: 893.
The transitional provisions of section 114 of the Historic Places Act 1993 deemed that all buildings classified C or D under the 1980 Act become Category 2 historic places. The place was therefore thought to be a Category 2 historic place. The audit of the Register indicated that there is no confirmation of registration in the NZHPT Board Minutes for this registration. The registration is therefore invalid.
4.2. Heritage Protection Measures
Local Authority Plan Listing
The Local Authority has listed this place in its District Plan. The reference is New Plymouth District Plan Operative 15 August 2005, DP No 16 Map C26 in Appendix 8 Category A Heritage Buildings and Items.
The Regional Council has not listed this area in its Regional Plan.
Reserve
This place is not part of a reserve.
Heritage Covenant
This place is not covered by a Heritage Covenant.
Other Heritage Listings
This place has been identified as being included in other heritage listings: New Zealand Archaeological Association (NZAA) Site Recording Scheme, P19/394
NZHPT Heritage Incentive Fund
This place is not currently a suitable candidate for the NZHPT Incentive Fund
Holy Trinity Church Historic Place Report 32 because it is not in private ownership.
NZHPT Recommendations
To ensure the long-term conservation of this place, the NZHPT recommends that repairs and maintenance are regularly completed in accordance with heritage best practice. The remedial and conservation measures are recommended in Ian Bowman, ‘Conservation Plan: Holy Trinity Church, Fitzroy, New Plymouth,’ December 2010.
Disclaimer
Please note that registration of this historic place by the NZHPT identifies only the heritage values of the property concerned, and should not be construed as advice on the state of the property, or as a comment of its soundness or safety, including in regard to earthquake risk, safety in the event of fire, insanitary conditions etc.
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5. APPENDICES
5.1. Appendix 1: Visual Identification Aids
Location Maps
New Plymouth
Holy Trinity Church Historic Place Report 34
Map of Extent
Extent includes the land described as Pt Sec 91 Fitzroy District (CT TN123/84), Taranaki Land District and the grounds and the building known as Holy Trinity Church thereon, and its fittings and fixtures and its following chattels: the picture of Reverend Govett, and the needlework image of The Last Supper, the font, credence table, clergy stalls, lectern, and altar. The extent of registration excludes the Parish Hall, and vicarage buildings north of the church but includes the Norfolk pine to the north of the section, said to have been planted by Bishop Selwyn.
Holy Trinity Church Historic Place Report 35
Current Identifier
Holy Trinity Church Historic Place Report 36
Holy Trinity Church Historic Place Report 37
5.2. Appendix 2: Visual Aids to Historical Information
Historical Photographs
Figure 1: Holy Trinity Church, Te Henui, (1870s), Unknown photographer. Collection of Puke Ariki, New Plymouth, A81.207. Image must not be reproduced without prior permission from Puke Ariki.
Figure 2: Church buildings at Te Henui, New Plymouth, 193-. Alexander Turnbull Library (ATL), ID: 1/2-017460-G. Permission of the Alexander Turnbull Library, Wellington, New Zealand, must be obtained before any re-use of this image. There are similar images of this place at Puke Ariki, New Plymouth which date from 1911 (Negative number LN2779 and LN4639).
Holy Trinity Church Historic Place Report 38
Figure 3: Holy Trinity Church, Fitzroy, interior, ca 1910. ATL, F-125808-1/2. This image shows the painted tin panels of the reredos, found preserved beneath subsequent timber panelling in 2012.
Figure 4: ‘Holy Trinity Church, Fitzroy,’ architectural plans, 1928. New Plymouth District Council (NPDC), 428439 BC 87003
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Figure 5: ‘Proposed addition to Holy Trinity Church,’ architectural plans, 1966. NPDC, 428439 BC 87003
Holy Trinity Church Historic Place Report 40
5.3. Appendix 3: Visual Aids to Physical Information
Current Plans
Figures 6-9: ‘Holy Trinity Church,’ architectural plans, 1978. NPDC, 428444 BC 87003
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Holy Trinity Church Historic Place Report 42
Current Photographs of Place (all photographs by B. Wagstaff, NZHPT, July 2010)
Figure 10: Holy Trinity Church looking north along Henui Street
Figure 11: West side
Holy Trinity Church Historic Place Report 43
Figure 12: East end of nave, transept and chancel. Note the altar, clergy stalls, and eagle lectern (right), and the needlework image of The Last Supper behind the altar. The painted tin reredos panels were found behind timber panelling located behind the curtain visible in this image. The credence table supports the altar cross.
Figure 13: Northwest lean-to of the church. Note the font to the centre left of the image.
Holy Trinity Church Historic Place Report 44
Figure 14: Image of Reverend Henry Govett, thought to be framed with timber (Pukatea) from the original 1845 church building. A handwritten note by W.H. Skinner on the back of the picture imparts this information.
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Figures 15, 16 and 17: The rediscovered reredos panels; and insets showing detail. (B.Wagstaff, NZHPT, 19 May 2012).
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5.4. Appendix 4: Significance Assessment Information
Part II of the Historic Places Act 1993 Chattels or object or class of chattels or objects (section 22(5)) Under section 22(5) of the Historic Places Act 1993, an entry in the Register in respect of any historic place may include any chattel or object or class of chattels or objects – (a) Situated in or on that place; and (b) Considered by the Trust to contribute to the significance of that place; and (c) Nominated by the Trust. Significance or value (section 23(1)) Under section 23(1) of the Historic Places Act 1993, the Trust may enter any historic place or historic area in the Register if the place possesses aesthetic, archaeological, architectural, cultural, historical, scientific, social, spiritual, technological, or traditional significance or value. Category of historic place (section 23(2)) Under section 23(2) of the Historic Places Act 1993, the Trust may assign Category I status or Category II status to any historic place, having regard to any of the following criteria: (a) The extent to which the place reflects important or representative aspects of New Zealand history (b) The association of the place with events, persons, or ideas of importance in New Zealand history (c) The potential of the place to provide knowledge of New Zealand history (d) The importance of the place to tangata whenua (e) The community association with, or public esteem for, the place (f) The potential of the place for public education (g) The technical accomplishment or value, or design of the place (h) The symbolic or commemorative value of the place (i) The importance of the identifying historic places known to date from early periods of New Zealand settlement (j) The importance of identifying rare types of historic places (k) The extent to which the place forms part of a wider historical and cultural complex or historical and cultural landscape (l) Such additional criteria for registration of wahi tapu, wahi tapu areas, historic places, and historic areas of Maori interest as may be prescribed in regulations made under this Act (m) Such additional criteria not inconsistent with those in paragraphs (a) to (k) of this subsection for the purpose of assigning Category I or Category II status to any historic place, and for the purpose of registration of any historic area, as may be prescribed in regulations made under this Act NOTE: Category I historic places are ‘places of special or outstanding historical or cultural heritage significance or value.’ Category II historic places are ‘places of historical or cultural heritage significance or value.’
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