Update on St Thomas More Church and St Teresa Church Refurbishment
Firstly, following the closure of St Thomas More Church and the issuance of the Decree, we are now awaiting Archbishop Paul Martin to formally deconsecrate the church.In the meantime, we have engaged a registered property valuer to undertake a valuation of the St Thomas More property. We anticipate receiving the Valuer’s Report within the next two weeks. Once received, the Parish Leadership Team will consider the report and determine the appropriate next steps.Secondly, as part of our ongoing commitment to caring for the needs of our parish community and ensuring that our facilities remain safe and fit for purpose, the Property Refurbishment Committee (PRC) has commissioned and received a Baseline Building Condition Report and Remediation Proposals for St Teresa’s Church. The assessment includes a structural and seismic assessment, as well as an examination of the building’s weathertightness, including the roofing and exterior cladding.In addition, an asbestos management survey has been completed.The PRC is currently reviewing these reports and working closely with the structural engineers and Quantity Surveyors to develop a more accurate understanding of the likely order-of-cost for the proposed remediation and refurbishment works. This information will assist the Parish in making informed decisions before proceeding with the commissioning of detailed design work.Finally, we will continue to keep the parish community informed of progress regarding both the St Thomas More Church and the St Teresa’s Church Refurbishment Project as further information becomes available.Thank you for your continued patience, support, and prayers as we work through these important matters for the future of our parish.We understand that you may have many questions and concerns, particularly regarding the St Teresa Church Refurbishment Project.We would like to reassure you that the members of the Refurbishment Project Committee have generously volunteered their time, skills, and expertise to help ensure the successful delivery of the Project. The Committee is committed to working closely with Fr Joy, the Parish Leadership Team, and the Archdiocese of Wellington to ensure that the Project is well planned, responsibly managed, and delivers the desired outcomes for our parish community.What we ask from you is your continued prayers, patience, and support as we move forward together.With our faith, unity, and the guidance of the Holy Spirit, YES, WE CAN!Let us continue to support one another and work together to create a safe, welcoming, and fit-for-purpose space for our parish community—one that will serve us and future generations.
Issued by the Parish Finance Committee, the Parish Refurbishment Committee and the Parish Pastoral Council September 20 2026
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