Sacred Heart Cathedral, Roman Catholic cathedral in Thorndon, New Zealand
Sacred Heart Cathedral occupies Hill Street with Palladian Revival architecture distinguished by Ionic columns and walls built from Oamaru stone. The structure rises prominently with a spacious interior lit by tall windows, creating an airy environment for worship.
The cathedral emerged in 1851 under Bishop Philippe Viard as a spiritual center for the region. A major earthquake prompted extensive strengthening work between 2018 and 2024 to ensure the building's safety.
The cathedral serves as a gathering place for Wellington's Catholic community and shapes religious life in the neighborhood. People from across the city come here to pray and participate in services that connect them to their faith tradition.
The cathedral opens at different times throughout the week and welcomes visitors during services. Checking the schedule in advance helps ensure you arrive at a convenient time for your visit.
Inside are carved kohatu whakairo artworks presented as gifts by the local Māori community. These carvings blend Māori spiritual traditions with Christian faith in a personal way.
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