Waiapu Cathedral of Saint John the Evangelist, Napier, Anglican cathedral in Napier, New Zealand.
Waiapu Cathedral of Saint John the Evangelist is an Anglican cathedral on Browning Street in Napier, built in Art Deco style and completed in 1965, then consecrated on 8 October 1967. Its design was largely drawn up by Napier architect Kingwell Malcolm of Malcolm and Sweet after the death of selected architect R. S. D. Harman, and its stained glass windows were designed by Wellington artist Beverley Shore Bennett.
The current building was completed in 1965 as a replacement for the original cathedral destroyed during the 1931 Hawke's Bay earthquake. Its reconstruction marked a new chapter with updated design and materials for the Anglican diocese.
The cathedral serves as a gathering place for the local Anglican community, who come for regular worship and to mark important occasions throughout the year. It remains woven into the spiritual life of Napier residents.
The building is accessible to visitors at different times throughout the week and during weekend services, making it easy to plan a visit. It is best to check opening times ahead, as these may vary depending on church activities and events.
The organ is the fifth instrument on this site, rebuilt in 2012/3 by the South Island Organ Company. With more than 3700 pipes it is the largest church organ in New Zealand. Gary Bowler, the country's longest-serving Anglican cathedral organist, was Director of Music here from 1981 to 2014.
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