taranaki cathedral, church of st mary

This is perhaps the oldest church in New Zealand, and the newest cathedral. It was built in several stages using local grey stone. It is set in a beautiful park-like setting containing any historic graves with references to the Maori wars, and the history of Taranaki. Inside there are many colourful stained glass windows, and a large number of diamond shaped regimental coats of arms. This is a lovely place to simply spend time in contemplation. It is a spiritual space.

So nice to see this historical building is still well used every day. The story of its beginning are amazing.

Brilliant in every way, interesting in history and in my case family history, just lovely and strangely peaceful in a magical way

The cemetery beside the church has enormous oak trees which have been saved by years of great care. The church has been added to over the years and is an impressive stone edifice. It contains quite a bit of local history with monuments to various soldiers and local dignitaries. Well worth seeing.

On the third Thursday of each month, Christopher Luke, the City of New Plymouth organist gives an hour long recital at St Mary's Cathedral which is the oldest stone built church in the whole of New Zealand. It is a wonderful venue to hear classical organ music. After the recital there is the chance to partake of afternoon tea and have a chat. Keep an eye on the calendar because Christopher Luke has a number of piano recitals by young talented musicians planned.

Lovely visit to a very old piece of Taranaki history. Volunteers offered useful information about the building and were very friendly. Peaceful place to be.

I've always loved this church. Its rich history and gorgeous building both inside and out. The location is perfect and has an amazing feel to it.The best thing about this church for us is the Dean Jamie and his family (and the beautiful community that attend this special church). So welcoming, warm and kind. You will struggle to not feel at home here. He makes every service memorable and fun and I truly believe will keep the younger generations coming which will be the future of the church. It isn't very often you find a church you feel so welcome in and more so comfortable to bring your children and not worry if they make noise or run around. They've even got a children friendly section at the back with plenty of toys and fun things to draw on. I can't think of anything but positive things to say about this special place.

Modern looking interiour and peaceful. Centrally located and the city clock tower half hourly chime adds to the experience.

In a small town, you can't expect a grand cathedral. This one is pretty plane. Build in time of war and devoted to veterans, it resembles a war memorial more than the stunning cathedrals of Europe and the new world.

I was really excited about going to this cathedral. The weather was terrible the day we went, and the cathedral was closed, however even so the cemetary is facinating with lots of history and lovely trees. Very cool quick visit.

Anyone who has any faith at all should not miss paying a visit to New Plymouth Catherderalnot only is it extremely old but the inside is awesome along with the grounds.just say you are a visitor and they will offer you a cup of tea as the folks there are really nice.a visit not to be missedSo please enjoy

This is a must see for anyone who visits us in New Plymouth. Some guests look at me strangely when I tell them we are going to visit a church but always they are blown away by my 'history lesson'.

Taranki Cathderal is the oldest stone church in NZ. It was founded by bishop Selwyn in 1842. In March 2010 St Mary’s was consecrated as a Cathedral after years as a provisional Cathedral.

This place is just magnificent and well worth the effort to visit here ,the grounds are I loverly order, and the inside of this old Cathedral is something to beholdmake sure you make a visit here and if you are lucky enough you will get a cup of tea to boot

St Mary's Cathedral is the oldest stone church in New Zealand, and it is steeped in history. It is a very special place, and so beautiful. The buildings and grounds are beautifully maintained, even to the privately owned vicarage which is next door. The cemetery and park like grounds are amazing for learning about early settlers to New Plymouth, or just for a relaxed picnic. In terms of services, there are generally 2 each Sunday morning, at 8am and 10am, and they have many special services also. The 10am services and Evensong feature the full choir, with some quite High Anglican Church liturgies. There is parking in the grounds and across the road. The team here is headed by the Dean, Jamie Allen, one of the nicest and most energetic people I have ever met.