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Catholic Faith in Rotorua
A Journey of Mission and Community
Catholicism in Rotorua began as a mission to the Māori people in the lakeside village of Ohinemutu. This deeply rooted mission spirit has shaped our faith journey from the beginning, drawing strength from the dedication of pioneering priests and religious orders.
1830s–1840s: The Beginnings at Ohinemutu
The Marist priests, based in Maketu, were the first to visit Rotorua. Following the tragic death of Father Michel Borjon in a shipping accident, Father Euloge Reignier was sent to establish a permanent mission station.
In 1843, a piece of land on Pukeroa Hill (3.5 acres) was purchased for £10/10s by Bishop Pompallier. There, Father Reignier built a wooden church dedicated to St Joachim, becoming the first parish priest of Rotorua.
1850s–1890s: Growing Through Challenges
After Father Reignier’s departure in 1851, the mission faced uncertainty. The absence of a resident priest after 1867 caused a near-halt in progress. However, hope returned in 1888, when the Mill Hill Mission Fathers from Matata—led by Father John Becker—arrived in Rotorua. That same year, a piece of land previously taken by the government was returned to the Church. On 27 July 1890, St Michael’s Church was officially dedicated by Bishop Luck, built at a cost of £260.
Father Becker, initially living in a simple raupo hut, was joined by Fathers Adrian Holierhook and Dean Lightheart, firmly establishing Catholic life in Rotorua. The conversion of Māori was a challenge. Protestant missions had arrived earlier, and the rise of tourism brought increasing materialism among the local people. Yet, the Catholic mission endured.
1900–1950s: Strengthening the Mission
The early 20th century saw growth in both infrastructure and education. Father Charles Kreijmborg expanded the presbytery and entrusted it to the Sisters of St Joseph, who began operating a school.
• In 1904, a small church—The Church of the Immaculate Conception—was dedicated at Whakarewarewa Marae.
• In 1915, another church of the same name was opened in Ngongotahā.
These churches extended the Church’s reach and reflected its commitment to serving both Māori and Pākehā communities.
1950s–2000: A Growing Catholic Community
As Rotorua’s Catholic population grew, so did the need for larger spaces of worship.
In 1954, land gifted by lawyer Martin Hampson made way for a new church. On 21 February 1954, St Mary’s Church on Ranolf Street was officially opened by Bishop Liston, and Father Daniel McKenna was appointed as parish priest—unexpectedly announced during the ceremony itself!
The first curate, Father Samuel Carney, arrived shortly after, and by 1955, both priests were living in the presbytery. Meanwhile, Father Anselm Wardle, assisted by Fathers Anton Timmerman and Adrian Geboers, oversaw St Michael’s.
A major reconstruction of St Michael’s Church began in 1960, building around, under, and over the original church. This ambitious project took six years to complete.
Following the death of Father McKenna, and the subsequent departure of the Mill Hill Fathers from St Mary’s, a new church building was constructed. On 5 April 1987, the new St Mary’s Church was opened by Bishop Edward Gaines.
Later, a new church, St Joseph’s, was established at Owhata, with Father Timmerman moving there to continue his mission work.
Legacy of Faith and Mission
From a raupo hut at the lakeside to the vibrant, multicultural parish we are today, the story of Catholicism in Rotorua is one of faith, mission, and perseverance. Enriched by the gifts of Māori culture, and strengthened by the dedication of many priests, sisters, brothers, and lay people, we continue to live out our calling:
To Love, To Live, and To Lead – Aroha, Ora, Arahi.
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