Final Push to Reopen Saint Oswald’s Church

WHARANUI, Marlborough, South Island, Aotearoa New Zealand – 10 March 2025
If you've driven past Saint Oswald’s Church on State Highway 1, just north of Kekerengu, you’ll have noticed significant progress over the past six months. Thanks to major restoration efforts, the church is now looking better than it has in decades.

Restoration Progress
​The earthquake repair work is complete, including realignment of the south wall, structural strengthening with steel rods to meet public safety standards, a new polymeric slate tile roof, and meticulous masonry repairs with restoration of the church stonework. Two badly damaged stained-glass windows have also been fully restored and reinstalled by Graham Stewart Stained Glass, Rangiora.
One of the most special moments of this restoration has been the return of the church bell, repaired by Bruce Murray and Johnny Malthus. Bruce shared, “It’s fantastic to hear it ring again after so many years.”

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Next Step: Landscaping and Accessibility EnhancementsA new landscaping plan designed by Leicester Murray will get underway next month, honoring those buried in the church grounds while creating a tranquil space for visitors to enjoy the stunning coastal views. Key improvements include:
·        A new stone-walled entrance with parking on the north side, providing a safer way for visitors to access the church, away from SH1.
·        Fencing and drainage upgrades to protect the site.
·        Selective tree removal and native planting to enhance the landscape.

Final Step: Interior Restoration
With the exterior repairs complete, the focus now shifts to drying out the interior before beginning plasterwork, painting, electrical upgrades, and floor restoration. The balcony will also be made more accessible.
Looking ahead, the trustees envision incorporating historic displays at the entrance to share the rich history of Saint Oswald’s.

Help Us Open the Church
​The goal is to fully reopen the church by Christmas, but funding remains crucial to completing the final stage.
🔹 Sponsor-a-Tile Campaign – Donations of $500 per tile help fund the restoration, with all contributions eligible for a charitable donation receipt.
🔹 General Donations – Any amount is greatly appreciated via givealittle.co.nz/org/stoswalds.