Nations Church has had a makeover and is opening its new doors.
The church, in King Edward St, recently underwent $380,000 worth of renovations, including adding another storey for offices, updating the kitchen facilities and creating a larger space for children.
It is the latest stage of renovations to the building and, in total, took four years to complete.
The church has been in the building since 1993. Before, the building was home to Beaurepaires.
Senior pastor Peter Tate said some of the building’s old features were retained. That included turning the old rafters into stairs, restoring and repainting structural beams and reusing the old church doors.
Mr Tate said one of the main reasons for renovating was to build a larger space for children, as they often had to go offsite.
So another storey was built and the office and meeting room were moved upstairs, creating space for a large creche and children’s area downstairs.
‘‘It gives us more room to do the things we have already been doing, plus more.’’
The renovations were ‘‘totally paid for’’ by the congregation, Mr Tate said.
‘‘It’s surprising what we can do when people want to do it.’’
The renovations were originally costed at around $600,000 but after a few changes to the architect’s plans and help from the congregation, it was a lot cheaper, he said.
The building was used during the renovations, even in the winter, when it could be colder inside than outside.
‘‘We just soldiered on through it and it was worth it.
‘‘It’s a nice facility.’’
About 350 people attend the church each week.
Event co-ordinator Linda Brewster said renovating the church would allow its members to connect more with the community.
Its auditoriums had been painted and could be used for community meetings, she said.
The church hosts a Golden Age programme, a music and movement programme for children and a youth programme for teenagers.
Its members also take part in events such as the Santa Parade and Christmas in the Octagon.
★ To celebrate the completion of the renovations, the Nations Church is holding an event on Saturday. Past and present church members are invited, along with the public. To register your attendance, please phone the church office on (03) 455-1888 or email admin@nations.co.nz.
