Inspired by trust’s $125,000 generosity

Stonemason Sam Dooley, of Oamaru, holds a crocket, one of the dozens of replacement Oamaru stone carvings for the restoration of the First Church spire. Above it on the right is an old weathered crocket which will remain in place. Photo: Stephen Jaquiery

The public appeal for the restoration of Dunedin’s First Church spire has begun with a $125,000 grant from the Otago Community Trust.

The church is seeking $600,000 after significant damage and deterioration was found in the spire.

Last Sunday, the about 100-strong church congregation decided to start the appeal. Several other major projects to maintain and secure the church have been undertaken over recent years.

This includes a $250,000 earthquake-strengthening project completed this year.

"I’m thrilled with the generous response from the trust," church finance chairman Les Green said.

Trust chief executive Barbara Bridger said the church was a unique and magnificent example of Neo-Gothic architecture the community was blessed to have on its doorstep.

"Our trustees see the real value in maintaining this majestic architecture for Dunedin and Otago."

Mr Green said the contribution was an excellent start to help the church achieve its goal.

The church was appealing to the congregation as well as the public.

The church includes a heritage centre staffed by volunteers and visited by more than 15,000 people a year. It is considered Dunedin’s second most photographed building, after the railway station.

The spire restoration is expect to take about six months.

The church hosts regular services, including in Samoan and Cook Island Maori, and is used for religious and secular civic and cultural events.