A group called Friends of Kakanui Church has been formed in support of the retention of the township's 140-year-old Presbyterian church.
The church was under threat because of a falling congregation and the need for maintenance of the timber building.
A meeting held at the church last Sunday to discuss its future attracted 32 residents, and one of the organisers, Karl Ruddenklau, was "absolutely ecstatic" with the turnout.
There was a very positive response for retention of the church. It was the first of what would be many meetings, Mr Ruddenklau said.
