Friends of Glenmark Church Inc chairman Andy Munro says there is now $1.562 million in the bank towards the rebuild, with a recent fundraising evening netting $35,000.
This leaves the project $500,000 short of the target required to complete the rebuild, including pipe organ repair, refurbishment and stained glass window restoration.
The Glenmark Church opened in October 1907 and was funded by the generosity of Annie Townend, daughter of Glenmark Station owner George Moore.
''We are seeking funds from friends, family and those that appreciate the building and chattels for their heritage value, as well as for the normal function it provides to the local community,'' Mr Munro says.
A recent fundraising evening was held in the new Omihi Community and Sports Hall, with more than 120 people attending.
Former All Black Richard Loe was the master of ceremonies.
Guest speaker Mark Inglis ''gave an inspiring and motivational talk on the challenges he has faced and overcome since losing his legs to frostbite''.
The Waipara School PTA provided a three-course buffet meal.
There was also an auction on the evening conducted by John McCone, in which donated goods were snapped up by an enthusiastic crowd.
A Lotteries Commission grant of $720,000 has been received, along with insurance money, Anglican Church Property Trust funds and $110,000 from the Friends of Glenmark, leaving the $500,000 shortfall.
''The Glenmark community is grateful to the Glenmark-Waikari Parish Vestry for guaranteeing the immediate financial shortfall so the restoration can start,'' Mr Munro says.
Former local resident and engineer Herb Farrant has peer-reviewed the scope of works and quantity-surveying documents.
''Tenders will go out very soon and it is hoped that the restoration work on the church building will begin early next year,'' Mr Munro says.
''It is a great feeling to be finally starting on a project that has taken a long time to get to this point.''
Anyone who wants to help the cause, can follow The Friends of Glenmark Church page on Facebook or go online to the website friendsofglenmarkchurch .org.nz.
Mr Munro says a ''buy-a-brick''campaign and a Givealittle page will also be launched to help raise the remaining funds.
''Anybody with a family history with the church may like to purchase bricks in the name of family members, past or present, and so have a family tree recorded.''
