The History of St John's Church

Some members of our church family have been coming to St John's for many decades. Others have joined us much more recently. All our welcome - the latest group of people to worship here in a building whose history can be traced back almost 200 years.

We are very lucky that the history and heritage of this landmark building has been so carefully documented and preserved for us. We also know the stories of many of the people who have been just as big a part of the story of St John's as the fixtures and fittings.

Here you can explore some of that history by browsing through our notable historical files and where better to start than with a virtual tour of the building.

A guided tour of St John's

Stained Glass Windows

One of St John's most famous features is its stained glass windows, in memory of Rev Samuel Marsden.

Churchyard Memorials

The memorials in our graveyard have been carefully transcribed and indexed for your reference.

Bretherick's Life and Times

Much of St John's history is documented a book written by B. H. Bretherick in 1982