First Church

A category I Historic Places Trust, the Presbyterian First Church was based on a design by R. A Lawson won by a fiercely competitive tender when the Free Church movement was making grounds to make the newly colonised Otago area a Free Church settlement even before setting sail from their native Scotland in 1842. This novel religious sect was a breakaway from the orthodox Scottish Presbyterianism, which was endemic in the homeland and earlier colonies of Wellington, Wanganui, New Plymouth and Nelson, NZ.

After several disturbances preceding and during construction, (including inter-denomination dispute over the erection of the church at all), the final finished building was compete in 1875. An anecdotal mishap occurred just prior to the scheduled opening in 1873 when Lawson realised the spire was 15ft (4.5 metres) too short, requiring dismantling and reconstructing as a result.

Gothic style played a major influential role in the design, which governed the brick structure and finish of Oamaru stone. Many turrets, pinnacles and stained glass windows play a part in the overall character. First Church is regarded as Lawson’s masterpiece and considered ‘the most impressive of all nineteenth century New Zealand churches’ as espoused by John Stacpoole.

Other features of the church include incredible interior and exterior carvings executed by Louis John Godfrey. A convenient and picturesque location in the city centre makes the Church a natural choice for weddings, and is easily accessible for admiring visitors.

415 Moray Place

Dunedin, Otago 9016

(03) 477 7118

Dunedin Tourism

First Church