A timber Anglican church in Gothic Revival style, designed by Joshua Charlesworth and opened in 1899, with later modifications by architect Frederick de Jersey Clere following fire damage.
At a glance
St Barnabas is a heritage-listed Anglican parish church in the Roseneath suburb of Wellington. The timber structure exemplifies Gothic Revival design in New Zealand’s early ecclesiastical architecture. It remains an active place of worship within the Diocese of Wellington.
History
Designed by Joshua Charlesworth, the church opened in 1899 to serve the Roseneath and Oriental Bay parish. In 1924, fire damage threatened the building. Architect Frederick de Jersey Clere oversaw repairs and later designed a new belfry installed in 1910. Heritage New Zealand registered the church as a Category 2 Historic Place on 25 November 1982.
What you see
The church is constructed in timber—a common material in nineteenth-century New Zealand ecclesiastical building. Its Gothic Revival style is evident in the design details, though the structure has been modified over its history. The belfry, designed by Clere and added in 1910, is a later addition to the original 1899 structure.
Cultural significance
St Barnabas exemplifies the development of Anglican parish churches in Wellington during the colonial period. The involvement of Frederick de Jersey Clere, a significant New Zealand architect, links the church to broader developments in the nation’s architectural heritage. The building documents early European settlement patterns in the capital.
Key facts
- Country: New Zealand
- City: Wellington City
- Coordinates: -41.287525, 174.80223056
- Heritage status: Category 2 Historic Place, registered 25 November 1982 (registration number 1421)
- Architect: Joshua Charlesworth (original); Frederick de Jersey Clere (repairs and belfry)
- Completed: 1899
Practical information & getting there
St Barnabas is located in the Roseneath suburb of Wellington. As an active parish church, visiting hours and access may vary. You are advised to contact the parish or check the church’s website for current information about services and public access.
Sources & resources
Find it on the map
See this place and what’s around it →📷 Become a Cultural Heritage Online photographer
Share your photos of places: they stay published under your name as the author. The more they're seen, the more you get noticed — and soon a contest will reward the most appreciated photos.
Log in or sign up free to add a photoIs this page about you?
This page is read by travellers and heritage enthusiasts who find it on Google. Tell us how you are connected to this place and we will take it from there.