Home of Compassion chapel could become category 1 historic place

A report by Heritage New Zealand’s heritage assessment advisor, Natalie Marshall, highlighted that the chapel in Wellington’s Island Bay has outstanding historical and spiritual significance due to its direct association with Meri Hōhepa Suzanne Aubert.

The report emphasised the chapel’s aesthetic and architectural qualities, which evoke feelings of awe and tranquillity.

“The result is a unique and extraordinary space, which, with the addition of the resting place, has significant rarity value.

“This place was assessed against the criteria set out in section 66(3) of the Heritage New Zealand Pouhere Taonga Act 2014 and found to qualify as a Category 1 historic place . . . ,” the report stated.

The chapel “continues to be the focus for its community’s important religious and social events, and is a source of pride for its congregation”, the report noted.

The report added that “Meri Hōhepa Suzanne Aubert has an enduring legacy as an important and influential figure in New Zealand and internationally, and the chapel and resting place form a tangible expression of the Catholic faith; and a testament to the energy and devotion of Suzanne Aubert as well as with the commitment of the order, the Trust, coworkers and benefactors.”

Heritage New Zealand is accepting submissions on this proposal, seeking to capture the experiences, significance and personal connections people have with the place. Submissions can be made until 4pm on Friday, February 24 at https://www.heritage.org.nz/places/nominate-and-submit

FULL STORY

Heritage NZ listed the Chapel and the Resting Place to be included as historical sites. – compassion.org.nz (Sisters of Compassion)

9873-the-chapel-of-our-lady-of-compassion-draft.pdf (Heritage New Zealand Pouhere Taonga)