Tongans in New Zealand asked to support basilica repairs

The 45-year-old Basilica of St Anthony of Padua is in urgent need of repair.

“We’re most grateful that it has been given the status of a basilica and it’s up to us to maintain it,” said Baula Tu’itavake, parishioner and catechist.

“It’s stood a couple of hurricanes, earthquakes and volcano eruptions but we’ve got a leaking roof and some of the beams have to be repaired.” 

The basilica committee said roof repairs alone will cost up to $650,000, so Tongan Catholics around the world have been asked to fundraise and help with the renovation.

The building was completed in 1980, replacing an older church. The architect was Tongan Basil Hafoka and the structure was built with the help of his father, Isitolo Hafoka, and many families and volunteers from around Tongatapu.

The start of the renovation is scheduled for early 2026 and it is hoped it will be completed in 2030 in time to celebrate the Basilica’s 50th Jubilee.

“I guess that’s part of the legacy I wish to, to keep that up, if God [is] so willing, this Basilica be renovated again and renewed,” said Cardinal Soane Patita Mafi of Tonga.

“There is a great saying in the Church, we evangelise with beauty. Beauty attracts people, it draws people to come, so I hope that they also try to keep that beauty up to (the) standard of this place, the Basilica, that will draw people to come and worship God.”

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Renovations for community-built Catholic church set for early next year (By Soana Aholelei/ Tangata Pasifika Plus)