Repairs progressing at fire-damaged Masterton church

The church sustained significant damage in an alleged arson attack in the early hours of February 22. Five other churches and a local business were also damaged. A 44-year-old man accused of several church arsons in Masterton entered a plea of not guilty in the Masterton District Court on June 26.

A notice on the Catholic Parish of Wairarapa website stated that St Patrick’s Church is currently scaffolded on the inside. The ceilings have been replaced, the walls have been repainted and cleaned, the wiring has been replaced and the seating has been refurbished.

“The large lights are to be replaced with energy-efficient LEDs and approval from the [parish] Finance Committee has been given to replace the radiant heaters with heat pumps. This will be a significant improvement to the heating in the church,” the notice stated.

“We are waiting on the carpet to be manufactured and fully replaced through the entire church.

“The glass doors between the main part of the church and the foyer are being manufactured. The two stained-glass windows in the foyer are to be removed, cleaned and re-leaded, the Stations of the Cross to be cleaned and restored, and all the electrical equipment, including the sound system, speakers and downstairs organ are to be replaced.

“The organ in the choir loft will be cleaned when the rest of the work is completed.”

The update acknowledged “there is still a considerable amount to do, but we will keep you updated with the progress”.

The notice expressed gratitude for the “continued support we have received from Chanel College, their principal Myra Coley and the teachers and students who generously give their time to prepare the hall for us for our weekend Masses”.

FULL STORY

August report to Catholic Parish of Wairarapa (Catholic Parish of Wairarapa)

Suspected church arsonist pleads not guilty | The Post (Wairarapa Times-Age – subscription required)