St Patrick's Cathedral re-opens after two years' major refurbishment

Auckland's Catholic community has for two years been without its cathedral which has undergone extensive conservation and restoration to ensure it complies with modern safety standards.

This weekend the inner city landmark opens its doors again, just over 100years since its last reopening in April 1907. The refurbishment project carries a cost of $12.8 million, and of this $10.9 million has been raised - over 85%!

Several fund-raising events are planned to meet the shortfall including a Cathedral Raceday at Ellerslie in conjunction with the Auckland Racing Club on Saturday, September 29. Luncheon tickets are still available.

While retaining its historic character, the city haven will feature many changes, including a stunning new altar of Spanish and Italian marble, and a new baptismal font which has been set into the floor of the sanctuary. A tile mosaic floor was discovered when old concrete was removed, and the beautiful design, better than new despite its century of hiding, now showcases the main aisle.

The activities set to mark a red-letter weekend of cathedral celebrations include:

Friday 14 September Reopening Mass (by ticket only) at 7.30pm

Saturday 14 September Ethnic Community Dance and Song in Cathedral Square 10.30- to 1.30

" Public reopening ceremony at 2.00pm, to be attended by the Prime Minister and other civic dignitaries

Saturday 14 September Gala Concert with soloists and members of the Auckland Philharmonic Orchestra 7.00pm. Admittance is free of charge.

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