On Tunohopu Street in Ōhinemutu, St. Faiths Church is a lakeside Anglican church with a Tudor-style exterior and an interior shaped by Māori and Christian design. Look for carved wooden details, woven tukutuku panels and stained glass, including an image of Jesus that appears to walk on the water when viewed from the right angle. The church also commemorates police officers who died in service. Its position by the water gives you a peaceful place to pause and take in the setting.
A church in Ōhinemutu
St. Faiths is an Anglican church in Ōhinemutu, a Māori community beside Lake Rotorua. Built in 1915, it stands near Tama-te-Kapua Marae. The meeting house is not open to the public, so keep to areas visitors are welcome to enter and treat the community with respect.
The church’s Tudor-style exterior contrasts with its Māori-influenced interior. Carved wooden elements and tukutuku panels bring Māori design into the church, alongside Christian imagery.
Details to look for inside
Take time to notice the stained glass, carved details and woven panels. One image of Jesus, wearing a Māori cloak, is positioned so that he appears to walk on the lake when seen from a particular angle. The church also serves as a place of remembrance for police officers who died in service.
Entry is by donation. If you would like to hear more about the church’s history, speak with the attendant when one is present. Ask before taking photographs inside, as permission may be required.
FAQ
Where is St. Faiths Church?
It is on Tunohopu Street in Ōhinemutu, Rotorua, beside Lake Rotorua and near Tama-te-Kapua Marae.
Is there an entry fee?
Entry is by donation. The amount is not consistent across the available information, so check with the church if you need to know what to contribute.
What should I look for inside?
Look for stained glass, carved wooden details and woven tukutuku panels. One image of Jesus appears to show him walking on water from a particular viewing angle.
Can I take photographs inside?
Ask permission before taking photographs inside. Photography rules are not consistent across the available information.
