St Patrick's Cathedral

Located smack in the middle of Auckland’s downtown, St Patrick’s Cathedral stands in stark contrast to the glitzy city skyline. Founded back in 1841 along with Auckland itself, modern day Auckland has literally grown around the Catholic cathedral. The original structure was made of wood, although growing populations necessitated growth from stone to brick and mortar. Today the cathedral has received multiple renovations, but maintains a classic, historic presence in a Gothic Revival style. The two bells hanging in the cathedral’s tower are the oldest bells in New Zealand, having been cast in Rome in 1723 and purchased in 1884. Walking inside St. Patrick’s Cathedral, gaze up at the Belgian stained glass that filters light from above, and admire all of the polished wood that climbs its way up the altar. On Sunday mornings for weekly Mass, over 3,000 people gather to praise in the ways of their ancestors before them, and if you’re searching for service while traveling in New Zealand—or simply want to sit in—this historic cathedral is a welcoming spot in the heart of bustling Auckland.

Practical Info

On Sunday, Mass is held at 8am, 11am, 4:30pm, and 7pm. On Monday-Friday, Mass is held at 7am and 12:15pm. There’s no fee to visit the cathedral, but donations are always welcome.