Saint Patrick's Cathedral, Auckland

Saint Patrick's Cathedral, Auckland

From modest beginnings in 1841 to the grand building you see before you today, Saint Patrick’s Cathedral in Auckland has always been the centre of Catholicism in the city. The land that the cathedral is built on was granted by the crown to the city’s first bishop Jean Baptiste Pompallier on June 1st, 1841. A simple wooden structure was first built to serve the 300 odd strong congregation that was mainly made up of Irish immigrants. It was clear that a more substantial building would be required and in 1845 an architect was commissioned to design a stone church. When Auckland was made a diocese in 1848, it was clear that a grander building would be required.

In 1884 the foundation stone was laid for extensive expansions to be made to the church and the old stone church became the transept. A new nave was added that included a bell tower and bells were imported directly from Rome. The new cathedral was officially opened on March 15, 1885 – just before Saint Patrick’s Day. Further expansions were carried out to make more space for the growing city’s congregation at the turn of the 20th century and the church that was completed in 1907 is the very same that you gaze upon today.

Want to visit this sight? Check out these Self-Guided Walking Tours in Auckland. Alternatively, you can download the mobile app "GPSmyCity: Walks in 1K+ Cities" from Apple App Store or Google Play Store. The app turns your mobile device to a personal tour guide and it works offline, so no data plan is needed when traveling abroad.

Download The GPSmyCity App

Saint Patrick's Cathedral on Map

Sight Name: Saint Patrick's Cathedral
Sight Location: Auckland, New Zealand (See walking tours in Auckland)
Sight Type: Religious
Guide(s) Containing This Sight:

Walking Tours in Auckland, New Zealand

Create Your Own Walk in Auckland

Create Your Own Walk in Auckland

Creating your own self-guided walk in Auckland is easy and fun. Choose the city attractions that you want to see and a walk route map will be created just for you. You can even set your hotel as the start point of the walk.
Auckland Historical Buildings Tour

Auckland Historical Buildings Tour

Auckland, New Zealand may not be known as a historical city, but it does contain some historical buildings all right. These old structures, dating back to the 19th century, reflect the diverse heritage and architectural evolution of the city and are cherished as landmarks.

The Ferry Building, an iconic waterfront edifice, is a fine example of Edwardian Baroque style. Built in 1912, it once...  view more

Tour Duration: 2 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 4.6 Km or 2.9 Miles
Auckland Introduction Walking Tour

Auckland Introduction Walking Tour

Owing to their remoteness, the islands of New Zealand were the last large habitable lands to be settled by humans. Maori began to inhabit this area around 1350 and they called it "desired by many", referring to its abundant natural resources.

In 1840, after purchasing land from the local tribe, the British established Auckland as a colonial settlement. Its first governor, Lieutenant...  view more

Tour Duration: 2 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 4.8 Km or 3 Miles

Useful Travel Guides for Planning Your Trip


Souvenir Shopping Guide: 17 Kiwi Things to Buy in Auckland

Souvenir Shopping Guide: 17 Kiwi Things to Buy in Auckland

Although closer than it used to be, courtesy of “The Lord of the Rings” movie trilogy, New Zealand still remains below “Down Under” to many. If you're privileged to visit Auckland, make sure to bring home something memorable to “extend” your trip. Here are some ideas for signature...