Futuna Chapel

22/10/2026

When colour falls away, Futuna Chapel speaks in light and shadow.

We are counting down to the opening of our black and white photography exhibition, 'Tones of Silence'. John Grace’s black-and-white photographs of the chapel use the full tonal range—from luminous highlights to deep blacks—the strong geometry of beams and rooflines, the grain of timber against textured concrete, and showcases the way negative space gives the Chapel’s forms room to breathe.

Step inside Futuna Chapel and see this remarkable space through a different lens every Saturday and Sunday from 31 October -15 November, 11am–3pm

Register now on Humanitix https://tinyurl.com/2td229rv

Entry by koha.

22/09/2026

What an unforgettable finale to the Futuna Lecture Series!

Nick Sissons and Catherine Hunter held a captive audience last night with extraordinary insights into the work and personality of Australian architect Glenn Murcutt, recipient of the 2002 Pritzker Architecture Prize. Through vivid stories of Glenn’s remarkable determination, they brought to life the beauty, originality and unique vision that define his approach to architecture.

And the celebration isn’t over yet! Tonight is your final chance to experience special screenings of Catherine Hunter’s documentaries at the Embassy Theatre in Wellington. Join us at 6:30pm for an inspiring evening, including a short talk from Catherine herself.

Limited tickets remaining. Book now on Humanitix
https://tinyurl.com/3f4f3w6t

A huge thank you to our sponsors; Dulux, APL, APG, Roofing Industries Limited, Warren Trust and Glenn Murcutt Foundation.

18/09/2026

See you tomorrow night Auckland!

The first lecture of the Futuna Lecture Series kicks off tomorrow night in Auckland at St Mary's in Holy Trinity followed by Christchurch on 21 September and Wellington on 22 September. All events start at 6:30pm.

Don't miss a stellar night out with Australian architect and author, Nick Sissons along with documentary maker Catherine Hunter. Bonus film screenings are bookable too.

CPD points available to registered architects.

Some seats still available, but get in quick. Tickets $20 on Humanitix https://tinyurl.com/2xbduah7

15/09/2026

Architecture, CPD points, a great night out...have you got your tickets?

The 2026 Futuna Lecture Series brings documentary filmmaker Catherine Hunter and architect and author Nick Sissons to Aotearoa for a compelling double-header of stories, insights and reflections shaped by their close work with Australia’s internationally acclaimed architect and 2002 Pritzker Architecture Prize Laureate, Glenn Murcutt.

This is a rare opportunity to hear two international voices take you behind the work, thinking and legacy of one of the world’s most influential architects. Whether you’re an architect, designer, student or simply curious about how great places are made, expect an evening that will inform, inspire and stay with you.
Live in Auckland (19 Sept, 6:30pm), Christchurch (21 Sept, 6:30pm) and Wellington (22 Sept, 6:30pm) or join the Wellington lecture by livestream from wherever you are on 23 Sept.

Bookings are essential. Secure your ticket now and be part of this special event, while supporting the ongoing care and operation of Futuna Chapel.

Book now on Humanitix www.humanitix.com/nz



Photos: Cobar Sound Chapel, credit Anthony Browell

14/09/2026

"Architecture is like one of those things that you never reach the ultimate, you never reach it...but it's nice to try" - Pritzker Prize Laureate 2002, Glenn Murcutt.

Listen to the lecture, see the documentaries, get your tickets NOW!

Lectures
Auckland, Saturday 19 Sept, 6:30pm, St Mary's in Holy Trinity - https://tinyurl.com/35xsbh93

Christchurch, Monday 21 Sept, 6:30pm, St Andrew's College Centennial Chapel - https://tinyurl.com/33xkhtdp

Wellington, Tuesday 22 Sept, 6:30pm, Old St Paul's Cathedral - https://tinyurl.com/3bvubye5

Documentary screenings
Auckland, Sunday 20 Sept, 6:30pm, Academy Cinemas - https://tinyurl.com/35xsbh93

Christchurch, Tuesday 22 Sept, 6:30pm, Christchurch Art Gallery Victoria Room - https://tinyurl.com/33xkhtdp

Wellington, Wednesday 23 Sept, 6:30pm., Embassy Theatre - https://tinyurl.com/3bvubye5

10/09/2026

BIG NEWS!!

We are thrilled that Australian documentary maker, Catherine Hunter has generously given us permission to screen three of her latest documentaries in New Zealand!

Catherine has followed and documented the work of celebrated architect Glenn Murcutt for thirty years and collaborated on a number of film projects. Two films, The Cobar Sound Chapel and Spirit of Place, show Glenn's humanity and skill in pursuit of an architectural vision that always seeks to respond to place and provide delight.

Another short film covering the work of New Zealand born artist, Rosalie Gascoigne will also screen. Rosalie is renowned for her sculptural assemblages that reveal the beauty of discarded objects. Inspired by nature, her art reflects both the extremes and nuances of the Australian landscape.

Tickets $20 each. 5 CPD points available to registered architects.

Auckland, 20 September at Academy Cinemas - https://tinyurl.com/wyunnjtk

Christchurch, 22 September at Christchurch Art Gallery Victoria Room - https://tinyurl.com/mv8bvpyp

Wellington 23 September at Deluxe Cinemas Embassy Theatre - https://tinyurl.com/2h4ymktf

Bookings are essential. Secure your seat now.

10/09/2026

Tickets to the annual Futuna Lecture Series are now on sale and we are so excited to be welcoming a double header this year; documentary maker Catherine Hunter and architect and author, Nick Sissons.

Both speakers hold a long and close working relationship with 2002 Pritzker Architecture Prize Laureate, Glenn Murcutt and will be sharing their insights and stories from their experiences with Glenn.

Tickets are selling fast. Book now for Auckland, Wellington or Christchurch on Humanitix https://tinyurl.com/pzjfxk44

In 1958, six years into his private practice, Hawke’s Bay architect John Scott was commissioned by the Society of Mary to design a chapel for their spiritual retreat in Karori, Wellington. Built by the Brothers of the Society themselves, and embellished by Auckland sculptor Jim Allen, Futuna Chape...

30/07/2026

Twenty years on, we remember with deep gratitude the people who worked tirelessly to save Futuna Chapel from demolition and who formed the first Trust to protect this special taonga for future generations; Chris Finlayson, the late David Kernohan, P**i Maaka, Jacob Scott (son of Futuna’s architect John Scott ) and Simon McLellan.

Futuna Chapel stands today because of people who believe that heritage matters, that architecture can carry wairua, and that a place of beauty and reflection deserves protection. We acknowledge their courage, persistence and generosity, especially the enduring contribution of David Kernohan, whose leadership helped guide the Trust through its earliest and most challenging years.

To all who helped save Futuna Chapel, and to those who continue to care for it: thank you. Your mahi ensures that this taonga remains part of our shared story.

29/07/2026

Remembering John Scott today; 24 years since his passing in 1992.

As Russell Walden described him 'Scott was the antithesis of the suited professional who delivers drawings on time. Brilliant, mercurial, usually barefoot, he worked at all hours of the day and night and followed his own schedules...However, his attitude to his profession was one of complete integrity...As a person he combined a zest for life with a profound introspection. As an architect he stood alone.'

- www.teara.govt.nz/en/biographies

Photo credit: Ans Westra

In 1958, six years into his private practice, Hawke’s Bay architect John Scott was commissioned by the Society of Mary to design a chapel for their spiritual retreat in Karori, Wellington. Built by the Brothers of the Society themselves, and embellished by Auckland sculptor Jim Allen, Futuna Chape...

21/07/2026

Remembering the profoundly talented Jim Allen today who would have been 104 years old. Your Christ Figure, Stations of the Cross and light modulator remain icons in Futuna Chapel.

Artist, teacher and critic and described as one of the most influential visionary figures of his generation.

Happy Birthday Jim!

In 1958, six years into his private practice, Hawke’s Bay architect John Scott was commissioned by the Society of Mary to design a chapel for their spiritual retreat in Karori, Wellington. Built by the Brothers of the Society themselves, and embellished by Auckland sculptor Jim Allen, Futuna Chape...