Futuna Chapel

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...

21/07/2026

Congratulations to our very own poet and Trust Patron, Gregory O'Brien, on publishing his recent poem 'Letter to John Scott' in the UK's latest Poetry Nation Review.

If you missed Gregory reading the poem himself at the reopening of the Chapel, you can now check it out online at https://tinyurl.com/4r7c9mfn or on our website at www.futunatrust.org.nz/events/

A huge thank you to Michael Schmidt and Carcanet/PNReview.

13/06/2026

Excitement is building for Klezmer Rebs today at the Chapel! Doors open at 1:30pm for a 2pm start. Have you got your ticket?

Visit Humanitix now https://tinyurl.com/mr3vn4jz

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...

08/06/2026

Remembering these two wonderful people today as we mark the birthday of the Chapel's architect John Scott and the passing of artist Jim Allen.

As Jim once remarked 'My work on the chapel was certainly one of the highlights of my life...I will always feel privileged to have shared his [John's] thinking and creative drive...'

Much aroha to the Scott and Allen families.

06/06/2026

We’re open! A beautiful day to see the colours of the windows lighting up the pews.
Come over for a visit (open until 3pm)