Honouring Our Built Heritage with Blue Heritage Plaques
A nation-wide initiative that was developed by Historic Places Aotearoa and is supported by Heritage New Zealand.
Now Accepting Submissions for 2025
Get involved by nominating a person, group, or building you believe deserves recognition with a national Blue Plaque in one of the following South Canterbury communities: Timaru, Temuka, Waimate, Geraldine, Pleasant Point, Fairlie, Winchester, St Andrews, Makikihi, Glenavy, Cave, Albury, Maungati, Pareora, Seadown, Kerrytown, Levels, Orari, Milford, or Cannington. Send your nomination to: [email protected]
The Blue Plaques initiative was created to celebrate the places that shape our stories. In South Canterbury, the project began by installing plaques on buildings of historical significance to share, in just a few words, why they matter — whether for their architecture, community use, or connection to local people and events.
This nationwide programme was developed by Historic Places Aotearoa, with support from Heritage New Zealand, to raise awareness of the importance of protecting and valuing our built heritage. The plaques serve as a visible reminder of the rich layers of history all around us, encouraging pride in our communities and greater appreciation of heritage that has stood the test of time.
In South Canterbury, the project has been coordinated by a combined working group from the Timaru Civic Trust and the South Canterbury Historical Society. This group has overseen site selection, research, funding, permissions, and production to bring the first stage of the project to life.
Thanks to financial contributions from both organisations, the first five Blue Plaques were completed and installed on the following Timaru landmarks: Basilica of the Sacred Heart (Catholic), Chalmers Church (former), Timaru, Customhouse, Timaru, Landing Service Building, St Mary's Church (Anglican), Timaru Boys High School Memorial Library
Each plaque is 450 mm in diameter, cast in aluminium at a foundry in Dunedin, and finished with a durable powder-coated surface. They were designed to last, marking each building as an important part of our local heritage and briefly telling the story of why it matters.
The Blue Plaque tradition began in London in 1866, making it the oldest commemorative plaque scheme in the world. It was originally launched by the Society of Arts to mark the homes and workplaces of notable figures. Over time, the scheme was taken over by the London County Council, then the Greater London Council, and since 1986 has been managed by English Heritage. While the plaques were first limited to London, the idea has since inspired similar programmes across the UK and around the world. Today, Blue Plaques are a familiar way of celebrating significant people, places and events, helping to bring history into public view and encourage heritage awareness in everyday spaces.
The project is ongoing, with future plaques planned for additional sites across Timaru and the wider district. As the appointed Local Coordinating Committee (LCC), Civic Trust South Canterbury continues to manage the regional delivery of the programme. This includes researching sites, engaging with owners and authorities, preparing text, coordinating orders and funding, and supporting installation.
If you are a building owner, researcher, donor or community member interested in helping to preserve our region’s rich history, we welcome your involvement. Together, we are making South Canterbury’s heritage more visible and more valued for the future.
This nationwide programme was developed by Historic Places Aotearoa, with support from Heritage New Zealand, to raise awareness of the importance of protecting and valuing our built heritage. The plaques serve as a visible reminder of the rich layers of history all around us, encouraging pride in our communities and greater appreciation of heritage that has stood the test of time.
In South Canterbury, the project has been coordinated by a combined working group from the Timaru Civic Trust and the South Canterbury Historical Society. This group has overseen site selection, research, funding, permissions, and production to bring the first stage of the project to life.
Thanks to financial contributions from both organisations, the first five Blue Plaques were completed and installed on the following Timaru landmarks: Basilica of the Sacred Heart (Catholic), Chalmers Church (former), Timaru, Customhouse, Timaru, Landing Service Building, St Mary's Church (Anglican), Timaru Boys High School Memorial Library
Each plaque is 450 mm in diameter, cast in aluminium at a foundry in Dunedin, and finished with a durable powder-coated surface. They were designed to last, marking each building as an important part of our local heritage and briefly telling the story of why it matters.
The Blue Plaque tradition began in London in 1866, making it the oldest commemorative plaque scheme in the world. It was originally launched by the Society of Arts to mark the homes and workplaces of notable figures. Over time, the scheme was taken over by the London County Council, then the Greater London Council, and since 1986 has been managed by English Heritage. While the plaques were first limited to London, the idea has since inspired similar programmes across the UK and around the world. Today, Blue Plaques are a familiar way of celebrating significant people, places and events, helping to bring history into public view and encourage heritage awareness in everyday spaces.
The project is ongoing, with future plaques planned for additional sites across Timaru and the wider district. As the appointed Local Coordinating Committee (LCC), Civic Trust South Canterbury continues to manage the regional delivery of the programme. This includes researching sites, engaging with owners and authorities, preparing text, coordinating orders and funding, and supporting installation.
If you are a building owner, researcher, donor or community member interested in helping to preserve our region’s rich history, we welcome your involvement. Together, we are making South Canterbury’s heritage more visible and more valued for the future.
Do you know a building with a story worth sharing?
We invite you to nominate a heritage site for a future Blue Plaque. Whether it is a well-known landmark or a lesser-known gem, we are keen to hear about places that deserve recognition. To submit a nomination or find out more about the criteria and process, please get in touch with Civic Trust South Canterbury. Let’s work together to celebrate the stories that shape our district. [email protected]
A blue plaque is a permanent sign serving as a historical marker and installed in a public place to commemorate a link between that location and a famous person, event, building or former building on the site. To be considered for a Blue Plaque, a building or site must have clear historical value and meet some of the following criteria:
Blue Heritage Plaques are appearing on some of New Zealand’s most historically significant buildings and sites, highlighting local history and unique cultural and architectural heritage. More detail is available online. They inspire people to explore their surroundings, celebrate local stories, and support the preservation of historic places for future generations.
Special thanks to Nigel Gilkison (HPA Mid-Canterbury) for initiating the project, and the Timaru Civic Trust project lead Christopher Templeton, sub committee Dr Paul Andrew Wood and Roselyn Fauth. See the national website for more information: www.blueplaques.nz
A blue plaque is a permanent sign serving as a historical marker and installed in a public place to commemorate a link between that location and a famous person, event, building or former building on the site. To be considered for a Blue Plaque, a building or site must have clear historical value and meet some of the following criteria:
- The place should have strong historical significance, either locally, regionally or nationally. Such as a connection to an important event, individual or period in history.
- It should be notable for its original purpose and date of construction, helping to illustrate the development of the area.
- The building may display distinctive architectural features or construction techniques that add to its heritage interest.
- It may be associated with significant people, communities or events that have shaped local or national identity, who have been deceased for at least 20 years.
- The site may hold ongoing community value, through public recognition, continued use or symbolic importance.
- The plaque should be visible from a public road.
- All text must be based on verifiable historical research and limited to 250 characters. Property owner consent and relevant approvals are required before installation.
- A row of heritage buildings, rather than just one building, can also be nominated. Sites of historical importance can also be nominated.
- Don't worry about the definition of “heritage” or if its on Heritage New Zealand’s List or not. If you think it deserves a plaque, we’d love to hear from you.
Blue Heritage Plaques are appearing on some of New Zealand’s most historically significant buildings and sites, highlighting local history and unique cultural and architectural heritage. More detail is available online. They inspire people to explore their surroundings, celebrate local stories, and support the preservation of historic places for future generations.
Special thanks to Nigel Gilkison (HPA Mid-Canterbury) for initiating the project, and the Timaru Civic Trust project lead Christopher Templeton, sub committee Dr Paul Andrew Wood and Roselyn Fauth. See the national website for more information: www.blueplaques.nz
Sponsor a Blue Plaque
This national project is led by Historic Places Aotearoa (HPA), in partnership with local heritage groups. It is generously funded by building owners, sponsors, and community fundraising. Help bring history to life by sponsoring a Blue Plaque for your own building or a site you value (with owner consent). Most are wall-mounted; plinths are extra if needed. Plaques are locally managed and nationally supported by Historic Places Aotearoa. Get in touch with Civic Trust South Canterbury to sponsor a plaque today.
Basilica of the Sacred Heart (Catholic), Timaru
Built in 1910–11 this basilica was designed by renowned Dunedin architect Francis Petre in the Romanesque Revival style. Constructed of Oamaru stone, brick and reinforced concrete, it is one of Timaru's most notable landmarks. 7 Craigie Avenue, Timaru, heritage.org.nz/325
The foundation stone for the church was laid on February 6th, 1910, and the church was blessed and opened by the late Archbishop Redwood on October 1st 1911. With its twin towers and striking cupola of copper, the basilica has been for 70 years a very significant feature of the Timaru skyline. Designed by F W Petre the building is among the most noteworthy examples of ecclesiastical architecture in the country. The interior and exterior show both a pleasing blend of Roman and Byzantine architecture with touches of Art Nouveau decoration. Two small domes surmount the towers that flank the façade, and a rear dome caps a carillon tower. Of particular beauty is the semi-circular colonnade of 13 graceful Corinthian columns representing St Paul and the Twelve Apostles. The floor of the sanctuary is decorated with mosaic tiles, while the windows are adorned with attractive stained glass. Historically, the basilica has been a monument to the faith and vision of the Catholic community in South Canterbury. As a townscape feature, it is a major element of Timaru with a striking landmark quality.
The foundation stone for the church was laid on February 6th, 1910, and the church was blessed and opened by the late Archbishop Redwood on October 1st 1911. With its twin towers and striking cupola of copper, the basilica has been for 70 years a very significant feature of the Timaru skyline. Designed by F W Petre the building is among the most noteworthy examples of ecclesiastical architecture in the country. The interior and exterior show both a pleasing blend of Roman and Byzantine architecture with touches of Art Nouveau decoration. Two small domes surmount the towers that flank the façade, and a rear dome caps a carillon tower. Of particular beauty is the semi-circular colonnade of 13 graceful Corinthian columns representing St Paul and the Twelve Apostles. The floor of the sanctuary is decorated with mosaic tiles, while the windows are adorned with attractive stained glass. Historically, the basilica has been a monument to the faith and vision of the Catholic community in South Canterbury. As a townscape feature, it is a major element of Timaru with a striking landmark quality.
Chalmers Church (former), Timaru
Designed by local architect James Turnbull and built in 1903, this Gothic Revival church is constructed of plastered brick with a Welsh slate roof. It is named after Rev. Thomas Chalmers (1780–1847), leader of the Free Church of Scotland. 2 Elizabeth Place/Sophia Street, Timaru. heritage.org.nz/7107
Chalmers Church occupies a prominent position in the centre of Timaru. Located on the corner of Elizabeth and Sophia Streets, it sits proudly on an elevated site with its spire featuring as a conspicuous landmark on Timaru’s skyline. The church was established by a breakaway congregation from the previously established Trinity Presbyterian Church, which was located on Barnard St. The site for the new church was purchased in 1902, and local architect James S. Turnbull was engaged to design the building. The foundation stone of Chalmers church was laid on 7 May 1903, and the completed church was dedicated on 11 September 1904. The grand Gothic Revival church is constructed of plastered brick and features a 70ft high tower, from which a 50ft spire rises, making the total height 120ft (36.5m). The church was named after Reverend Thomas Chalmers (1780-1847), who was a Scottish Presbyterian minister, professor of theology, political economist, and leader of the Church of Scotland. Chalmers led the Disruption rebellion of 1843, founding the breakaway Free Church of Scotland, which sponsored the first colonial planned settlement of Dunedin in 1848. The Presbyterian Church deconsecrated and sold the building in 2014, and it has since been purchased by the Parish of St. George of the Coptic Orthodox Church of New Zealand, who have recently redecorated the interior of the church and renamed it St George’s.
Chalmers Church occupies a prominent position in the centre of Timaru. Located on the corner of Elizabeth and Sophia Streets, it sits proudly on an elevated site with its spire featuring as a conspicuous landmark on Timaru’s skyline. The church was established by a breakaway congregation from the previously established Trinity Presbyterian Church, which was located on Barnard St. The site for the new church was purchased in 1902, and local architect James S. Turnbull was engaged to design the building. The foundation stone of Chalmers church was laid on 7 May 1903, and the completed church was dedicated on 11 September 1904. The grand Gothic Revival church is constructed of plastered brick and features a 70ft high tower, from which a 50ft spire rises, making the total height 120ft (36.5m). The church was named after Reverend Thomas Chalmers (1780-1847), who was a Scottish Presbyterian minister, professor of theology, political economist, and leader of the Church of Scotland. Chalmers led the Disruption rebellion of 1843, founding the breakaway Free Church of Scotland, which sponsored the first colonial planned settlement of Dunedin in 1848. The Presbyterian Church deconsecrated and sold the building in 2014, and it has since been purchased by the Parish of St. George of the Coptic Orthodox Church of New Zealand, who have recently redecorated the interior of the church and renamed it St George’s.
Customhouse, Timaru
Designed by local architect Daniel West and built in 1902, this ornate Neoclassical building is constructed of brick with cement plaster detailing. Located next to the original shoreline it housed H. M. Customs service, collecting taxes on shipped goods. 2 Strathallan Street, Timaru. heritage.org.nz/324
The Timaru Custom House was built on a rounded corner site at the intersection of Strathallan and Station Streets and Cains Terrace. It was perfectly located, being handy to both the port and the railway station, and was seen as an important step in the development of Timaru’s town centre. It remains of importance as part of the historic waterfront area in the story of our town. After being housed in several temporary premises about the town, including the Post Office, a hut near the breakwater, and an office in Beswick Street, the collector at the time must have been delighted to move into a new and permanent Custom House purpose-built for the job in 1901–2. Local carpenter-turned-architect Daniel West designed the building, which opened in August 1902. It is Neoclassical in style, constructed in brick covered in cement plaster, and features much classic detailing. The building has a square footprint and a gabled roof concealed by a parapet. The main entrance is through a portico framed by pairs of fluted Doric columns. The Custom House and its staff were a vital part of the community through the first three-quarters of the 20th century. Eventually, the building was relinquished by the government in 1976 and was converted to commercial use. In mid-2018, the Timaru Civic Trust purchased the property, and it continues to function as a restaurant.
The Timaru Custom House was built on a rounded corner site at the intersection of Strathallan and Station Streets and Cains Terrace. It was perfectly located, being handy to both the port and the railway station, and was seen as an important step in the development of Timaru’s town centre. It remains of importance as part of the historic waterfront area in the story of our town. After being housed in several temporary premises about the town, including the Post Office, a hut near the breakwater, and an office in Beswick Street, the collector at the time must have been delighted to move into a new and permanent Custom House purpose-built for the job in 1901–2. Local carpenter-turned-architect Daniel West designed the building, which opened in August 1902. It is Neoclassical in style, constructed in brick covered in cement plaster, and features much classic detailing. The building has a square footprint and a gabled roof concealed by a parapet. The main entrance is through a portico framed by pairs of fluted Doric columns. The Custom House and its staff were a vital part of the community through the first three-quarters of the 20th century. Eventually, the building was relinquished by the government in 1976 and was converted to commercial use. In mid-2018, the Timaru Civic Trust purchased the property, and it continues to function as a restaurant.
Landing Service Building, Timaru
Built from 1870–76 this stone store, which stands adjacent to the original shoreline, was built by R. D. McRae and used by the Timaru Landing & Shipping Company. It was saved from demolition in 1989 by the Timaru Civic Trust. 2 George Street, Timaru. heritage.org.nz/326
The first stage of what is known today as the Landing Service Building was erected in 1870 by Peter McRae as a grain store. McRae, a local contractor, entrepreneur and hotelier, then leased the building to Julius Mendelson. The building is constructed from local bluestone and stands on the original shoreline of Timaru Harbour, at the eastern end of George Street. It was used by the Timaru Landing & Shipping Company (formed in 1868 by Messrs G. G. Russell, J. Mendelson, H. J. Le Cren, Captain Cain and Mr Turnbull) as a warehouse to store goods that were loaded and unloaded from ships in the harbour. The store was built so that drays delivering grain could offload at level with the first floor from the bank behind the building (now Turnbull Street). Grain could then be delivered to ferry boats, which were hauled up into the landing service on the eastern side of the building. The NZ Loan and Mercantile Agency Company (later renamed Dalgety & Co in 1961) had taken over McRae’s grain store and the Landing Service by the winter of 1875. The company enlarged the building in 1875–76 by adding the two rear hip-roofed bays, tripling the size of the original structure. The buildings continued to be used as warehousing until they were sold to the Timaru Council in 1984. Under threat of demolition for a number of years, the building was saved and conserved in the late 1980s by the Timaru Civic Trust with support from the local community. The building remains under a Heritage Order (dated 11 February 1985) and is now used for hospitality, retail and tourism purposes.
The first stage of what is known today as the Landing Service Building was erected in 1870 by Peter McRae as a grain store. McRae, a local contractor, entrepreneur and hotelier, then leased the building to Julius Mendelson. The building is constructed from local bluestone and stands on the original shoreline of Timaru Harbour, at the eastern end of George Street. It was used by the Timaru Landing & Shipping Company (formed in 1868 by Messrs G. G. Russell, J. Mendelson, H. J. Le Cren, Captain Cain and Mr Turnbull) as a warehouse to store goods that were loaded and unloaded from ships in the harbour. The store was built so that drays delivering grain could offload at level with the first floor from the bank behind the building (now Turnbull Street). Grain could then be delivered to ferry boats, which were hauled up into the landing service on the eastern side of the building. The NZ Loan and Mercantile Agency Company (later renamed Dalgety & Co in 1961) had taken over McRae’s grain store and the Landing Service by the winter of 1875. The company enlarged the building in 1875–76 by adding the two rear hip-roofed bays, tripling the size of the original structure. The buildings continued to be used as warehousing until they were sold to the Timaru Council in 1984. Under threat of demolition for a number of years, the building was saved and conserved in the late 1980s by the Timaru Civic Trust with support from the local community. The building remains under a Heritage Order (dated 11 February 1985) and is now used for hospitality, retail and tourism purposes.
St Mary’s Church (Anglican), Timaru
This Gothic Revival church was designed by noted Christchurch architect W. B. Armson. Constructed of local bluestone and Oamaru stone, with a Welsh slate roof, it was built between 1880–86, with the chancel and tower added in 1907–09. Church Street And Sophia Street, Timaru. heritage.org.nz/328
Constructed in 1880 on the site of the original church, this fine work of Gothic architecture was designed by W. B. Armson, one of New Zealand’s leading colonial architects. St Mary’s was his last and most important ecclesiastical commission. Only the broad-aisled nave (approximately 24 metres long and 17 metres wide) was completed to Armson’s design. The upper structure rests on six bays of graceful arches on either side, rising from red granite columns. Armson died in 1883, and the church was completed by his successors, Collins and Harman, in 1910. A square tower and rectangular chancel were substituted for his original design. Built of dark grey basalt with limestone dressings, the masonry is laid in high-quality ashlar work. Of particular significance are the three-light war memorial windows set in the south wall to commemorate those who fell in the two world wars. The porch at the western entrance was added in 1961 to match the existing masonry. St Mary’s Church remains a distinguished townscape element in the heart of Timaru. Its splendid tower is one of the city’s best-known landmarks.
Constructed in 1880 on the site of the original church, this fine work of Gothic architecture was designed by W. B. Armson, one of New Zealand’s leading colonial architects. St Mary’s was his last and most important ecclesiastical commission. Only the broad-aisled nave (approximately 24 metres long and 17 metres wide) was completed to Armson’s design. The upper structure rests on six bays of graceful arches on either side, rising from red granite columns. Armson died in 1883, and the church was completed by his successors, Collins and Harman, in 1910. A square tower and rectangular chancel were substituted for his original design. Built of dark grey basalt with limestone dressings, the masonry is laid in high-quality ashlar work. Of particular significance are the three-light war memorial windows set in the south wall to commemorate those who fell in the two world wars. The porch at the western entrance was added in 1961 to match the existing masonry. St Mary’s Church remains a distinguished townscape element in the heart of Timaru. Its splendid tower is one of the city’s best-known landmarks.
Timaru Boys’ High School Memorial Library
www.stuff.co.nz/timaru-herald/news/127115759/historic-blue-plaque-goes-on-timaru-boys-high-school-libraryThis community library was built in 1936 and dedicated to Eleanor Howard Tripp (1867–1936), a greatly respected local resident and community servant. In 1990 the reading room was converted to a museum which is run by local volunteers. 211 North Street, Timaru. heritage.org.nz/7491
The Timaru Boys' High School Memorial Library was opened in 1924. Designed by architect Percy Watts Rule, it is a single-storey brick building constructed as a memorial to the 52 Old Boys who sacrificed their lives in World War One. In 1955, the building was extended and a memorial window was added in honour of the 133 past pupils who died in World War Two. Timaru High School was originally established in 1880 as a combined girls' and boys' school in Hassel Street. In 1898, the school was divided into separate boys’ and girls’ schools, still located on the same site. Timaru Boys’ High School moved to its current location on North Street in 1913. Today, the Memorial Library is the only original building remaining on the school grounds. www.stuff.co.nz/historic-blue-plaque-goes-on-timaru-boys-high-school-library
The Timaru Boys' High School Memorial Library was opened in 1924. Designed by architect Percy Watts Rule, it is a single-storey brick building constructed as a memorial to the 52 Old Boys who sacrificed their lives in World War One. In 1955, the building was extended and a memorial window was added in honour of the 133 past pupils who died in World War Two. Timaru High School was originally established in 1880 as a combined girls' and boys' school in Hassel Street. In 1898, the school was divided into separate boys’ and girls’ schools, still located on the same site. Timaru Boys’ High School moved to its current location on North Street in 1913. Today, the Memorial Library is the only original building remaining on the school grounds. www.stuff.co.nz/historic-blue-plaque-goes-on-timaru-boys-high-school-library
Court House, Temuka
Built by Clinch & Lloyd in 1901, this courthouse was designed by the Government Architect John Campbell in the Edwardian Baroque style. The courthouse closed in 1979, reopening in 1982 as the Temuka museum.
The Vicarage, Timaru
Built in 1900 as the vicarage to St Mary’s Church, this English Domestic Revival style building was designed by James Turnbull of Timaru. Home to 15 vicars until 2009, it was converted into boutique visitor accommodation in 2019.
St Patrick’s Basilica, Waimate
Opened in 1909, this basilica was designed by renowned Dunedin architect Francis Petre in the Romanesque Revival style. It replaced an earlier church built in 1876 and is constructed of reinforced concrete sheathed in brick and Oamaru stone.
St Augustine’s Church, Waimate
Built in 1872, this Gothic Revival church was designed by renowned architect Benjamin Mountfort and crafted from locally sawn native timber. The Lychgate was added in 1902 and the Belltower in 1903, both designed by Samuel Hurst Seager.
St David’s Church, Cave
This church was built in 1930 as a memorial to Andrew & Catherine Burnett and the early pioneers of the Mackenzie district. Designed by Herbert Hall of Timaru, it was awarded the NZ Institute of Architects Gold Medal in 1934.
St Mary’s Church, Blue Cliffs (near Albury)
Built in 1880 in the Gothic Revival style, this church was commissioned by Charles Meyer of Blue Cliffs Station as a memorial to his wife Ellen. Designed by Christchurch architect Benjamin Mountfort, it is built of limestone from the Albury district.
Railway Station, Pleasant Point
Built in 1875, to a standard ‘4th Class’ design, this station operated until the Timaru–Fairlie branch line closed in 1968. In 1970 it was converted to a museum by the Pleasant Point Railway and Historical Society.
