Newsletters
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July 2025
Celebrating Our Past, Investing in Our Future
The July edition of the Timaru Civic Trust newsletter is a rich celebration of our local heritage and the people who help preserve it. Inside, you will find stories that span generations, from historic restoration projects to vibrant new initiatives breathing life into our civic spaces.
We celebrate the grand reopening of the Aigantighe Art Gallery, a restored architectural gem brought back to life for future generations. The gallery now features stunning new stained glass works by artists Francine Spencer of Arowhenua and Roselyn Fauth, honouring Māori cultural heritage and the enduring strength of our landscape.
You will also read about the Trust’s upcoming work at the Custom House and the Landing Services Building, including the archaeological excitement surrounding the old Rhodes Cottage site. Artist Matthew Willey’s “For the Good of the Hive” bee mural project, introduced by Lynne Kerr, promises to bring colour and meaning to the heart of our town.
The newsletter includes a touching update on Roselyn Fauth’s project to commemorate Anne Williams with a bronze grave plaque and Andrew Wood’s call for support towards a book on renowned New Zealand-born architect Francis William Petre, designer of Timaru’s Sacred Heart Basilica.
We highlight the nationwide Blue Plaque heritage programme, coordinated locally by the Civic Trust and the South Canterbury Historical Society, with many new plaques installed across the region. Karen Rolleston shines a light on two award-winning heritage restorations—St Joseph’s Catholic Church in Temuka and the Temuka Museum—both recently recognised at the New Zealand Commercial Project Awards.
Also featured is a beautiful profile of a well-loved bluestone cottage on St George Street, a guide on how to apply for heritage listing with Heritage New Zealand, and a heartfelt history of Timaru’s unique Christmas lights, thanks to Tony Sleigh’s vision in the 1970s.
The newsletter is full of community spirit, civic pride and practical heritage advice. Whether you are a long-time supporter or a new reader, we invite you to discover the people, projects and places that are shaping Timaru’s past, present and future.
You can read the full newsletter here:
DOWNLOAD .PDF: timaru_civic_trust_newsletter_july_2025_250716.pdf
We celebrate the grand reopening of the Aigantighe Art Gallery, a restored architectural gem brought back to life for future generations. The gallery now features stunning new stained glass works by artists Francine Spencer of Arowhenua and Roselyn Fauth, honouring Māori cultural heritage and the enduring strength of our landscape.
You will also read about the Trust’s upcoming work at the Custom House and the Landing Services Building, including the archaeological excitement surrounding the old Rhodes Cottage site. Artist Matthew Willey’s “For the Good of the Hive” bee mural project, introduced by Lynne Kerr, promises to bring colour and meaning to the heart of our town.
The newsletter includes a touching update on Roselyn Fauth’s project to commemorate Anne Williams with a bronze grave plaque and Andrew Wood’s call for support towards a book on renowned New Zealand-born architect Francis William Petre, designer of Timaru’s Sacred Heart Basilica.
We highlight the nationwide Blue Plaque heritage programme, coordinated locally by the Civic Trust and the South Canterbury Historical Society, with many new plaques installed across the region. Karen Rolleston shines a light on two award-winning heritage restorations—St Joseph’s Catholic Church in Temuka and the Temuka Museum—both recently recognised at the New Zealand Commercial Project Awards.
Also featured is a beautiful profile of a well-loved bluestone cottage on St George Street, a guide on how to apply for heritage listing with Heritage New Zealand, and a heartfelt history of Timaru’s unique Christmas lights, thanks to Tony Sleigh’s vision in the 1970s.
The newsletter is full of community spirit, civic pride and practical heritage advice. Whether you are a long-time supporter or a new reader, we invite you to discover the people, projects and places that are shaping Timaru’s past, present and future.
You can read the full newsletter here:
DOWNLOAD .PDF: timaru_civic_trust_newsletter_july_2025_250716.pdf
Festive Cheer and Heritage Highlights: Discover the December 2023 Newsletter of the Timaru Civic Trust
As 2023 comes to a close, the Timaru Civic Trust’s latest newsletter is full of stories that highlight the spirit of our town and the people who care deeply for its places.
We share the joyful addition of a vibrant new mural by artist Koryu Aoshima on the Coffee Culture building, a result of creative collaboration between local businesses, artists and the Civic Trust. It is a colourful celebration of Timaru’s growing urban art scene.
You will find updates on two meaningful heritage grants. One supports the restoration of Geraldine’s historic public clock, still keeping time after more than a century, and the other helps with strengthening and preserving The Croft homestead, a fine early twentieth-century house with a future as a community hub. These stories reflect our ongoing commitment to heritage that serves today’s needs while honouring the past.
We are also pleased to announce the completion of eight new blue heritage plaques across South Canterbury. From Woodbury to Waimate, these plaques are helping to tell the stories of the buildings and people that shaped our region. Our thanks go to Heritage New Zealand Pouhere Taonga for supporting this initiative.
This issue also includes a look back at World Planning Day in Timaru, where David McBride led an engaging heritage walking tour followed by a visit to the Theatre Royal, giving us a glimpse into the plans for its future.
We invite you to take a moment this summer to read the full newsletter and reflect on the many ways heritage continues to inspire and connect our community.
You can read the newsletter here
Wishing you a restful Christmas season and a wonderful start to the new year.
We share the joyful addition of a vibrant new mural by artist Koryu Aoshima on the Coffee Culture building, a result of creative collaboration between local businesses, artists and the Civic Trust. It is a colourful celebration of Timaru’s growing urban art scene.
You will find updates on two meaningful heritage grants. One supports the restoration of Geraldine’s historic public clock, still keeping time after more than a century, and the other helps with strengthening and preserving The Croft homestead, a fine early twentieth-century house with a future as a community hub. These stories reflect our ongoing commitment to heritage that serves today’s needs while honouring the past.
We are also pleased to announce the completion of eight new blue heritage plaques across South Canterbury. From Woodbury to Waimate, these plaques are helping to tell the stories of the buildings and people that shaped our region. Our thanks go to Heritage New Zealand Pouhere Taonga for supporting this initiative.
This issue also includes a look back at World Planning Day in Timaru, where David McBride led an engaging heritage walking tour followed by a visit to the Theatre Royal, giving us a glimpse into the plans for its future.
We invite you to take a moment this summer to read the full newsletter and reflect on the many ways heritage continues to inspire and connect our community.
You can read the newsletter here
Wishing you a restful Christmas season and a wonderful start to the new year.
| tct-dec-2023-newsletter.pdf |
Heritage in Action: Explore What’s Inside Our June 2023 Newsletter
The June issue of the Timaru Civic Trust newsletter is full of exciting developments, generous grants, and fresh perspectives on the future of our heritage spaces.
This edition begins with an invitation to a special evening with Helen Craig, Deputy Mayor of Whanganui and a passionate advocate for heritage and urban regeneration. Helen will be visiting Timaru in July to share her insights into Whanganui’s successful CBD revitalisation, offering lessons that may help inform our own town centre regeneration journey. This is a rare opportunity to hear directly from someone with hands-on experience in combining heritage and urban planning.
We are also pleased to report on several recent heritage grants. A $5,000 grant has been awarded for the refurbishment of the Oxford Building on George Street, a handsome 1925 landmark designed by Turnbull and Rule. Another major grant of $10,000 has been given to support the earthquake strengthening and restoration of St Mary’s Anglican Church, a much-loved architectural treasure in Timaru. The project has already seen the careful installation of new carved Oamaru stone pinnacles, a fitting tribute to its historic importance.
The South Canterbury blue heritage plaque project also continues to make excellent progress. Six plaques have already been installed across the region, from Geraldine to Waimate and Woodbury, with two more coming soon at St David’s Church in Cave and the Temuka Courthouse Museum. These plaques help share the stories of significant buildings and ensure their place in our collective memory.
This newsletter also highlights the release of the updated Timaru District Heritage Schedule as part of the Council’s District Plan Review. Thanks to the expertise of Dr Ann McEwan, the schedule now includes 82 newly listed heritage items. The detailed histories written for each listing are now available online and are a valuable resource for anyone interested in local heritage research.
Lastly, we share the link to the latest issue of Oculus, the national newsletter from Historic Places Aotearoa, full of inspiring heritage updates from across the country.
From grants and plaques to partnerships and preservation, this newsletter reflects the ongoing work of many people who are committed to celebrating and safeguarding the heritage of our district.
Visit our website to read the full issue here
We hope you enjoy the read and thank you for your continued support.
This edition begins with an invitation to a special evening with Helen Craig, Deputy Mayor of Whanganui and a passionate advocate for heritage and urban regeneration. Helen will be visiting Timaru in July to share her insights into Whanganui’s successful CBD revitalisation, offering lessons that may help inform our own town centre regeneration journey. This is a rare opportunity to hear directly from someone with hands-on experience in combining heritage and urban planning.
We are also pleased to report on several recent heritage grants. A $5,000 grant has been awarded for the refurbishment of the Oxford Building on George Street, a handsome 1925 landmark designed by Turnbull and Rule. Another major grant of $10,000 has been given to support the earthquake strengthening and restoration of St Mary’s Anglican Church, a much-loved architectural treasure in Timaru. The project has already seen the careful installation of new carved Oamaru stone pinnacles, a fitting tribute to its historic importance.
The South Canterbury blue heritage plaque project also continues to make excellent progress. Six plaques have already been installed across the region, from Geraldine to Waimate and Woodbury, with two more coming soon at St David’s Church in Cave and the Temuka Courthouse Museum. These plaques help share the stories of significant buildings and ensure their place in our collective memory.
This newsletter also highlights the release of the updated Timaru District Heritage Schedule as part of the Council’s District Plan Review. Thanks to the expertise of Dr Ann McEwan, the schedule now includes 82 newly listed heritage items. The detailed histories written for each listing are now available online and are a valuable resource for anyone interested in local heritage research.
Lastly, we share the link to the latest issue of Oculus, the national newsletter from Historic Places Aotearoa, full of inspiring heritage updates from across the country.
From grants and plaques to partnerships and preservation, this newsletter reflects the ongoing work of many people who are committed to celebrating and safeguarding the heritage of our district.
Visit our website to read the full issue here
We hope you enjoy the read and thank you for your continued support.
| tct-jun-2023-newsletter.pdf |
Celebrating Play, Art, and Heritage: Highlights from the March 2023 Newsletter
The March edition of the Timaru Civic Trust newsletter is full of exciting updates about the people, places and partnerships that are bringing fresh energy to our built environment and civic realm.
We begin with some fantastic news for our community— the Trust has made a major contribution of $50,000 to support the construction of the new CPlay playground. This bold and imaginative play space, rich in references to local heritage and environment, is set to become a centrepiece for families and visitors in Timaru. We acknowledge the inspiring efforts of the volunteers behind this project and encourage you to find out more at www.cplay.co.nz.
In this issue, you can also learn about the latest addition to Timaru’s urban art scene. Artist Koryu Aoshima has completed a stunning mural on the newly renamed Manawa Ora (formerly the Orari Buildings), reflecting the breath of life and the connection between land, sea, and sky. This work was made possible through a collaboration between the Timaru Civic Trust, Alive Vibrant Timaru and the Wilson family. The newsletter also includes a colourful look at the Bay Spray community art workshop held during the Seaside Festival, which gave participants a chance to try their hand at stencil and spray art.
Our commitment to heritage continues with the announcement of eight new blue plaques, created in partnership with the South Canterbury Historical Society. These plaques will soon be installed across the region, helping to share the stories behind places like St Augustine’s Church in Waimate, the Vicarage in Geraldine, and the Eleanor Tripp Memorial Library in Woodbury. We are grateful for the support of Heritage New Zealand Pouhere Taonga in helping bring this project to life.
You will also find a link to the Civic Trust’s formal submission on the proposed changes to the Timaru District Plan, reflecting our ongoing engagement with the future of our town’s heritage and planning framework.
Finally, we share the latest edition of Oculus, the national heritage newsletter from Historic Places Aotearoa, along with a reminder that Civic Trust members enjoy access to this informative quarterly publication.
Whether you are passionate about preserving history, promoting art, or simply making Timaru a better place for future generations, there is something in this newsletter for everyone.
Visit our website to read the full issue here
Thank you for being part of the journey.
We begin with some fantastic news for our community— the Trust has made a major contribution of $50,000 to support the construction of the new CPlay playground. This bold and imaginative play space, rich in references to local heritage and environment, is set to become a centrepiece for families and visitors in Timaru. We acknowledge the inspiring efforts of the volunteers behind this project and encourage you to find out more at www.cplay.co.nz.
In this issue, you can also learn about the latest addition to Timaru’s urban art scene. Artist Koryu Aoshima has completed a stunning mural on the newly renamed Manawa Ora (formerly the Orari Buildings), reflecting the breath of life and the connection between land, sea, and sky. This work was made possible through a collaboration between the Timaru Civic Trust, Alive Vibrant Timaru and the Wilson family. The newsletter also includes a colourful look at the Bay Spray community art workshop held during the Seaside Festival, which gave participants a chance to try their hand at stencil and spray art.
Our commitment to heritage continues with the announcement of eight new blue plaques, created in partnership with the South Canterbury Historical Society. These plaques will soon be installed across the region, helping to share the stories behind places like St Augustine’s Church in Waimate, the Vicarage in Geraldine, and the Eleanor Tripp Memorial Library in Woodbury. We are grateful for the support of Heritage New Zealand Pouhere Taonga in helping bring this project to life.
You will also find a link to the Civic Trust’s formal submission on the proposed changes to the Timaru District Plan, reflecting our ongoing engagement with the future of our town’s heritage and planning framework.
Finally, we share the latest edition of Oculus, the national heritage newsletter from Historic Places Aotearoa, along with a reminder that Civic Trust members enjoy access to this informative quarterly publication.
Whether you are passionate about preserving history, promoting art, or simply making Timaru a better place for future generations, there is something in this newsletter for everyone.
Visit our website to read the full issue here
Thank you for being part of the journey.
| tct-mar-2023-newsletter.pdf |
A Season of Reflection, Regeneration and Renewal: November 2022 Newsletter Highlights
As 2022 draws to a close, the Timaru Civic Trust shares a final update for the year, highlighting key projects, community contributions and important opportunities for public input into the future of our town.
We begin by extending warm thanks to all who attended our recent Annual General Meeting, and a special note of appreciation to Philip Howe from the South Canterbury Museum, who spoke about the museum’s development and the proposed new Heritage Hub alongside the Theatre Royal. We also take this moment to acknowledge the extraordinary service of long-standing Board member Jan Gilbert, who has stepped down after many years of dedicated involvement with the Trust and the wider heritage community.
This issue invites all members to take part in two significant consultations being run by the Timaru District Council. The first relates to redevelopment proposals for the Theatre Royal and Heritage Hub, with three different options under consideration. The second is the newly released proposed replacement District Plan, which includes an increase in protected heritage buildings across the district. We encourage our members to have their say on both.
We are also pleased to announce that the Civic Trust has contributed $10,000 to assist with earthquake strengthening work on the former Chalmers Church in Sophia Street, now owned by St George’s Coptic Church. This beautiful James Turnbull-designed building is a local landmark, and we commend the owners for their commitment to its preservation.
In a celebration of creativity and community engagement, this newsletter includes a look back at Proving Grounds, a street art workshop held at Sophia Street car park. Organised by Alive Vibrant Timaru in collaboration with the Civic Trust and others, the event gave the public a chance to create their own spray art and added new colour to our urban spaces.
We also highlight the CityTown public speaker series, a part of Timaru’s urban regeneration efforts. With talks from leading urban planners such as Glen Hazelton and upcoming events featuring Mike Fisher, these sessions offer valuable insight into how our city centre can evolve while celebrating its heritage roots.
This newsletter is a timely reminder of the role we all play in shaping our civic environment. Whether by supporting a heritage restoration, participating in local consultation, or simply learning more about our history, there are many ways to get involved.
You can read the full newsletter and stay informed by visiting our website here
From all of us at the Timaru Civic Trust, we wish you a safe and happy festive season and thank you for your continued support.
We begin by extending warm thanks to all who attended our recent Annual General Meeting, and a special note of appreciation to Philip Howe from the South Canterbury Museum, who spoke about the museum’s development and the proposed new Heritage Hub alongside the Theatre Royal. We also take this moment to acknowledge the extraordinary service of long-standing Board member Jan Gilbert, who has stepped down after many years of dedicated involvement with the Trust and the wider heritage community.
This issue invites all members to take part in two significant consultations being run by the Timaru District Council. The first relates to redevelopment proposals for the Theatre Royal and Heritage Hub, with three different options under consideration. The second is the newly released proposed replacement District Plan, which includes an increase in protected heritage buildings across the district. We encourage our members to have their say on both.
We are also pleased to announce that the Civic Trust has contributed $10,000 to assist with earthquake strengthening work on the former Chalmers Church in Sophia Street, now owned by St George’s Coptic Church. This beautiful James Turnbull-designed building is a local landmark, and we commend the owners for their commitment to its preservation.
In a celebration of creativity and community engagement, this newsletter includes a look back at Proving Grounds, a street art workshop held at Sophia Street car park. Organised by Alive Vibrant Timaru in collaboration with the Civic Trust and others, the event gave the public a chance to create their own spray art and added new colour to our urban spaces.
We also highlight the CityTown public speaker series, a part of Timaru’s urban regeneration efforts. With talks from leading urban planners such as Glen Hazelton and upcoming events featuring Mike Fisher, these sessions offer valuable insight into how our city centre can evolve while celebrating its heritage roots.
This newsletter is a timely reminder of the role we all play in shaping our civic environment. Whether by supporting a heritage restoration, participating in local consultation, or simply learning more about our history, there are many ways to get involved.
You can read the full newsletter and stay informed by visiting our website here
From all of us at the Timaru Civic Trust, we wish you a safe and happy festive season and thank you for your continued support.
| tct-nov-2022-newsletter.pdf |
A Fresh Start: Welcome Back to the Timaru Civic Trust E-Newsletter
After a pause in communication, the Timaru Civic Trust is pleased to reconnect with our members and supporters. This welcome-back issue marks the start of more regular updates about the projects, partnerships and heritage work we have been quietly progressing behind the scenes.
We begin with sincere thanks for your continued support, especially during a period shaped by COVID disruptions and a transition to a more digital way of working. We are delighted to introduce Gabriela Paredes, our new volunteer membership manager, who has set up our new digital database and Xero-based invoicing system. Her work behind the scenes has helped us modernise our administration and improve how we stay in touch.
This newsletter highlights several of the projects we have completed over the past year. One major achievement is the replacement of the roof on the historic Landing Service Building, damaged by the 2019 hailstorm. With new cladding, repairs and repainting, the building now stands refreshed and ready for the future.
We also share updates on recent improvements to the former Customhouse building and a contribution of $5,000 towards the repainting of the Dominion Hotel façade at the top of Stafford Street, bringing new life to one of our town’s architectural treasures.
You will find inspiring news on our street art projects, developed in partnership with Alive Vibrant Timaru. New murals, including Anthony Fowler’s charming depiction of little blue penguins at Caroline Bay, and a vibrant alleyway piece by graffiti artist Kaos, are helping transform underused spaces and bring joy to the city centre.
Heritage work continues through our Blue Plaque programme, with the latest plaque installed on the Memorial Library at Timaru Boys’ High School. More plaques are in development, and we look forward to expanding this programme further throughout the district.
We are also proud to have joined Historic Places Aotearoa as an associate member, strengthening our commitment to national heritage advocacy while continuing to support local initiatives.
Finally, the newsletter introduces readers to the Timaru CityTown urban regeneration project, a collaborative vision for reimagining our city centre. The new website offers access to the strategy, reports and community engagement summaries, helping everyone stay involved in shaping Timaru’s future.
If you have not already, we encourage you to visit our newly revamped website at www.timarucivictrust.co.nz to explore more about what we do and how you can take part.
Thank you again for being part of the Timaru Civic Trust. We are excited to share the journey ahead.
We begin with sincere thanks for your continued support, especially during a period shaped by COVID disruptions and a transition to a more digital way of working. We are delighted to introduce Gabriela Paredes, our new volunteer membership manager, who has set up our new digital database and Xero-based invoicing system. Her work behind the scenes has helped us modernise our administration and improve how we stay in touch.
This newsletter highlights several of the projects we have completed over the past year. One major achievement is the replacement of the roof on the historic Landing Service Building, damaged by the 2019 hailstorm. With new cladding, repairs and repainting, the building now stands refreshed and ready for the future.
We also share updates on recent improvements to the former Customhouse building and a contribution of $5,000 towards the repainting of the Dominion Hotel façade at the top of Stafford Street, bringing new life to one of our town’s architectural treasures.
You will find inspiring news on our street art projects, developed in partnership with Alive Vibrant Timaru. New murals, including Anthony Fowler’s charming depiction of little blue penguins at Caroline Bay, and a vibrant alleyway piece by graffiti artist Kaos, are helping transform underused spaces and bring joy to the city centre.
Heritage work continues through our Blue Plaque programme, with the latest plaque installed on the Memorial Library at Timaru Boys’ High School. More plaques are in development, and we look forward to expanding this programme further throughout the district.
We are also proud to have joined Historic Places Aotearoa as an associate member, strengthening our commitment to national heritage advocacy while continuing to support local initiatives.
Finally, the newsletter introduces readers to the Timaru CityTown urban regeneration project, a collaborative vision for reimagining our city centre. The new website offers access to the strategy, reports and community engagement summaries, helping everyone stay involved in shaping Timaru’s future.
If you have not already, we encourage you to visit our newly revamped website at www.timarucivictrust.co.nz to explore more about what we do and how you can take part.
Thank you again for being part of the Timaru Civic Trust. We are excited to share the journey ahead.
| tct-aug-2022-newsletter.pdf |
2019 Revitalising Timaru: Celebrating Heritage, People and Place
The September 2019 Timaru Civic Trust newsletter is a rich and engaging read that highlights the Trust’s ongoing commitment to revitalising local heritage. It features a heartfelt chairman’s report by David McBride, including a tribute to long-time supporter and former mayor Wynne Raymond, and welcomes the encouraging visit of Heritage New Zealand’s new CEO Andrew Coleman. Readers will find detailed features on Timaru’s most significant Heritage New Zealand Category 1 buildings and learn about the contributions of architects such as Daniel West, W B Armson, Percy Watts Rule, Thomas Cane and Walter Panton, whose life and legacy are explored in depth. The newsletter also includes updates on the Blue Plaques project and recent efforts to enhance the central business district, with leadership from Nigel Gilkison and community involvement from groups like the CBD Group and Experience Working Group. There are vibrant stories of public art installations led by artists Flox, Toothfish, Aroha Novak, Zoe Sturm, Anthony Fowler, Jessie Johnson and Mike Armstrong, alongside the creative energy of Roselyn and Chris Fauth and the Friends of the Aigantighe. With its blend of architecture, memory and community pride, this issue is an inspiring and informative publication for all who care about Timaru’s past, present and future.
| timaru_civic_trust_2019_newsletter_web.pdf |
2018 Creative Placemaking: Breathing New Life into Timaru’s Heritage and Spaces
The August 2018 Timaru Civic Trust newsletter showcases a vibrant year of activity focused on heritage protection, adaptive reuse, urban design and civic pride. It features a chairman’s report by David McBride, celebrating community-led initiatives such as the purchase of the Customs House and support for tenants. The newsletter explores the history and revitalisation of landmark buildings including the Landing Service Building, the Thomas Mullions Building and the Customs House designed by Daniel West. Readers will be introduced to architect Thomas Mullions and contemporary urban designers like Nigel Gilkison, alongside community champions such as Karen Rolleston. It highlights the Blue Plaques initiative, public artworks like Rory McDougall’s Keltic Knot and Llew Summers’ Encircling the Baroque, and the creative reuse of heritage spaces including the D.C. Turnbull building now home to Ship Hop Brewery. With street art, landscape restoration at Caroline Bay, and scenic walking tracks across Timaru, the newsletter celebrates a fusion of heritage, public art, and community wellbeing, offering an inspiring read for those passionate about placemaking and Timaru’s cultural identity.
