This historic place was registered under the Historic Places Act 1980. The following text is amended from the original citation considered by the NZHPT Board at the time of registration. Built in 1863 and consecrated the following year St Peter's church replaced the 1852 building situated in Church Street. The original St Peter's was designed by Samuel Charles Farr, one of Canterbury's most industrious pioneer architects. John Watson, a magistrate, donated land off Rue Balguerie for a replacement church when the original became too small for the congregation. The architectural records for this second church were burnt. [It is possible that A G Purchas, was the architect but this has not been verified]. In 1877 it was enlarged by the addition of transepts and an extended sanctuary designed by [Benjamin W Mountfort. The builder for that extension was Mr Penlington]. St Peter's is an elegant design with vertical timbering and high Gothic windows. It is well sited in a slightly elevated position where the finely-proportioned tower creates a focal point in that part of the township. The interior has a fine gallery at the West end. The church possesses a chalice and paten believed to have been used on one of the first four ships, and a pipe organ dating from 1869. St Peter's has historic significance and is greatly admired for its architectural qualities.
Location
List Entry Information
Overview
Detailed List Entry
Status
Listed
List Entry Status
Historic Place Category 1
Access
Private/No Public Access
List Number
267
Date Entered
6th June 1984
Date of Effect
6th June 1984
City/District Council
Christchurch City
Region
Canterbury Region
Extent of List Entry
Extent includes the land described as Pt RS 200 (RTs CB400/25, 400/284), Canterbury Land District and the building known as St Peter's Church (Anglican) thereon.
Legal description
Pt RS 200 (RTs CB400/25, CB400/284), Canterbury Land District