Temples & religious sites
Old St Paul's
Overview
Consecrated in 1866, Old St Paul's is a historic church in Wellington's Pipitea district near Parliament. Built from native timber, it is a key example of colonial Gothic Revival architecture. Visitors come to see its preserved wooden interior, stained glass windows, and colonial-era memorial plaques.
Getting There
The site sits just north of the city centre. From Wellington Railway Station, it is a 5- to 10-minute walk. Walking from the Lambton Quay commercial area takes around 15 minutes. Local buses along Thorndon Quay also stop nearby.
Time to Allow
Plan for 30 to 45 minutes on site. This allows enough time to view the nave, examine the woodwork, and read the interpretive displays.
When to Go
Visiting around midday provides the clearest natural light through the stained glass. The site rarely feels crowded, though public access may be restricted during private events such as weddings or concerts.
Nearby Attractions
You can combine a visit with other sights within walking distance:
- Wellington Cathedral of St Paul (0.2km): The modern Anglican cathedral.
- Sacred Heart Cathedral (0.4km): Historic Catholic cathedral in Thorndon.
- Katherine Mansfield Birthplace (0.7km): The author's preserved childhood home.
- Wellington Museum (1km): City museum focused on maritime and social history.
Updated September 8, 2026 · Edited by the World by City editors