St Mary's Catholic Church

St Mary's Catholic Church is a historic and beautiful building located on Maxwell Road in Blenheim, New Zealand.

Completed in 1878, the church is a New Zealand Historic Places Trust Category 1 building and is considered a national treasure. The church is a popular destination for tourists and locals alike, and is often included in travel itineraries for those visiting the area. The church was designed by architect Francis Petre, who was known for his Gothic Revival style. The building features a stunning façade with intricate stonework and a large rose window. The interior of the church is equally impressive, with high vaulted ceilings, stained glass windows, and beautiful wooden pews. The altar is the centerpiece of the church, with a large crucifix and intricate carvings.

In addition to the church, the St Mary's Catholic complex includes the Old St Mary's Convent, which was built in 1901 for the Sisters of Mercy. The convent is also a beautiful building, with a rich history and stunning architecture. The convent is now used as a retreat center and is open to visitors. St Mary's Catholic Church is part of the Star of the Sea Marlborough parish, which is a large geographic parish stretching from Havelock and Picton in the northwest, through Blenheim and the Awatere, and on to Kaikoura in the southeast. The parish is an important part of the local community and offers a range of services and activities for its members.

For those interested in visiting St Mary's Catholic Church, there are a number of tour operators in the area that offer guided tours of the church and the surrounding area. Marlborough Tour is one such operator, with a corporate office located in Blenheim. Visitors can also explore the church on their own, and are encouraged to take their time to fully appreciate the beauty and history of this national treasure.