History

FRANCIS PETRE - ARCHITECT
A descendant of England's foremost Roman Catholic families, New Zealand born Petre received a classic Catholic education in England and France.

In 1864 his architectual career began with a London firm of naval architects, where he learned the art of concrete construction which has become his trademark. more»

A BRIEF HISTORY OF THE CATHEDRAL
In October 1860 a small wooden chapel was erected on a water-logged section in Barbadoes Street south. Pre-fabricated in a builder's yard it was carted to the site by horse and dray. It measured 24ft x 18ft and cost 75 pounds. But for the handful of Catholics in Christchurch it was a significant occasion, as it was for the Marist missionary priests recently arrived to serve their spiritual needs. more»