The Catholic Church in Aotearoa New Zealand
When New Zealand was declared a colony in 1840, there were no more than 500 Catholics in the country. Now there are over 500,000, approximately one eighth of the population. Many key people, political moments, Church developments and social changes make up the story of the Catholic Church in New Zealand, one which continues to evolve as it tells Christ’s story.
History Pre 1840
In the early 1800s Christianity was introduced to New Zealand by European settlers and the arrival of Protestant missionaries in 1814.
History Post 1840
Increasing numbers of settlers had begun to put pressure on mission stations resulting in New Zealand being made an independent vicariate by Rome in 1842.
The Church Today
When New Zealand was declared a colony in 1840, there were no more than 500 Roman Catholic colonists.
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Bishop PompallierHe was respected by Maori, British and European people alike because of the way he viewed and dealt with cultural and spiritual difference. |
Mother AubertSuzanne Aubert founded the Daughters of Our Lady of Compassion, New Zealand's only surviving indigenous religious congregation. |
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Blessed Mary MacKillopHer dream was for all children, particularly those disadvantaged by poverty or isolation, to have the opportunity for education. |
