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The Cyclopedia of New Zealand [Auckland Provincial District]

The Newton Congregational Church

The Newton Congregational Church, Edinburgh Street, Auckland, was founded in 1864. Of those who attended the first meeting many are dead, and only two now remain in Auckland, namely, Mrs E. Wood, and the widow of the first minister. The first building erected was of Gothic design; it cost £900, and was opened in 1865. During the violence of a furious gale in 1871, the church was blown down and destroyed. The present church was started almost immediately after, and opened in the latter part of the same year. It has three large class-rooms, and a minister's vestry, all comfortably furnished, and seating accommodation is provided for 600 persons. The Rev. Thomas Booker, who came out with the Albertland settlers, was the first minister, and held the pastorate for three years. There was then an interregnum of fifteen years, when the Rev. Thomas Adams took the charge, and held it for four years. Mr. Adams was succeeded by the Rev. H. J. Lewis, who was succeeded in 1894 by the Rev. F. Warner, who resigned in October, 1900. Since then the charge has been vacant. The Sunday school, which is well attended, is held in the church, and contains a library of 600 volumes. Mrs E. Wood has been connected with the school since its inception, and her husband, Mr. Enoch Wood, for the last thirty-five years. He has been superintendent of the school since 1870.