Atawhai Church

A map of the area made by J. W. Beauchamp in 1856 showed a church and school at, or near, the present site but it is not known what body was responsible for the church since the Nelson Diocese was not formed until 1859.

The present church known as St. Peter's by the Strand was built on land given for the purpose by William Barnett. He had two sons, William and David, both well known in the district. David's wedding was the first to take place in the church.