Light at end of the tunnel for church damaged in alleged arson attacks

The Anglican Church of the Epiphany in Masterton is expected to complete its rebuild within three to four months following a series of alleged arson attacks that left the 115-year-old building significantly damaged.

The fire occurred on Feb. 22, targeting the church and five other buildings across the township. While the structure was not burned to the ground, the damage was extensive, particularly in the foyer and across the length of the roof.

All interior wiring, heating, and audio-visual equipment were destroyed. “It’s devastating, really,” said Paul Maguire, People’s Warden for the parish. “Your heart sinks when you hear news like that.”

Challenges of the Church of the Epiphany Rebuild

Restoring the building to its 1911 original state has proven difficult, specifically regarding the need to source native rimu timber for replacement boards.

While insurance covered the primary fire damage, a $20,000 funding gap remains for exterior work required for proper restoration and future-proofing. The parish has relied on community donations, including $4,495 raised via a Givealittle page and a separate $5,000 direct donation.

Since the attack, the congregation has held services at the Hadlow Preparatory School hall. The loss of the building also halted several community initiatives, including men’s breakfasts, women’s social events, and a weekly pickup spot for the local fruit and vegetable co-op.

The closure has also had a personal toll on the parish. Maguire noted that several elderly members of the congregation passed away during the last 14 months and were unable to have their funeral services held at the church.

The church served as a chapel for Hadlow Preparatory School, where students walked to the building every Monday morning. Principal Andrew Osmond stated that the reopening would represent “a part of our identity snapping back into place.”

The case involving a 45-year-old man charged with seven counts of arson remains before the courts. He is scheduled to reappear in the Wellington District Court on July 14.