Our Values
Kāhui St David’s aims to honour the lives taken and affected by war, on all sides of conflict, by working to see that our peacetime meets their hopes for a better world.
Our Kaupapa
St David’s foundation stone was laid on ANZAC Day in 1927, and it was soon dedicated as The Soldiers’ Memorial Church, to be a permanent “living memorial”.
It was fondly known as the “Cathedral of the Presbyterian Church”.
It is home to the Royal New Zealand Engineers, and the 29th and 30th Infantry Battalions are honoured here.
Ministers of St David’s served in the military.
It was also home to Alcoholics Anonymous.
Since 2021, the building has been owned by a charitable trust dedicated to its preservation, and the creation of Kāhui St David’s centre for music and community within its historic walls.
Every year at Anzac Day we promise to Remember Them. The question is, how?
Kāhui St David’s aims to honour the lives taken and affected by war, on all sides of conflict, by working to see that our peacetime meets their hopes for a better world.
Architecture of inclusiveness
The architecture of St David’s was designed on the principles of equality and inclusion. Scottish egalitarian and democratic values are built into the raked floor of the Great Hall so everyone can participate. Stairless entry and listening posts ensured access for returned servicemen post WWI. Kāhui St David’s will continue to improve access for all.
Music of inclusiveness
From kapa haka to concerts, taonga pūoro to timpani, wānanga to West Side Story, it’s all going to happen at Kāhui St David’s.
Core Principles
English
Te Reo Maori
Additional English
Additional Te Reo
Honore Mihimihi
Remembrance
Honouring thankfulness
Whakamahara
Caring
Connection
Inclusivity
Hui katoa
Manaaki Honotanga
Ranga Wairua
Inspiration
Whakaohooho
Auahatanga
Creativity
Auahatia
Whakahari
Celebration
Joyfulness
Harikoa
Whakarato
Generosity
Service (to serve)
Manaaki Atawhai
Become a volunteer
If you would like to contribute to the Trust’s work as a volunteer, please let us know!
With a nigh-on 100 year-old building, and a music centre in development, there is always plenty to be done. It’s a special project that attracts awesome people.
To express your interest in becoming a Kāhui St David's volunteer please complete our short form below.