Breathing Life Back into the Pukerau Church: A 1895 Landmark's New Chapter

Breathing Life Back into the Pukerau Church: A 1895 Landmark's New Chapter

First opening its doors in 1895 and originally built to seat 130 worshippers, the old Pukerau Presbyterian Church has stood as a quiet landmark for generations within the "land of many hills." Looking back at historical photographs from its opening era, the building possessed a sharp, classic architectural charm. Yet, like many of the region's 19th-century buildings, the old church has gone through many changes over the years and has not seen much love for the past few decades, leaving it weathered and waiting for the care it truly deserves.

The Original Pukerau Church when it opened in 1895

 A Mission Rooted in History

The Pukerau Church has stood as a beacon of the community since 1895, and we are now embarking on a mission to ensure it stands for another century. Pukerau Wild & Cured was born out of a desire to fund the restoration of this historic wooden church, ensuring every purchase—whether a hand-poured candle or a botanical balm—goes directly toward preserving this 19th-century landmark.

  

Preservation in Every Product

Restoring a heritage building is a slow, meticulous process—much like the way our products are created. By supporting this journey, you are helping:

 Secure the structure by repairing the original timber and roughcast exterior.

 Protect the grounds by maintaining the iconic rowan trees and the peaceful landscape that surrounds the church.

 Pledge for the future by turning a decommissioned space into a thriving hub for natural wellness.

Pukerau Church as it is Today

 Looking Past the Surface 

While the exterior still holds its quiet rural silhouette, time and past modifications left their mark. The interior was last cosmetically renovated back in the 1970s, leaving the space covered in retro plywood and pinex board. Despite its current dismal appearance while awaiting repairs, it remains the most peaceful place you have ever known.

Taking on a structure with over a century of history is a massive undertaking, but there is something undeniably special about the bones of these old Southland wooden churches. The plan is to carefully renovate the space as part of your home, stripping away the dated 1970s modifications and breathing fresh life into the structure. To honor its heritage, the interior will incorporate a rustic aesthetic styled with antique furniture, transforming a forgotten rural sanctuary into a lived-in, cherished haven once more.

We believe that by healing ourselves with nature, we can help heal the history around us. Thank you for being a part of the Pukerau Church’s next chapter.