St Oswald’s Memorial Church
Nestled beside the
dramatic Marlborough coastline
Lovingly restored following the 2016 Kaikōura earthquake, St Oswald’s has welcomed generations of worshippers, families and travellers since 1927.
A place of worship · A place of celebration · A place of remembrance
WELCOME
Everyone is welcome
Whether you’re celebrating a wedding, saying goodbye, joining us for a Sunday service, or simply passing by on State Highway 1, St Oswald’s welcomes you. The church door is open every day, 7am–7pm, for anyone who’d like to stop a while — many travellers pause here for a few quiet minutes of rest and reflection before continuing their journey. Contact us to plan your visit.
Our Story
Built in 1927, restored stone by stone
Built in 1927 by Charles and Jessie Murray in memory of their son Hector, damaged in the 2016
Kaikōura earthquake, and lovingly restored to open once more above the Wharanui coast.
VISIT & CELEBRATE
Occasions above the coast
The stone chapel and grounds, restored to how they looked in 1927 — open for weddings,
baptisms, funerals, worship services, concerts, and tours.
SUPPORT US
Rebuilt and sustained by people who care
St Oswald’s Memorial Trust relies on donations and volunteer time to keep the church open,
insured, and maintained — with no parish and no regular income. Every contribution helps keep the
stone chapel standing for the next hundred years.
Contact & visit
Find us on State Highway 1
Location
8557 State Highway 1
Wharanui
Marlborough
Getting here
St Oswald’s is on the coastal side of SH1,
10.7 km north of Kekerengu or 58 km south of Blenheim.
Opening hours
Open daily, 7am–7pm.
Everyone is welcome to step inside for a moment of rest, peace or reflection — no need to book.
Get in touch