Events at St Matthew-in-the-City, Auckland

About St Matthew-in-the-City

St Matthew-in-the-City is a historic neo-Gothic Anglican church built in 1902–05, prominently located at the corner of Hobson and Wellesley streets in central Auckland (casambi.com) (shipoffools.com). Designed in the Early English Gothic style by Frank L. Pearson, the building is clad in pale Oamaru limestone with bluestone trim and features soaring lancet windows and finely carved stone vaulting (victorianweb.org) (casambi.com). It has Heritage New Zealand “Category I” status and is widely regarded as one of Aotearoa’s finest stone churches (victorianweb.org) (victorianweb.org). At its completion the nave could seat well over 1,000 people (listing text notes up to 1,200–1,400) (victorianweb.org). Today the pews can be reconfigured or removed to seat about 400 for performances (www.stmatthews.nz). Its polished brass fittings, rich stained-glass windows and native kauri timber floors give the interior a grand, reverent atmosphere (nzvenues.co.nz) (www.tripadvisor.com). St Matthew’s long history makes it more than just an event space – it is the civic church of Auckland, hosting memorial services, national observances and a wide range of community gatherings (shipoffools.com) (nzvenues.co.nz). Unusually for a downtown church, it has been a hub of social justice and cultural outreach (notably supporting the Rainbow community since the 1970s and campaigning against apartheid and climate injustice) (shipoffools.com) (victorianweb.org). Alongside regular worship services, its combination of imposing heritage architecture and modern amenities make St Matthew’s a unique venue in Auckland’s event landscape. The church is open for visits most weekdays from 10am–4:30pm (as noted on its website) (www.stmatthews.nz) and welcomes drop-in visitors outside service times, though opening hours may vary for special events (www.stmatthews.nz).

Events and Programming

St Matthew’s serves as a multi-use venue for both religious and secular events. In addition to daily worship services (Sundays at 8am & 10am and Wednesdays at 12:20pm (www.stmatthews.nz)), it regularly hosts concerts, cultural events, lectures, recitals, wedding ceremonies and receptions, corporate dinners, and community fundraisers. A renowned feature is its *First Tuesday Concert Series* – free lunchtime recitals (12:10–12:50pm on the first Tuesday of each month, March–November) that raise funds for music ministry (www.stmatthews.nz). These concerts highlight the church’s “superb acoustics” with performances ranging from solo instrumental works to choral ensembles (nzvenues.co.nz) (www.stmatthews.nz). Larger ticketed concerts are also frequent. St Matthew’s is favoured by classical groups (Auckland Choral, Auckland City Brass, local chamber orchestras and ensembles) and occasional soloists. For example, Auckland Choral often holds seasonal concerts here, including a popular summer “Sing Christmas!” carol concert (www.stmatthews.nz) (www.stmatthews.nz). International and national acts (such as cellist Daniel Müller-Schott, who performed the Bach Cello Suites here in 2025) and candlelight “Tribute to” concerts (e.g. Hans Zimmer or Taylor Swift tribute shows) have filled the church with music. Reviews praise its rich organ and choral sound – one reviewer described the organ as “magnificent” and the choir as joyfully engaged during a Waitangi Day service (shipoffools.com). In recent years the venue has seen everything from pop-up candlelit performances to jazz and Broadway-style shows in its dramatic nave. St Matthew’s is also a sought-after wedding venue; its historic interior provides a memorable backdrop for ceremonies and photo shoots. Corporate events and private functions (banquets up to 250 or cocktail parties up to 450) are common, with outside caterers on an approved list. The church calendar is posted online and particular events often sell out early, so patrons are advised to watch local arts and event listings. In general, ticket prices range roughly from NZ$20 up to NZ$50–60 for most concerts, with children’s or concession rates sometimes available. Free entry events (like the First-Tuesday series) rely on donations. Notable past events include annual Christmas and ANZAC commemorations, LGBTQIA+ Pride services, and civic remembrances, reflecting the church’s inclusive ethos (shipoffools.com).

Tickets and Booking

Tickets for paid events at St Matthew’s are sold through the event promoters’ chosen platforms (e.g. ticketing services or festival box offices) and sometimes at the door if space remains. There is no general on-site box office; patrons should purchase in advance online or by phone through official sellers. For major concerts and popular series, tickets often go on sale weeks or months ahead. It pays to subscribe to the organizers’ newsletters or follow the venue’s announcements for pre-sales and announcements. Pricing varies by event – community concerts may be quite affordable (e.g. $10–$30), while full orchestra or touring shows might cost $50 or more. Always check the event’s information for age restrictions (many shows are family-friendly, but check if a concert is adults-only or rated). Event organizers on occasion reserve blocks for sponsors or offer seating upgrades; in any case it’s wise to book early for good seats. On event nights the main doors typically open about 20–30 minutes before the show (older gospel-style events or sold-out concerts may open earlier). Cash or credit cards are usually accepted at the door for remaining seats. Concession/prices and fees are set by the event and may include small transaction charges. If in doubt, contact the venue’s Event Manager (reached via the church office) or see the official event flyers. Don’t expect to buy tickets directly from St Matthew’s parish office unless explicitly stated – they direct concertgoers to the ticketing vendor. For those booking the space (weddings, functions) – a venue hire quote begins around NZ$6,800 for private events, which includes use of in-house sound and lighting, basic cleaning and two security guards (www.stmatthews.nz) (www.stmatthews.nz). A $500 deposit secures a date. Catering must be through approved providers or an external license. Alcohol can only be served with an appropriate license, and is not permitted outside the church building (www.stmatthews.nz). Smokers note: St Matthew’s is a smoke-free site under NZ law (www.stmatthews.nz). Performers should plan in advance for the church’s technical capacities (sound, power, lighting) and attend a site visit if needed.

Seating and Layout

St Matthew’s interior is essentially one large open space (nave) with high vaulted ceiling and side aisles. Seating can be kneeling pews or portable chairs arranged for events. The back rows might be loaded bench pews; in many performances chairs are set up on the floor or moved to create sightlines. There is a shallow stage/platform area near the altar but no fixed proscenium. A rear gallery (baptistry loft and side balconies) provides additional seating with a view over the church. All seats face forward toward the altar end, but the lack of steep tiers means side views are similar to front. Unlike an auditorium, no seat has a clearly obstructed view – columns divide the side aisles but the overall hall is broad. Best viewing is often toward the centre-front of the nave. Front-row or centre-aisle seats offer proximity to performers, though the sound there is very direct and can be loud. Many patrons prefer seats a little back so the whole ensemble fits in view. The side aisles can offer a good perspective on stage if central space is full, but the angle is sharper. Because the floor is flat, people sometimes bring a small cushion for comfort. (Note: the original pews are quite firm – one patron warned after a concert that “the only downside is that the sitting areas are the same as a church, making it complicated to sit comfortably” (nzvenues.co.nz).) Acoustically, the hall is outstanding. The high stone vault and wood surfaces give rich resonance especially for choral and organ music. Since 2023 a discreet JBL Intellivox column PA system provides clear, even sound without harsh echoes (www.jpro.co.nz). It maintains a consistent volume from front to back of the nave, ensuring that announcements and music reach the rear at similar level as the front (www.jpro.co.nz). For performances requiring additional bass, the church also has subwoofers and fill speakers installed. Lighting is flexible – permanent LED fixtures (by iGuzzini, with Casambi control) allow everything from bright white or coloured stage washes to subtle candlelight-like ambience (casambi.com) (archipro.co.nz). Normally, house lights are on for unlit events and dimmed for concerts. The church has no traditional spotlights on a catwalk; visiting production companies bring their own concert lighting if needed. There are no built-in VIP boxes or balconies. However, front-centre seats are often reserved for special guests at weddings or dignitaries at civic ceremonies. Aisle seats may be held for ceremonies (processional space). During intermission and before/after events, people can move around easily. Overall, St Matthew’s has an inclusive seating plan with open floor: attendees are on one level (aside from the upstairs gallery), which gives an intimate yet spacious feel.

Getting There and Parking

St Matthew-in-the-City is at **132 Hobson Street**, Auckland Central (corner of Wellesley Street West) (concerts.consequence.net) (www.stmatthews.nz). It sits just west of Federal St and a block south of Queen St under the Sky Tower. The urban location means multiple transport options. **By bus or train:** The venue is serviced by numerous Auckland Transport buses. Main bus routes running along Hobson and Wellesley include the cityLink (free inner-city shuttle), plus routes 24B and 18, and others such as the 30 and 293. Bus stops are on Hobson Street near Wellesley, as well as on Federal and Queen Streets just a block away. **Britomart Train Station** (for the AirportLink, Southern and Eastern lines) is about a 5–7 minute walk north along Federal Street. Ferries arriving at Queens Wharf are a 10–15 min walk. Taxis and ride-share cars can drop off along Hobson or Federal Street (note Wellesley is a busy arterial road, so drop-offs are rare there). **By car:** Onsite parking is extremely limited and generally reserved for rentals or security. The safest approach is to plan to use nearby city car parks. The closest public lot is the Wilson Parking *St Matthews* garage at 134 Hobson Street (entry via Hobson) – casual rates are roughly NZ$8 per hour (www.wilsonparking.co.nz). Other options within 2–3 blocks: the SkyCity Grand Hotel carpark (access off Federal) and the Atrium car park (entrance via Albert St at the Crowne Plaza). For longer stays, the Civic Theatre carpark (Greys Ave at Mayoral Drive) is a 7-minute walk. Street metered parking exists on Hobson/Wellesley/Federal, but spaces fill up quickly on event nights – always check signs. **Other:** If coming from the airport or suburbs, consider the AirportLink bus or train to Britomart, then walk a few minutes. Cycling is possible (bike racks are available near the main entrance). Note central-city traffic can be congested at rush hour, so allow extra time. If you use ride-share services after an event, the nearest pickup points are on Federal or Hobson Street, just north of Wellesley, to avoid the Wellesley on-ramp.

Inside the Venue

Upon entering St Matthew’s, visitors find themselves in a vast, cathedral-like nave under a vaulted timber ceiling. The stone interior and stained-glass worship environment often feel serene and grand. The main entry doors lead directly into the seating area; there is a separate accessible ramp and entrance to one side for those with mobility needs. Volunteers or ushers typically greet guests for concerts and guide them to seats or the foyer. Security is minimal but sensible: expect quick bag checks on event nights and metal detectors or wand scans on larger concerts. Once inside, keep voices low out of respect for the space. There is **no official cloakroom**; attendees usually stow coats and bags at their seats or on rails. For chilly events, you might want a small cushion or kneeler pad for the wooden pews. **Food and drink:** No food or beverages are allowed on the main floor (concerts.consequence.net). Snacks and drinks must be consumed in the foyer or outside. (Water bottles without caps are often tolerated quietly.) During church services, occasional cup of tea is offered at intermission, but at most concerts only bottled water is permitted. There is no indoor café or bar – the building is not licensed for general alcohol retail. (Organized events can apply for a liquor licence for served drinks, but patrons cannot bring their own.) **Amenities:** There are five bathrooms on site — four stalls in the basement level (down a wide stairwell) and one accessible unisex toilet at ground level. The accessible restroom is near the main entrance and meets disability standards (handrails, space for wheelchair). These facilities are clean and regularly serviced for events. Changing rooms or green rooms are not available to the public. **Connectivity:** The venue does not offer public Wi-Fi. Mobile phone reception inside is moderate (some users find service thanks to city networks but it can be patchy among stone walls). Charging ports are sparse, so manage device charge beforehand. **Policies:** St Matthew’s is smoke-free both inside and on its immediate grounds (as per NZ law) (www.stmatthews.nz). Pets are not allowed except for service animals. Cameras and recording gear generally require prior artist permission – personal non-flash photography is usually okay before an act starts, but during performances it’s best to ask an usher. Shoots with tripods or professional gear must be pre-approved. For respect, turn off or silent your phone; many events use an intermission and do not tolerate roam calls during performance. Alcohol consumption is restricted to licensed hospitality for adult events (no BYO wine/beer in services or concerts unless it is part of a meal service). By design, St Matthew’s atmosphere is solemn yet welcoming. The staff keeps the heating on in winter (a cost of $40/hour if booked by organizers (www.stmatthews.nz)), so the nave is usually comfortably warm. There is stage lighting hung on collagen trusses for events and historic chandeliers above. During concerts, the mood can be quite theatrical (especially candlelight shows), but for worship it remains reverent. Ushers wear simple black or dark uniforms; languages used are primarily English (though Māori or other languages sometimes appear in services (shipoffools.com)). One special feature inside is the grand pipe organ. St Matthew’s houses a four-manual Henry Willis & Sons organ (with 54 stops and sophisticated digital controls) installed in 2020. Its case appears in the transept and chancel elevations, though the sound fills the whole space. Attendees often remark on its deep, resonant bass and bright flute stops for congregational singing. The organ is used in many services and concerts; its powerful voice can accompany choirs, or provide solo music (it was cited as “magnificent” and “rich” in recent services (shipoffools.com)). Lastly, the church has a small shop corner in the foyer for event programs, CDs or merchandise when applicable. If an artist or choir has merchandise (CDs, prints), they usually set up a table there after the performance. For visitors wanting a lighter spiritual souvenir, the church sometimes offers postcards or books on request.

Nearby Amenities

St Matthew’s location puts you within easy reach of a wide array of restaurants, cafes and bars catering to most tastes. Just a few steps east on Wellesley or south on Hobson stand casual eateries (cafés, burger joints, ethnic takeaways) and quick-service spots. Within a block are popular choices like the Culprit Pizza & Wine Bar, and the Federal St eateries of the Crowne Plaza (Steampunk Café for coffee and casual fare). K’Road (Karangahape Rd) is a 5-minute walk, offering trendy bistros, Asian cuisine, pizza, and bars. For a formal meal, walk to nearby Federal Street where you’ll find venues such as little & Friday (Modern NZ dining), and a number of mid-range and upmarket dining lounges. SkyCity next door has multiple bars and restaurants (Mexican, Asian, a steakhouse, etc.) if you prefer staying immediately local. Don’t miss the basement club bars under Wellesley or the easygoing pubs (like The Big Easy or Ah Woo Shopping on nearby customs street for drinks. For drinks before or after an event, there are many options around Federal and Victoria Streets – from casual brewpubs to cocktail lounges. A popular spot is the Commerce Bar (Queen St corner), or the high-end bar at SkyCity Casino. Since the area is downtown, taxis and ride-sharing vehicles gather along Federal St (outside SkyCity) or on Queen at night. Nearby hotels make overnight stays simple: the Atrium by Crowne Plaza sits adjacent (entrance off Albert St), and the Grand Millennium and QSuites are within a 5-minute walk. Budget travelers often use nearby motels or the hostel on Queen St. Accommodation booking is easy whether meeting for a conference at St Matthew’s or visitors attending major city events. Arrive at least 15–20 minutes ahead of most shows. You’ll pass one of Auckland’s heritage cafés (the glass-fronted arcade at the Hobson-Wellesley corner often has a coffee vendor), which is a great pre-show stop. Note that after events finish (especially on weekend nights), Newport and Wellesley streets become busy with traffic; plan your onward travel – the last trains or buses on a weekend might leave by 9–10pm, so consider ride-share if staying late.

What Makes This Venue Special

Several factors make St Matthew-in-the-City stand out. Architecturally, its sheer scale and craftsmanship are rare in a city centre setting. The vaulted limestone interior, ornate woodwork and historic stained glass take visitors back in time, offering an unmatched ambience for concerts and gatherings (victorianweb.org) (casambi.com). The award-winning lighting system beautifully highlights these features; in 2016 the church received international acclaim for its new interior illumination design (archipro.co.nz). Combined with the advanced JBL Intellivox sound technology, St Matthew’s merges heritage aesthetic with high-end production values – it “blends seamlessly into our space” without compromising beauty, giving “astounding” clarity of audio from front to back (www.jpro.co.nz). Culturally, St Matthew’s is woven into Auckland’s story. It often hosts significant city rituals (ANZAC, Waitangi Day services, civic memorials) and is a known centre for social justice. Its open doors and progressive program attract diverse audiences. Locals appreciate that it ‘feels like a world away from the hectic city’ once inside (nzvenues.co.nz). Artists love the church for its warm acoustics and character – it’s bigger than a small hall but more intimate than an arena. For example, candlelit tributes or choral festivals here feel ethereal due to the stone reverberance and flickering lighting. Community members praise its sense of welcome and mission. The Auckland Rainbow Community Church (founded 1974) originally met at St Matthew’s, reflecting decades of inclusive ministry (shipoffools.com). The church’s “joyous” bell tower greets the city each Sunday, and inside the sense of participation is high – lay volunteers read scripture, and the congregation actively engages in services (shipoffools.com). This tradition of involvement carries into events: audience members often sing along in carols or stand to commemorate, giving a familial feel. For international visitors it’s also a famed heritage attraction – ranked in the top 50 Auckland sights on travel sites, noted for “pretty stained glass windows” and being “a beautiful and inspiring church” (www.tripadvisor.com) (nzvenues.co.nz). In short, St Matthew’s is special because it is not only a pretty church, but a living part of Auckland’s arts and community life. Its combination of grand space, historic charm, modern comfort (heating, sound, accessible facilities) and social heart means audiences and artists alike remember their time here. Whether it’s the organ’s final chord ringing under the rafters, a guest treading the aisle for a local wedding, or the simple awe of first stepping inside, this venue offers an experience far beyond that of an ordinary hall.

Visitor Tips and Information

St Matthew’s is generally visitor-friendly, but a little planning makes for a smooth experience. Key tips: - **Accessibility:** The main entrance has a wheelchair ramp and an accessible toilet on the ground floor (concerts.consequence.net). The nave floor is flat (no steps) so wheelchairs can move easily; ushers will help with seating if needed. Watching a service? A limited number of reserved seats are set aside for people with mobility needs. The church also offers assistive listening devices for the hearing impaired on request (concerts.consequence.net). - **What to bring:** For formal concerts, smart casual attire is best (ties are optional). It can get cool under the stone vault, so consider a wrap or light sweater even in summer. A small cushion isn’t a bad idea for pew seating. If you have sensitive ears, the organ can be loud up close – earplugs are rare but may help if seated in front. For any rainy day, note there is no coat check, so carry a tight-fitting cover or leave coats at your seat’s end. - **Arrival:** Allow extra time for finding parking or a bus stop. The church often opens 15 minutes before the start of a concert, so arriving by that time ensures you take your seat before opening chords. For free lunchtime concerts, come 5–10 minutes early as seating is first-come (many locals attend church services on Sundays too, but those happen at set times). - **Photography:** Personal photography of the building interior (for memory) is usually fine during open hours. However, during services or concerts, please refrain from flash photography or video. Always respect any “no photos” announcements during performances. - **Food and Drink:** Plan to eat or drink **before** you enter the sanctuary. There is no café inside and, as per house policy, no food/drink is allowed on the pews (concerts.consequence.net). Water bottles may be quietly used, but anything else should be left outside. - **Children:** Services welcome families (there are activity packs and a supervised nursery advertised during Sunday worship (concerts.consequence.net)). Concerts are family-friendly until a live performance starts, but some shows may carry age advisories (check the event notes). No separate childcare, so bring a quiet activity for restless little ones. - **Rules to avoid trouble:** Refrain from smoking or vaping anywhere on the property (even on the steps) – it’s illegal. Likewise, plan on turning off your phone or putting it to silent if you’re attending a performance. Large bags or suitcases are discouraged; if you have a laptop or backpack, stow it under your seat or leave it in the foyer (at your own risk). - **Weather:** As an indoor venue, shows at St Matthew’s are rain-or-shine events. You won’t need an umbrella inside. However, note that the front steps can be steep and slippery in wet weather. The foyer is spacious enough that umbrellas can safely drip dry before you take your seat. By following these tips, first-time and returning visitors alike will fully enjoy the unique charm of St Matthew-in-the-City. Its combination of historic warmth and modern convenience, along with its respected mission, means that most people leave inspired. If you’re caught on camera by the church photographer during a well-attended event, don’t worry – the focus is on community, not your shoelaces. In short: arrive early, dress comfortably, and soak in one of Auckland’s most atmospheric venues.