John Scott's Chapel of Futuna

In 1958, six years into his private practice, Hawke's Bay architect John Scott was commissioned by the Society of Mary to design a chapel for their spiritual retreat in Karori, Wellington.

Built by the Brothers of the Society themselves, and embellished by Auckland sculptor Jim Allen, Futuna Chapel opened in 1961 and immediately became a talking point among architects and a mecca for aspiring members of the profession.

In the 45 years since, this little private building hidden away in a Wellington suburb has become generally regarded as an architectural masterpiece and perhaps the most complete example of a true modern 'indigenous' New Zealand design.

Nearly Lost

In 2000, the Society of Mary had no further use for the Futuna complex and sold it to developers. While the 90 residential units now forming Futuna Village were being built, the chapel itself was used as a materials store. While tarnished, most of the fixtures and fittings remain in good condition - only Jim Allen's magnificent Jesus figure has disappeared. The Trust would be very pleased to hear from anyone knowing its whereabouts.

Concern about the building's future came from many quarters, but not until the Friends of Futuna Charitable Trust was formed and negotiations with the developers began in earnest was it possible to say that this valuable part of our culture was almost safe.

Safe at last - but money still required!

The Friends of Futuna Charitable Trust has now completed the purchase of the Chapel and the parcel of land that it sits on, subject to an outstanding loan of $65,000. The Trust's main task now is to raise the required funds ($250,000) to complete the renovations and to ensure the future care and operation of the building. You can learn about donating to the Trust here.

Join the Society!

The Friends of Futuna Society has been established by the Trust with the aim of seeking membership from the national and local community to assist with the ongoing maintenance and operating costs of the chapel and gardens, support events as well as contribute to the funding of the establishment and maintenance of a Futuna Chapel/John Scott Archive. Membership of the Society will be through an annual subscription. - learn more about the Society here.

Photographs on this site courtesy of Russell Walden and Gavin Woodward
from the book "Voices of Silence" by Russell Walden

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