Alongside the other buildings at KIN HQ, we are fortunate to have a Chapel onsite. It provides a welcoming space for Board meetings, KIN gatherings, and wider community events, and is available for local groups to book.
The Kids in Need Chapel has a rich history that began in 1938, when it was built as a private chapel for the Sisters of Our Lady of the Missions in Ngaruawahia. After the convent closed, the Chapel was moved to St John’s College, where it served the school community for many years before outgrowing its space. A number of options between 2015-2018 to remove the building failed to eventuate.
In mid 2018, with Kids in Need Waikato newly formed, Graeme Roil approached Bishop Steve Lowe with an idea to use the building in support of the charity. In December 2018 after consultation with the College and the Sisters, the Bishop confirmed the Chapel would be available to KIN. Following design and consenting, it was moved to KIN HQ in January 2020. Since then, thanks to the support of Yankee Haulers, Barnard Construction, and many helping hands, the Chapel has been lovingly restored.
This year, a stained glass window insert, commissioned during its time at St John’s College, was returned. Kids in Need took the opportunity to replace the insert with our own signature image, with the help of Cambridge Glass (who coordinated the project and donated installation labour), Stained Glass Hamilton (who provided a generous discount), and Viridian (who contributed to the glass costs). We look forward to welcoming many more groups to this amazing space.
If your group is interested in using the Chapel, please get in touch with us.
