Begun in 1886, consecrated in December 1888, and largely complete by 1890, the original cathedral of St John was a brick construction designed by Christchurch architect Benjamin Mountfort.

Edith Barry was trapped beneath fallen beams, and was euthanized as flames from the post-earthquake conflagration approached the building.

[3] Following the total destruction of the first cathedral a temporary building was erected on the site, standing from 1931 until it was closed in 1960.

Waiapu Cathedral hosts a choir, and one of the finest pipe organs in New Zealand, which has recently undergone a complete restoration.

Anthony Tattersall, formerly organist and choir leader at Blackburn Cathedral, is the current Director of Music.