Our Lady Star
of the Sea Parish
Newsletter No. 1 – November 2024
Welcome to the first edition of the Parish Centre Renovation Appeal newsletter.
It means a lot to have your financial and personal enthusiastic support for this important project.
Parish Centre Renovation Appeal attracts wide support
Response to the appeal launch in early September was immediate, enthusiastic and very generous.
Earlier the Finance Committee had taken the decision to focus the appeal for financial support on the whole Parish rather than developing small projects which while being very enjoyable nevertheless consume a lot of people’s time and collectively do not create enough funds for a project of this size. To raise $350,000, we needed to create awareness in and secure financial support from every section of the Parish Community – which we achieved. The response has been excellent – 9 weeks into the appeal we have received $300,000+ from bequests, donations and pledges of all sizes which together makes our target achievable. There is still a shortfall so we will need further support but if the momentum continues at the current rate we should reach our ultimate goal prior to Christmas. The good news is – the renovation project is definitely all go.
Considering a donation? We still need your support. See Donor Form at the bottom of this page.
Renovation Timetable Update
Following unavoidable delays, we now envisage the renovation work will begin in Feb 2025 and be completed mid to late August. Subject to availability of contractors of course. This is still only an estimate until final details are signed off by the Project Manager.
Renovation Highlight
As Fr John explained when he launched the Appeal our objective was very clear – the Parish wanted to upgrade and essentially refurbish the Parish Centre. The architect got it right and the end result will be a more modern, functional, comfortable space. The redesign highlight would have to be the space left by the repositioning of the kitchen – resulting in the large unimpeded opening leading seamlessly through fold back doors onto the deck area.
Our Lady Star
of the Sea Parish
New Kitchen will be a modern and functional space
The brief to our kitchen architect Joelle Tolentino was very specific and the end result will speak for itself - a lovely well designed and equipped working space with new cabinetry, appliances and whitewear. We want to acknowledge and thank the four women - Libby Giddey, Linda Lehrke, Jackie Charkov and Jeannette Wylie who shared so much of their knowledge and previous personal experience with functions at the Centre to ensure the updated space and equipment will be fit for purpose.
Quotes for essential kitchen whitewear have been confirmed and accepted:
F&P Double Stack Oven ($4030)
F&P Double Dishwasher Drawers X 2 ($1884) F&P Large fridge freezer ($2549)
F&P Rangehood ($654)
F&P Induction Cooktop ($1692)
Note: sponsorship of any of the above items would be very welcome.
Call the Parish Office for further detail
Our Lady Star
of the Sea Parish
Meet the Project Manager
Shyam Baird, a very experienced Project Manager with Watershed Group
has been appointed to manage the Parish Centre renovations project. In 2023 the Parish contracted Watershed to handle all day-to-day Parish maintenance – a service they provide for a number of Auckland Catholic Parishes. We asked Shyam:
What does it mean personally to you to be leading this project?
It’s a privilege to be part of this project and see the positive impact it will have on those who use the space. The Parish Finance Committee’s focus and enthusiasm for the project is infectious. The finished project will be a testament to the hard work and dedication of our team, and generosity of the Parish, and I’m excited to be a part of it.
What problems are we likely to experience on this project?
As with any renovation project, we may encounter unexpected setbacks, such as hidden structural issues or material delivery delays. Nevertheless, our team is experienced in managing these types of challenges, as well as identifying risks early to mitigate any potential issues.
How many workers will be onsite at any particular time - what professions will they include?
The number of workers on site will vary over the course of the project as we progress through various elements of construction. We would expect to have up to 10 workers onsite at any given time, depending on the works required at that point in the works programme. This would include carpenters, electricians, plumbers, painters, laborers, various specialist trades, engineers, and architects.
What can you say about the final result - what do you expect to see ?
The final result will be a beautifully renovated Parish Centre that better meets the needs of the community. We envisage a vibrant space that is warm, inviting, and functional, with upgraded facilities, capacity, and amenities that will enhance the Parish community’s regular use and overall experience. The project team is committed to delivering a high-quality finish that the Parish and it’s community can be proud of.
Watch for further news in our next renovation update newsletter. In the meantime, thank you for your continued support.
OUR LADY STAR OF THE SEA PARISH FINANCE COMMITTEE
Note: All donations to the Parish Centre Renovation Appeal are tax deductible within the allowance set out in the current NZ tax legislation. For most donors this will result in a 33% refund.
ACTION:
Fill in the form above; it will be automatically sent to the Office and they will respond as soon as possible
or
Download the form here, print it out, and hand deliver or send it to the Parish Office.
Donations can be direct credited to the Parish Bank Account: BNZ, Auckland Branch, RC Bishop of Auckland.
Account No: 02-0108-0706005-000. Ensure your surname is included in the 'particulars' section and the word 'Centre' in the reference section of the online payment form. All donations will be acknowledged.
ALTERNATIVELY:
Phone the Parish Office or a member of the Appeal Committee (numbers are in the brochure) who will arrange to collect the form and/or answer any questions.
Our Lady Star
of the Sea Parish