Newsletter No. 3 – May 2025
Welcome to the third edition of the Parish Centre Renovation Appeal newsletter.
Our journey to renovate the Parish Centre has accelerated and we have much good news to share with parish supporters.
On your marks, get set...
The long awaited and much anticipated renovation of the Parish Centre has begun. Earlier this month work began reducing the interior of the existing Parish Centre into a building site!
Following the tender process managed by Watershed on our behalf, Shakthi Construction Ltd emerged as the unanimous selection to be the lead contractor.
That recommendation was subsequently endorsed by the Parish Finance Committee and the Auckland Diocese Property Group.
Immediately prior to Easter the Parish Centre hosted what became the last meeting prior to the Centre being closed for the renovations. The meeting was hosted by the Finance Committee and attendees included Watershed and the Shakthi executive team led by its Director, Rishi Singh.
(left to right) - Paul Gleeson (Fin Comm),
Fr John Fitzmaurice (Fin Comm Chair),
Jo Maria (Fin Comm),
Shyam Biard (Project Manager, Watershed),
Rishi Singh (and the Shakthi team)
and Paul Kay (Fin Comm).
We spoke to Rishi from Shakthi Construction Ltd
Tell us about the company
The company was established in 2006 and is a family-owned business with over 18 years of experience in delivering quality construction projects across Auckland. Our expertise spans educational institutions, public facilities and community spaces, including churches and temples.
Give us a recent example?
Our experience with the Pt Chevalier Co-operating Parish included the extensive refurbishment of their ‘Old Homestead’ building. This project involved transforming the existing structure into modern community meeting spaces, a kitchen area, and an administration office. The renovation aimed to preserve the building’s heritage while upgrading its facilities to better serve the community’s needs.
Were the clients pleased?The outcome at Pt Chevalier was an all-round success as the Parish wrote afterwards – ‘We were very pleased with the choice of this company. They acted honestly and responsibly throughout the renovation process and kept us informed at all times. We were impressed with their professionalism, work ethic and integrity. It was great to deal with a company who holds customer service in such high regard. The project was completed a month ahead of schedule and we absolutely love the finished building’ (Val Jones, Parish Secretary) ----- high praise indeed.
How do you view the Our Lady Star of the Sea Parish Centre renovation project?
The Parish Centre renovation is more than just a construction project; it’s an opportunity to contribute to the community. We are committed to delivering a space that meets the needs of the Parish and serves as a y. We are committed to delivering a space that meets the needs of the Parish and serves as a hub for the wide range of parish activities.
What challenges do you foresee ?
Renovation projects often come with unforeseen challenges. Our team is experienced in managing these challenges and proactively identifying risks to mitigate potential issues. We will work closely with the Parish and consultants to ensure the project progresses smoothly.
How long will the renovations take to complete?
We are working on a 3-month construction timetable so all being well we should be completing the project in late July.
Anything else to add?
We see this project as a joint collaboration. The success of the Parish Centre renovation is a testament to the community’s vision, dedication and support. We are grateful for the opportunity to work alongside the Parish and contribute to a project that will benefit the community for years to come.
Finance Update
We are pleased and very proud to report that the current fundraising total stands at $401,990 – an amazing result.
We are confident that with a few additional donations and pledges the renovation project will be completely funded by the donations received from so many generous parishioners, bequests and special income projects. Thanks again everybody for your continuing support.
Finally, a word about donor recognition ...... in our original campaign publicity material reference was made to a suggestion that donors might be personally acknowledged in some way in the refurbished Centre. To date 145 families and parishioners have supported the project. Over the past 8 months we have received many messages of support which gave us encouragement and confidence – most of these messages also made it very clear that donors did not want their names personally published. After much thought and consideration and bearing in mind the wishes of the majority of donors, the Committee decided that all donors who made those valuable contributions (of all sizes) would be collectively acknowledged on a specially designed plaque to be placed in a prominent position in the renovated Centre – so that in 50 years’ time Parishioners of the day will know how this renovation was made possible.
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