St Mary’s-in-Holy Trinity, Auckland - The Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception on Caine Road, Central District, is a Catholic cathedral built in late 19 century. Completed in 1888, the architectural design of this cathedral was an English Gothic Revival style. It is the iconic cathedral of the Catholic Diocese of HK. It's a Historic Building.
1 / 10

St Mary’s-in-Holy Trinity Auckland

4.8
·235 reviews·Auckland, New Zealand

Historic Gothic Revival church hosting enchanting Candlelight Concerts and cultural events.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Evening Concerts

Full candlelight ambiance

CrowdMedium
Loading map...
St Mary’s-in-Holy Trinity, Auckland - The Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception on Caine Road, Central District, is a Catholic cathedral built in late 19 century. Completed in 1888, the architectural design of this cathedral was an English Gothic Revival style. It is the iconic cathedral of the Catholic Diocese of HK. It's a Historic Building.

St Mary’s-in-Holy Trinity Auckland

Best Time

Evening Concerts

Full candlelight ambiance

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Historic Gothic Revival church hosting enchanting Candlelight Concerts and cultural events.

4.8
(235 reviews)

"The most amazing space to enjoy the KBB Music Festival."

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 Book Tickets in Advance

Secure your spot for Candlelight Concerts 2-3 weeks prior, especially for popular themes. :ticket:

✨ Evening Show for Ambiance

Opt for evening concerts to fully experience the magical candlelight atmosphere. :candle:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Candlelight Concerts

Candlelight Concerts

Main Sanctuary

Experience live music in a stunning, candlelit setting. A truly magical and memorable event.

Reddit
Stunning Gothic Architecture

Stunning Gothic Architecture

Exterior and Interior

Admire the intricate details and soaring arches of this beautiful historic church.

Reddit
KBB Music Festival Venue

KBB Music Festival Venue

Main Sanctuary

A premier location for Auckland's vibrant music scene, hosting diverse performances.

Reddit

Planning Your Visit

Book Ahead for Candlelight Concerts

Tickets for the popular Candlelight Concerts at St. Mary's-in-Holy Trinity often sell out, especially for themed performances. Booking 2-3 weeks in advance is recommended to secure your preferred date and seating section. Reddit

Embrace the Ambiance

For the full Candlelight Concert experience, opt for an evening show to truly appreciate the 'candlelight' ambiance. Arrive early to explore the venue and secure good seats within your purchased section. Reddit

Best Times

When
Evening Concerts
Why
Full candlelight ambiance
Crowd
Medium
When
During KBB Music Festival
Why
Diverse musical performances
Crowd
High

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

The last thing is the only thing I wish I did differently for my tour of Hobbiton! #hobbiton #newzealand #auckland #lordoftherings #thehobbit #theshire
@raimeetravel
58.7K likes • 549K views

🎯 Book Tickets in Advance

Secure your spot for Candlelight Concerts 2-3 weeks prior, especially for popular themes. Reddit :ticket:

✨ Evening Show for Ambiance

Opt for evening concerts to fully experience the magical candlelight atmosphere. Reddit :candle:

The best trip you will ever take, i promise you!!! This was my New Zealand itinerary and best places to visit in New Zealand! #newzealand #newzealanditinerary #newzealandtravel
@raimeetravel
23K likes • 390.1K views
reddit.com

Has anyone been to the Candlelight Concerts? How are they?

🚶 Arrive Early for Best Seats

Get there ahead of time to explore and snag good seats within your ticketed section. Reddit :running:

🎶 Enjoy the Live Music

The string quartets are exemplary, offering a wonderful musical experience. Reddit :musical_score:

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Book Tickets in Advance

Secure your spot for Candlelight Concerts 2-3 weeks prior, especially for popular themes. Reddit :ticket:

✨ Evening Show for Ambiance

Opt for evening concerts to fully experience the magical candlelight atmosphere. Reddit :candle:

🚶 Arrive Early for Best Seats

Get there ahead of time to explore and snag good seats within your ticketed section. Reddit :running:

🎶 Enjoy the Live Music

The string quartets are exemplary, offering a wonderful musical experience. Reddit :musical_score:

📸 Photo Ops Available

Consider paying for a photo opportunity if you want a special memento. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.8
(235 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise the magical ambiance and excellent acoustics of St. Mary's-in-Holy Trinity, especially for Candlelight Concerts. The quality of the musicianship is frequently highlighted as a major positive, creating memorable experiences. Some minor drawbacks include the use of electric candles and occasional seating discomfort, but these are generally overshadowed by the overall enchanting atmosphere. Reddit+1

"Candlelight Coldplay was amazing, spine tingling sensations throughout the night. A true masterpiece to experience."

Hidden Dragon

"The most amazing space to enjoy the KBB Music Festival"

Martin Hamill

"It was a very unique event! Our group of 4 loved the ambience, venue and the music selection. The string quartet was quite exemplary. Everything was well organized and flowed effortlessly. Thank you for a memorable evening!"

Zel Allen

What People Like

Magical candlelight ambiance
Excellent acoustics
Talented musicians

What People Dislike

Electric fake candles
Seating comfort

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

St. Mary's-in-Holy Trinity is centrally located in Parnell, Auckland. It's easily accessible by car, with parking available nearby. Public transport options, including buses, also serve the Parnell area. TikTok

While street parking is available in the Parnell area, it can be limited, especially during events. It's advisable to check for nearby parking buildings or consider public transport. Reddit

Yes, several bus routes service the Parnell area, making it accessible via public transport from various parts of Auckland. Check the Auckland Transport website for specific routes and schedules. TikTok

The church is a short drive or bus ride from Auckland's CBD, typically around 5-10 minutes depending on traffic. TikTok

It's a pleasant walk from the CBD to Parnell, taking approximately 20-30 minutes. The route offers scenic views of the city. TikTok

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Tickets for Candlelight Concerts are typically purchased online through the Fever platform or their official website. It's recommended to book in advance as shows can sell out. Reddit

While some users have reported differing experiences, most attendees find Candlelight Concerts to be a legitimate and enjoyable event. Booking directly through official channels is advised. Reddit

Ticket prices can vary based on seating location and the specific concert. Generally, seats closer to the front are more expensive, while back sections offer a more budget-friendly option. Reddit

It is highly recommended to purchase tickets in advance, as shows often sell out. Buying at the door is not guaranteed and may not be possible. Reddit

As a place of worship, St. Mary's-in-Holy Trinity has regular service times. For specific event hours, such as Candlelight Concerts, check the event listings. Reddit

🎫 ✨ Onsite Experience

The atmosphere is magical and intimate, with thousands of candles creating a warm glow. The live music, often performed by talented string quartets, enhances the enchanting ambiance. Reddit+1

Concerts feature a wide range of genres, from classical composers like Tchaikovsky and Vivaldi to modern artists and film scores, such as Joe Hisaishi and Hans Zimmer. Reddit+1

Seating can vary. Some attendees find the seats comfortable enough for the duration of the concert, while others suggest that front-row seats might not offer the best view of the entire performance. Reddit

While personal photography might be permitted, it's best to check the specific event guidelines. Some events offer paid photo opportunities. Reddit

The church is known for its excellent acoustics, which greatly enhance the live music experience, making it a fantastic venue for concerts. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The exterior of the church, with its Gothic architecture, offers great photo opportunities. Inside, the altar area and stained-glass windows are also picturesque. Instagram

Generally, personal photography is allowed, but it's wise to be discreet and avoid flash to not disturb other attendees or the performers. Check event-specific rules. Reddit

Some events, like Candlelight Concerts, may offer paid photo packages for attendees who wish to capture a professional memento of their experience. Reddit

Late afternoon or early evening can provide beautiful natural light for exterior shots. For interior shots, consider attending an event where the candlelight adds a unique ambiance. Instagram

A camera with good low-light performance is ideal. Many smartphones can capture the ambiance effectively, especially with night mode features. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

While St. Mary's-in-Holy Trinity is primarily a place of worship and a venue for concerts, families might find the Candlelight Concerts appealing if the music selection is child-friendly. The unique ambiance could be captivating for older children. However, it's important to consider the concert's duration and the children's ability to sit quietly for extended periods. Reddit

For a more general visit, the impressive architecture can be a point of interest for children, offering a chance to explore a historic building. It's a good opportunity to discuss history and different architectural styles in a real-world setting. Always check for any specific family-friendly events or services that might be scheduled.

💖 Couples & Romantic Getaways

The Candlelight Concerts at St. Mary's-in-Holy Trinity are a perfect choice for a romantic evening. The intimate setting, illuminated by candlelight, combined with beautiful live music, creates an unforgettable atmosphere for couples. Reddit+1

Attending an evening concert followed by a stroll through the charming Parnell neighborhood makes for a delightful date night. The church's stunning architecture also provides a picturesque backdrop for photos, adding to the romantic experience. Instagram

🎶 Music Enthusiasts

For music lovers, St. Mary's-in-Holy Trinity offers a unique concert experience through the Candlelight series. The exceptional acoustics of the church, coupled with performances by talented musicians, ensure a high-quality auditory experience. Reddit

Whether you're a fan of classical, jazz, or contemporary tributes, the diverse programming means there's likely a concert to suit your taste. It's an opportunity to hear familiar music in a completely new and enchanting setting. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Magic of Candlelight Concerts

St. Mary's-in-Holy Trinity has become a sought-after venue for the global Candlelight Concerts series, transforming the historic church into an ethereal concert hall. These events feature talented musicians, often string quartets, performing a diverse repertoire under the soft glow of thousands of candles. The unique ambiance is a major draw, offering a truly immersive and memorable musical experience that differs significantly from traditional concert halls. Reddit+1

Attendees frequently praise the quality of the musicianship and the enchanting atmosphere. However, some reviews mention that the 'candlelight' effect is achieved with electric fake candles rather than real ones, which was a point of disappointment for a few. Seating arrangements can also be a factor, with some finding the seats less than ideal for viewing the entire performance, while others are perfectly content with their vantage point. Booking in advance is crucial, as popular themed concerts sell out quickly. Reddit+1

Despite minor critiques, the overwhelming sentiment is positive. The combination of stunning architecture, excellent acoustics, and the unique candlelight setting makes these concerts a standout event in Auckland. It's an experience that appeals to a wide audience, from classical music aficionados to those seeking a novel and romantic evening out. Reddit

Architectural Significance

St. Mary's-in-Holy Trinity is a significant example of Gothic Revival architecture in Auckland. Its construction began in the mid-19th century, and it has undergone several expansions and renovations over the years, reflecting evolving architectural styles and needs. The church's prominent spire and intricate stonework are hallmarks of its design, making it a visually striking landmark in the Parnell area. Instagram

The interior boasts impressive vaulted ceilings, beautiful stained-glass windows, and a grand organ, all contributing to its sacred and awe-inspiring atmosphere. These architectural features not only serve a spiritual purpose but also enhance the acoustics, making it an ideal venue for musical performances. The historical significance of the building adds another layer of appreciation for visitors. Reddit

Whether attending a service, a concert, or simply visiting to admire its beauty, the architecture of St. Mary's-in-Holy Trinity offers a glimpse into Auckland's past and its enduring architectural heritage. It stands as a testament to the craftsmanship and vision of its builders. Instagram

You may also like

1 of 2