St Jude’s Church (25–27 St Jude Street)

The first formal Anglican services in Avondale were held in 1874 at the Public Hall. In that year, the congregation committee agreed to accept the offer by Avondale hotelkeeper James Palmer of land bounded by New North Road and Palmer Street (now St Judes and Donegal Streets). Plans were drawn up for the new church in 1882 with amendments submitted in May 1884 by noted Auckland architect Edward Bartley. Work began in August and the foundation stone was laid on 13 September. The first service was held at St Jude’s Church on 23 December 1884. Today, it is the second oldest church in Avondale after St Ninian’s. The founder and original trustee was John Bollard (1839–1915), a man who had a great impact on the early history of Avondale. This site has been identified for its heritage values by Auckland Council and is listed Category 2 by Heritage New Zealand.

Turn right along St Jude Street and continue until reaching St Georges Road. Turn left.