Jo Kelly-Moore appointed the next Archdeacon of Canterbury

The newly appointed Archdeacon of Canterbury Jo Kelly-Moore. Photo / Natalie Slade

The Dean of Auckland's Holy Trinity Cathedral Jo Kelly-Moore has been appointed the next Archdeacon of Canterbury.

She will work with the Bishop of Dover, Trevor Willmott, to oversee the Archdeaconry of Canterbury, in what's a significant and senior appointment in the Church of England.

The role also involves being Vice Dean of Canterbury Cathedral.

"Canterbury's our spiritual home, so it's a great privilege to be going to work there in the diocese. In particular to minister in the Cathedral," Kelly-Moore said.

She has been at the Holy Trinity Cathedral since August 2010, and was previously Vicar of St Aidan's Anglican Church in Remuera, after working as a lawyer, both in New Zealand and in London.

While she was excited by the appointment, Kelly-Moore said she was sad to be leaving Auckland.

She listed getting the Holy Trinity Cathedral completed was her crowning achievement.

"I'm about to have my seventh Christmas here and so much has been achieved here with a great team of people.

"And next October the place will be consecrated and it's just be going from strength."

Anglican Bishop of Auckland Ross Bay said the appointment was well-deserved, though her departure would be met with sadness.

"A completed Cathedral is due to the amazing leadership of Dean Jo. At all times she has also been priest ready to offer care and compassion for people as well lead services for the city and the nation. She will be missed."

Kelly-Moore and her family will move to England after Christmas.