Future of St John's church site remains uncertain

People have put up small tributes and messages of support around St John's Church. PHOTO/STEPHEN PARKER

St John's Church officials say it's too early to say what the future holds for the remains of their church after fire devastated their place of work and worship.

The church, on the corner of Ranolf and Victoria streets, was gutted by fire 10 days ago with the Rotorua Fire Service investigation revealing the fire was caused by a faulty fluorescent light fitting.

Reverend Lance Thomas said they were working with engineers and insurance assessors to find out if any parts of the church could be saved or if the whole site would need to be demolished.

"We hope to find out within a week what will happen there, but in terms of the building itself it's a fraction early to say what will happen.

"I think by Tuesday we will have a much better picture about where we will be in the future.

Image 1 of 20: Fire at St John's Church in Rotorua. Photo/Ben Fraser

"We have a team working through that process regarding the building and what our options are."

Since the blaze, the church has found a temporary home for Sunday services and has re-established its office in town.

"Things are happening quickly and we have been overwhelmed with offers of support.

"The spirit of generosity and love is continuing here in Rotorua."

Sunday services will be held at the Civic Theatre in the Sir Howard Morrison Performing Arts Centre from 10am tomorrow and next Sunday.

Mr Thomas said most of the church's ministries had found new homes and they were working in partnership with St Luke's Anglican Church and St Mary of the Cross Catholic church.

The church's office has been relocated to 1460A Hinemoa St with the same contact phone number (07) 348 2954.