The Methodist Church of New Zealand (Te Hāhi Weteriana o Aotearoa) is a diverse and multicultural church shaped by both Māori and Pākehā (European) traditions, as well as Pacific and immigrant communities.
Officially established in 1822, it is now led by President Rev. Peter Taylor and Vice President TeRito Peyroux-Semu.
The church consists of approximately 12,000 members across 150 congregations.
The church is unique in its commitment to being a “Bicultural Church.” It operates under a “Bicultural Treaty” that honors the partnership between the Tangata Whenua (the indigenous Māori people) and Tauiwi (all other peoples). This commitment to reconciliation and justice is central to their identity, as they seek to be a “prophetic, inclusive, and compassionate” presence in a modern, diverse society.
World Methodist Evangelism was honored to have the Methodist Church of New Zealand join us in 2017 for our evangelism seminary hosted by the Wesleyan Methodist Church in New Zealand. Young adults from this Church also joined us in 2018 for Metanoia Global in Costa Rica.
Gracious God, we thank You for our brothers and sisters in New Zealand, and for their reconciling heart. Strengthen their congregations to be bold witnesses of Your grace in secular and diverse cultures. May their witness be marked by love, justice, and hope. And remind us again that though we are scattered across the world, we are one in Christ. Your Spirit knows no borders and Your love speaks every language. Amen.
World Methodist Evangelism strives to keep denomination information as up-to-date as possible. However, if you see something that needs to be changed or updated, please contact us at info@worldmethodist.org
