WHO WE ARE
We are an evangelical Anglican church made up of people from all ages and all walks of life.
We believe that Jesus lived, died, and was raised to life so that we could find true and lasting life in him. Because Jesus now lives and reigns, we acknowledge him to be the Lord of all things, and look forward to the day when he will make all things new.
We believe that the Bible is God’s word to us and is the only sure foundation for our knowledge of who God is, and how we should live our lives. We believe that to be a follower of Jesus means being keen to hear him speak to us through the words of the Bible, and being willing to let those words shape all our thoughts and actions.
We hold to the historic Christian creeds and believe that the 39 Articles are a good summary of Christian doctrine.
OUR VISION
We are a growing church for Blenheim, making disciples of Jesus.
Jesus said, “Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptising them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything that I have commanded you. And remember, I am with you always to the end of the age.”
Matthew 28:18-20
OUR MISSION
To GROW in our knowledge and love of God,
to SERVE those around us for the glory of God,
to GO out to share the good news of Jesus with the world.
Meet the team
MINISTER-IN-CHARGE
Pastor Nigel Irwin
Nigel has recently joined us (June 2026) from Whanganui, and brings 20+ years of leadership experience, including 15 years in church contexts.
He loves being back home in the South Island, having spent the first 12 years of his life as a Mainlander (born in Oamaru, raised in Temuka). Nigel’s passion is to see the local church built up and empowered in its mission to reach, redeem and restore the last, the lost, and the least.
Nigel is engaged to Laura-Jane (wedding coming in September ‘26!), and between them they have 3 awesome teenagers and an adorable Border Collie x Husky!
He counts it the deepest privilege to lead the St. Christopher’s family in ministry, mission, and worship! In his downtime, you’ll probably find him playing squash, golf (badly), or chess; he’s also into cycling, reading, making music, and following American football and baseball.
parish Administrator
Tineke Reidie
Tineke is the Parish Administrator, and has been in the role since 2017.
She is from Blenheim, and is married with three children.
Tineke’s background is Accounting and Human Resources, having studied Business and Psychology, and has enjoyed enhancing her faith by studying Bible and Ministry through Ridley College.
Tineke feels privileged to be part of the team at St Christopher’s, and is happy to help with all enquiries.
Community Eldercare Worker
Donna Wahrlich
Donna grew up in Blenheim and has enjoyed everything the region offers from the beauty of the Marlborough Sounds to the surrounding mountains. Her working life has included serving families in the Funeral Industry as well as supporting residents in Care Home facilities and in the community.
Donna feels blessed to be helping the elderly in her community. Being part of St Christopher’s is more than just a role to her—it's like being part of a family.
children and families worker
Samantha Swafford
samantha@stchristophers.co.nz
Samantha was raised in Blenheim and moved after schooling. Her and her husband have now returned to Blenheim to be nearer to family.
She has spent the past 10 years working in both administration and childcare.
Samantha is excited to help the children of St Christophers grow in their faith journey.
YOUTH worker
Jonathan Tweeddale
Jonathan.Tweeddale@gmail.com
Jonathan runs our Elevate Youth Group, which meets on Tuesday evenings (term time). He accompanies our Youth to local events, and the Diocese annual Spring Camp.
Jonathan feels privileged to support and encourage youth in their Christian walk.
