Devastating Fires Strike Church Meetinghouses Across New Zealand and New Caledonia

In the early hours of October 12, 2025, a significant fire occurred at a meetinghouse of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Te Hauke, located near Hastings in the Hawke’s Bay region of New Zealand. Firefighters successfully contained the blaze, and fortunately, there were no injuries reported. Authorities have initiated an investigation to determine the fire’s cause.

Devastating Fires Strike Church Meetinghouses

Local congregation leaders and members are deeply affected by the damage to their place of worship. Efforts are underway to make alternative arrangements for their services. This incident marks an unfortunate event for the congregation in the Hawke’s Bay region, as the meetinghouse has experienced significant damage.

Second Incident in New Caledonia

Later the same day, on Sunday evening, another fire broke out in a Church meetinghouse located in Mont-Dore, New Caledonia. Like in the earlier incident, significant damage was sustained, but thankfully no injuries were reported. The local church leaders are actively cooperating with authorities in the investigation while offering support and care to affected members.

Elder Peter F. Meurs, the Pacific Area President of the Church, commented on the situation. He emphasized that members find joy and fellowship in meetinghouses across the Pacific, which serve over 600,000 members in the region. These spaces are used for worship, community service, and personal inspiration.

Ensuring Continuity of Worship

Church leaders are committed to finding solutions for affected members to ensure continuity in worship and community gatherings. They aim to maintain strong community ties and uphold their mission of serving both church members and the broader community. Despite these setbacks, the Church remains steadfast in its resolve to support the spiritual growth and unity of its members.