Joseph Gordon CoatesBorn in Northland, Joseph Gordon Coates was elected to Parliament in 1911. He served in the First World War, rising to the rank of Major and receiving the Military Cross and Bar. Following the death of William Massey, Coates became leader of the Reform Party and Prime Minister in 1925. Though the party lost in 1928, he continued to serve as a respected minister in coalition and wartime governments until his sudden passing on 27 May 1943.Read more about Joseph Gordon Coates:Coates, Joseph Gordon (DNZB, Te Ara)Coates Memorial ChurchAfter consultation with the Coates family, the government commissioned a non-denominational church as a national memorial to Coates. Designed by architect Horace Lovell Massey, it was officially opened by Prime Minister Sidney Holland on 27 May 1950. Image Auckland University Archives Original building plans for Coates Memorial Church The church is cared for by Manatū Taonga Ministry for Culture and Heritage with support from the Coates Memorial Church Board. Day-to-day operations of Coates Memorial Church are overseen by the Coates Memorial Church Board.In 2025 and 2026 the Board, with the support of Manatū Taonga Ministry for Culture and Heritage, undertook an extensive restoration project to extend the life of the church and ensure it remains a place for the Matakohe and wider New Zealand community to enjoy. The restoration was guided by heritage architects Salmond Reed with major works completed by the lead contractor, Argon Constructors Ltd.The church was reopened with a special Sunday service on 24 May 2026.Read more about the history and restoration of the Coates Memorial Church:Coates Memorial Church, Matakohe (NZ History)Restoring Coates Memorial Church Image Blake Morris, Argon Constructors Ltd Restored exterior of Coates Memorial Church Opening hoursCoates Memorial Church is open daily.October–March: 8am–7pmApril–September: 8am–5pmCostEntry to the church is free.Donations are warmly welcomed and support the ongoing operating costs of the church.Eftpos facilities are available in the vestry for those wishing to make a contribution.Booking the churchCoates Memorial Church is a popular venue for weddings, baptisms, and memorial services, with seating for up to 120 people.The Church can be booked for exclusive use, and the organ is available as part of your booking. Further information for families and celebrants is available here:Coates Memorial Church Information Sheet (PDF, 392 KB)To enquire about availability or make a booking, email [email protected]Coates Memorial Church BoardThe Coates Memorial Church Board administers and manages Coates Memorial Church under Section 31(e) of the Reserves Act 1977, ensuring its preservation as a place of heritage and community significance.The Board is responsible for both governance and day‑to‑day operational management.Members were appointed for a seven‑year term beginning 1 May 2026 and represent local community groups, authorities, and heritage organisations connected to Matakohe and the Church.Board membersMichael Patterson, Chairperson – representing the Coates familyPenny Weber, Secretary – Matakohe Women’s GuildAmanda Bennett – Otamatea Kauri and Pioneer Museum BoardBecky Masters‑Ramsay – Manatū Taonga Ministry for Culture and Heritage, ex officioCr Denise Rogers – Kaipara District Council, ex officioJames Patterson – Community representative, MatakoheKaren Weber – Matakohe Cemetery TrustShelley Paniora – Department of Conservation, ex officioContact and addressEmail: [email protected] Phone: 04 499 4229Address: Coates Memorial Church (Google maps)Matakohe CemeteryChurch RoadMatakohe