150 Years Polish People In New Zealand

Ignacy Jan Paderewski (1860-1941) was a Polish pianist and composer who performed in New Zealand in 1904 & 1927.  He was a spokesman for Polish independence.

It was a Sunday when the Polish-born Pope stood at Wellington’s once grand Athletic Park in Newtown before 25,000 people on November 23, 1986.

Polish immigrants assisted by the New Zealand government arrive in the area in 1876. One of those families being the Szutkowski family from Gdansk.

The Polish Association in Christchurch has existed since the early 1950s. It was formally registered in New Zealand as an Incorporated Society on 3rd July 2001.

Pope John Paul II flew to Christchurch the following morning where he held an ecumenical liturgy at the Catholic cathedral and celebrated mass at Lancaster Park on November 24, 1986.

Cześć to all of our Poles in Christchurch! Are you interested in getting to know fellow Polish expats in Christchurch?