The parish of the Cathedral of St John the Evangelist will be sad to see The Very Rev’d Di Woods leave us.  Her resignation was announced on Sunday 23 February and  her ministry in the parish will conclude on Sunday 25 May 2025.

Di has served as Dean of Waiapu Cathedral over the past three years.

Bishop Andrew Hedge commended Di’s work to encourage an openness of the Cathedral building and congregation to the wider community by welcoming visitors, making space for those on the margins and encouraging those who are enquirers. Di has also nurtured the parish community building relationships across the congregation and helping develop God’s gifts within each member of the parish.  

Di has also actively strengthened relationships with churches throughout Napier, both traditional and contemporary.

The parish particularly admires Di’s energy and commitment to seeking solutions for the Cathedral building which requires earthquake strengthening, and in exploring options to ensure the people of this parish can envisage a future together.

The Rev’d Alister Hendery has been appointed as Acting Dean to help support the parish in this transitional ministry and his role will briefly overlap with Di’s before her departure. Diocesan Ministry Educator, The Rev’d Deborah Broome will also become Priest Associate to assist the parish.