Built between 1898 and 1899, the building was a Roman Catholic Church until the creation of the Diocese of Nelson in 1936, at which time it attained Cathedral status. With its six two story columns across the front and other features it is a wonderful example of Roman Classic architecture.
A very interesting and amazing feature of this cathedral is the fact that it is constructed entirely of wood, made to appear as masonry. Its foundation and cornerstone, however, are masonry.
The Cathedral occupies Number 25 on the City of Nelson's 2011
Heritage Register.