Our Parish and its Communities were founded by Marist Priests who came from France to serve as missionaries in Oceania and who formally took over the Marlborough Station (as the area was known) in 1864. The Parish at that time stretched from Picton and the Sounds to Kaikoura and the newly appointed priests set about travelling the area on horseback and on foot visiting their parishioners and celebrating Mass. They built churches and schools in all the areas for the benefit of the people they served. Led by Father Sauzeau SM and his fellow priests, the communities grew; gradually split into their own Parishes with their own priests and churches and schools; and continued to serve the needs of the people. From their piety, dedication, and courage we are gifted a mighty legacy of faith and devotion. This legacy and the memories of the devoted priests who have served us so well over the years will help us as we once again begin to live as one Parish of Star of the Sea Marlborough