The majestic setting of the Church of the Good Shepherd attracts visitors from all over the world. We encourage you to take a few quiet minutes to enjoy the peace and tranquillity of the lake and mountains; in our opinion it is God's greatest cathedral.
The church building itself has limited opening hours to the public during the day. A volunteer guide may be on duty for a few hours from 10am - 3pm between Wednesday and Sunday but this is not guaranteed.
Visitors are welcome to spend time on the grounds enjoying the lake view during the day and we are always open for Christian worship from 4pm - 5.15pm on Sundays.
We can offer pre-arranged private tours. Please contact us at least one week prior to your visit so we can arrange a volunteer guide. Tours are limited to 10-40 people. There will be a $50 minimum charge (donation) to open the church for up to 2 people plus $20 for each additional person in the group.
The maintenance, upkeep and ministry of the Church of the Good Shepherd is funded only by donations and managed by volunteers. Please donate $5 dollars at the Tap to Donate station just inside the front gate. Your contributions truly do keep us going!
SUMMER (church grounds) | 9AM - 8PM | |
WINTER (church grounds) | 9AM - 5PM | |
Night time access is not permitted within the fenced perimeter. | ||
Located on Pioneer Drive, Lake Takapō, the Church of the Good Shepherd is a sacred site set within a Residential and Heritage precinct. So that visitors may enjoy their visit and the good will of our neighbours we ask that you please respect and abide by the following instructions.
We encourage visitors to park on the village side of the footbridge and enjoy a gentle over stroll the river towards the natural heritage area surrounding the church.
Parking is now very limited on Pioneer Drive as we begin to restore the natural landscape of the site.
Access to the nearest Public Toilets is on the village side of the footbridge (400m). Please note the toilets require a $1 coin or Paywave using a credit card.
All longer wheel based vehicles (coaches and campervans) should park on the village side in the designated carpark just over the State Highway 8 bridge beside the Godley Hotel. Your visitors can then enjoy a loop walk over the footbridge, to the Church and Collie Dog Statue. There are toilets and a cafe nearby.
Parking is very limited on Pioneer Drive as work towards restoring the natural landscape of the area.
This is a church, a sacred place, please be respectful and quiet.
The Church of the Good Shepherd cared for by a very small group of local parishioners. We do not receive any income other than that which is donated. Please help us keep the church open for visitors to this lovely place by contributing $5 at the Tap to Donate donation station or cash in a Donation Box when you visit. Thank you.
PHOTO CREDIT: Craig Simcox
Situated on the shores of Lake Tekapo amidst the natural beauty of the lake and mountains, the Church of the Good Shepherd was built to the glory of God and as a memorial to the Mackenzie pioneers.
Find out moreThe Church of the Good Shepherd is a place of worship. If you are a professional photographer please make arrangements with us first so that your time at the church will be supportive of our work.
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