Important Notice for Visitors

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 is currently closed to the public during the day, however we welcome visitors to enjoy the lake view and spend time on the grounds.

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.

We hope to reopen the church for public visits soon but these will be short 2 hour sessions as staffing allows. We are always open for Christian worship from 4pm - 5.15pm on Sundays.

Church Opening Hours

The church gates will be open each day for visitors to stroll the grounds and walk down to the lakeside.

SUMMER

Church Grounds 8.00AM - 8.00PM

WINTER:

Church Grounds 9.00AM - 5.00PM

Night time access is not permitted within the fenced perimeter.

General Visitor Information

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.

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CAR PARKING

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.

NO PUBLIC TOILETS

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.

COACHES, MINI-VANS AND CAMPERVANS

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.

RESPECT THE CHURCH AND GROUNDS

This is a church, a sacred place, please be respectful and quiet.

When a worship service is in progress please be quiet and do not rattle the door or peer in the windows. We are praying.
When a private wedding or funeral is taking place please keep a respectful distance from the church. You may NOT come in.
NO PHOTOGRAPHY inside the church.
NO SMOKING anywhere on the church grounds.
NO DRONES around the church or anywhere in the Lake Takapō Village. An airport is nearby so it is a no-fly zone.
The land surrounding the church is a heritage landscape and a residential area. Please do not climb on the fence. Stay on the paths and do not sit on the tussocks. You are welcome to sit on the matagouri.
Commercial photographers require a permit to take pictures on the church grounds e.g. wedding photographers, photography workshops.

DONATE (KOHA)

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 to the Donation Box when you visit. Thank you.

PHOTO CREDIT: Craig Simcox

About

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 more

Photography

The 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.