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 on Saturday 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 so please consider donating a few dollars at the Tap to Donate station just inside the front gate. Your contributions truly do keep us going!
Church Opening Hours
The church gates will be open each day for visitors to stroll the grounds and walk down to the lakeside.
SUMMERChurch Grounds8.00AM - 8.00PM | |
WINTER:Church Grounds9.00AM - 5.00PM | |
Night time access is not permitted within the fenced perimeter. |
General Visitor Information
Located on Pioneer Drive, LakeTakapō, the Church of the Good Shepherd is a sacred site setwithin 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 limitedon Pioneer Drive as we begin to restorethe natural landscape of thesite.
NO PUBLIC TOILETS
Access to the nearest Public Toilets ison thevillage side of the footbridge (400m). Please note the toilets require a $1coin or Paywaveusing a credit card.
COACHES, MINI-VANSAND CAMPERVANS
All longer wheel based vehicles (coaches and campervans) should park on the village sidein the designated carpark just over the State Highway 8 bridge beside the Godley Hotel. Your visitors can then enjoy a loop walkover the footbridge, to the Church and Collie Dog Statue. There are toilets and a cafe nearby.
Parking is very limitedon Pioneer Drive as work towards restoringthe 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 keepa respectful distance from the church. You may NOT come in.
- NO PHOTOGRAPHY insidethe church.
- NO SMOKING anywhere on the church grounds.
- NO DRONES around the church or anywhere in the LakeTakapō Village. An airport is nearby so it isa no-fly zone.
- The landsurrounding the church is a heritage landscapeand 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 $5atthe Tap to Donate donation station or cash in a 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.
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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.
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