Trip Planner: South Pacific / New Zealand / South Island / Canterbury Region / Mackenzie District / Lake Tekapo / Historic Sites / Church of the Good Shepherd

Church of the Good Shepherd, Lake Tekapo

(1,300+ reviews on the web)

Church

Experience the scenic surroundings of Lake Tekapo by visiting Church of the Good Shepherd, one of New Zealand's most famous and photographed churches. Dating back to the 1930s, the church sits on the shore of the lake and commemorates the pioneers of Mackenzie County. Recognizable by its unassuming yet charming design, the church blends with its natural surroundings and only locally available materials were used during its construction. Once inside, take in impressive views of the lake through the windows--deliberately left without stained glass for this very purpose. The church welcomes visitors and worshipers throughout the year. Choose to start, finish, or center your holiday on a trip to Church of the Good Shepherd by using our Lake Tekapo itinerary planner.

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Reviews

TripAdvisor

australian2000

Great place to be during the day and also for star gazing in the evening. Lots of people and the sky is beautifully lit with stars more »
J L

This small church has a history dating back a long time. It is on the tip of the lake and has regular services still. Photos are not allowed inside, since it is a place of worship, but views from the ... more »
Ian G

This is a beautiful old church building with spectacular views. Disappointing that photos can no longer be taken from inside the church, but otherwise well worth visiting. Great to see that the church... more »

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Google

David Fuller

Do you like Churches? Neither do I but this one will bedazzle you. Set in a very nice area of town complimented by a gorgeous backdrop of awe inspiring scenery is this lovely and charming church. For a non-lover of churches, this one is special probably because its a very photogenic church with a lot of appeal. Very worthy of your time and visit.

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Eileen Sim

Overly crowded place with rude tourists especially at night - Vying for photo spots and shouting for using lights to navigate the path after dark. If only everyone can peace out. Otherwise, it's a nice place to enjoy the church and the lake.

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Jae Min Park

Great viewpoint. Better viewpoints of the lake around but this one is easiest to stop by.

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Matthew John

Love this spot, the scenery is amazing. We have some lovely photos from here,

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Daniel Simmonds

Beautiful little church on the shore of lake tekapo. Amazing place to sit and think of loved ones (especially as we was so far from home) beautiful clear water of lake tekapo behind. Can get very busy in warmer weather (which challenges to get a decent snap of the church with surroundings.

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