Church of the Good Shepherd Tours and Activities

Church of the Good Shepherd featuring night scenes and a church or cathedral
Choose two or more items and save on your trip:
Stop off at this charming church to enjoy stunning mountain views, appreciate some fine stone carving and learn its fascinating history. 

Take in the exceptional views of Lake Tekapo and the surrounding mountains with a visit to the beautiful Church of the Good Shepherd. Explore the small building’s simple but charming main chamber and chat with the vicar about the history of the local area. Be sure to walk around the grounds, taking in magnificent alpine views.

The Church of the Good Shepherd was constructed in 1935 after local residents donated land and funds for the building. Until then, they had held religious services in their own homes. It was built entirely with stone from the shores of Lake Tekapo and designed to encompass one of the most spectacular views in the area through the altar window. The church is interdenominational it is an active place of worship for three denominations.

Most visitors head straight for the clear-glass window in the altar, which perfectly frames the lake and surrounding snow-capped mountains. The view also includes the pine-covered Motuariki Island. Spend a while in the church’s peaceful main hall, where you will see a few small carvings and the simple altar. Note that you are not allowed to take photographs within the church. 

Step outside and stroll around the church’s scenic grounds. Locals say this is the most photographed church in New Zealand. With the gleaming waters of the lake reflecting the peaks of the mountains, you’ll find it hard to resist taking a photo of your own. 

The Church of the Good Shepherd is located 36 miles (58 kilometers) north of Twizel. The church is open daily and free to enter, although donations for the upkeep of the building are appreciated. Be aware that tours regularly stop here and the church can get busy, so it's best to come early if you want to enjoy the views in peace.

Popular places to visit


Best Lodging Options Near Church of the Good Shepherd

Peppers Bluewater Resort
Peppers Bluewater Resort
4.5 out of 5
State Highway 8, Lake Tekapo
Peppers Bluewater Resort
Lake Tekapo Village Motel
Lake Tekapo Village Motel
3.5 out of 5
Village Centre, State Highway 8, Lake Tekapo
Lake Tekapo Village Motel
Haka House Lake Tekapo
Haka House Lake Tekapo
5 out of 5
5 Motuariki Lane, Lake Tekapo, Canterbury
Haka House Lake Tekapo
Grand Suites Lake Tekapo
Grand Suites Lake Tekapo
5 out of 5
14 Greig St, Lake Tekapo, Canterbury
Grand Suites Lake Tekapo
The Godley Hotel
The Godley Hotel
3 out of 5
State Highway 8, Lake Tekapo
The Godley Hotel
Lake Tekapo Cottages
Lake Tekapo Cottages
3 out of 5
12 Sealy St, Lake Tekapo
Lake Tekapo Cottages
Mantra Lake Tekapo
Mantra Lake Tekapo
4 out of 5
1 Beauchamp Place, Lake Tekapo
Mantra Lake Tekapo
Skyrim Lodge
Skyrim Lodge
3 out of 5
11 Jimmys Lane, Lake Tekapo
Skyrim Lodge
Tekapo Luxury Apartments
Tekapo Luxury Apartments
3.5 out of 5
12 Erebus Place, Lake Tekapo, Canterbury
Tekapo Luxury Apartments
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.