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Church · Tekapo, Canterbury
Church of the Good Shepherd
Small stone church built in 1935 on the shore of Lake Tekapo, the first on the Mackenzie Plateau. The altar window frames the lake and mountains. Beside it stands the bronze shepherd dog statue.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
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About Church of the Good Shepherd
The Church of the Good Shepherd was built in 1935 on the shore of Lake Tekapo and was the first church on the Mackenzie Plateau. The design is by architect R. S. D. Harman of Christchurch, based on drawings by local artist Esther Hope, and uses stone and timber from the region. It is a Category I historic place.
The interior is simple, with wooden pews, and the window behind the altar, without stained glass, frames the lake and mountains as if they were the altarpiece. For this reason the church is one of the most photographed in the country, and it is busy during excursion bus times. Photography inside is not permitted, and the church remains in use for services and weddings.
A few metres away stands the bronze statue of the shepherd dog, made by sculptor Innes Elliott of Kaikōura, commissioned by the residents of Mackenzie to honour the dogs that made sheep farming possible on the plateau. The model was sent to London for casting in 1966.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
20 to 40 minutes.
Best time
Early morning or late afternoon, when there are fewer people and the light is softer. At night the church sits under the starry sky, but the interior is closed. Opening hours vary; check ahead.
How to get there
It sits on the lake shore, about 500 metres from Tekapo village centre, with parking nearby. You can walk there via the shore trail.
Tip
Respect the rule not to photograph inside the church and keep quiet during services. Park only in designated areas to protect the surrounding grounds.
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Church of the Good Shepherd
Can you enter the Church of the Good Shepherd in Tekapo?
Yes, during opening hours, outside services and weddings. Photography inside is not allowed.
When was the Church of the Good Shepherd built?
In 1935. It was the first church on the Mackenzie Plateau.
What is the Tekapo shepherd dog statue?
It is a bronze statue beside the church, commissioned by Mackenzie residents in tribute to the dogs that assisted in sheep farming on the plateau.