Church of the Good Shepherd
A charming stone chapel on the turquoise shores of Lake Tekapo, New Zealand, famous for its stunning landscapes and night skies.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Lupins in bloom, soft light
Church of the Good Shepherd
Best Time
Lupins in bloom, soft light
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A charming stone chapel on the turquoise shores of Lake Tekapo, New Zealand, famous for its stunning landscapes and night skies.
"One of the most serene places in New Zealand, offering magical colors and freedom from stress."
📸 Best Photo Spots
Capture the church from across the lake for stunning reflections and wider landscape shots. Explore nearby fields for lupins!
🤫 Respectful Visits
Remember this is an active place of worship. Be quiet and respectful during services.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Iconic Lakeside Chapel
Lake Tekapo, New Zealand
A charming stone chapel with a picturesque setting on the turquoise shores of Lake Tekapo. A must-see for photographers.
Starlit Skies
Lake Tekapo, New Zealand
The church is a stunning foreground subject for astrophotography in the dark sky reserve. Witness the Milky Way above.
Lupin Field Backdrop
Lake Tekapo, New Zealand
During spring, vibrant lupins bloom around the church, creating a breathtaking floral display against the mountains.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything for the Best Views
Embrace the Serenity, Not Just the 'Gram
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
📸 Best Photo Spots
Capture the church from across the lake for stunning reflections and wider landscape shots. Explore nearby fields for lupins! 
🤫 Respectful Visits
Remember this is an active place of worship. Be quiet and respectful during services.
🚗 Parking & Access
Parking can be limited, especially during peak times. Arrive early or be prepared for a short walk.
✨ Beyond the Church
Don't just photograph the church; explore the beautiful Mackenzie Basin and its dark sky reserve.
Tips
from all over the internet
📸 Best Photo Spots
Capture the church from across the lake for stunning reflections and wider landscape shots. Explore nearby fields for lupins!
🤫 Respectful Visits
Remember this is an active place of worship. Be quiet and respectful during services.
🚗 Parking & Access
Parking can be limited, especially during peak times. Arrive early or be prepared for a short walk.
✨ Beyond the Church
Don't just photograph the church; explore the beautiful Mackenzie Basin and its dark sky reserve.
🌸 Lupin Season Tips
For the best lupin shots, consider areas around Lake Pukaki too, as the church can be very crowded.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Church of the Good Shepherd for its breathtaking location on Lake Tekapo, calling it a 'serene' and 'magical' spot. The picturesque setting, especially with lupins in bloom or under the stars, is a major highlight. While some note it can get crowded, the overall experience is overwhelmingly positive, with many finding it a peaceful and memorable destination.
"It was my first church to visit in LA during my 2023 trip here! A Holy Temple of Catholics in the Beverly Hills area. The feeling of being "home" as I enter into this church is very comforting . . . Thank you, LORD! 🙏💝"
sylvia fortich
"so thankful to have had our wedding here. fr. ed did an amazing job making it personal and meaningful. the structure of the church allows for an intimate ceremony. Mary Ann and the staff all were so supportive along the way. we love this parish and look forward to the years and celebrations to come with it."
Jacqueline Cerniglia Dion
"The Roman Catholic Church in the center of Beverly Hills area. I really love the church, clean and peacefull."
Ben
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Church of the Good Shepherd is located on the western shore of Lake Tekapo, New Zealand. It's easily accessible by car, situated right off the main road (State Highway 8). If you're driving from Christchurch, it's about a 3-hour journey, and from Queenstown, it's around 3.5 hours. Parking is available nearby, though it can get busy during peak tourist seasons.
While direct public transport to the church itself is limited, there are bus services that run between major South Island cities like Christchurch and Queenstown, with stops in or near Lake Tekapo. From the bus stop, you might need a short taxi ride or a walk to reach the church.
Renting a car is highly recommended for exploring Lake Tekapo and the surrounding Mackenzie Basin at your own pace. This allows you to easily visit the church, discover hidden lupin fields, and access other scenic spots like Lake Pukaki and Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, entry to the Church of the Good Shepherd is generally free. It's a heritage building and a place of worship, so visitors are welcome to admire its exterior and interior during visiting hours. Donations are appreciated to help with its upkeep.
The church is typically open daily, but hours can vary. It's best to check local listings or inquire locally for the most up-to-date visiting times, especially if you plan to attend a service or event.
Yes, the Church of the Good Shepherd is an active place of worship. Services are held regularly, and visitors are welcome to attend. Check the church's schedule for specific service times if you wish to participate.
📸 📸 Photography Tips
For stunning photos, aim for sunrise or sunset. The 'golden hours' provide beautiful, soft light that enhances the church's stone architecture and the lake's turquoise waters. The night sky here is also incredible for astrophotography.
The classic shot is from across the lake, capturing the church with the water and mountains. For lupin season, explore the surrounding fields. Be mindful of private property when seeking unique angles.
Generally, photography is allowed for personal use. However, if you plan a professional photoshoot, especially for weddings or events, you may need to seek permission from the church authorities.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the church within its landscape. For astrophotography, a fast lens (low f-number) and a sturdy tripod are essential.
🎫 🌸 Spring & Nature
Lupins typically bloom in Lake Tekapo from late October to December. The fields around the church and the wider Mackenzie Basin can be spectacular during this period.
Absolutely! Lake Tekapo itself is a major attraction with its vibrant blue waters. The surrounding Mackenzie Basin offers stunning mountain views, hiking opportunities, and the renowned Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park is a scenic drive away.
Yes, the Aoraki Mackenzie International Dark Sky Reserve surrounds Lake Tekapo, making it one of the best places in the world for stargazing. The Church of the Good Shepherd is a popular subject for astrophotographers.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider visiting during daylight hours to fully appreciate the lake's color and the surrounding scenery. While the church itself is a place of quiet reflection, the natural beauty of Lake Tekapo provides plenty of engagement for younger visitors. Remember to bring layers, as the weather can change quickly in the mountains.
📸 Photographers & Astrophotographers
+1As a premier dark sky reserve, Lake Tekapo is unparalleled for astrophotography. The Church of the Good Shepherd provides a perfect foreground element for capturing the Milky Way and other celestial wonders. Ensure you have a tripod and a wide-angle lens with a fast aperture for the best results.
+1🚗 Road Trippers
Allocate at least an hour to soak in the views, take photos, and perhaps enjoy a coffee from a nearby cafe. If you're visiting during spring, be prepared for crowds drawn by the lupins, but the visual reward is immense.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The History and Significance of the Church of the Good Shepherd
The church's location on the shores of Lake Tekapo, with its stunning turquoise waters and backdrop of snow-capped mountains, has made it an iconic symbol of the South Island. It's not just a heritage building; it remains an active place of worship for the local community, hosting regular services and special events like weddings.
Its fame has grown exponentially with the rise of social media, attracting visitors from around the globe eager to capture its beauty. Despite its popularity, the church retains a sense of peace and tranquility, offering a moment of reflection amidst the breathtaking scenery.
+1Capturing the Magic: Photography at Lake Tekapo
+1During spring (typically October to December), the surrounding fields burst into bloom with lupins, creating a spectacular contrast of purple and pink against the church and the blue water. However, be aware that these fields can become very crowded, so exploring slightly further afield around Lake Pukaki might offer more secluded photo opportunities.
For the truly adventurous, Lake Tekapo is part of the Aoraki Mackenzie International Dark Sky Reserve. This designation means minimal light pollution, making it an exceptional location for astrophotography. Imagine capturing the Milky Way arching over the silhouette of the church – a truly unforgettable image.
+1Beyond the Chapel: Exploring the Mackenzie Basin
For those seeking more adventure, the basin provides access to numerous hiking trails, from gentle lakeside strolls to more challenging mountain treks. The nearby Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is a must-visit for its majestic peaks, glaciers, and alpine landscapes.
Don't forget to look up! The region's status as a dark sky reserve makes it ideal for stargazing. Consider visiting the Mount John Observatory for guided tours and unparalleled views of the southern night sky.
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Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit