In short
- Drones are banned within 4 kilometers of the local aerodrome.
- The ban covers the Church and the entire Tekapo township.
- Use a tripod and ground cameras for photography instead.
In this article
Lake Tekapo has strict aviation safety rules. Because the village sits close to a local aerodrome, all unmanned aircraft are banned from the airspace over the main attractions. You cannot fly a drone to capture aerial shots of the 1935 stone church or the lakefront.
Are drones allowed at the Church of the Good Shepherd?
No, you cannot fly a drone at or near the church.
The Church of the Good Shepherd and Tekapo Village fall within 4 kilometers of a local aerodrome. Aviation rules strictly prohibit drone flights in this zone. This rule exists to ensure the safety of manned aircraft operating nearby.
Can I fly my drone elsewhere around Lake Tekapo?
You cannot fly in the village or over the main public lakefront.
The restriction zone covers the central areas most visitors want to photograph. This includes the Sheepdog Memorial and the immediate shoreline. If you book a backcountry tour on private station land, you must ask the operator or landowner for permission first.
How can I photograph the church without a drone?
Use a standard camera or smartphone from the marked walking tracks.
The church sits on a scenic shoreline at 710 meters above sea level. This location offers excellent ground-level angles. Visit early in the morning to avoid the largest crowds. Bring a camera with manual settings and a tripod for night shots.
What are the rules for night photography?
You must stay outside the church fence and follow dark sky rules.
Night access inside the fenced perimeter of the Church of the Good Shepherd is not permitted. When shooting from the surrounding public areas, you must adhere to Dark Sky lighting rules. Minimize light pollution and use a red light flashlight for navigation.
What are the daytime access hours for the church?
The church opens at 9 AM year-round.
During summer, the church is accessible from 9 AM to 8 PM. In winter, hours are reduced to 9 AM to 5 PM. There is a $5 NZD suggested tap-to-donate fee at the entry.
| Season | Access Hours | Entry Fee |
|---|---|---|
| Summer (Dec-Feb) | 9 AM to 8 PM | $5 NZD (suggested) |
| Winter (Jun-Aug) | 9 AM to 5 PM | $5 NZD (suggested) |
Where can I get high-altitude views instead?
You can drive or take a tour to the Mt John Observatory.
Since drones are banned, head to the Mt John Observatory for panoramic views over the lake and Mackenzie Basin. Road access is closed to the public at night. You must book an official tour for evening stargazing from the summit.
Questions travellers ask
Do I need to book the Church of the Good Shepherd?
No, you do not need to book in advance. The church requests a $5 NZD donation at entry via a tap-to-donate station.
Can you swim in Lake Tekapo?
Yes, but the lake is glacial and very cold year-round. It has an average depth of 69 meters (226 feet).
Is the road to Lake Tekapo sealed?
Yes, State Highway 8 is a sealed road. However, you must carry snow chains during the winter months due to potential ice.
