Church of the Good Shepherd

The Church of the Good Shepherd was a brick building in Phillipstown with red walls interrupted by contrasting stone bands, displaying Benjamin Mountfort's Gothic Revival design. The structure was notable for its distinctive red and light color scheme and detailed architectural features from that era.

The foundation was laid in 1883 when the Church Property Trustees acquired the land, with construction completed in 1885 as part of the growing Anglican presence in the area. It remained a landmark until severe earthquakes in 2010 and 2011 caused irreversible damage to the structure.

The church was a gathering place where residents came together for worship, marriages, and baptisms throughout its life. It held a central role in the community life of the Phillipstown area and served as a space for religious and social occasions.

The building is no longer accessible as it was completely demolished following the earthquakes of 2010 and 2011. Visitors can only walk the site where it once stood today to reflect on its past presence.

It was the last brick building designed by Benjamin Mountfort, one of New Zealand's most influential architects, before its destruction. This distinction made it an important example of his architectural work and legacy in the city.

Location: Christchurch City

Inception: 1885

Architects: Benjamin Mountfort

GPS coordinates: -43.53700,172.65510

Latest update: December 14, 2025 12:21