Our Story
A step of faith that changed everything
Church of God New Zealand began with a simple yes to God.
Pastors Eugen and Esther felt a clear call to step into something new, to help establish the Church of God in a nation where there was little existing presence. It wasn’t the easy option. It meant leaving behind stability, stepping away from full-time work, and trusting God completely to lead the way. But they knew this wasn’t just about building a church. It was about reaching people.
From obedience to foundation
In 2007, Eugen and Esther first stepped into ministry, leaving Germany with their young family to follow God’s call. Those early years were marked by uncertainty, sacrifice, and a deep reliance on God.
Their focus was simple, serve people, especially young people. Through youth ministry, mentoring, chaplaincy, and community work, they saw firsthand how powerful it is when someone encounters God personally. That same heart still defines the church today.
Years later, that calling led them to New Zealand.
What began in Oamaru became the foundation of Church of God New Zealand. From there, the vision continued to grow, leading to the planting of a second location in Christchurch.
Today, they serve both communities each week, travelling between cities, building people, and laying a strong spiritual foundation for what God is doing. It’s not built on convenience. It’s built on calling.
Planting in New Zealand
Lives being transformed
At the heart of this story are people. People finding hope. People encountering God. People being restored. Stories like Lance’s remind us why this matters. After struggling with depression and feeling lost, he walked into church and encountered God in a real and personal way.
That moment changed everything. Today, he’s not only walking in freedom, he’s helping others do the same. This is what the church exists for.
We believe this is only the beginning.
The vision is to continue building a strong, Spirit-led church across New Zealand, one that reaches people, restores lives, and raises the next generation.
Part of that vision includes developing a Counseling and Crisis Centre to meet the growing needs in our communities, creating a place where people can find real support, healing, and hope.
Looking ahead
Our heart
We are not here to build something impressive. We are here to build something faithful.
A church where:
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People can belong
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Faith is real and lived out
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Lives are transformed by Jesus
And where every person has the opportunity to encounter God for themselves.