Aotearoa, New Zealand, is famous for its natural beauty and love of the outdoors. Traditionally it was known for having a rich Christian heritage and a strong culture of sending out missionaries. However, much of the country’s spiritual landscape has recently changed. While spiritual and religious practices vary, many New Zealanders claim no spiritual beliefs. Less than five percent identify as evangelical Christians, and those who do face increased polarization from a spiritually apathetic and highly secular country — something many New Zealanders would be proud of.

The staff desire to reach more of New Zealand with the gospel. In light of this, we hope to send a team of LEAD Staff soon to expand to Massey University in Palmerston North.

In Christchurch (pop. 405,000), LEAD Staff have the opportunity to work with students at the University of Canterbury (18,000 students) to help shape a city and country that are changing and rebuilding. These laborers will live, serve, and grow alongside a community and church that seeks to see God change Christchurch for His glory, now and for eternity.

In Dunedin (pop. 118,000), staff serve at New Zealand's oldest University — the University of Otago (20,000 students) — in a city with rich Scottish, Māori, and Chinese history that revolves around the University in many ways. They serve alongside Grace Bible Church as they seek to spread the gospel in their city.  

These teams experience a robust mutual partnership with the churches they belong to, Grace Presbyterian Church and Grace Bible Church Dunedin. These churches are one of the core strengths and blessings of the ministry in New Zealand.