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Our Story

Welcome to our story—a journey that began with a dream and a calling. In May 2012, Pastors Andrew and Alana Waples moved from Whangaparāoa, north of Auckland, to plant a new C3 Church here in the Whakatipu. What began as a small gathering in November 2012 at the St Johns Ambulance rooms in Frankton has grown into a vibrant, community-focused church known as The Found. From those early days, we've been passionate about building a church that serves both locals and visitors with authenticity, integrity, generosity, and genuine relationships.

Our community knows us for being real, transparent, and deeply committed to showing the love of Jesus. As Jesus said, "I give you a new command: Love one another. Just as I have loved you, you are also to love one another. By this, everyone will know that you are my disciples if you love one another." (John 13:34-35).

Over the years, we’ve met in many locations, and we now gather in the house on Sundays at KingsView School in Frankton, in homes throughout the week, and to serve the community and care for people. We anticipate a future where we will again have a dedicated community space—a place that serves both the community and gathers believers together.

At The Found, we love people wholeheartedly. Our desire is for everyone to know Jesus personally and find community through genuine connections within our church whānau. We are committed to helping people grow, discover their purpose, and find hope in their lives.

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