new zealand nature lover grows living tree church and lush labyrinth walk

new zealand nature lover grows living tree church and lush labyrinth walk
all images courtesy of barry cox

barry cox, new zealand resident, nature lover and founder of treelocations, has built a living chapel on the grounds of a 3-acre garden in the region of ohaupo. cox constructed the ‘tree church‘ over the last four years, landscaping a 350m lush labyrinth walk based on the walls of the ancient city of jericho. the agricultural architectural project comprises a variety of plant species and life — cut leaf alder for the roof canopy, copper sheen for the walls, and camellia black tie, acer globosum and thuja pyramidalis for the external façades.

inside the green dwelling, rows of wooden benches accommodate up to 100 guests, forming a pathway to the altar, which is made of italian marble. outside the gardens include a shaded area under a large canopy constructed from a military cargo parachute for after-event gatherings. although it wasn’t his original intention when building it, cox’s ‘tree church’, labyrinth walk and extensive natural surroundings are available for photographic opportunities, weddings and private functions. 

the chapel is set on the grounds of a lush garden 

a narrow pathway leads visitors to the entrance of the church 

a 350m lush labyrinth walk is based on the walls of the ancient city of jericho

a gate opens to the entrance of the living architectural landmark 

inside the chapel, benches can accommodate up to 100 guests 

cut leaf alder is used for the roof canopy