Senior public servants fight Gloriavale claim

August 15, 2025: | The Post | Wellington Court Reporter | Two men who were senior public servants at a time the isolated community of Gloriavale was under scrutiny, say a claim against them should be struck out. Four people who left the West Coast community of Gloriavale have filed a case suing several government…

New ‘shepherd’ for sect

August 13, 2025: | The Press | Joanne Naish | The newly announced “overseeing shepherd” of Gloriavale Christian Community, Stephen Standfast. Gloriavale has a new “overseeing shepherd”, as Howard Temple announced his resignation to community members while awaiting sentencing on sexual offending. Howard Wendell Temple, 85, has been overseeing shepherd at the West…

Changing of guard at Gloriavale

August 13, 2025: | Greymouth Star | Brendon McMahon | A younger face has emerged to replace Howard Temple as overseeing shepherd of the Gloriavale Christian Community at Lake Haupiri. In a statement yesterday, Gloriavale announced the resignation of Mr Temple, 85, and his replacement with 48-year-old Stephen Standfast. The succession comes after…

Ex member says new leader won’t rid Gloriavale of its issues

August 13, 2025: | RNZ | Finn Blackwell | A former Gloriavale member says he’s surprised to hear its disgraced leader has resigned. Howard Temple has stepped down as Overseeing Shepherd after being convicted of sexual offending against girls and women at the secluded West Coast community. Temple, 85, pleaded guilty to five charges of…