As the result of an evangelistic crusade held by visiting American evangelist Alvin S. Worley in 1960 the decision was made to form a local church in Timaru. There were over 600 people who recorded their decision to become committed followers of Jesus Christ during this time. While many joined or continued as members of other churches in Timaru there were others who had no church home. The Christian Fellowship Mission, as it was then called, was begun and originally held their meetings in the Main School hall. The fledgling church grew and eventually purchased its own premises at 7 Elizabeth Street. With continued growth in numbers a site was purchased in Morgans Road and a new building erected. Opened in 1980 the building with its distinctive dome is home today to the New Life Christian Centre. While the name has changed the original purpose of the church has remained the same viz. to know Jesus Christ and to make him known.

The mission statement of New Life Christian Centre is “Knowing God in Christ and Making Him Known”
John 13:3; Matthew 28:18-20

Our vision is to be a biblically functioning community of believers expressing the love of God, as demonstrated through Jesus Christ, to one another and to people who have no personal relationship with God. We seek to develop fervent followers of Jesus Christ who will reach out and impact communities, cities, and nations with the message of the kingdom of God.

The outworking of the vision is best described using the following outline.

• Exalting – Worshipping God the Father,Son and Holy Spirit.
• Evangelizing – Helping people find a personal relationship with God through His son Jesus Christ.
• Establishing – Building a caring community of believers.
• Equipping – Providing training and support for the work of the ministry.
• Extending – Reaching into our community and beyond with the compassion and justice of God's Kingdom.