The Reformed Church of Bishopdale is part of the denomination know as the Reformed Churches of New Zealand (RCNZ). Our churches are relatively new in New Zealand. The first three Reformed Churches were instituted in 1953 by Dutch immigrants.

We believe that the Bible teaches the following principles:

    the self-government of the local church under Christ, the head,

    the co-operation and commitment of one Reformed Church to others on a national level, in matters of common concern,

    the biblical requirement of church discipline.

Each church has a ruling Session comprised of elders, one of whom is the church's minister (also known as the teaching elder). Each church also has deacons who are charged with maintaining the well-being of church members and with alleviating social distress. Only men are eligible to serve in the offices of minister, elder and deacon.

Churches belong to regional Presbyteries and meet three times per year to discuss matters of common interest and to provide mutual oversight. Churches also meet in General Synod once every three years to discuss matters of joint interest and to manage activities pertaining to the denomination.