A book detailing life in the Gloriavale commune has been released by the granddaughter of founder Neville Cooper.

Lilia Tarawa has written "Daughter of Gloriavale - My life in a Religious Cult" about the community at Haupiri near Greymouth on the West Coast.

Founded in 1969, Gloriavale reportedly has around 500 members with families living according to an old testament interpretation of Christianity.

Ms Tarawa left the commune with her parents eight years ago, and currently lives in Christchurch.

In her book the 26-year-old writes of her 18 years in the group, her relationship with her maternal grandfather who she knew as "Grandad Hopeful", and the day her family left the community.