Riccarton House and Bush (with baby)
How Baby-Friendly is Riccarton House and Bush?
What makes it 71% Baby-Friendly: Babies ride smoothly on pram-friendly bush tracks and café highchairs exist, yet narrow house stairs block strollers and no confirmed nursing room or warm-up station reduces convenience.
Positives:
- Smooth Paths: All main trails are surfaced and flat, ideal for strollers.
- Free Entry: Bush and garden access is complimentary, so you can explore at no cost.
- On-site Facilities: Public toilets near the trailhead and highchairs in the café make baby care easy.
Challenges:
- No Lift in House: Riccarton House tours have narrow stairs and no lift—best to skip with a stroller.
- Limited Nursing Spaces: No dedicated nursing room advertised—call ahead if you need privacy.
What is Riccarton House and Bush?
- A 19th-century Deans family homestead built in 1856, surrounded by heritage gardens
- A 7-hectare remnant lowland kahikatea forest, recognised as Christchurch’s oldest protected native woodland
- A combined heritage precinct integrating colonial architecture and native ecology on Riccarton’s Ōtākaro River floodplain
What is so special about Riccarton House and Bush for with baby?
- Surface-friendly bush loops ideal for strollers
- Historic trees and storyboards on the tree trail
- Shaded river benches for baby breaks
- Weekend farmers’ market for fresh treats
- Free entry and easy parking
Recommended visit duration: 1-2 hours
Why 1-2 hours visit duration is ideal for with baby: Allows time for pram-friendly bush walks, the tree trail and a riverside break without rushing.
Baby-Friendly Activities in Riccarton House and Bush
Explore Pram-Friendly Bush Tracks:
Walk the 460 m or 900 m loop on smooth paths through native forest.
Tip: Use a rain cover on damp days and pause on benches to listen for birds.
Stroll the Historic Tree Trail:
Follow the loop past exotic and native trees planted in the 1850s.
Tip: Download the free map before you go for easy navigation with a stroller.
Relax by the Avon River:
Find a shaded bench by the river for feeding or napping your baby.
Tip: Bring a sunshade and a light blanket for comfort on warm days.
Visit the Saturday Farmers’ Market:
Browse fresh produce and artisanal stalls under century-old trees.
Tip: Arrive at 9 am to avoid crowds and pick up a treat for a picnic on the lawn.
How to Make the Most of Your Visit to Riccarton House and Bush
- Pack Snacks: Bring finger foods and a refillable bottle to save time and money.
- Charge Your Phone: Download the map and use it offline, since mobile signal can be weak in the bush.
- Plan Market Visit: Combine your walk with the market on Saturday for a single parking stop.
Reviews of Riccarton House and Bush
Melissa Coop
lovely market, great food and perfect for a sunny day:) can be overcrowded though
Lina Bui
Visited on a weekday morning. Very tranquil and peaceful. Immaculate gardens with a stream flowing through.
Masrizal Mahmud
We live nearby and it always fun to visit this place. There is a lot of history behind it and it is a great place to educate young kids about what happened here hundreds of years ago. The bush also offers interesting ambient to walk around and spend the day with family.
King Melquisedic
A lovely place to visit and is close to UC. You can have coffee, sit by the river, enjoy some quiet alone time or hangout with your friends and family. The house is old but not eerie. Rather it feels like going back in time especially with the old growth trees. However, the toilet closes at 4 PM. Which is sad if you feel like relieving yourself while you’re there.
Stephen Young
It was a great place to take the grandchildren in the holidays. They had a mobile library day with games and activities for the children. The bird sanctuary and bush walks are great for all ages and abilities.
When is the best time to visit Riccarton House and Bush (Christchurch, New Zealand)?
In summer, start early to beat the heat and bring sun protection. In winter, paths can be muddy—wear waterproof shoes and a stroller rain cover.
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Typical Budget for a Family of 3 (2 Adults + 1 Baby)
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Parking | NZD 0 |
| Bush Tracks entry | NZD 0 |
| Farmers’ Market snacks | NZD 20 |
| Cafe drink | NZD 10 |
| Total Estimated | NZD 30 |
Note: All prices are indicative and may vary. Please check directly with the venue for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
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Map of Riccarton House and Bush
Address: 16 Kahu Road, Fendalton, Christchurch 8041, New Zealand
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About Riccarton House and Bush
Opening Hours
Hours may vary during holidays, special events, and peak seasons. Please check the official website for the most up-to-date information.
Website
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