Riccarton House and Bush (with kids)
How Kids-Friendly is Riccarton House and Bush?
What makes it 78% Kids-Friendly: Children can earn Kiwi Guardian medals on two easy loops, play tree-spotting games, picnic, and take a family-price house tour, but steep interior stairs mean adults must supervise closely.
Positives:
- Easy Access from City: Only 3.5 km from central Christchurch with free on-site parking.
- Pram and Wheelchair Friendly: All tracks and garden paths have firm, level surfaces.
Challenges:
- Steep House Stairs: Tours involve narrow, steep stairs; require close supervision.
- Limited Shelter: Bush tracks have no covered areas—carry rain gear if weather changes.
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 kids?
- Earn Kiwi Guardian medals on easy bush trails.
- Discover 160-year-old trees on the self-guided trail.
- Tour the original Riccarton homestead with kids.
- Enjoy Saturday market treats under century-old trees.
- Picnic and play on open lawns beside historic cottages.
Recommended visit duration: 2-3 hours
Why 2-3 hours visit duration is ideal for with kids: Time to complete a bush walk, guided house tour, market visit and a picnic without rushing.
Kids-Friendly Activities in Riccarton House and Bush
Kiwi Guardian Bush Walk:
Follow the 460 m or 900 m track to earn a Kiwi Guardian medal.
Tip: Pick up the free medal card at the bush entrance and pause at benches to spot native birds.
Self-guided Tree Trail Story Walk:
Explore 20+ historic exotic and native trees with interpretive panels.
Tip: Play “spot the 1855 cedar” with kids and use the trail map to guide your route.
Guided Heritage Tour of Riccarton House:
Step through 20 rooms of the 1856 homestead with original furniture.
Tip: Book the 2 pm slot ahead; supervise kids on the steep staircase.
Christchurch Farmers’ Market:
Browse fresh produce, baked treats and live music every Saturday.
Tip: Arrive at 9 am for easy parking and bring a reusable bag for snacks.
Picnic & Lawn Games:
Relax on the lawns beside Deans Cottage with simple games.
Tip: Pack a blanket, frisbee or bubbles for extra fun in open spaces.
How to Make the Most of Your Visit to Riccarton House and Bush
- Book House Tour Early: Reserve your slot online or call ahead to avoid full bookings.
- Combine Market and Bush Walk: Start at the market for brunch, then head into the bush before midday heat.
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)?
Spring brings nesting birds—bring binoculars. Summer needs sunhat and water. Rain in winter means muddy paths—wear waterproof boots.
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Typical Budget for a Family of 4 (2 Adults + 2 Kids)
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Family heritage tour ticket | NZD 35 |
| Snacks & market treats | NZD 20 |
| Coffee & drinks | NZD 15 |
| Total Estimated | NZD 70 |
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
Official WebsitePhone Number
+64 3 341 101810 BEST nearby Activities
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