Riccarton Park Racecourse (couple trip)
How Couple-Friendly is Riccarton Park Racecourse?
What makes it 75% Couple-Friendly: Couples can book grandstand hospitality, share drinks while watching top races, or picnic at the Sunday market; crowds and betting noise add excitement but limit privacy later.
Positives:
- Social atmosphere: Race days and markets buzz with live music and bars, ideal for couples.
- Flexible timing: Choose just a race, a market, or combine both in one visit.
Challenges:
- Weather exposure: Limited shelter on lawns and outdoor seating; bring sun or rain gear.
- Crowds on major days: Popular race meetings get busy; book seats or hospitality packages in advance.
What is Riccarton Park Racecourse?
- A historic thoroughbred horse racing venue founded in 1854 on Christchurch’s western suburban fringe
- A one-mile turf circuit complemented by grandstands, members’ facilities, and administrative buildings
- A site that merges 19th-century architectural elements with contemporary trackside amenities and event infrastructure
What is so special about Riccarton Park Racecourse for couple trip?
- Place small bets or watch top flat and jump races
- Stroll 200+ market stalls with live music every Sunday
- Enjoy a relaxed picnic under the trees
- Join themed charity raceday events for extra fun
Recommended visit duration: 2-3 hours
Why 2-3 hours visit duration is ideal for couple trip: Covers a race meeting or market visit plus picnic without rushing.
Couple-Friendly Activities in Riccarton Park Racecourse
Attend a race meeting:
Watch top flat and jump races from the grandstand or café bars and place small bets.
Tip: Buy general-entry tickets online (from NZD 20). Arrive 30 min early for best seats.
Explore Riccarton Sunday Market:
Browse 200+ stalls of fresh produce, crafts, street food and enjoy live music.
Tip: Arrive at 9 am for freshest produce and quieter crowds.
Picnic on the lawns:
Relax under the trees beside the track with your own food or market takeaway.
Tip: Bring a blanket and refillable water bottle; choose shaded spots near the grandstand.
Join a charity raceday:
Support causes like Red Nose Day with fundraising auctions, live bands and inflatable races.
Tip: Check event dates online and book tickets early as they sell out.
How to Make the Most of Your Visit to Riccarton Park Racecourse
- Early arrival: Secure close parking and beat queues at popular food stalls.
- Use public transport: Take the #71 bus from the city to avoid parking hassles on big events.
Reviews of Riccarton Park Racecourse
K J Murphy
Top day - excellent fields & racing - still a bit jetlaged after 36 hr ordeal getting over from remote WA.- travelling since 6 am Thursday !! - So missed the first 4 races Even hot for someone from sunbaKed/hot WA - more intense/burning sun over here - apparently caused by the big hole in the ozone layer over southern NZ !!
sarah crooks
Great market on Sundays,live music ,awesome array of food and imagination station for the kiddies .
Tadashi R T
The Sunday Market is fantastic, plenty of food and other stuffs to buy. I recommend the booth "Brazil In a Box", there you can find the finest street food that can be commonly found in Brazil... but in New Zealand. Plenty of parking spaces but they are on grass and can be very muddy on rainy days.
Dennis Rollings
Fabulous place to play 18 hole golf with my wife's grandson Thoroughly enjoyed and recommend
JT
Beautiful racetrack & a stunning place to visit . During my recent trip to NZ I visited as many racetracks as I could along the way . This particular track is a standout and a close tie with Ellerslie for me . Hats off to the curator & grounds staff .
When is the best time to visit Riccarton Park Racecourse (Christchurch, New Zealand)?
Sunday Markets run weekly year-round. Major races peak in spring (Sep–Nov) and autumn (Mar–May) with extra hospitality options.
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Typical Budget for a Couple (2 Adults)
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| General-entry tickets for two | NZD 40 |
| Market snacks & coffee | NZD 30 |
| 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.
Content Notice: This content combines editorial expertise with AI assistance to ensure comprehensive and up-to-date information. Our team regularly curates and reviews all content for accuracy and relevance. Help Us Improve
Map of Riccarton Park Racecourse
Address: 165 Racecourse Road, Sockburn, Christchurch 8042, New Zealand
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About Riccarton Park Racecourse
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